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The first light of dawn cast a golden hue over the Cross Guild's fortress, heralding a new day. Aria stood on a secluded plateau overlooking the sea, her mind focused and her body poised. She had resolved to hone her abilities, to ensure she could wield her powers with precision and control.

The Jiki Jiki no Mi had granted her control over magnetic forces, a gift she had once viewed as a curse due to the marines' manipulations. Now, with a new sense of purpose, she aimed to master this power fully.

Taking a deep breath, Aria extended her hands, feeling the familiar hum of energy coursing through her veins. Around her, pieces of metal—from discarded weapons to stray fragments of armor—began to vibrate and lift into the air, drawn by her magnetic field.

She focused on a distant boulder, visualizing it as an enemy stronghold. With a sharp motion, she propelled the metal shards toward it. The projectiles flew with incredible speed and precision, striking the target and embedding themselves deep within the rock.

Encouraged by her success, Aria moved on to more complex maneuvers. She summoned a larger piece of metal, a discarded cannon barrel, and manipulated its movements with delicate precision. Under her control, it floated smoothly, twisting and turning in response to her commands.

Mihawk, observing from a distance, approached silently. He watched as Aria manipulated the cannon barrel into various formations, her control growing more refined with each passing moment.

"Impressive," he remarked, his voice cutting through the morning stillness.

Aria turned, a slight smile playing on her lips. "Thank you. It's getting easier with practice."

Mihawk nodded, his eyes appraising her progress. "Your control has improved significantly. But remember, true mastery lies not just in power, but in versatility. Can you adapt your abilities to different situations?"

Aria considered his words, then nodded. "I understand."

She decided to test her adaptability. Closing her eyes, she focused on expanding her magnetic field, attempting to detect and manipulate every metal object within a broader radius. She felt the tug of countless pieces of metal, each with its own unique signature.

With a deep breath, she began orchestrating a complex ballet of movement. Metal objects from all around the plateau rose into the air, circling her in an intricate dance. She moved them through various patterns, changing their speeds and trajectories with fluid motions of her hands.

Mihawk watched, impressed by her growing skill. "Now, try using your powers defensively."

Aria nodded and concentrated on forming a protective barrier. The metal pieces came together, creating a rotating shield around her. She moved within the barrier, maintaining its integrity while adapting its shape and density as if responding to an invisible assault.

Satisfied with her progress, Mihawk stepped forward. "Good. Now, let's see how you handle a real opponent."

He drew Yoru, his legendary black blade, and assumed a ready stance. Aria's heart raced, but she steadied herself, ready to face the challenge.

Mihawk moved with blinding speed, his strikes precise and powerful. Aria responded with her magnetic shield, deflecting his blows and countering with controlled bursts of metal projectiles. The clash of steel and magnetism filled the air, a testament to her growing prowess.

Despite the intensity of Mihawk's attacks, Aria held her ground. She adapted her defenses, using her magnetic field to anticipate and counter his moves. After a particularly fierce exchange, Mihawk stepped back, lowering his sword.

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