It was afternoon, and a gentle summer breeze drifted across the Marine Academy grounds. Most cadets were resting after completing their tasks under Atticus' relentless leadership. Zephyr, recognizing the young man's tireless dedication, had specifically approved an extra two hours of rest.
He understood well that training demanded a balance of effort and recovery. Not everyone could possess the same relentless spirit as Atticus.
Under the shade of the green trees, Zephyr observed him closely. The young man sweated under the scorching sun, muscles twitching, yet his will pushed him forward without pause for two hours straight.
"What drives him? How much determination does his family instill?" Zephyr murmured to himself. Though Atticus' current strength was unremarkable, Zephyr sensed the potential for greatness, certain the boy would leave a mark on the world someday.
"Such courage deserves guidance. Perhaps taking on a disciple isn't such a bad idea," Zephyr thought, deeply moved as he watched the young man persevere.
Atticus counted aloud as he pushed through exhaustion: "Nine hundred seventy… nine hundred eighty… one thousand…" A large block of refined iron pressed against his back, sweat pouring from every pore.
Finally, he collapsed with a heavy thud, chest heaving violently. Every fiber of his body ached, his mind teetering on the edge of collapse.
"No… this isn't enough. To become stronger, I must push harder. For Hazel, for the future, I must train faster."
Trembling, Atticus attempted to push himself up, ready to continue despite the agony.
A large hand gently steadied him.
Confused, Atticus turned his head to see Zephyr standing before him.
"Rest for a moment. I have something to discuss with you," Zephyr said, a slight smile on his face.
Under the shade, they sat cross-legged, facing one another.
"Teacher Zephyr, what can I do for you?" Atticus' cheeks were flushed from exertion, his circulation still elevated from the relentless training.
"Why do you push yourself so desperately?" Zephyr asked, his calm aura making him seem approachable, like a benevolent uncle.
"To become stronger," Atticus replied simply, brushing damp bangs from his forehead.
"That is indeed a good reason," Zephyr nodded, his tone serious. "Perhaps we have not interacted much, so I cannot fully judge you yet, but I sense that you refuse to be ordinary. That in itself is remarkable."
"I don't know what kind of man I will become, but let me give you a piece of advice. Always follow your conscience. Loyalty to the Marines and the World Government… I suspect that may not suit someone like you."
Atticus opened his mouth to respond, but Zephyr raised a hand to stop him.
"Do not be so vigilant. The matters of the World Government are distant concerns for you. I only wish to know this: if you possessed great power, what would you do? Would you become a Marine, a pirate, or pursue ambition?" Zephyr's expression had grown serious.
Atticus paused, considering. Then his eyes lit with a bright, unwavering resolve. "If I had power, I would use it to protect Hazel and the people I care for. Anyone who threatens them, whether Marine or pirate, I would destroy by any means necessary. I do not care to be a pirate or a Marine, nor do I seek ambition. My only wish is for the safety and happiness of those I love. If no one harms me or those I care about, I will not harm them. My ambition is singular: to ensure the people I cherish can live freely and safely."
Zephyr listened intently, a faint smile forming. "Hahaha… remarkable. So in your worldview, there are only the people you care about. Even power has its limits, it seems. Are you willing to take me as your master?"
Atticus froze for a moment, then his face broke into uncontainable excitement. Only one thought filled his mind: Are you willing to take me as your master?
Without hesitation, he knelt and bowed.
Zephyr quickly helped him up, smiling. "There is no need for such formality. Promise me only this: that you will not kill the innocent or act recklessly."
"In my hometown, a teacher is like a father. I am grateful for your guidance. I, Atticus, swear that as long as others do not harm me, I will not harm them," Atticus said firmly, his tone unwavering.
"Good. Very good. From now on, you have a master to guide you. As long as you follow your conscience, I will support you." Zephyr's pride in his first true disciple was evident.
"Yes, Master," Atticus responded, bowing respectfully.
"Come to my quarters after dinner. I will share my training experiences with you. Beyond that, your path is your own. What I can offer is guidance to help you avoid unnecessary detours."
"Yes, Master. I will continue training now," Atticus said, eager as ever.
"Go ahead," Zephyr said gently, waving him off.
All afternoon, while other cadets rested, Atticus continued his relentless practice. Every moment he was visible on the training ground, a testament to his determination.
As night fell, Atticus rushed toward Zephyr's residence, brimming with excitement.
"Come in," Zephyr's voice called from the garden.
Atticus pushed open the door without hesitation.
"Master."
"Sit, Atticus," Zephyr said, smiling at the slightly panting young man. His enthusiasm pleased the old warrior.
"Atticus, what do you think determines true strength?" Zephyr asked, cutting to the heart of the matter.
"It is the body. Physical fitness is the foundation of everything," Atticus replied after a moment of thought.
"That is correct. Even with a Devil Fruit, one cannot neglect training. Any power without a strong body is but an illusion," Zephyr explained.
Time passed as Zephyr imparted his wisdom. Atticus absorbed every word, treating it as a precious lesson.
"Master, may I now begin practicing the Six Styles?" Atticus asked, eyes gleaming with excitement.
"With your fitness and your Devil Fruit's recovery ability, you are ready," Zephyr replied with a broad smile. "The Six Styles are reserved for accomplished Marines, but as my disciple, you may learn them."
"Thank you, Master. One more question," Atticus said, restraining his eagerness.
"Ask."
"What is Haki? I know it is divided into Conqueror's Haki, Observation Haki, and Armament Haki, but I don't understand how to cultivate them."
"Conqueror's Haki belongs to those with the spirit of a king. It cannot be taught, only awakened within oneself. Observation Haki allows one to sense and anticipate attacks. Armament Haki forms an invisible armor, enhancing offense and defense, and allowing one to strike even Logia users by reaching their true bodies. All are essential for a true warrior."
"Now, study these lessons and internalize them. Tomorrow night, we will apply them in combat. Only through experience can you truly understand them."
"Thank you, Master. I will take my leave and digest these teachings," Atticus said, bowing deeply.
_____
(＾▽＾) Become a patron now to get 50% discount on membership prices.
[email protected]/Zphyr_