Fishman in One Piece

Chapter 25 Training and Mermaids

"Let us first take a break. "

Jinbei flexed his fists and rotated his wrists, stating, "It is nearly time for lunch. This afternoon, we will focus on practicing observation haki. "

"I believed we needed to master armament first before progressing to observation . . . "

Brett reclined on the ground, breathless. His body was marked with bruises and appeared quite sore.

According to Jinbei, Haki is enhanced through combat.

The stronger the opponent and the more fierce the battle, the greater the advancement of Haki.

This principle has consistently held true since the initial stages of awakening.

As a result, while Jinbei was fighting Brett, he was driving him to dig deep within himself to uncover the latent Haki.

Of course, Jinbei was merciful, yet Brett still sustained significant injuries.

"You are exhausted . If you continue practicing at this level in the afternoon, you risk being unable to cope," Jinbei remarked. "Therefore, let us transition to a more relaxed form of practice. "

Brett wanted to express, that he was fine. He has some stored energy, and his body was recovering quickly as well.

However, he realized it was irrelevant; the effectiveness of the observation was comparable to that of the armament.

"Let us return to eat," Jinbei stated as he prepared to assist Brett in standing.

"There's no need," Brett replied unsteadily, then approached the large bag he had placed down earlier. "I brought a lunch box."

Upon opening the bag, he revealed two substantial containers. Brett lifted one in each hand, saying, "There's also a portion for you, Brother Jinbei. "

"Huh? "

Jinbei accepted it with surprise. "Is there food in the bag? I never thought that you could cook. "

Then his expression brightened as he added with a grin, "I see, it must be Shyarly, right? "

"Technically, it's the chef at Shyarly's cafe. "

Brett settled cross-legged and opened the container.

Inside was a very generous serving of food.

Shyarly had instructed him to take this when he departed in the morning.

Jinbei came over and sat across from Brett, also opening his food box and saying with a smile, "Shyarly's Mermaid Cafe is quite renowned. I truly appreciate your thoughtfulness this time. "

"However," Jinbei continued with some concern, "Will the situation with Arlong not impact your relationship with Shyarly? "

Jinbei felt a tinge of guilt as he contemplated whether it was indeed wise to allow Brett to manage this issue.

Brett enjoyed a good rapport with Arlong, so he believed he could persuade him to reconsider.

Yet, if Brett approached it in this manner, what would Shyarly's reaction be? She is Arlong's sister

.

"Don't worry Brother Jinbei," Brett said with an unusual smile. "Initially, I was uncertain about how to approach Brother Arlong, but ultimately, Shyarly encouraged me."

"Eh? "

Jinbei paused abruptly, chopsticks in hand.

He then sighed, stating, "It is hard to believe that she is, infact Arlong's sister."

Clearly, she was raised alongside Arlong, yet their temperaments are entirely distinct.

"So, Brother Jinbei, what can you tell me about Brother Arlong? " Brett asked.

"He is surprisingly reserved," Jinbei replied. "I had anticipated a fierce confrontation. Last night, I arranged for observers to monitor his residence. "

"However, he showed no intention to venture out."

"Is that so? " Brett nodded, suggesting, "Perhaps my words yesterday had an influence? "

"Regardless, it is beneficial if Arlong can display restraint. However, Brett," Jinbei continued, "Arlong's subordinates are quite dissatisfied with you. They have circulated many unpleasant words about you in Fishmen Street. "

"I have dispatched people to intervene, but I fear some will still be influenced by them. "

"It doesn't matter." Brett continued to consume his meal casually, responding, "It is impossible to please everyone. "

Jinbei nodded in agreement, stating, "In any case, there is no need to be concerned about Fishmen Street; I will handle it."

'He is truly a reliable older brother.'

Following lunch and a brief rest period, the afternoon training commenced.

He retrieved a towel and meticulously folded it into a strip. "Brett, are you ready ? "

Brett solemnly nodded, affirming, "Let's go! "

Shortly thereafter, Brett stood with his eyes covered by a cloth while Jinbei positioned himself behind him, wielding a coral stick that was now extended.

Whoosh!

Boom!

"Ah! "

'Brother Jinbei is correct; practicing observation is indeed considerably less taxing than armament.

All I need to do is stand still and evade his strikes. The only downside is that it hurts somewhat.'

The training in observation haki continued for half the afternoon before Jinbei called a halt.

"You will continue with this practice until you successfully harness your haki." Jinbei instructed. "Brett, is that alright ?"

Brett, sitting on the ground, slowly raised his right hand with a thumbs-up, stating, "Yeah."

