Chapter Three: Awakening Power

The Training Camp

Ethan's training camp was nestled within the lush, sprawling grounds of the Mars estate in Mary Geoise. The estate was a testament to the wealth and power of the Celestial Dragons, with opulent buildings, manicured gardens, and an array of training facilities designed for the elite. Towering trees provided shade, their leaves rustling gently in the afternoon breeze. The distant sound of waves crashing against the cliffs added a rhythmic backdrop to the otherwise serene environment.

That afternoon, Ethan found himself in one of the open-air training arenas, surrounded by high walls covered in ivy. The sun cast long shadows across the ground as he faced off against his instructor, a seasoned Navy Vice Admiral named Vice Admiral Kael. Kael was a towering figure with a stern face, his uniform immaculate even in the heat of the training session.

The First Battle

"Ethan, your focus is wavering," Vice Admiral Kael reprimanded, his voice sharp.

Ethan's mind wandered, distracted by thoughts of Hancock and his recent purchase. His grip on the hilt of his sword was loose, his stance less than perfect.

"Pay attention!" Kael barked, launching a swift strike at Ethan.

Caught off guard, Ethan barely managed to parry the blow. He stumbled, his balance faltering, and Kael took advantage, disarming him with a quick flick of his wrist. Ethan's sword clattered to the ground, and he found himself staring up at his instructor's unimpressed expression.

"You call yourself a Celestial Dragon?" Kael sneered. "You fight like a commoner. Pathetic."

Ethan's cheeks flushed with anger and humiliation. He picked up his sword, his eyes blazing. "Give me another chance," he demanded.

Kael raised an eyebrow. "You think you can defeat me? Very well, but this time, I won't go easy on you."

The Second Battle

Ethan assumed his stance again, this time with renewed determination. He took a deep breath, centering himself, and focused entirely on the fight.

Kael wasted no time, launching a series of rapid, powerful strikes. Ethan parried each one, his movements precise and controlled. The clash of their swords echoed through the training arena, drawing the attention of nearby guards and servants.

"Impressive," Kael muttered under his breath, increasing the intensity of his attacks.

Ethan's eyes narrowed. He could feel something stirring within him, a strange, unfamiliar energy. His senses sharpened, and he began to anticipate Kael's moves before they happened. He dodged a particularly fierce strike and countered with a swift slash, catching Kael off guard.

"Impossible!" Kael gasped, barely managing to block the attack.

Ethan pressed the advantage, his strikes growing more confident and precise. Kael was forced to retreat, his face a mask of concentration and disbelief.

As the fight continued, Ethan felt the mysterious energy intensify. He didn't realized what it was but it was an awesome power, a power he had only heard whispers of. His movements became fluid, his strikes more powerful. With a final, decisive blow, he disarmed Kael, sending the Vice Admiral's practice sword flying across the arena.

Kael stumbled back, his eyes wide with shock. "This... this is Haki," he breathed. "How can a child like you possess such power?"

Ethan stood tall, his chest heaving with exertion. "I told you I could do it," he said, with his exhausted voice.

Kael shook his head, a mixture of awe and respect in his gaze. "You have awakened a power that many can only dream of, Ethan. You are no ordinary Celestial Dragon. With proper training, you could become one of the strongest warriors in the world."

Ethan's anger had faded, replaced by a newfound sense of purpose. He knew that his journey was just beginning and that his path would be fraught with challenges. But for the first time, he felt truly powerful, capable of shaping his own destiny.

"I want to learn more," Ethan said, his eyes meeting Kael's. "Teach me everything you know about Haki."

Kael nodded, a smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "Very well, Ethan. But be warned – mastering Haki requires immense discipline and dedication. Are you prepared for the challenge?"

Ethan's gaze was unwavering. "I am ready."He said just to fall into the floor after that 

"Ethan"Screamed the Vice Admiral.