The boat glides smoothly toward Athena Island, the salty breeze tousling my hair as the distinctive skyline comes into view. The golden pagoda-like structure sparkles in the afternoon sun, standing out dramatically against the backdrop of modern skyscrapers. Seagulls cry overhead, wheeling and diving as they follow the boat's wake. I can already see movement on the shore—silhouettes that must be some of the fighting girls I've heard about.

The captain calls out that we'll be docking soon, and I feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness flutter in my stomach. This is really happening—I'm about to spend two months on an island with some of the most skilled female fighters from across the multiverse. The boat bumps gently against the dock, and I hear the creak of metal as the gangplank is lowered.

As I step onto the wooden planks, the warm tropical air wraps around me, carrying the scent of saltwater and something floral from nearby trees. The sounds of the city wash over me—honking cars, chatter, and what sounds like distant training exercises. A sign welcomes me to Athena Island in multiple languages, and I spot a man holding a sign with my name on it.