"Excellent! With such awareness, there is nothing to be concerned about. "

Jinbei laughed, asking, "Have you had enough rest? The next phase involves practicing the fish body technique! This is a water manipulation technique that has been passed down through generations on Fishman Island. Engaging in combat in water can unleash tremendous power, and even on land, the strength remains powerful."

"Whether you excel in fish-man karate or fish-man jujitsu, you have performed adequately, yet your skills remain merely sufficient. You are considerably distant from being able to rival genuine masters in these arts. "

Brett exhaled slowly in relief, then rose, "Please continue. "

Brother Jinbei's training sessions were quite sensible. After completing two rounds, Brett felt fatigued.

Consequently, the ensuing final physical training was considerably less demanding.

Jinbei and Brett focused on executing moves while identifying weaknesses in his techniques.

Naturally, every technique in Fishman Karate must be synchronized with water, which is the essence of Jinbei's training focus.

The objective is to harness water in order to unleash maximum strength.

A rewarding day was devoted to training, and as the day came to an end, the sunlight provided by Eve gradually faded.

Following his farewell to Jinbei, he headed to the Shyarly's establishment for dinner.

The Mermaid Cafe remained open, indicating that the dining service was thriving.

Despite its designation as a cafe, this establishment essentially functioned more like a restaurant.

Upon opening the door and entering, Brett was met with a lively atmosphere.

"The business is certainly flourishing. "

Brett approached the counter, leaned over it, and observed Shyarly, who was engrossed in tallying accounts.

"Hmm? "

Shyarly lifted her gaze to Brett, remarking, "If you seek charity, please use the back entrance,Beggar. "

"That is quite harsh of you. "

His garments were soiled, his nose injured, and his face swollen. Brett responded with resignation, "I had quite a challenging day."

"It is simply that Boss Shyarly is excessively demanding. "

A taunting voice emerged from behind.

As Brett turned, he noticed several lovely mermaid women had gathered around him.

They were too close for comfort.

Brett leaned back slightly, as the fragrance continued to waft toward him.

"Is this the child that Shyarly mentioned? He appears so forlorn; doesn't he resemble a puppy? "

"Have you ever actually seen a puppy? Though he may be dirty, upon closer examination, one might find that he is quite an attractive young man."

"Handsome young man, would you care to go on a date with us? "

The mermaid women were engaging in lighthearted banter, while Brett turned his attention toward Shyarly.

Shyarly's expression grew stern, "It is not yet time to clock out. Do you wish to face a deduction in your wages? "

"Ah, that is dreadful. "

"Do not fret, Shyarly, we won't exploit anyone. "

The mermaid women expressed feigned shock while maintaining cheerful expressions.

"However, young man, take heed. Shyarly can be quite fearsome when provoked. "

"Indeed, she often threaten to cut our pay."

"Well, let's converse later. We must attend to their tasks. "

Shyarly's expression remained severe as the mermaid women finally returned to their duties, albeit with smiles.

"What a lively bunch of people."

Brett exhaled heavily.

Why do people always wish to confine such vivacious and attractive females within aquariums?

"Is that so? "

Shyarly slightly raised her eyebrows.

"They are bit too loud." Brett responded in a composed manner.

"Ah,"

Shyarly smirked, "Nana, please request your mother to prepare dinner for this gentleman. "

"Understood, Sister Shyarly! "

A small mermaid enthusiastically raised her right hand and responded loudly to Shyarly, then glided towards the kitchen.

The young girl had blonde hair styled into two low ponytails that bobbed as she progressed, appearing quite adorable.

However—

"About ten years old at the most, huh? " Brett gazed at Shyarly, "Do you truly engage child labor? "

Shyarly rolled her eyes, "Nana is the daughter of Miriam. Since she is a single mother, Nana is permitted to play here. That's all."

Brett slightly nodded.

After conversing with Shyarly for a while at the counter, Miss Miriam emerged from the kitchen pushing a dining cart.

"Thank you for your patience. Boss Shyarly specifically requested that we prepare a special extra-large luxury set meal. Please enjoy it."

"Special instructions are unnecessary," Shyarly replied without looking up.

"Oh, did I let it slip? "

Miriam covered her mouth, "Then, young man, please enjoy this nutritious meal that was not specifically prepared by instructions from Shyarly. "

'Shyarly resides with a rather intriguing group of people. Quite charming if I have to say.'

Brett could not restrain a smile, "Thanks, I'll eat to my heart's content."

He moved the food to an available table and began eating.

After only a few mouthfuls, he sensed an intense gaze.

He looked up and spotted the little head on the opposite side of the table.

Her chin rested just above the table, supported by her arms, with her large eyes fixed intently on Brett and the food before him.

Brett contemplated for a moment, "Would you like to eat? "

"Um! "

The young girl revealed two rows of small white teeth, one of which was missing beneath.