Chapter 26: The Black Arm's Test
Before long, Satoru felt a powerful presence approaching. Unlike Garp, whose immense strength felt coiled and contained, this person's power radiated outwards, a palpable force of disciplined might.
The man who entered was a legend: the former Admiral known as "Black Arm" Zephyr, the "No-Killer" General. His reputation for Armament Haki was mythical; he had mastered it to a transcendent degree, including the advanced application of Ryuo (Flowing Haki).
"Zephyr, you're here," Sengoku said, genuine pleasure in his voice. Compared to Garp's chaos, Zephyr's presence was a relief. As the Navy's chief instructor, Zephyr was perpetually busy, and their paths rarely crossed even within the same fortress.
"I am. So, this is the prodigy you spoke of? The one who might surpass our three current 'monsters'?" Zephyr got straight to the point, his sharp eyes assessing Satoru. To the older generation, the trio of Admirals—Kuzan, Sakazuki, and Borsalino—were indeed 'monsters,' an unprecedented concentration of Logia-type, natural disaster-level power.
"That's correct," Sengoku nodded. "He's the child Garp rescued years ago. He possesses a unique, innate ability, like the Lunarians. But from what we've seen, his potential may far exceed theirs."
Oh? Zephyr's interest sharpened. The Lunarians were once called 'Gods' for their inherent powers. For Sengoku to claim this boy's ability was more terrifying was a bold statement. Recently, the declining quality of Naval Academy recruits had been a source of fatigue for a perfectionist like Zephyr. The promise of truly fresh, potent talent was invigorating.
"Zephyr," Sengoku continued, his tone serious, "I'm not asking you to slot him into the Academy. I want you to take him on as your personal apprentice. Teach him everything you know."
That gave Zephyr pause. An apprentice was different from a student. It implied a deeper bond, a direct lineage of skill. He had taught the current Admirals, but none bore the formal title of his apprentice.
"According to Sengoku," Zephyr said, his gaze returning to Satoru, "your current strength surpasses every student in the Naval Academy."
Satoru met his look. "I believe Marshal Sengoku is correct."
A faint, almost imperceptible twitch touched Zephyr's eye. The statement was audacious. The Academy housed teenagers, some with Devil Fruits. For a boy who looked no older than ten to claim superiority would be seen as insane arrogance by the students.
There were two possibilities: Sengoku was misinformed, or the boy was telling a shocking truth. Knowing Sengoku, it was definitely the latter.
"Very well. I'll take him for an evaluation," Zephyr stated. "As for accepting him as an apprentice... that will depend on what I see."
A small smile touched Sengoku's lips. That was as good as a 'yes.' If Satoru proved himself, Zephyr would not refuse.
For Satoru, the title of 'apprentice' didn't truly matter. Zephyr's expertise lay in physical combat and Haki mastery—areas that were somewhat secondary to Satoru's inherited path. The memories of Gojo Satoru placed little emphasis on martial arts; his overwhelming Cursed Techniques made finesse redundant. Speed? Instantaneous movement via Blue. Power? Black Flash on demand. Why master a thousand techniques when one unstoppable force sufficed?
Zephyr led Satoru to a private, stark training ground.
"Your name is Satoru," Zephyr began, his arms crossed over his massive chest. "Sengoku claims you're stronger than every cadet. What say you?"
"I believe Marshal Sengoku's assessment is accurate."
Zephyr's eye twitched again. The sheer, calm certainty in the boy's voice was staggering. He was glad none of the proud Academy students were around to hear it; they'd mob him regardless of age.
"Then let's see if that's true power, or just a mouth running ahead of its owner."
Zephyr shrugged off his admiral's cloak, revealing the physique of a warrior still in his prime. His arms were intact, his strength still formidable, if past its absolute peak. He retained the power of a Navy Admiral. However, Satoru noted a critical detail: Zephyr did not possess Conqueror's Haki. If Satoru maintained Infinity, Zephyr would never touch him.
But this was a test of his overall capability, not just his ultimate defense. Satoru wanted to measure the gap between his current, rigorously trained self and a Navy Admiral.
"Vice Admiral Zephyr," Satoru said, adopting a loose, ready stance. "I hope you won't hold back. Otherwise, you might get hurt."
A fierce, predatory grin spread across Zephyr's face. It had been a long time since anyone, let alone a child, had spoken to him like that.
"Interesting. I hope you can back up those words, boy."
(End of Chapter)
✨If you're enjoying this story, consider supporting me on Patreon —
Patreon.com/TofuChan
💕Patreon members get early access to chapters, bonus content, and voting power on future ideas.💕
Every bit of support helps me write more and faster. Thank you so much for reading! 🥰
Bonus Chapter For Every 50 Power Stones
Lets hit the goal of 100 Patreon Members now for 5 Extra Chapters 💕
We are at 102 members right now.
Donate me Stoness!!!