A few days later, three warships set sail from Marineford at dawn, cutting through the waves toward the distant horizon.
The sea swelled gently, its waters a deep, springlike blue. Seagulls circled overhead, and a crisp breeze brought a sense of clarity and joy.
Ethan Hale stood alone on the deck, facing the rising sun. His dark, shining eyes were filled with renewed energy.
"One step closer, soon… very soon…" he murmured to himself, staring at the fiery orb that revived all life. He silently vowed, "One day, I will become like the sun, high in the sky, illuminating the world."
"This time, heading to Savage Beast Island, I have to give it my all and claim first place in the Grand Tournament. Once I have my own warship, I can quickly accumulate military achievements, eventually rising to Rear Admiral, Vice Admiral, or even Admiral."
Just after last night's training, Zephyr had announced that they would begin a half-month training session on Savage Beast Island starting today.
Savage Beast Island lies near the Calm Belt. It's an extraordinarily rare island, home not only to ancient species but also other strange phenomena. Even Marine Vice Admirals could face losses if they were careless, and the environment was notoriously harsh. Yet that was precisely why the Navy had chosen this location.
Most importantly, some creatures on the island possessed Haki. Yes, Haki. The Navy had researched this phenomenon, but the scientists had ultimately learned nothing.
"Interesting. I can get stronger, and maybe even more," Ethan muttered, tilting his head slightly as his cold gaze locked on Akainu at the ship's side.
Perhaps sensing Ethan's eyes, Akainu turned toward him, snorting with a grim expression.
As for Tokikake, Ethan ignored him entirely.
Watching this, Garp munched on a doughnut nearby, visibly excited.
Unexpectedly, Garp, alongside Zephyr, would serve as team leader. He had returned two days earlier, and Sora had immediately called him.
"Garp, this time you're going to Savage Beast Island for training. I hope you can accompany Zephyr," Sora said sternly from the office.
"Why? The West Wind is enough. I just got back and want a break," Garp replied, displeased and unenthusiastic.
"I'm afraid Zephyr alone can't handle it. After all, these kids are the Navy's future. It's best to minimize casualties," Sora sighed, acknowledging that time spares no one.
"You afraid of Ethan and Akainu?" Garp's eyes glinted, a grin spreading across his face.
"They both have potential. Losing even one is a loss for the Navy. More importantly, it could endanger others," Sora said, rubbing his head in concern.
"That's a problem," Garp mused, recalling the aggressive young man. If given the chance, he could easily have killed Akainu or Tokikake. Anyone interfering might have become Ethan's target. Unknown to him, Borsalino "Kizaru" already felt constrained. Although Kizaru had retreated in time before, Ethan clearly still saw him as an enemy. The only difference was that as long as Kizaru didn't provoke him, he would remain safe.
"Their powers are evenly matched. Defeating them is easy, but killing them would be extremely difficult, right?" Garp frowned.
"By the way, two months ago, Zephyr took Ethan as his disciple and is teaching him wholeheartedly. Also, the kid you brought back has a close bond with Ethan… just in case…"
"Really?" Garp asked, slightly puzzled, before bursting into laughter. "I never thought Kuzan would become friends with that kid."
"Garp, I'm serious. Most importantly, Akainu seems to have drawn the attention of the Five Elders. You must protect him if necessary."
"Oh?" Garp paused, then shrugged, saying, "Sora, you worry too much. Maybe Akainu will get the upper hand."
"If that happens, Akainu would certainly die, and Ethan would only be seriously injured at most. We both know that kid is no ordinary person. You must have heard of his deeds over the past few months his skill has impressed even Sengoku, and his willpower is incredibly strong…"
"Has that kid already awakened Haki?" Garp asked in surprise.
"If I'm not mistaken, he probably has."
"These kids nowadays are terrifying. Well, I'll just consider this a vacation then."
Remembering Sora's instructions, Garp glanced at Ethan's proud figure with interest and teased, "Let's see what kind of surprise you can give me."
After two nights passed, on the morning of the third day, the three massive warships were anchored steadily at the edge of the Calm Belt beside an enormous island.
On the deck, hundreds of spirited personnel stared eagerly at the target island, unable to hide their excitement, their faces glowing with anticipation.
"I trust you know this island well. Your mission is to hunt savage beasts. Each of you carries a small recording device to log every kill. Be cautious and act within your limits. Some beasts can even harm the Deputy Commander at headquarters any carelessness could result in casualties. If you feel a hunt is unnecessary or you're injured, you can retreat. A signal will bring rescue."
"Remember, you'll be on the island for half a month. During that time, be cautious carelessness could be deadly. The savage beasts are ranked in five tiers: Low corresponds to Major, Medium to Lieutenant Colonel, High to Colonel, General to Rear Admiral, and King to Vice Admiral. Killing a Low-tier beast earns 1 point, Medium 2 points, and so on, up to 5 points for the King tier. The top 50 scorers will participate in the Ocean Grand Competition two months later. Persistence pays off, and unexpected rewards await after the contest."
"I'll warn you again: carelessness could cost lives. If you cannot persist, it's best to withdraw," Zephyr said sharply, repeating the warning.
"Prepare to depart," he signaled, and countless trainees surged forward, vanishing into the forest in an instant.
"Seems like it won't be peaceful," Zephyr sighed, prompting laughter from Garp.
"That's fine, makes it more interesting. I was bored anyway," Garp said cheerfully.
"They're like water and fire both proud individuals. Who will fail this time?" Zephyr observed, watching Akainu and Ethan silently locking eyes at the forest edge, feeling a twinge of helplessness.
"Don't overthink it; there's plenty of time. Come eat a doughnut with me," Garp said, casually pulling Zephyr over.
"You rascal," Zephyr shook his head with a smile, feeling some helplessness facing his old friend.
"By the way, I haven't seen your dragon in a while. It should be back by now," Garp remarked.
"Don't mention it," Zephyr said, his expression darkening.
"You two quarrel again?" Zephyr laughed.
"Old friend, do you think I was wrong? That kid's heart has started to change," Garp said, mood unreadable, sighing in frustration.
"That's serious. That child is extraordinary. He could even hold his own against a Marine Vice Admiral before executing a mission. If he goes astray… then…"
"Sigh… never mind. Drink with me. Worst case, I'll let him taste the 'Iron Fist of Love' again," Garp said, downing a bottle of liquor in silence.
"You…" Zephyr shook his head, remaining silent, quietly drinking alongside Garp.