161: Chapter 160 Begins Cultivation"Luffy, when are we leaving for the New World?" Zoro asked Luffy after celebrating the increase in his bounty.The Straw Hat crew also looked at Luffy expectantly, eager to try their luck in the New World.After all, it was a place all pirates longed for, full of unknowns and challenges.However, Luffy's next words left them speechless.
"We definitely need to go to the New World, but not now, but two years from now.Right now, we need to go back to the islands where we were sent to train.Our current strength isn't enough to venture into the New World," Luffy said seriously, looking at his crewmates.
These words plunged everyone into deep thought.They knew that the New World was far more dangerous than the first half of the Grand Line.Even though they had experienced countless battles, they still seemed insignificant in the face of the powerful Four Emperors and other forces.
Despite everyone's anticipation for the New World, reality is harsh.Luffy's words are undeniable facts.Zoro and the others wanted to argue, but ultimately held back.They understood that only through continuous training could they improve their strength and meet future challenges.
However, when they heard Luffy demand that they return to the islands they had been blasted away from, a sense of doubt arose in everyone's hearts.Usopp couldn't help but ask, "Luffy, why do we have to go back to those islands?Can't we find a new place to train together?"
Luffy shook his head and explained, "Because each of you has unique abilities and potential, you can only better utilize these advantages in specific environments.Therefore, returning to your original island is the most suitable choice for your growth."
This reason surprised everyone, but upon closer examination, it makes perfect sense.For example, Nami could use the climate conditions of Weather Island to further her research on weather; Chopper could continue exploring the field of medicine on Animal Island; and Brook could hone his musical skills on Ghost Island…
Just as everyone nodded in understanding, Sanji suddenly spoke up: "Well, Captain, I think this place suits me quite well.How about I stay here and train?" After saying that, a hint of fear appeared on his face.
The thought of that kamaru kingdom sent chills down Sanji's spine.He couldn't imagine the mental torment he would suffer if he went back.The others, seeing this, burst into laughter.They knew Sanji had a deep-seated fear of kamaru.However, Luffy did not grant Sanji's request.
"No!You must return to the Okama Kingdom.It's the best training ground for you.Believe me, when you come back, you'll be even stronger," Luffy said firmly.
Sanji sighed helplessly.He knew that once Luffy made up his mind, it was hard to change it.It seemed he had no choice but to bite the bullet and return to that terrifying place.However, he secretly vowed to train hard and escape the nightmare of that Kamaji kingdom as soon as possible."But before we go there, let's level up our Haki.As for our teacher, well, he's here," Luffy said with a smile, pointing to Rayleigh emerging from the sea.
Upon hearing this, the Straw Hat Pirates all looked in the direction Luffy was pointing.Rayleigh was emerging from the sea, soaking wet, but with a faint smile on his face.
"Haha!Long time no see, how are you all?" Rayleigh laughed heartily.
"Uncle Rayleigh!It really is you!" Luffy excitedly ran over and hugged Rayleigh.
Everyone gathered around, their faces beaming with joy.They all knew Rayleigh was a powerful and reliable person, and with his guidance, their strength would surely be greatly improved.
Reilly smiled as he looked at everyone, his eyes filled with satisfaction and pride.He believed these young people would surely create their own legend.
Usopp exclaimed excitedly, "With Uncle Rayleigh around, we're sure to become even stronger!"
Nami smiled gently and said, "Yes, we must work hard and not let Uncle Rayleigh down."
Chopper waved his little fist and said firmly, "That's right, we must do our best!"
Sanji, Robin, Franky, Brook, and the others all nodded in agreement.
Looking at the group of energetic and spirited young people before him, Rayleigh couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion.He knew that these children were the hope of the future, possessing limitless potential and possibilities.
Rayleigh smiled and said to everyone, "Alright, little ones, let's work together now!I will do my best to teach you and help you become true strongmen!"
Everyone responded in unison, "Yes!"
"What you know now is only the most basic use of Haki.Although it may make you invincible in the first half of the Grand Line, it will be completely insufficient in the second half, that is, the New World!" Rayleigh said loudly, his voice as loud as a bell, resounding throughout the entire venue.
The Straw Hat Pirates were all taken aback.They had thought they had mastered the essence of Haki, but after hearing Rayleigh's words, they realized that there was an even more powerful force waiting for them to discover.
"For example, Armament Haki.What you've learned so far is only the basic binding and hardening, while the higher level is the outward release of flowing Armament Haki!" Rayleigh continued to explain, "This means that you can release unnecessary Armament Haki by binding it to your hands or weapons, which can form a protective barrier or even defend against invisible attacks!"
As he spoke, Rayleigh demonstrated for himself.He stretched out his palm, and a black aura surged from his hand, quickly condensing into a shield that completely enveloped his body.
The Straw Hat Pirates stared wide-eyed; they had never seen such an amazing skill before, and their hearts were filled with astonishment and.curious.
"Another method is to use Armament Haki to penetrate the surface of an object and cause internal damage!" Rayleigh continued to explain."This technique requires extremely high control and precision, and can cause damage to the inside of an object without damaging its exterior."
After saying that, Rayleigh demonstrated again, gently placing his hand on a huge rock and then activating his Armament Haki.With a muffled thud, the boulder instantly shattered, turning into countless fragments scattered all over the ground.
Rayleigh spoke at length, but when he turned to look at the Straw Hat crew, he found them all looking completely bewildered.
Luffy was a little better off, since he had previously used advanced Armament Haki and Observation Haki.Although they had failed, the insights he gained remained in his mind.But the other crew members weren't so lucky; they simply couldn't comprehend the profound techniques Rayleigh was talking about.
"Looks like you still need more training, Luffy.Put them in your.whatever space you're talking about, let them digest it first.As for Luffy, come with me, I'll teach you how to properly use Conqueror's Haki," Rayleigh said, leading Luffy to an island suitable for his training.