In the end, Zefa reluctantly accepted the harsh reality. As someone who had earned the rank of admiral through sheer effort and skill in physical combat, he had always prided himself on his talent and hard work. It had taken him over half a month to master techniques like the Finger Gun and Tempest Kick, and he had believed that record was unbreakable. But now, his demon of an apprentice had shattered that belief—and crushed it underfoot with ruthless ease.
Still, Zefa comforted himself with one thought: no matter how many talented students he encountered in the future, none would ever surpass Satoru's monstrous abilities.
"I feel like I'm a complete failure as a teacher," Zefa muttered, his tone tinged with defeat. "There's nothing left for me to teach you."
The usually confident instructor looked utterly dejected, his spirit momentarily broken.
"Don't feel bad, Master," Satoru said, attempting to console him. "It's just that you've trained me so well!"
Zefa glanced at Satoru skeptically, unconvinced by the flattery. Still, after a moment of contemplation, a wide grin spread across his face.
"But having such an exceptional apprentice is something to brag about!" Zefa declared, his confidence returning. "From now on, I won't micromanage your training. If you have questions, come to me anytime. However, you must continue attending classes. The Navy values not just strength, but camaraderie and teamwork as well."
"Yes, Master," Satoru replied with a nod, understanding the importance of Zefa's advice. While his power set him apart, he recognized the need for friends and allies—he wasn't invincible, after all.
---
The next morning, the group gathered at the training ground again. The students who had previously underestimated Satoru now regarded him with awe—and a healthy dose of fear. Yesterday's one-sided sparring match had left an indelible impression on their minds. They no longer saw Satoru as a peer but as a figure far beyond their reach.
Despite his overwhelming strength, Satoru gradually made a few friends, including Chris and Herak—two students he had bested with ease—and a seemingly unremarkable trainee named Bosla. Bosla, the weakest of the group, was a quiet, unassuming individual. Yet, Satoru had noticed something in him that no one else had: immense untapped potential.
One day, after training, Bosla lay sprawled on the ground, staring up at the sky. Chris and Herak sat nearby, exhausted and out of breath, while Satoru remained as fresh as ever.
"I don't understand how you're not tired," Herak complained, shaking his head. "Are you even human?"
"Of course I'm tired," Satoru replied with a grin. "I just don't show it."
The others rolled their eyes in disbelief. Not a single drop of sweat marred Satoru's face, making his claim hard to believe.
Turning to Bosla, Satoru crouched beside him. "You've improved a lot, Bosla," he said with an encouraging smile.
Bosla blinked in surprise. "I have? I don't know why, though."
"It's because you have great potential," Satoru explained, pushing his sunglasses up slightly to meet Bosla's gaze. "It would've been a waste to let you sink into obscurity. If you keep training diligently, you could one day reach the level of Master Zefa."
The statement left Chris and Herak stunned. They had never considered Bosla to be anything special, but Satoru's words suggested otherwise. Could the timid, unassuming trainee truly have the potential to become an admiral?
"Do you really think I could become a general?" Bosla asked, a mix of hope and disbelief in his voice.
"Absolutely," Satoru replied confidently. "Trust my eyes—I've never been wrong."
Herak couldn't help but ask, "What about me? Could I become a general too?"
Satoru paused, considering the question. "Not with your current abilities. But if you find a suitable Devil Fruit, you could have a chance."
"Devil Fruits, huh?" Herak murmured, pondering the idea.
"An animal-type fruit, like the Gorilla Fruit, would suit you perfectly," Satoru suggested. Herak nodded, mentally noting the advice.
"And me?" Chris interjected eagerly.
"You need to focus on balance," Satoru advised. "Strengthen your physical skills while honing your Devil Fruit ability. With dedication and the right opportunities, it's not impossible for you to reach the level of a general."
Chris's face lit up with determination. While the road ahead seemed daunting, he felt inspired by Satoru's faith in his potential.
As the group dispersed, Bosla stared at the sky, a spark of hope igniting within him. For the first time, he dared to dream of something greater—a future where he could stand alongside legends like Zefa and Satoru.