A few days later, three warships departed from Marineford, greeting the morning sun as they braved the wind and waves. The sea surged, its waters as deep and vibrant as spring, seagulls cried overhead, and a gentle salt-tinged breeze lifted the spirits of every sailor on the decks.
Standing alone on the deck of one ship, watching the sunrise, Atticus's dark eyes glinted with renewed energy. He murmured quietly to himself, eyes fixed on the blazing orb of dawn, "I'm getting closer, faster and stronger…"
In his heart, he vowed silently, one day to become like the sun itself, hanging high in the starry sky and illuminating the world.
"This trip to Beast Island, I must use it to maximize my strength, then claim first place in the Grand Competition. Once I command my own vessel, I'll gather enough military merits to become a Rear Admiral, a Vice Admiral, or even an Admiral."
Just last night after training, Zephyr had announced that today they would depart for Beast Island — a half-month long mission.
Beast Island lay near the Calm Belt and was one of the rare islands where ancient species and other strange beasts were said to roam. Even a Vice Admiral could be caught off guard there. The environment was brutal, unforgiving.
Precisely because of that danger, the Marines chose it for this training.
There was another, more important fact: some creatures on the island reportedly possessed Haki.
Yes, Haki.
This strange phenomenon had once drawn the attention of Marine scientists — though their studies had ended without solid conclusions.
Atticus turned his head slightly, his gaze icy as he glanced toward Akainu standing nearby on the deck. Perhaps he sensed Atticus's eyes, for Akainu also looked his way, his face cold and disdainful.
Chaton stood somewhere aside, ignored by Atticus.
Nearby, Garp munched on a doughnut with interest, his face lighting up in amusement.
Unexpectedly, this time not only Zephyr but Garp himself was leading the team. Garp had returned just two days ago, and almost immediately had been requisitioned by Sengoku for this mission.
In the office, Sengoku's tone had been serious.
"Garp, I need you to accompany Zephyr on this Beast Island training," he said.
Garp had frowned. "Why? Zephyr is enough. I just got back, I was planning to take a break."
Sengoku had sighed. "I fear Zephyr alone may not be enough. The youths on this mission are our future. It would be prudent to minimize casualties."
Garp's eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at Atticus and Akainu. Then he grinned.
"Are you afraid of them?"
Sengoku nodded gravely. "Both have tremendous potential. Losing either one would be a loss for the Marines. More importantly, I worry their conflict might endanger others."
"That is a valid concern," Garp admitted, rubbing his chin as he considered the fierce young shipmen.
Given half a chance, Atticus might end up at odds with Akainu or even Chaton. Even Kizaru seemed uneasy now. Although Kizaru had backed down in their last encounter, Atticus clearly still regarded him as a foe.
As long as Kizaru didn't provoke him, perhaps peace — but if he did, Atticus might retaliate without mercy.
"Their strengths might be matched," Garp muttered, "but killing them would be another matter entirely."
Sengoku's expression darkened. "Two months ago, Zephyr accepted Atticus as his disciple. He is giving him everything he's got. Also, that comrade you brought back shares a strong bond with Atticus. Just in case…"
Garp's face twisted, recalling memories of that young man. Then he burst into a harsh laugh.
"I didn't see that coming — Kuzan muder-friendship with that kid."
Sengoku spoke with forced calm. "I'm not joking. The most important thing is that Akainu may have attracted the attention of the Five Elders. If necessary, you must protect him."
Garp's brows lifted. "Is that so? Maybe Akainu will gain the upper hand."
"If that happens, then Akainu will die, and Atticus may only be severely injured. We both know he's not ordinary. His actions these past months have spoken volumes. Even Sengoku admires his resolve and cultivation."
"Has that kid awakened Haki already?" Garp asked, surprised.
"If I'm not mistaken," Sengoku replied slowly, "he likely has."
Garp shook his head, impressed and slightly unnerved. "These young ones nowadays are frightening. Alright, I'll take this as my 'vacation'."
He exclaimed, scratching his chin.
Then he looked toward where Atticus stood on deck before teasing, "Let me see what kind of surprise you can give me."
As the sun set on the second day at sea, a third morning dawned.
The three massive warships edged into port beside a sprawling island at the border of the Calm Belt.
On deck, hundreds of eager Marines gazed ahead, excitement shining in their eyes as they prepared to disembark.
Inside a briefing tent, Zephyr addressed the assembled recruits.
"You all know the situation. This mission is a hunt for ferocious beasts. Each Marine will carry a small recording bug to log every kill. Be careful and know your limits. Some of the beasts could catch a Marine Vice Admiral off guard."
"If you feel unready or get injured, fire a signal flare and withdraw — you will be rescued. You're all expected to stay on the island for the full two weeks."
He paused with emphasis.
"During this mission, you must understand that people can die if you're not cautious."
"Finally, beasts are ranked into five levels: Elementary corresponds to Major, Intermediate to Lieutenant Colonel, Advanced to Colonel, General-level to Rear Admiral, and King-level to Vice Admiral."
"Killing an Elementary beast earns 1 point, Intermediate 2 points, up to King-level for 5 points."
"The top fifty scorers will qualify for the Marine Grand Competition in two months. If you persist, there will be unexpected rewards."
Zephyr's gaze turned sharp, his warning repeated solemnly.
"I warn you again — you can die if you're not careful. If you can't endure, it's better to withdraw."
With a wave of his hand, cadets surged forward, vanishing into the jungle almost instantly.
Watching the departing forms, Zephyr let out a sigh, quiet and weighty.
Nearby, Garp chuckled. "Isn't that perfect? Should be plenty of entertainment for me. I was bored anyway."
Zephyr glanced at Akainu and Atticus, who stood at the edge of the tree line, staring at each other with silent challenge, and sighed faintly.
"Like fire and water, both proud. I wonder who will stumble first this time."
Garp nudged Zephyr and smirked. "Don't brood too much. Come eat doughnuts with me." He teased.
Zephyr shook his head, lips curved in a soft smile. "You old troublemaker."
He followed Garp's lead, though his eyes lingered on the departing recruits, a flicker of concern hidden in the darkness.
Zephyr leaned closer, lowering his voice. "By the way, I haven't seen Dragon in a while. He should've returned by now."
Garp's face darkened. He frowned, silent for a long moment.
"Did you two argue again?" Zephyr probed with the tone of a close friend.
Garp exhaled heavily. "Old friend, do you think I made a mistake? That kid's heart has started shifting."
Garp's voice was thick with regret.
Zephyr frowned, troubled. "That's not good. That young man's talent is rare. Even before mission training, he could hold his ground against a Vice Admiral."
"If he goes down the wrong path…"
His voice trailed off.
Garp sighed in resignation. "Let's drink. Worst case, I'll show him my Fist of Love again."
He grabbed a bottle and drank deeply without another word.
Zephyr said nothing.
He simply nodded, and together they sat in quiet companionship, the weight of what was to come hanging heavily between them.
---
50% off Patreon memberships ends tonight at midnight.
Become a Patron to get access to exclusive perks.
👉 Patreon.com/Zphyr_