Chapter 8: Chapter 7 Teaching Haki
After the sparring session between Aizen and Sakazuki, the Marine base remained abuzz with discussions. Kong's declaration about Aizen's potential as a future Fleet Admiral only added fuel to the fire.
For Garp and his old comrades, it was amusing to see Kong casually planning Marine's leadership two steps ahead, especially before Sengoku officially stepped into the Fleet Admiral role. But for others, Kong's words left a lasting impression.
The duel and its outcome painted a clear picture: Aizen wasn't just any recruit. He was destined for greatness.
As Aizen walked away from the crowd, he shook his head, seemingly unbothered by the attention.
"It's becoming troublesome," he muttered softly. The murmurs, the stares—it was all more than he had expected for what was supposed to be a simple sparring match.
On the way back, Sengoku sighed deeply, a hint of awe in his voice. "I thought training the next generation would be a daunting task after Zephyr stepped back from active duty. But with recruits like Aizen in the elite camp, it seems the future is brighter than I anticipated."
Garp chuckled, crossing his arms. "Bright? When we were twenty, it would've taken the three of us together to stand a chance against that kid."
Zephyr nodded solemnly. "It's humbling to think about. Aizen isn't just talented—he's beyond what we could have imagined."
Kong, walking alongside them, added, "If he continues at this pace, it's not hard to see him surpassing all of us. I'm just glad he's on our side. If someone like Aizen ever turned to piracy, he'd make someone like Rocks look tame in comparison."
"Not a chance," Sengoku said firmly. "Aizen's character won't allow it. You've all seen it—he's as noble as they come. Gentle yet unyielding. He's the kind of man others naturally trust and follow."
The group nodded, silently agreeing. Aizen's strength might have been awe-inspiring, but it was his temperament and humility that truly set him apart.
Kong clapped Zephyr on the shoulder. "He's in your hands now. Teach him well. Not just him—the entire elite camp. They're the future of the Marines."
Zephyr smirked slightly, his stern demeanor softening. "I've got no intention of letting any of them fall short. I'll train them hard enough to make sure they're ready for anything."
Kong smiled but kept his thoughts to himself. **If Zephyr is this determined, these young recruits are in for some grueling days ahead.**
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**The Next Day**
With the sparring match behind them, the elite camp's official training began.
The recruits, brimming with anticipation, gathered around Zephyr, who stood at the forefront. His towering presence was imposing, and his gaze swept over the group like a hawk.
"You've all made it this far," Zephyr began, his voice steady yet commanding. "But let me be clear: surviving in the elite camp isn't just about strength. It's about understanding and mastering the tools at your disposal. Today, we start with the basics—but make no mistake, this is the foundation of everything you will become."
He paused, letting the weight of his words settle.
"Today, I'll teach you about **Haki**. Specifically, the two forms: Armament and Observation."
Zephyr's expression hardened. "Armament Haki enhances your defense and offense. Think of it as an invisible armor that makes you tougher, stronger. It can protect you from attacks, augment your strikes, and most importantly, allow you to bypass the intangibility of Logia Devil Fruit users. When used properly, your skin will harden and turn black—a sign of mastery."
A murmur ran through the recruits, some glancing at their hands as if imagining the power.
"Observation Haki," Zephyr continued, "is about perception. It sharpens your senses, allowing you to sense your opponent's movements, intentions, and even presence, no matter where they are. With enough mastery, it becomes almost impossible for your enemies to take you by surprise."
He folded his arms, his gaze piercing through the crowd. "Both of these are essential if you want to stand at the top. Today, you'll begin learning the principles of both. But don't expect mastery overnight. Mastery requires discipline, effort, and resilience. The kind of resilience that turns rookies into legends."
The recruits straightened, their excitement tempered by the weight of Zephyr's words.
"For now," Zephyr concluded, "we'll focus on sensing Haki. Close your eyes, clear your mind, and feel the energy around you. This is your first step into a larger world."
As the recruits followed his instructions, Aizen stood quietly among them, his expression unreadable. He had already touched upon Haki during his training but remained focused nonetheless.
For him, this was just another step in his journey—a journey that would ultimately take him to heights beyond anyone's imagination.