Rocks, with a grin of approval, nodded at Kaito's response. "Good. Then I'll personally teach you the advanced techniques for Armament Haki and Observation Haki."
It was a significant promise. Rocks, known across the seas as a supreme master of all three forms of Haki, possessed an unparalleled understanding of Armament and Observation Haki. His prowess in Conqueror's Haki was equally unmatched, though he knew full well that Conqueror's couldn't be taught. Instead, it grew with a person's own spiritual strength and indomitable will.
Rocks began to instruct Kaito, delving into the origins of Armament Haki. "You already understand that Armament Haki stems from an invisible force within the body," he explained, his tone patient but firm. "It's a power that acts like armor, drawn from your inner strength. To take it to the next level, you must…" Rocks leaned in slightly, his voice steady as he described advanced techniques.
"Observation Haki, on the other hand," Rocks continued, "relies on the senses. To refine it, you must fully integrate that hidden power with your awareness. To reach a more advanced level, you'll need to…" He gave detailed examples of exercises and mental focus that would push Kaito's abilities further.
Kaito listened intently, committing every word to memory. Rocks didn't just share techniques—he shared insight, the kind that only a top-tier master could offer. Hours slipped by as Kaito soaked in the guidance.
Then came the system's voice, breaking into his concentration.
"Ding! Congratulations, Host, Armament Haki has reached mid-level!"
"Ding! Congratulations, Host, Observation Haki has reached mid-level!"
Kaito smiled faintly. In just one session, he had leaped forward. The years of steady improvement he had achieved on his own had now been propelled into the next stage. The guidance of someone like Rocks had given him the clarity and insight he needed to make that breakthrough.
Encouraged, Kaito raised his arm and activated his newly improved Armament Haki. A thick, obsidian layer coated his skin, harder and more durable than ever before. The increase in both offense and defense was immediately apparent.
"Not bad," Kaito murmured, admiring the transformation.
Rocks, watching from nearby, raised an eyebrow. "You've improved more than I expected. Not just your Armament Haki, but it seems you've elevated your Observation Haki as well."
Kaito nodded. "Your guidance made the difference."
Rocks let out a deep chuckle. "You might be the most talented person I've ever trained. If you and I had been born in the same era, I believe you'd have been my greatest rival."
The statement carried weight. Rocks had always been confident that his strength eclipsed everyone else's, even legends like Whitebeard and Roger. For him to entertain the idea that Kaito could match or surpass him spoke volumes.
Kaito, however, wasn't rattled. The system guaranteed his growth, so no matter what Rocks believed, Kaito already knew he would rise to the top. Still, he kept his thoughts to himself and nodded with a polite smile.
"This concludes today's training," Rocks said, resting a hand on Kaito's shoulder. "You're welcome to seek me out again if you need further guidance."
"Understood," Kaito replied.
With that, Rocks turned and walked away, leaving Kaito alone on the deck. Kaito watched his captain's retreating figure, amused by the man's mixture of confidence and suspicion. Rocks had good reason to be wary—everyone aboard the ship had their own agenda. Still, Kaito felt no animosity. Rocks was helping him, and that was all that mattered.
As he made his way back to his quarters, Kaito noticed someone standing at the door. A tall, broad figure leaned casually against the frame, bathed in moonlight. Kaito's sharp eyes quickly identified him.
"Edward Newgate?" Kaito said, more curious than startled.
It was Whitebeard, a man Kaito had yet to interact with since joining the crew. His presence at Kaito's door was unexpected, and for a moment, Kaito could only wonder what the future strongest man in the world wanted from him.