Chapter 5: CHAPTER 5: TIME SKIP 2 YEARS
The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over Shimotsuki Village.
The air was thick with the scent of salt from the nearby sea, mingling with the earthy aroma of sweat and determination that wafted from the dojo.
Zoro, now thirteen and stronger than ever, grunted with effort as he pushed through his squats, each repetition a testament to his relentless training.
The boulder he lifted was a testament to his strength, the sweat glistening on his light bronze skin, a badge of his perseverance.
Saga was a few paces behind, slicing through the air with his wooden sword. His dark blue hair whipped around him as he moved, footwork precise and fast, striking the dummy with a rhythm that echoed through the dojo like a heartbeat.
He paused for a moment, breathing heavily, and shot Zoro a grin. "How many more of those do you plan to do? You're gonna turn into a boulder yourself at this rate!"
Zoro let out a laugh, the sound hoarse but genuine. "Better a boulder than a twig. You'll need to keep up, Saga!"
As their training came to an end, they set off to find Prime, who had taken to meditating under the waterfall on the nearby hill.
The sound of rushing water filled the air, a calming backdrop to their animated chatter. Zoro's muscles ached pleasantly, and he could feel the strength coursing through him, a reminder of his hard work.
When they reached the hill, Prime was seated cross-legged beneath the waterfall, water cascading down his black curls, his light brown skin glistening in the fading light. He opened his eyes as they approached, a serene smile spreading across his face.
"Nice of you to join me," he said, his voice calm but with a hint of mischief. "I was beginning to think you'd forgotten about me."
"Forgotten? Never!" Zoro replied, puffing out his chest. "I was just getting stronger. You know how it is."
Saga rolled his eyes with a smirk. "Right. And I suppose you've been training your charm too? Because I'm sure it's not working."
Zoro feigned offense, placing a hand dramatically over his heart. "How dare you! I'm a charming boulder!"
Prime chuckled, rising to his feet and shaking off the water like a dog. "Alright, boulder boys, let's go eat. I'm starving after all that meditation."
The trio made their way down to their favorite restaurant, a cozy place filled with laughter and the smell of grilled fish.
The waiter greeted them with an exaggerated bow, knowing all too well what was coming.
"Back again, boys? Ready for another feast?" he asked, already preparing for the onslaught.
"Of course!" Zoro exclaimed, rubbing his hands together. "Bring everything you have!"
Saga leaned over the table, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "I heard there's a new special today. Something about a giant octopus?"
"Count me in!" Prime added enthusiastically, his eyes sparkling at the thought of a hearty meal.
As plates piled high with food began to arrive, the regular customers watched with amused expressions, accustomed to the boys' insatiable appetites. The waiter set down the last plate—a massive serving of grilled octopus—and stepped back, shaking his head in disbelief.
"Y'know, I'm starting to think you three are part octopus yourselves," he joked, watching as Zoro dug in.
"More like part legend," Zoro replied, mouth full. "We train hard; we eat harder!"
Saga raised his chopsticks, pointing at Zoro. "Speaking of legends, did you see the news about Shanks? He's officially one of the Yonko now!" Saga said, then added "I think the guy I heard it from said it's like a year old that he became a yonko"
Prime's eyes widened, his heart racing. "No way! I always knew he'd make it. That's incredible!" He leaned in closer, excitement bubbling in his voice. "I want to be at that level someday. Just like him But Better."
Zoro paused, a piece of octopus halfway to his mouth. "You really think you can do it? Become a Yonko?"
"Of course!" Prime declared, determination flashing in his eyes. "I won't stop training until I'm there. With you guys by my side puching me to be better, I know we can make it happen."
Saga nodded, a fire igniting in his chest. "We need to challenge Sensei again. I feel like we're finally ready."
Zoro's grin widened. "I've been waiting for that! Let's show him how much we've grown. He won't know what hit him!"
As they continued to eat, laughter filled the air, blending with the sounds of clattering dishes and cheerful chatter from the other diners. Each bite fueled their dreams and ambitions, the bond between them growing stronger with every shared laugh and challenge.
Later that evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple, the trio walked through the village. The streets were illuminated by lanterns, the flickering lights casting playful shadows on the cobblestones.
"Do you think Sensei will take us seriously this time?" Saga asked, kicking a small stone down the street.
Zoro nodded confidently. "He's seen how hard we've worked. Besides, we've all gotten way stronger. He might actually have to put in some effort."
Prime smiled, his heart swelling with pride for his friends. "No matter what happens, I'm grateful to be on this journey with you two. We'll push each other to be better, just like we always have."
"Lame!" Saga teased, but there was warmth in his voice. "But yeah, I feel the same way. We're like a family now."
