Early the next morning, as the thin mist gradually dissipated, the imposing silhouette of the Navy training camp emerged under the soft light of dawn. The gray-blue buildings stood solemnly, their grandeur accentuated by the flags fluttering in the center of the camp. The emblem on the flags shone brightly under the morning sun, exuding an air of solemnity and reverence.
Far from the noise and bustle of the outside world, the Navy training camp was unusually quiet. Sunlight streamed through the tall windows of the austere classroom, illuminating every corner with its golden rays. The walls were adorned with paintings of historic battles, lending the room a sense of gravitas and history.
"Why do I have to sit in on this too..." Renji muttered under his breath, glancing at Kuzan, who sat beside him. He had been ordered by Fleet Admiral Kong to join Zephyr's second training camp. It was a direct order—one he couldn't refuse.
For many in the Navy, joining the training camp was a golden opportunity. After all, the instructors here were at least vice admirals. Being noticed by one of them could mean being directly recruited into their fleet and receiving priority training.
But honestly, Renji wasn't particularly interested in attending classes. To make matters worse, the instructor hadn't even arrived yet, leaving everyone sitting around with nothing to do. Most of what the training camp offered, Renji had already mastered.
Kuzan nudged Renji's arm. "Today's the first time we'll officially meet Instructor Zephyr. Aren't you curious about what kind of person he is?"
Zephyr, a man who had fought countless pirates across the seas, was known as the "Black Arm" for his formidable strength. Despite his fearsome reputation, he had never killed a single enemy, earning him the title of "Non-Killing Admiral."
"Zephyr's actually a pretty decent guy..." Renji said, speaking from experience.
"I've seen Admiral Zephyr a few times in the cafeteria. He's always been kind to the other Marines," Toki added, sharing her own observations.
She had also been admitted to the training camp due to her talent, and this was a new experience for her.
"From what I've heard, Instructor Zephyr is extremely strict when it comes to teaching," Kuzan chimed in, sharing the rumors he'd picked up.
As Kuzan and Toki engaged in a lively discussion, Renji sat back, bored. Despite having only known each other for a short time, the two seemed to get along surprisingly well. For them, building relationships with their fellow trainees would take time, but it was inevitable as long as they remained in the Navy.
Everyone here was exceptional, destined to rise through the ranks with ease. The training camp was also a place to forge connections, as the bonds formed here could last a lifetime. However, everyone here carried a sense of pride. They had been top performers in their previous postings, and earning their respect wouldn't be easy.
As Renji had expected, the classroom was a small social hub. The neatly arranged desks and chairs were occupied by young, sharp-eyed students in crisp uniforms. Their shoulder insignias indicated their ranks, and their youthful faces radiated ambition.
They sat in small groups, forming little circles as they discussed topics they found interesting or important. At this stage, their familiarity with one another was superficial, limited to occasional glances and snippets of overheard conversations. True understanding and camaraderie would require time, shared challenges, and mutual trust.
For now, it was just the beginning.
"The previous batch is about to graduate, so Zephyr will be focusing more on us. Be prepared," Renji said, gazing out the window at the sunlight.
With prodigies like Borsalino and Sakazuki setting high standards, their batch would undoubtedly face significant pressure.
Toki sat at the back of the classroom, her arm resting on the chair beside her. Her eyes sparkled with the reflection of the setting sun as she glanced around at her peers. Her gaze lingered on those engaged in lively discussions.
"Life's more interesting this way, isn't it?" she said with a light, bright smile, adding a unique charm to the conversation.
She turned to Renji, who was sitting beside her, and said softly, "I remember you once said, 'A strict teacher produces outstanding students.'"
Renji leaned back in his chair, his gaze fixed on the world outside the window. He smiled, his voice tinged with amusement. "That's right. So we'd better put on a good show and let the next batch experience what real pain feels like."
Kuzan nodded slightly, his expression as complex as the passing clouds. There was a hint of understanding and a touch of mischief in his eyes. "With you as their role model, the next batch will probably remember you for the rest of their lives."
Time passed slowly.
Half an hour later, the students in the classroom were drawn to the sound of footsteps echoing down the hallway. The rhythmic tapping of leather shoes grew louder, each step resonating through the air like ripples on water.
Suddenly, the classroom door creaked open, and all eyes turned toward it. Framed by the doorway, Zephyr stepped into the room, his presence commanding and dignified. He wore a crisp uniform, the golden stripes on his shoulder insignia gleaming under the classroom lights, symbolizing the honor and prestige of a Navy admiral.
His sharp eyes, hidden behind dark sunglasses, seemed to pierce through every student's thoughts. After confirming that everyone was present, his stern expression softened slightly.
"I know each of you carries pride in your heart, but this is my training camp. I advise you to set aside any petty thoughts."
"Sitting here means treating those around you as comrades you can trust with your life."
"Remember, courage and wisdom are your greatest weapons. Calmness and resilience are the keys to overcoming any challenge."
He walked down the aisle, his gaze sweeping over the students like a scanner. Each person who met his eyes felt a weight of trust and expectation, stirring their hearts.
"Do not forget your comrades. They are your strongest support on the battlefield." Zephyr's words carried the weight of a father's advice, filled with deep care and stern guidance. "Honor and life go hand in hand, but when you must make a choice, remember that your mission comes above all else."
"Of course, I hope you can balance both."
With that, Zephyr turned, leaving the students with a view of his back—a figure as steady and unshakable as a rock.
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