Chapter 7: Haki

It's somewhat amusing that Kong has already identified the next successor for Sengoku before officially bestowing the position upon him.

Of course, for Garp and his old comrades, this isn't a significant issue.

However, for others, it's a different story entirely.

The battle between Varen and Sakazuki, along with Kong's words, are deeply etched in everyone's minds.

Everyone understood that barring any unforeseen circumstances, the person before them would be the future Fleet Admiral.

"It's really bothersome," Varen sighed, seeing the discussions around him.

He had never anticipated that Kong would be so appreciative of his simple sparring with Sakazuki.

Especially considering that both of them are still students, and Sakazuki isn't particularly strong yet, Kong's words were unexpected.

However, if you think about it carefully, it's understandable. Even without an actual fight, individuals at that level can probably gauge the capabilities of these students at a glance.

Although Sakazuki isn't strong yet, Kong can see his potential to become a Fleet Admiral.

In facing such a Sakazuki, the younger Varen displayed overwhelming strength.

The most crucial point is that after a brief conversation, Kong was particularly optimistic about Varen's character.

In any case, the end result is that discussions about Varen have become increasingly fervent.

On the way out

Sengoku said with a look of emotion: "I thought Zephyr would face significant pressure after you retired behind the scenes, but I didn't expect the elite camp you taught to directly attract such monsters to join the Marines."

"And that kid is not even twenty years old yet, his talent is truly terrifying."

Other aspects can be faked or compensated for, but talent alone cannot be.

"When the three of us were twenty years old, we could probably have taken on this kid together," Garp mused.

The three he mentioned naturally refer to himself, Zephyr, and Sengoku.

"It's hard to believe, but it seems to be the case," Zephyr sighed.

Unexpectedly, those who consider themselves geniuses would one day feel isolated because someone else's talent is too overwhelming.

"That kid is indeed a monster." The term 'genius' doesn't suffice. Kong also couldn't help but say: "Given some time and conditions, it's not hard to imagine him becoming an incredibly formidable individual, without a doubt."

"Luckily, this kid was recruited by our Marines. If he became a pirate, he would definitely be a pirate stronger than Rocks."

"You don't need to worry about that; you've all seen that kid's character, and he would never get involved with pirates."

Following these words, the others nodded in agreement.

In fact, what impresses people the most isn't Varen's strength, but his gentle and elegant temperament, which is unparalleled, like a naturally good person. His gentleness makes everyone want to approach him, to rely on him.

Following that is Varen's incredible talent.

"Zephyr, I'll leave this incredible monster to you to teach," Kong said seriously.

Although it's said that Sengoku is next in line, if Varen doesn't die prematurely, then the candidate after Sengoku will undoubtedly be Varen.

Kong naturally places great importance on the future of the Marines.

"Don't worry, I'll closely monitor these boys and teach them the two forms of Haki to prevent premature deaths," Zephyr smiled.

After his wife and children were killed, he had lost enthusiasm, but he didn't expect to regain it in the elite camp.

With his strength, at least he can ensure he won't decline too much within ten years, and there's absolutely no problem in protecting these little monsters as they grow.

Now that he has accepted this responsibility, he will do his utmost to prevent these little monsters from dying prematurely.

"It's good to see you energised again." Of course, Kong didn't say this aloud but thought it silently in his heart.

But he can probably predict that Zephyr will start teaching these young people earnestly.

If Zephyr is serious, the training will be quite rigorous and even harsh.

...

The next day

After a whole day's rest yesterday, the elite camp's training has officially commenced.

Those who can stay in the elite camp won't have a poor foundation; at the very least, they have the physical fitness required to directly learn Haki.

Zephyr didn't overthink; since he wanted to teach these elites, he would start with the most straightforward, simplest, and most crucial aspects.

Zephyr, standing before the crowd, stared at them with a serious expression.

"Today, what I want to teach you is very simple, the use of two forms of Haki. Of course, I don't expect you to master all of this in one day, but I want you to understand what to learn and know the direction of your efforts."

"First, you need to understand what the two forms of Haki are."

"Armament Haki can enhance personal defence, acting like invisible armour; it can also be converted into offensive power, allowing it to compete with Devil Fruit abilities and even touch the real body of a 'Logia' fruit user. In addition to being wrapped around the body, Armament Haki can also be wrapped around weapons to enhance their attack power. When activated, part of the skin not only turns black but also becomes harder than steel."