[Chapter Size: 2602 Words.]
Third Person POV
Somewhere in this sea, East Blue.
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Once the dispute between the two women calmed down a bit, Luffy managed to address his entire crew at that moment.
“Now, with everyone gathered…” Luffy looked at the 14 people in front of him, 13 official crew members plus the unofficial member Kuina, and continued.
“Let’s start the training from this manual finally.” He showed the book that cost 2 billion.
“The training some of you did was only to prepare your bodies for these techniques; from now on, the real training begins and will be much more rigorous.” Luffy smiled at the mostly pale faces. They might fear his training, but there was no doubt about their progress, as they had gone from fragile individuals to being able to withstand some pressure, given that everyone could evolve six times faster with Luffy’s fruit and the system.
“Are you saying the training will be much more rigorous?!” Shirahoshi was the first to cry at this, quite scared at the idea of having to endure even more of her captain’s training, even though she liked him.
“SHARKY!” Megalo tried to console her friend.
“Hm?! It’s not that bad.” Lami said.
“That’s because you only trained with him in the early days; he became terrible after you left! Do you have any idea what it was like to have no strength while he forced us to continue the training?!” Nami protested with some tears in her eyes.
“Not that I’m complaining, but Nami is right…” Kuina spoke beside her, as she went through the attitude change with Luffy and told Nami about her routine before they first met their navigator in Orange Town.
“If I get stronger from this, I don’t mind heavy training…” Hugo said, crossing his arms.
“I say the same, if it means kicking that old bastard, there’s no doubt I’ll train!” Yamato also spoke.
“Anyway, all the techniques are here in this book, but I plan to develop you into 6 groups, where I believe each technique we will develop suits you best to start the training.” Luffy said and looked at everyone before continuing.
“First Technique, Soru: I, Zoro, Kuina, Nami, Lami, and Usopp, will start with this.”
“Second Technique, Geppo: Yamato, Shirahoshi, Reiju. You’ll group with the second.”
“These first two techniques are about speed and mobility, so I chose these groups to initially train with them, which, in my view, are the techniques you will use the most.”
“Third Technique, Tekkai: Hugo and Megalo.”
“This duo will train the defensive technique, Tekkai.”
“Fourth Technique, Rankyaku: Bepo and Hachi.”
“Fifth Technique, Shigan: Chouchou.”
“Both the fourth and fifth techniques are offensive. Bepo will learn the technique conventionally, but I will train the others in an unconventional way. Hachi will train with the cut of his sword, and Chouchou will train with his bite.”
“And, lastly, the sixth Technique, Kami-e: will be with Nojiko.”
“Nojiko will finalize with a flexibility technique.”
“Everyone will go through the training of all the techniques. There is a seventh, but we’ll have to cultivate all six first before moving on to the last.” Luffy said, waiting for questions to come.
Luffy began explaining all the techniques and addressing the crew’s questions. The first group accepted well, as it mostly consisted of swordsmen in the crew, and a high-speed technique would always come in handy. Before training Geppo, the second group was quite satisfied with the idea of being able to move through the air. All three girls would be much more useful with this type of mobility, although Luffy saw a challenge in training Shirahoshi since she didn’t have legs, but if she mastered it, she could be very useful in battle, as this girl needed to become very strong.
The other four techniques were also accepted after Luffy explained them to the rest of the group.
“Shall we train on the deck, or shall we inaugurate that room, Captain?” Usopp asked. Those familiar with the ship knew there was a large room in the center of the ship, something Luffy built with the transformation of the ship.
“It’s time to show how useful that room is since we didn’t have the chance to use it before, so let’s go to the training room.” Luffy said with a smile, and everyone followed him inside the ship.
The training room was spacious and meticulously organized to provide the ideal environment for the Straw Hat crew’s skill improvement. With its generous 30 meters in length, it occupied most of the central structure of the Black Pearl, a ship that already boasted an impressive 50 meters. The walls were lined with sturdy panels, and strategically positioned windows ensured adequate ventilation during intense training.
In the center of the room, a variety of training equipment was neatly arranged. Benches with weights, punching bags, and agility equipment occupied different areas, catering to the specific needs of each training style. Luffy, always attentive to efficiency, had invested millions in high-quality instruments to ensure the crew made the most of that space.
Carefully reading the manual, Luffy took on the role of an instructor, prepared to guide each member of the Straw Hat crew in their respective training. The training room was imbued with an intense energy, reflecting the crew’s determination to strengthen themselves.
