Chapter 9: Training and Preparation
Arthur decided to stay in Shimotsuki Village for a few more days, using the time to teach Alex and Hiroshi about Haki and further hone their skills.
One morning, as the sun rose over the village, Arthur gathered Alex and Hiroshi in a secluded part of the dojo's training grounds. "Today, we'll focus on Haki and improving our combat techniques," he said. "Haki is a crucial skill for any fighter in the New World."
Alex, curious about the mysterious power, asked, "Captain, can you explain more about Haki and its applications?"
Arthur nodded. "Haki comes in three main forms: Armament Haki, Observation Haki, and Conqueror's Haki. Armament Haki allows you to coat your body or weapons in an invisible armor, enhancing your attacks and defense. Observation Haki lets you sense the presence, strength, and emotions of others. Conqueror's Haki allows you to exert your willpower over others, intimidating or knocking out weaker opponents."
Arthur demonstrated by coating Tyrfing with Armament Haki, the blade gleaming with a dark, metallic sheen. "Alex, you can coat your bullets with Armament Haki to increase their power and penetration."
Alex tried it, focusing his energy into a bullet. After several attempts, he succeeded, the bullet glowing with the same dark energy. "I did it!" he exclaimed, grinning.
Arthur then turned to Hiroshi. "Hiroshi, I'll show you a new sword style skill. Watch closely."
Arthur took a deep breath, his stance becoming firm and balanced. He raised Tyrfing, channeling his Armament Haki into the blade. With a swift motion, he executed a powerful move, shouting, "Dragon Spike!"
The air around the blade crackled with energy as Arthur unleashed a devastating strike, splitting a large training dummy in half. Hiroshi's eyes widened with awe.
"That was incredible, Captain," Hiroshi said. "Please teach me that move."
Arthur spent the next few hours training Hiroshi, guiding him through the intricacies of the Dragon Spike technique. Hiroshi practiced diligently, his movements becoming more precise and powerful with each attempt. By the end of the session, he had successfully mastered the basics of the move.
As the sun set, Arthur gathered his crew. "You've both made great progress. Alex, your sharpshooting has become even deadlier with Haki. Hiroshi, your swordsmanship is improving rapidly. We'll continue to grow stronger together."
With their training complete, the crew prepared to set sail once more. As they boarded the Silverhair Pirates' ship, Arthur noticed a new function on his system panel labeled "Status." Curious, he opened it, revealing his status as if he were a game character.
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**Status Panel**
- **Name:** Sergio D. Arthur
- **Armament Haki:** Level A
- **Observation Haki:** Level A
- **Conqueror's Haki:** Level A
- **Swordsmanship:** Level A
- **Combat Competence Level:** Vice Admiral
- **Host Potential Level:** SS+
- **Devil Fruit:** None
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Arthur smiled, satisfied with his progress. He also received another notification.
"Congratulations! Reward for gaining a second crew member: 5 Armament Haki Upgrade Pills."
Arthur pocketed the pills, knowing they would come in handy. With their ship stocked and their skills honed, the Silverhair Pirates set sail towards their next adventure.
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