Chapter 9 Arrival at Navy Headquarters
After acquiring the weapon, Bruch felt elated. While the Third Generation Kitetsu sword was not part of the eighty-three renowned swords, upon evaluation, he discerned that the Sandai Kitetsu matched Commodore Hollis's Kurokiri/Black cutter in quality, chiefly due to Kurokiri being a black sword forged with special armament.
Indeed, this sword is a member of the famed Kitetsu series. The first-generation Ghost and the second-generation Ghost belong to the Twelve Skills of the Supreme Swords and the Twenty-one Skills of the Great Swords, respectively, which raises questions about the perceived inferiority of the third generation.
In essence, the third generation of Onei Tetsu has yet to establish its distinguished identity. Bruch caressed the hilt of the Third Generation Kitetsu at his waist, sensing the intense ghost energy within, and swung it forcefully.
A thunderous noise erupted! A brilliant white light illuminated the surroundings, and a purple-red slash emanated, slicing directly into the ocean. The previously tranquil sea was cleaved by the slash, creating an endless divide that lingered for approximately a second before gradually sealing.
Kiora observed the gradually closing gap in the sea, exclaiming in astonishment, "Second Lieutenant commander Bruch's power has significantly increased. His slashes can effectively part the water! Such strength! "
Bruch methodically returned Sandai Kitetsu to its sheath, gazing at the now calm sea, with a rush of emotions swelling within him. He had not anticipated that a quality sword could enhance his capabilities to such an extent, and the ghost energy embedded in the third generation sword seemed to harmonize with his blood energy in a subtle manner.
Had he wielded the Sandai Kitetsu during the confrontation with Okto, the battle would undoubtedly have been less challenging. Turning to Kiora, he offered a slight smile and remarked, "While my strength has seen some enhancement, it is still relatively insignificant in the grand scheme of the sea. After all, the ocean is immensely vast. "
Kiora regarded Bruch's distinctive burgundy eyes, nodded slightly, then fell into contemplation.
The vastness of the ocean! Having been raised in the North sea, the strongest individual he had encountered was Germa 66 from the comics, yet that remained a fictional narrative. In reality, he had never witnessed anyone more formidable than Bruch.
If that is deemed trivial, what might be the true strength of the sea's monsters? "Indeed, one must maintain such reverence for the ocean, as it is fraught with peril! Even Vice Admiral Garp, renowned as the naval hero, has never taken the sea lightly! "
A languid voice emerged gradually alongside the sound of footsteps, and the tall figure, clad in a blue formal suit and broad cloak, revealed the individual's identity.
"Admiral Aokiji "
Bruch and Kiora turned their attention towards the approaching figure.
Kiora reflected inwardly, recognizing this as one of the formidable entities within their naval forces. Although Admiral, known for his tremendous strength, had never witnessed him in action, he had still gained some insights through hearsay and reports in newspapers.
Aokiji approached, gazed at the vast ocean, and scratched his head with a sigh, stating, "The sea is a realm of allure, yet it is fraught with countless dangers. It truly evokes a mix of admiration and aversion."
——
Subsequent to Aokiji's reception of three sailors who were traveling to the headquarters for advanced training in the East blue Sea, the warship made its journey back to the headquarters.
The voyage was calm, and following the dismantling of the Ghost Fang Pirates, they faced no further challenges from rogue pirates.
"Wow! Is this Marine Ford? It's so breathtaking! " The three marines emerging from the East blue Sea gazed at the stunning structure before them, their eyes wide with disbelief.
Bruch and Kiora shared the same sentiment.
While Bruch had been aware of Marine Ford from the One Piece anime in his past life, witnessing it firsthand left him somewhat astonished.
The grand edifices, towering city walls, and the enormous inscription of "Justice" comprised the Navy Headquarters.
However, the thought that such a massive island-like citadel would face significant destruction from Whitebeard's strike in two years sent an inexplicable chill through Bruch's heart.
Simultaneously, it instilled in him an unprecedented sense of foreboding.
"You five, proceed to report! Arrangements for your accommodations will be made shortly! "
"But it is crucial that you bear in mind, this headquarters does not tolerate inefficiency. If you are only here for training, expect evaluations every month. After three months of assessment, a decision will be made regarding your continuation or departure. "
"Your arrival marks merely the initial step. Advance with diligence. I have taken over your responsibilities. I hope that some of you can achieve the rank of commander within this unit! "
Aokiji conveyed to the five individuals, casting a brief glance at Bruch.
In his estimation, Bruch's current strength aligned closely with that of a captain within headquarters. As long as he remains committed, he is unlikely to fail in achieving military commendations.
It is possible that he may become a cornerstone of the headquarters and attain a Vice Admiral status.
Following a few brief interactions with the five, Aokiji proceeded to report to the fleet Admiral regarding his duties.
As Aokiji departed, the five individuals made their way to the registration area referenced by Aokiji to complete their registration.
Bruch's presence created a notable stir in the registration office, as it had been quite some time since a Devil Fruit user had been seen.
The arrival of Bruch's ancient species captured the attention of many marines at the registration office, gathering to observe what the legendary animal type resembled.
As a final measure, Bruch was compelled to reveal his vampire form prior to allowing them to disperse gradually.
The trio of sailors from the East blue Sea, who had also arrived at the headquarters for training, were visibly captivated after witnessing Bruch's displayed vampire form.
Within the East blue Sea, the sole user of a Devil Fruit they had encountered was Smoker.
They had never witnessed an animal transformation before, much less a blood transformation recognized for its elegance and grace. Intricate runes were traced upon the bat wings of a deep crimson hue.
The pupils, resembling rubies, emitted a subtle purple glow, and an air of nobility enveloped them.
"What an exquisite and enchanting transformation, Mr. Bruch, are all of your animal transformations as formidable and striking? " one of the Marines from the East blue Sea inquired.
At that moment, the navy personnel who were registering at the registration office regained their focus and remarked, "How is that even possible? To my knowledge, while the animal type is indeed powerful, there should only be one individual capable of assuming such a magnificent form. Even the legendary Phoenix Marco of the White Beard crew cannot be compared. "
"Alright, your information has been documented. Here is your dormitory house number. Do remember, no disturbances are permitted within the navy dormitory at this headquarters. Let us proceed! " The registering officer handed over five house cards and instructed them.
After Bruch and his associates received the house cards, they proceeded to locate their designated dormitories in accordance with the provided information.
The registering officer observed their departure and muttered to himself, "With such a remarkable transformation, Bruch's abilities must be extraordinary. Furthermore, he is only seventeen years old this year; no wonder Admiral Aokiji holds him in such high regard. "