In the first group, consisting of Zoro, Kuina, Nami, Lami, and Usopp, the task was to take 10 quick steps while carrying weights on their ankles. This activity was complemented by the permanent weight increase granted by Luffy’s fruit ability, coupled with the training system.
Soru:
Objective: Increase movement speed.
Training Routine:
Short-distance sprints at maximum intensity.
Agility training and quick changes of direction.
Endurance training to sustain speed for extended periods.
Incorporate the Soru technique into combat simulations.
The second group, comprised of Yamato, Shirahoshi, and Reiju, faced a peculiar challenge. With additional weights, they would attempt to perform jumps in the air, envisioning a second thrust while suspended. Luffy, determined to intensify the training, removed the air bubble that surrounded Shirahoshi, ensuring an extra challenge for the 18-year-old.
Geppo:
Objective: Develop the ability to jump in the air.
Training Routine:
Plyometric exercises to strengthen leg muscles.
High and long jump training.
Practice consecutive jumps to improve coordination in the air.
Specific training to enhance the Geppo technique.
“Even in the face of difficulties, you will train six times faster, especially with the best manual in the world, one that the Marines don’t even have access to…” Luffy encouraged Shirahoshi, acknowledging the importance of the challenge.
Meanwhile, Hugo, dedicated to strengthening his body, faced blows from one of the machines in the room. The other crew members immersed themselves in specific training, each adapted to their unique abilities.
Tekkai:
Objective: Improve physical endurance and defensive technique.
Training Routine:
Endurance training to strengthen muscles and bones.
Positioning and maintaining posture during simulated attacks.
Resistance practice against controlled impacts.
Incorporation of Tekkai in simulated combat situations.
Hachi and Bepo formed the fourth group, training their kicks and sword techniques.
Rankyaku:
Objective: Develop long-range slashing attacks.
Training Routine:
Agility training to refine leg movements.
Precise cutting practice on designated targets.
Combat simulations to integrate Rankyaku into sequences.
Strengthening the speed of executing kicks and slashing cuts.
The fifth group came with only Chouchou, enhancing his bite on training dummies in the room.
Shigan:
Objective: Improve fast and precise finger attacks.
Training Routine:
Practice quick and precise strikes against small targets.
Hand-eye coordination exercises to enhance precision.
Incorporation of Shigan into close-quarters combat sequences.
Specific training to strengthen fingers and hands.
Lastly, Nojiko will be developing her flexibility.
Kami-e:
Objective: Perfect the dodging technique and body flexibility.
Training Routine:
Flexibility:
Daily stretches to improve muscle flexibility.
Yoga practice or similar techniques to increase elasticity.
Twisting and bending exercises to adapt the body to agility.
Dodging:
Fast dodging drills against simulated attacks.
Use of moving objects to enhance the technique.
Combat simulations with varied opponents to test dodging.
Coordination:
Training to improve coordination between vision and movement.
Agility exercises to increase quick response to stimuli.
Dodging practice in various environments for adaptability.
Speed:
Short-distance running drills to increase speed.
Integration of Kami-e into fast and dynamic movements.
Combination of dodging and counterattacks to enhance effectiveness.
Inspired by his crew’s determination, Luffy implemented an intensive training routine to enhance each member’s specific skills. With the addition of extra gravitational force to the training room, the atmosphere was electrically charged with the promise of progress and development. In the coming days, this rigorous training would become the daily routine of the Straw Hat crew, a conscious choice as they opted to return to the center of the East Blue instead of advancing to Loguetown and the Grand Line.
Luffy guided his crew through this intense training process, preparing them for the future challenges that awaited in the Grand Line.
As the Black Pearl sailed towards the next Marine base, the atmosphere on board was tense and expectant. Smoker, using the Den Den Mushi, communicated with Fleet Admiral Sengoku to report the capture of the pirates and the evidence of their crimes.
“We’ve captured them all, Fleet Admiral. We have substantial evidence and many documents supporting the reported crimes,” Smoker informed with a frustrated expression.
An irritated voice resonated from the other end of the line, expressing indignation at the acts committed by the pirates. “Damn that Nezumi and his crew. It’s a shame they’re dead, or I would have dealt with them myself!”
Facing the situation, Smoker inquired of his superior about the next steps. “What can we do now?”
Sengoku, still annoyed with the situation, replied, “It’s annoying, but it seems those pirates were right. For now, let them go.”
Sengoku’s decision reflected concern about the repercussions of crimes committed by a Marine base in the East Blue. The threat made by a rookie pirate also weighed on his mind, creating a humiliating situation for the Marines. For now, the choice was to let the Straw Hats continue on their way, postponing potential future actions while the Marines dealt with the internal consequences of this episode.
