The Greatest Disgrace in Marine History

Chapter 514 - 33: Special Instructor

"Master..."hat filled him with both weariness and warmth.

He smiled faintly, thinking of Toki’s serene expression. It’s worth it.

"Already worried? You’ve got a lifetime of headaches ahead, boy."

The familiar, booming voice drifted in from the doorway.

Darren looked up to see Zephyr striding in, chest broad as ever, carrying a neatly wrapped fruit basket.

"Zephyr-sensei? What brings you here?" Darren asked, surprised.

Zephyr chuckled, tossing the basket into his arms. "You brat! You haven’t set foot in my training camp since you graduated! Figured I’d have to come drag you out myself!"

He let out an exaggerated sigh. "Then again, I suppose an old man like me’s got no business lecturing you anymore. I’d only hold you back."

Darren winced, smiling awkwardly. Still holding that grudge, huh...

He rubbed the back of his neck. "I’ve been meaning to visit, Zephyr-sensei, really. Things have just been—"

"Save it," Zephyr said with a booming laugh, waving a hand. "I’m only teasing."

"I know you’re busy. You’ve been through hell since you graduated—Totto Land, Wano, Kaido, Golden Lion, and even that Buster Call against the Demon Heir..."

His tone softened. "Having a student like you is my pride, Darren."

He looked around the house and smiled warmly. "How’s Toki holding up?"

Darren’s shoulders eased. "She’s doing well, sensei. The doctor says both she and the baby are healthy."

"Good." Zephyr’s massive hand clapped down on his shoulder, nearly shaking the cigar from his lips. "I know you won’t sit still for long, you restless punk. Don’t worry—I’ll keep an eye on her for you."

Then, his expression shifted. The smile faded, replaced by something thoughtful.

"But that’s not the only reason I came," he said.

Darren straightened. "What is it, Zephyr-sensei?"

The old man chuckled. "Relax. It’s nothing grim."

He took off his sunglasses, eyes gleaming with a rare hint of excitement. "The Training Camp’s been expanding fast. More young blood coming in than ever, and this old body can’t keep up with them all."

A wry grin tugged at his mouth. "Given your... unique training history, I thought maybe it was time to try something different."

He leaned closer, his tone carrying both challenge and pride.

"Young Darren," Zephyr said, voice rich with meaning, "I want you to serve as a special instructor at the Elite Officer Training Camp."

To be continued...