LIGHT NOVEL Chapter 17: Conviction
In that moment, Zoro felt an unprecedented force—one that resembled the impact dial he encountered on Skypiea. It was an inward assault, targeting the core of his body. The sheer might of it was terrifying. His entire body was flung into the air. How could a single finger possess such overwhelming power?
It was unbelievable. Even at his peak, he doubted his strength could compare to this. The attack had sent him flying despite his considerable weight—over a hundred kilograms, including his swords. Yet, this man had done it with nothing more than a simple touch. The power was almost unfathomable.
As Zoro lay there, astonished, a thought crystalized in his mind: he had to master this ability. Such a force would revolutionize his swordsmanship. It would be a qualitative leap, enabling him to perform feats previously unimaginable. This power wasn't just an option—it was essential. It would become his foundation, a means to grow stronger and achieve his goals.
"This is inner energy," the Zoro clan patriarch said as he helped him up. "What do you think? Impressive, isn't it?"
The patriarch regarded Zoro with a sense of optimism. This young man carried a peculiar aura—an energy that hinted at something extraordinary. He believed Zoro could accomplish miracles, which was why he had placed his hopes in him.
"I must learn this power," Zoro declared. "It's too tempting to ignore. Without it, my swordsmanship won't improve significantly."
He was resolute. The power of inner energy had shown him a new path. With it, he saw the potential to fight foes like Bartholomew Kuma, against whom he had once felt utterly powerless. Even his strongest techniques had barely scratched Kuma. But if he mastered this skill, he could deal real damage—even to that fearsome cyborg.
It had been a long time since Zoro felt this desperate to grow stronger. After his defeat at Kuma's hands, the desire had burned within him, but now it was rekindled like never before. He couldn't afford another close call like the one he'd had against that ordinary swordsman.
"This feeling," Zoro thought, clenching his fists. "I'll never let myself experience such powerlessness again. Only by mastering this will I become a true warrior."
"That's the spirit," the patriarch said, pleased by Zoro's determination. "Train well. You've already been given the foundation. With time and effort, strength will follow."
The patriarch understood the true key to growth: not just talent, but an unyielding will and an obsession with improvement. From the moment he met Zoro, he sensed the young man's potential. What set Zoro apart wasn't just his skill or physique, but his unwavering drive to become stronger. That drive was his greatest strength.
"I will master this power," Zoro vowed, his voice filled with conviction. "I will succeed. Wait for me, my friends. My resolve will never waver. Never."
Zoro's desire to grow stronger was now cemented in his heart. He had something to protect—something worth fighting for. His conviction burned brighter than ever.