“Let them go, are you sure?” Smoker expressed disbelief at Sengoku’s decision.
“Return to Loguetown. Someone is heading to this sea and should already be arriving through the Calm Belt itself. He’ll resolve this quickly. You don’t need to worry about it, Smoker,” assured Sengoku.
With a resigned huff, Smoker accepted the order, even without much choice. However, before departing, Sengoku requested information about the Straw Hat crew.
“Before that, explain to me about the crew, as there’s a chance this person may not be able to capture them. I want a report already, as we need to increase their bounties,” demanded Sengoku as Smoker returned to his ship.
“According to the sailors at this base, these pirates launched an attack upon approaching. The power of the cannons on their ship was undoubtedly superior to the Marines in this sea…” Smoker began his explanation, detailing the recent events.
“The prisoners and naval criminals said everyone passed out as soon as the group arrived.”
“WHAT?! Could that be Haki?” Smoker was incredulous upon hearing the news and didn’t hesitate to share it with Sengoku.
“Let them go, are you sure?” Smoker questioned Sengoku’s decision to let the Straw Hats go.
“Return to Loguetown. Someone is heading to this sea and should already be arriving through the Calm Belt itself. He’ll resolve this quickly. You don’t need to worry about it, Smoker.” Sengoku instructed Smoker, making it clear that the situation was under control.
“Alright.” Smoker huffed, with no choice.
“Before that, explain to me about the crew, as there’s a chance this person may not be able to capture them. I want a report already, as we need to increase their bounties.” Sengoku requested information about the Straw Hat crew, indicating that bounties could be adjusted.
“According to the sailors at this base, these pirates launched an attack upon approaching. The power of the cannons on their ship was undoubtedly superior to the Marines in this sea…” Smoker began to report the recent events.
“The prisoners and naval criminals said everyone passed out as soon as the group arrived.”
“WHAT?! Could that be Haki?” Sengoku exclaimed with surprise, concerned about the possibility of Haki being used by the Straw Hats.
“This is much more terrible than I imagined. They’re already a threat! I need to know more!” Sengoku’s voice caught Smoker off guard, but he continued to give his report on the situation.
“When we arrived at the Cocoyasi archipelago, we quickly realized that there had been a battle on the island where Arlong had established himself. According to the surviving fish-men, only one member of the Straw Hat crew took down all of Arlong’s pirates, and it wasn’t the captain…” Smoker began sharing his team’s discoveries.
“When I asked the captives, former companions of Arlong, they said that when the fight was almost won, a giant monster appeared. Some had hallucinations that, in reality, there were two monsters fighting each other in the midst of the chaos, changing the landscape of that island forever…” Smoker revealed the disturbing account from the former captives.
“From what I heard and saw on the island, it’s very likely that this fish-man is right. About a large landmass, forests, and even mountains on the island were devastated by the battle, and there were giant footprints on the ground, according to my subordinates.” He continued, expressing reluctance in the face of the magnitude of the event.
“Garp, you damn it, what kind of monster have you created…” Sengoku couldn’t help but mutter, reflecting on the possible implications of this overwhelming power beyond the understanding of the East Blue.
“Tell me how they captured you, considering you have a Logia…” Sengoku was concerned.
“I don’t know… the pirate captain called a woman to fight me. She had horns and was almost as tall as an admiral. A second after she started walking, she looked annoyed and disappeared, and I couldn’t even react when I lost consciousness…” He said a bit embarrassed.
“So there’s a user of Conqueror’s Haki and Armament Haki among them at least. Damn, Garp had better deal with this potentially threatening group before they reach the Grand Line. I feel like this group is even more dangerous than what we’re seeing in the reports!” Sengoku growled, feeling that this group was much more dangerous than he imagined, and they were doing as they pleased in this sea currently. If they grew, they would be an even worse threat.
“Even that bounty hunter is with them. Damn pirates who still took berries from the Marines through bounties. They don’t care about pirates or marines, they attack everyone they encounter on their way. I’ll increase their bounties for the key figures we have information on.” Sengoku concluded.
With the decision made, the call was ended, and Smoker immediately began issuing orders to his crew.
“Get ready,” declared Smoker firmly. “We’re heading to Loguetown to transport all the prisoners.”
Tashigi, his loyal subordinate, asked, “And what about the pirates, Captain Smoker?”
“It seems the headquarters has already designated someone to deal with them,” replied Smoker with determination. “Our duty now is to ensure that these corrupt marines and the remaining pirates of Arlong are escorted and detained in Impel Down.” As he spoke, they boarded the ships with the prisoners, ready to return to Loguetown.
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