Chapter 24 Zefa's Teaching

The atmosphere in the office began to calm after Sengoku's outburst. Satoru remained poised, his pale blue eyes radiating a calm nobility. Despite the heated exchange between the two legendary figures of the navy, he couldn't help but find the entire situation slightly amusing. The banter between Garp and Sengoku felt oddly familial, like a quarrel between two old friends who had shared decades of experiences together.

When Sengoku mentioned Zefa, Satoru's interest was piqued. Zefa's reputation as a skilled instructor had preceded him, and Satoru had heard of the man's legendary training methods. Stories of recruits shaped by Zefa into elite marines were common knowledge, and the idea of being trained by him sent a ripple of anticipation through Satoru's usually calm demeanor.

"Zefa's teachings are highly respected. I'll do my best to live up to his expectations," Satoru responded with a respectful nod.

Sengoku's stern demeanor softened into a rare smile. "Good attitude. Zefa will appreciate that. He's strict, but you'll learn faster under him than under anyone else. His methods have shaped some of the greatest marines in our ranks. If you absorb his teachings well, you could surpass even Garp in combat expertise one day."

Garp, who had just climbed back into the office through the shattered window, let out a hearty laugh. His boisterous voice filled the room as he dusted himself off. "Surpass me? Hah! Let's not get ahead of ourselves, Sengoku. The kid's got potential, sure, but he's not there yet. Not even close!"

Sengoku shot Garp a glare but chose to ignore his comments. Turning back to Satoru, his tone was firm but encouraging. "Zefa is in the training grounds. You'll report to him tomorrow morning. He's working with a batch of recruits right now, but I've already informed him about you. Don't let his harshness discourage you—he has high expectations for a reason."

"Understood, Fleet Admiral Sengoku," Satoru replied, his voice steady and full of resolve.

Garp, still brushing dirt off his uniform, decided to insert himself into the conversation once more. "Zefa might look grumpy, but he's got a good heart. Just make sure you don't blow anything up on your first day, Satoru. The old man's patience is thinner than Sengoku's hairline."

"GET OUT!" Sengoku roared, his face turning red with frustration. He reached for a nearby book and hurled it at Garp with impressive speed and precision.

Garp dodged it with ease, laughing heartily. "I'll leave when I'm good and ready, you old goat!"

Satoru barely suppressed a chuckle, quickly excusing himself to avoid getting caught in the crossfire. As he stepped out of the office, the loud crash of furniture and another booming shout from Sengoku echoed down the hallway. Garp's laughter could still be heard as Satoru made his way toward the living quarters.

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Later That Evening

The sun dipped lower on the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over Marineford. The massive naval headquarters exuded a sense of order and purpose. Every brick of the towering buildings, every inch of the pristine training grounds, and every meticulously maintained warship in the harbor spoke to the navy's discipline and strength.

Satoru wandered through the base, observing the hustle and bustle of marines going about their duties. Groups of soldiers marched in unison, their boots striking the ground with practiced precision. Officers barked orders as recruits scrambled to comply, their crisp uniforms gleaming under the fading sunlight.

This place was unlike anything Satoru had experienced before. The sheer scale of Marineford was awe-inspiring, and the energy in the air was palpable. It was a far cry from the quiet solitude he had known in his past life—or perhaps, more accurately, in the life he could barely remember.

As he passed by the training grounds, he paused to watch a group of recruits sparring under the watchful eye of an instructor. Their movements were rough but determined, their eyes blazing with the fire of ambition. Satoru couldn't help but admire their drive. Despite their inexperience, each recruit was giving their all, pushing themselves beyond their limits.

A sense of determination welled up within him. This place… it feels like a fresh start, he thought, his gaze lingering on the recruits.

While his abilities made him unique, Satoru knew he still had much to learn. He wasn't invincible—not yet. The world was vast, and the seas were filled with dangers far beyond his current understanding. If Zefa's training could help him tap into his full potential, then Satoru was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As the evening deepened, the sky above Marineford turned a deep shade of blue, dotted with stars. Satoru turned and continued his walk, his mind already preparing for the next day. The road ahead would be grueling, but he welcomed the challenge.