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At this moment, Admiral Kizaru— Borsalino stands at the peak of his power.
His physical prowess is in pristine condition, and his combat ability ranks among the highest in the Marines.
With the speed and lethality of his Glint-Glint Fruit, any opponent before him is rendered utterly helpless.
Rojen? Heh. To Kizaru, he's merely a passing curiosity— nothing more than a blip on his radar, unworthy of serious attention.
The discovery of Rojen was handled with the utmost discretion. The Marines made swift decisions within a tightly controlled circle, ensuring the matter didn't stir unnecessary waves.
On South Blue's Alster Island, Rojen, Jason, and Lordling spent their time carefreely, oblivious to the storm brewing in the shadows.
Unbeknownst to them, several figures had appeared, observing silently before vanishing just as quickly. Their actions were seamless, leaving no trace of their presence.
The precision of these intelligence operatives left no room for doubt.
"The identity of the cat has been confirmed. It's the designated target— Code No. 1."
"Inform the World Government. They've been awaiting an update on this matter."
These words were swiftly relayed, setting off an invisible ripple that spread rapidly.
That day, Rojen, Jason, and Lordling played on Alster Island until midnight before returning to their ship, where they soon drifted into a deep slumber.
The next morning, 'The Logan' set sail as scheduled. The Marines remained patient, refraining from any reckless action that might alert Rojen to their pursuit.
---
Aboard 'The Logan', Rojen sat cross-legged at the bow, gazing out at the rolling sea. Beside him, Lordling dozed lazily.
Facing the vast ocean, the two appeared tranquil, as though sensing something in the wind.
Behind them, Jason's towering figure moved briskly across the deck, mopping and sweeping with disciplined efficiency.
"By the way, Jason." Rojen suddenly recalled something and called out.
"Yes, Captain!" Jason responded loudly.
"Once you're done cleaning, plant those orange seeds we bought."
"Understood!"
Jason took on the most laborious tasks without a single complaint.
Observing him, Rojen felt a wave of satisfaction.
"This guy is bound for great things. Strong, dependable... truly someone worth keeping around."
Finding a trustworthy crewmate wasn't easy, and Jason's unwavering honesty made Rojen appreciate him all the more.
Their journey continued smoothly, heading toward their next resupply point.
"If I take three turns from here, I'll reach Baterilla. I've trimmed the route— I should arrive in four months." Rojen's eyes gleamed as he clenched his fist slightly.
Sensing his mood, Lordling let out a low meow.
"Meow."
Rojen chuckled and patted Lordling's head.
"Don't worry, I'm fine. What matters now are my enemies. I'm stronger than ever!"
His words brimmed with confidence— and he had every reason to be confident.
With over 200 Million berries at his disposal, Rojen was certain he could summon formidable figures should he face a true challenge.
Figures that are even stronger than Uchiha Itachi.
---
The voyage was uneventful until three days later when they spotted two pirate crews clashing on the open sea.
"Should we steer clear, Captain?" Jason asked. "Pirates like these are nothing but trouble."
"Why avoid them? Jason, head straight in— I plan to rob them."
Rojen had already noticed the stench of blood clinging to both crews. They weren't dreamers chasing adventure— they were butchers who thrived in carnage.
Oddly enough, ever since setting sail, Rojen had yet to encounter a single romanticized pirate, the kind who chased freedom on the high seas. Instead, he found only ruthless killers dancing on the edge of death.
Jason, ever obedient, carried out the order without hesitation. In no time, 'The Logan' cut directly between the battling ships.
The pirates froze in confusion.
"No Jolly Roger? Not Marines either?"
They couldn't fathom what this intruding ship was after.
But three breaths later, two figures leaped from the deck.
At the same moment, a voice rang out.
"Jason, don't hold back. These scum have spilled enough blood— they deserve no mercy!"
"Understood!" came Jason's steady reply.
The two landed squarely between the feuding pirate crews.
One was lean and sharp-eyed, the other a towering brute built like a fortress. The contrast between them was striking. Yet, for the hundred or so pirates present, one thing was certain— these two had just painted a giant target on their backs.
It only took three seconds for their confusion to turn to fury.
"Who the hell are these fools? Spouting nonsense about killing us?"
"Brothers, let's cut them down!"
"Talk big on the seas, and you get sliced up— kill them!"
Hatred burned in the pirates' eyes as they charged forward.
Jason and Rojen exchanged a glance. Jason stepped forward, while Rojen's hand rested lightly on the hilt of his sword.
"Kill them!"
With a battle cry, the pirates lunged. Their expressions were vicious, their weapons glinting in the sun. They were the kind who lived— and died— by the sword.
Two breaths later, the first wave was sent flying.
Jason's monstrous strength sent bodies crashing like ragdolls. It was as if a giant's hammer had swept through them, knocking them back with brutal force.
"Aaaaghhh!" The air filled with screams as bodies slammed into one another. Some tumbled overboard with heavy splashes.
Yet, rather than discouraging the remaining pirates, Jason's display only stoked their bloodlust.
"They are strong, huh? Who cares? Kill him anyway!" The captains roared, and the frenzy intensified.
At that moment, a brilliant flash of silver sliced through the air.
No one saw the sword itself— only the afterimage of light. Then, with a faint 'click', the blade returned to its sheath.
For a heartbeat, there was silence.
Then came the screams. Blood sprayed across the deck, and bodies crumpled. Over a dozen pirates fell lifeless where they stood.
The battlefield froze. The remaining pirates, once brimming with bravado, felt an icy chill crawl up their spines.
It was as if someone had doused them in cold water.
One pirate's voice trembled as he muttered in horror:
"D-Draw... Draw Sword Style... Battōsai!!"
''(End of Chapter)''