Chapter 28: Chapter 26 The Confrontation Ends
Although Aizen had unlocked only 10% of his full potential, it was a foundation upon which he could challenge stronger opponents and accelerate his progress. His goal was not merely to replicate Aizen's legendary feats but to surpass them, shaping his destiny beyond the limits of the Hōgyoku's influence.
The Hōgyoku was no ordinary artifact; it didn't simply break the boundary between Shinigami and Hollow. Instead, it awakened and magnified the user's latent potential, steering them toward their desired evolution. Aizen planned to use this power to become stronger than even the Aizen of the Millennium Blood War era.
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### **The Calm Before the Next Storm**
With the conflict between Whitebeard and Golden Lion coming to a reluctant standstill, both pirate crews retreated to their respective domains. The tension in New World eased for a time. However, the revelation of Aizen's Marine identity sent ripples through the seas, courtesy of the Roger Pirates.
This news didn't just reach small-time players—it caught the attention of titans like Whitebeard and Golden Lion.
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### **Whitebeard's Reaction**
Aboard the **Moby Dick**, Whitebeard listened to the report with a measured gaze, his crescent-shaped mustache swaying gently in the sea breeze.
"So, the one who stirred up such chaos is a Marine," Whitebeard said, his deep voice carrying a mix of curiosity and respect. "And not just any Marine—this Aizen is a mere student from their elite camp?"
The commanders surrounding him exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of awe and disbelief.
"To sail the New World alone and emerge unscathed... that kind of courage is rare, even among veterans," one commander remarked.
Whitebeard let out a low chuckle. "Marine or not, it takes guts to pull that off. Still, the seas are vast, and guts alone won't carry him far."
Though intrigued by Aizen's boldness, Whitebeard wasn't overly concerned. A genius Marine wasn't uncommon, but surviving the crucible of New World long-term? That was a different story.
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### **Golden Lion's Fury**
In stark contrast, the Golden Lion's reaction was anything but calm. Inside his floating fortress, Shiki paced angrily, the golden blades replacing his legs clicking against the metal floor.
"A Marine brat did all that? And the Navy just lets him roam free?!" Golden Lion's voice echoed through the chamber.
One of his subordinates stepped forward hesitantly. "Shiki-sama, it seems the Marine is banking on his potential. They must believe he's untouchable under Garp's watch."
Shiki's expression darkened. "Untouchable, huh? Let's see how long that lasts. Garp won't babysit him forever."
Golden Lion's tone shifted to a low growl, his eyes burning with malice. "Next time, that brat won't have a chance to escape. Let's see how 'untouchable' he is when he's alone."
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### **Garp's Mission for Aizen**
Back at the Marine Base, Garp sat in his office, chewing on crackers with a casual demeanor. When Aizen entered, Garp assumed he was about to ask for more training time.
"Aizen, if you're here to ask for more time at the base, forget it," Garp said bluntly. "Zephyr entrusted me with your trial, and you're not going to grow by sitting around."
Aizen adjusted his glasses and shook his head. "That's not why I'm here, Vice Admiral Garp. I've come to discuss something important."
There was a calm confidence in Aizen's tone, a sharp contrast to the urgency his words implied. Garp raised an eyebrow and leaned forward.
"Important, huh? Alright, let's hear it, kid."
Aizen's expression remained unreadable, but his sharp gaze hinted at deeper plans brewing beneath the surface.