"From what we can see, yes," Tsuru nodded, her expression serious. She then frowned slightly, offering a warning, "Momousagi, remember this: don't provoke him unless absolutely necessary. Once or twice might be fine, but three mistakes, and it could be fatal. Judging by what happened with Chaton and Akainu, Atticus's character is still relatively disciplined."
"How could I possibly provoke him?" Momousagi pouted, her cheeks puffed in defiance.
"That's for the best," Tsuru replied calmly. "This grand competition might be another fierce battle. Even with your skills, you may not make it into the top four. Remember, act only within your limits."
"Hmph, that's not necessarily true," Momousagi said, frowning slightly at Tsuru's bluntness.
"Haha, suit yourself," Tsuru said, shaking her head, though a trace of amusement softened her features. "I believe those four young talents will show some restraint for me." She knew Momousagi well—like a younger sister to her. But defeating the Four Monsters? Momousagi still had a long way to go.
---
Time passed quickly. Today, Marineford buzzed with excitement; the grand competition of the Marine Academy was finally underway. It was hailed as the strongest class ever, with the promise of glory, power, and independence for the winners.
The rewards had been revised after repeated discussions among Marine high-ranking officials:
First place: direct promotion to Marine Rear Admiral, along with a warship befitting that rank.
Second to fourth place: promoted to Captain, each receiving their own independent warship.
Fifth to tenth place: graduation from the Academy with ranks such as Lieutenant Commander, Commander, or Captain, along with corresponding authority.
This alone was enough for Atticus to throw himself into the competition completely, not to mention other rewards like Devil Fruits, powerful weapons, and wealth.
Due to the presence of the Four Monsters, the competition was held on an isolated island near Marineford. Spectators included mostly Marines of Lieutenant rank and above, while ordinary citizens could only watch through video transponder snails.
By early morning, as the sun rose, the arena was packed. Even the Marine Admirals—Sengoku, Zephyr, and Fleet Admiral Kong—had arrived.
Sitting atop the high platform, Kong surveyed the eager, youthful faces below. These were the future pillars of the Marines, the fresh blood that would ensure the Marines' dominance of the seas. Especially with this year's unexpected talents, Kong's anticipation was high.
Whispers filled the arena, speculation running rampant about who would claim the top prize. Yet one thing was certain—the top four were never in question. Regardless of the outcome, these four would always dominate.
---
Standing quietly among the contestants, Atticus's eyes burned with determination. Every Marine official's gaze fueled his resolve; he would seize first place. This competition was a rare chance to display his full strength. He knew the Five Elders were likely watching via transponder snail, and he intended to prove his worth.
A smirk curved his lips. "Perhaps I should go all out," he muttered under his breath.
Finally, the competition began. The rules were simple: contestants drew lots to determine the order. There were fifty participants in total.
Deliberate killing was forbidden. Defenseless opponents or those who conceded were eliminated immediately. Everything else relied solely on personal skill. Famous swords, strategies, and Devil Fruits could all be used freely—there were no limits.
After the draw, Atticus was scheduled for the 23rd match, placing him in the third-to-last round. Luck, it seemed, was not entirely on his side.
Elimination was harsh; half of the participants would be removed in the first round. Yet the eliminated contestants had a chance to challenge other winners twice more, making the rules fair but unforgiving.
The first match saw Aokiji face an ordinary student, who immediately conceded, recognizing the impossible gap in skill. Likewise, Akainu and Kizaru's opponents surrendered instantly. Fleet Admiral Kong and the others watched silently, fully aware of the situation.
The remaining fights were intense, showcasing exceptional talent. Among the standout competitors were Momousagi, and future Vice Admirals such as Burning Mountain and Onigumo.
---
Finally, it was Atticus's turn. Calm and composed, he entered the arena. His gaze fixed on Chaton, who grew pale and visibly tense.
Indeed, Atticus's first opponent was Chaton. Seeing the name on the tag, he couldn't hide his excitement. Whether it was luck or deliberate arrangement didn't matter—what mattered was revenge.
One was composed, the other wary. Their contrasting expressions drew murmurs from the audience. Everyone knew the story between Atticus, Chaton, and Akainu. If given the chance, neither would hold back.
Kong frowned. "Why did Chaton get paired with Atticus in the first round? Was this fair?"
Zephyr shrugged. "This competition is fair. Sometimes, luck is just bad."
Garp chuckled. "A good show awaits," he said with clear delight.
Kong's face hardened. "Garp, no one is to die in this competition."
Garp, unbothered, replied with a casual grin, "I can handle everyone but Akainu and Chaton. Don't make me your target later."
After a brief confrontation, Zephyr spoke. "Fleet Admiral Kong, Atticus is my disciple. For fairness, I cannot intervene."
Sengoku sighed. "It seems it falls to me then."
---
In the arena, Atticus fixed Chaton with a chilling gaze. "It seems Lady Luck is on my side."
"Atticus… I admit I'm no match for you, but you won't touch me," Chaton stammered, forced to concede. The alternative would be certain death—or worse, irreversible injury.
"You want to concede?" Atticus's face contorted, and his killing intent surged. "Do you even stand a chance?"
The crowd gasped. Everyone knew Atticus could—and likely would—break the rules and finish Chaton. A madman, indeed. Fear and apprehension spread among the spectators as they waited to see the carnage unfold.
---