Chapter 9: Chapter:9
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"That punch was strong," Ares muttered without lifting his head, fully focused on studying Rocks' technique that had sent him flying.
His punches grew faster and faster, generating powerful winds that swept in all directions, clearing the ground of dust and leaving it spotless.
Watching Ares's intense concentration, Captain John could only think one thing: This boy will become a great person someday!
With talent, potential, and now incredible learning ability, Ares's growth was at a monstrous level. He wasn't just extraordinary—he was terrifying.
Silver Axe, one of Rocks' cadres, also noticed Ares's actions. His sharp eyes narrowed as he muttered, "Is he... imitating Captain Rocks?!"
The hallmark of humanity lies in its ability to learn and grow. A person's learning speed often determines how quickly they can reach their full potential. And Ares's ability to analyze and replicate techniques was astounding.
"What an incredible learning ability," Silver Axe marveled. "His punches are growing stronger by the second!"
Even Kaido, who had been knocked unconscious earlier, stirred awake. Blinking groggily, his memory returned in a flash. His eyes widened as he bellowed, "Did I lose?!"
He could hardly believe it—defeated by that kid's punch. Kaido leapt to his feet, his face contorted in rage. "That was just carelessness! I'll crush you this time!"
But as Kaido prepared to attack, a heavy hand landed on his shoulder, stopping him in his tracks. He turned to see Linlin.
"Don't stop me, Linlin! I'll make that brat pay!" Kaido snarled.
Linlin, however, was unbothered. "If you lose, you lose," she said bluntly. "Whether you admit it or not, he beat you fair and square. Now, work hard and become stronger. A man I approve of never gets discouraged!"
Kaido was momentarily taken aback by her words, a strange warmth stirring in his chest. But this fleeting moment of gratitude turned into shock when Linlin added, "Ares is the man I like!"
Her possessive eyes sparkled with determination, clearly seeing Ares as a future partner. She admired his bronze, muscular frame glinting in the sunlight—an irresistible allure for her.
Meanwhile, Golden Lion Shiki jumped into the fray. "That boy Ares must join my squad!" he declared.
"Over my dead body!" Whitebeard shot back. "He's joining my team!"
Before the argument could escalate further, Rocks' deep, commanding voice cut through the noise. "Boy," he said, turning to Ares. "You've proven yourself. Do you want to join the Rocks Pirates now?"
Standing tall with his black captain's cloak billowing around him, Rocks' powerful presence was undeniable.
Ares's voice was firm and brimming with excitement. "Yes! I want to become the strongest weapon through battle!"
Rocks laughed heartily. "Hahaha! What a stubborn kid... Welcome to the Rocks Pirates, Ares! I am the captain of this crew—Rocks D. Xebec!"
No sooner had Ares joined than Whitebeard and Golden Lion resumed their argument over him.
"Boy, join my squad!" Whitebeard said, slinging his arm over Ares's shoulders. "I'll teach you how to use your body's strength to its fullest!"
"Don't listen to him!" Golden Lion interrupted, flying over with his usual flair. "Join my squad. My swordsmanship is unmatched on this ship. I'll make you the greatest swordsman alive!"
The two continued shouting over each other, each boasting about their abilities.
Not wanting to be left out, Linlin pushed them aside and stood in front of Ares. "Ares is with me! None of you are taking him!"
The three continued their bickering, each trying to convince Ares to join their squad. The rest of the crew watched the scene unfold with a mixture of amusement and resignation. Such arguments were common aboard the Rocks Pirates. No one, save Rocks himself, had the authority to silence them.
Amid the chaos, Ares remained calm. For him, it didn't matter which division he joined. His only goal was to grow stronger and hone himself into the ultimate weapon.
Rocks finally intervened, shouting, "Enough!" His voice carried a weight that instantly silenced the crew.
"Ares will join Ochoku's squad for now!" Rocks declared. His authority was absolute, and no one dared challenge his decision.
End of the Chapter.