"Family," Zoro echoed, his expression softening. "I like the sound of that."
As they reached the dojo, the moon shone brightly above, casting a silvery glow over their training grounds.
Zoro turned to his friends, determination etched on his face. "Tomorrow, we train harder than ever. Let's show Sensei we're ready."
"Agreed," Prime said, clenching his fists. "For our dreams!"
"Let's go!" Saga shouted, raising his wooden sword in the air as if ready to charge into battle.
The next day dawned bright and clear, the sun rising over the dojo like a new beginning. Zoro was the first to arrive, even if he usually get lost but he always finds his way to the dojo, his muscles already warmed up from his morning routine.
He took a moment to breathe in the fresh air, the scent of the sea mingling with the earthy aroma of the dojo.
As he started his warm-up, he heard the distinct sound of footsteps approaching.
Saga arrived, a determined look on his face, followed closely by Prime, who was adjusting his sleeves, a serious expression on his face.
"Ready for this?" Saga asked, spinning his sword in his hands.
"Ready as I'll ever be," Zoro replied, a fire igniting in his belly. "I can't wait to show Sensei what we've got."
Prime nodded, his eyes shining with excitement. "Let's make this count."
They began their training with a series of warm-ups, each movement a testament to their growth.
Zoro focused on strength, his boulder lifting routine now a part of his daily regimen.
Saga practiced his footwork, darting around the dojo with agility that left even Zoro in awe. Prime moved fluidly, blending strength with grace, his swordsmanship sharper than ever.
After an intense hour of training, they gathered in a circle, catching their breath. "Do you think Sensei is ready for us?" Saga asked, wiping the sweat from his brow.
Zoro grinned, his confidence unwavering. "He better be. We've come too far to back down now."
"Let's go find him," Prime suggested, determination radiating from him. "It's time to put our skills to the test."
They made their way to the training yard, where Sensei Shimotsuki Koushirou was waiting, his expression calm but focused.
He stood with his arms crossed, the sunlight glinting off his sword, an air of authority surrounding him.
"Ah, my young students," he greeted, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. "I see you've been training hard."
Zoro stepped forward, his posture confident. "We're ready for a rematch, Sensei. We've improved a lot since our last duel."
Saga nodded vigorously, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "We've trained for this. We want to show you how much we've grown."
Koushirou raised an eyebrow, his expression serious yet intrigued. "Very well. Show me what you've learned. But remember, this is not just about strength. It's about strategy, teamwork, and heart."
The boys exchanged glances, excitement bubbling within them. They took their positions, adrenaline coursing through their veins as they prepared to face their mentor once again.
The clash of swords echoed in the air as they charged at Koushirou, their movements coordinated and fluid. Zoro and Saga flanked him while Prime took the center, aiming to distract their Sensei with swift strikes.
"Is that all you've got?" Koushirou teased, dodging effortlessly, his movements graceful as he countered their attacks still using his wooden sword. "You'll need to do better than that!"
"Don't underestimate us!" Zoro shouted, launching himself forward with a fierce determination. He felt the weight of his training behind every swing of his sword, a reminder of the countless hours spent honing his skills.
Saga darted in from the side, using his speed to keep Koushirou busy. "You can't dodge forever!" he called, a laugh escaping his lips.
Prime seized the opportunity. He moved in, his sword slicing through the air with precision, but Koushirou was quick, deflecting the blow with a skillful flick of his wrist.
"Impressive teamwork," he acknowledged, stepping back and assessing their movements. "But you need to anticipate your opponent's next move. Think one step ahead!"
With newfound determination, they regrouped, exchanging silent nods of encouragement. They adjusted their strategy, Zoro taking the lead and guiding his friends in a synchronized attack.
They moved as one, each knowing their role, their bond of friendship fueling their strength.
The duel became a whirlwind of movement, the dojo filled with the sound of clashing wood and their spirited laughter.
Each strike brought them closer to their goal, a testament to their growth and dedication.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Koushirou called for a halt, breathing heavily but with a satisfied smile on his face. "Well done, my students. You've improved immensely."
Zoro grinned widely, sweat dripping down his forehead, his heart racing with exhilaration. "We're ready for anything now!"
Saga clapped Prime on the back. "We really are like a family! And guess what? We're going to keep pushing each other until we're the best!"
Prime nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "Together, we can achieve anything."
As they stood in the dojo, surrounded by the echoes of their laughter and the spirit of camaraderie, they knew that their journey was just beginning.
They had grown stronger, but more importantly, they had grown together, forging a bond that would carry them through whatever challenges lay ahead.
And with that, they were ready to face the world, together.....
(A/N: am so Dem tired when doing this chapter so it there's any mystic let me know,
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