37. Disaster-Like Five Gears

Kizaru reflected on the battle at Sabaody, finding it surreal, almost like a dream shrouded in illusion. Even now, the memories of that encounter left him with an inexplicable sensation.

"The Straw Hat Boy's ability can be shifted to five gears," Kizaru began, recounting the events that unfolded on the Sabaody Archipelago. "After those five gears, there was only around half an hour of intense fighting."

He described how, amidst the chaos, a figure emerged before him—Luffy, clad entirely in white. His hair, clothes, and even his body radiated a brilliant white hue, with his hair resembling flames of the same colour, dancing around him like fairy ribbons.

In this state, Luffy exhibited unparalleled strength, speed, and agility, executing manoeuvres effortlessly, almost as if they were second nature. Yet, despite his formidable abilities, Luffy seemed somewhat unfamiliar with this form, suggesting he had yet to fully master it.

"In just half an hour, I sustained serious injuries," Kizaru admitted. "If not for Luffy's inexperience in combatting in this state, my injuries would likely be even more severe."

"In other words, has his strength surpassed that of the Four Emperors?" Sengoku questioned incredulously. After all, even the Four Emperors would struggle to inflict serious harm upon an Admiral in such a short span of time.

"If that's the case, we're in for a tough battle," Sengoku remarked, his concern evident.

"Not necessarily," Kizaru disagreed, shaking his head. After a moment of contemplation, he continued, "While it's undeniable that Luffy's new state is incredibly powerful, it's also unsustainable for long periods of time."

"He expended a considerable amount of energy during our half-hour skirmish, even exiting that state multiple times," Kizaru explained. "However, once he fully masters this state and reaches that special fifth gear, his strength could indeed surpass and even suppress the Four Emperors in short bursts."

"That's why I believe Luffy's mastery likely extends beyond a mere Rubber Fruit. It's possible he possesses a fruit with greater potential and power," Kizaru concluded, his expression serious.

While all Devil Fruits harbour the potential for development, their degrees of potential vary greatly. For instance, Logia fruits like Kizaru's Sparkling fruit, Sakazuki's lava fruit, and Kuzan's Frozen Fruit are inherently stronger than others. On the other hand, fruits like Smoker's Smoke fruit have limited potential even after years of development.

"If Luffy's fruit were a normal Rubber Fruit, even awakened, its increase in power wouldn't surpass what we've seen in his fourth gear," Kizaru analyzed. "After all, his fourth gear already represents a perfect fusion of body, rubber, and Armament Haki."

Kizaru's assessment reflected his amazement at Luffy's abilities and his belief that they transcended the capabilities of a standard Devil Fruit.

"The fifth gear represents a fundamental shift, unlike anything we've seen with a Rubber Fruit," Kizaru confirmed, emphasizing the uniqueness of Luffy's new ability.

"I'll report this matter to the higher-ups. You need to focus on recovering from your injuries, Kizaru," Sengoku instructed, his expression grave. It was evident that the situation was dire.

Despite the limitations of Luffy's ability, it was clear that his strength was on par with the Four Emperors. Moreover, the exceptional combat prowess displayed by Roronoa Zoro and Blackfoot Sanji only added to the Straw Hat Pirates' formidable reputation.

In the past, such power would have made the Marines wary. However, in the current landscape, it poses a significant threat to the established order of the world.

Sengoku's grim expression mirrored the gravity of the situation, and Kizaru's own expression soured even further. He grumbled in protest, his frustration evident.

"Hey, Mr. Sengoku, can't you see how seriously injured I am? Can't you grant me some medical leave for the upcoming war?" Kizaru complained, recognizing the perilous nature of the impending conflict.

Kizaru saw this as an opportunity to avoid further danger, and he was determined to seize it.

Despite the presence of high-ranking Marine forces like Zephyr and the two alternate Admirals under Gion, who were tasked with monitoring the other Four Emperors, not all would be exempt from the upcoming battle.

"Stop with the unrealistic jests, Kizaru," Sengoku admonished sternly, his gaze piercing. "Given our next opponent, and now with the Straw Hat Boy in the mix, we'll need to mobilize more troops."

"Got it," Kizaru acquiesced, raising his hands in surrender and avoiding Sengoku's intense stare, his expression sheepish.

In reality, despite his current injuries appearing severe, Kizaru knew he would recover within a couple of days thanks to an Admiral's resilience. He couldn't avoid participating in the war, but he intended to steer clear of the most dangerous adversaries and contribute where he could.

Unlike Sengoku, who bore the weight of overseeing the entire operation, Kizaru had confidence in Marine's preparedness. An additional Admiral-level combatant, even one as formidable as the Straw Hat Boy, wouldn't significantly alter the outcome of the battle. The government's might was formidable, and Marine forces were well-prepared for the impending clash with Whitebeard.

As Kizaru departed, Sengoku paced restlessly while Garp, unperturbed, continued to enjoy his tea and senbei.

"Hey, Sengoku, quit pacing around, you're making me dizzy," Garp chided impatiently.

Sengoku abruptly halted his pacing, seizing Garp by the collar and shouting vehemently.

"Why do you think I'm in this state, Garp? It's not because of your grandson's antics!" Sengoku's words were punctuated by flecks of spittle spraying Garp's face.

Resentfully, Garp turned his head to avoid the spray, torn between amusement and frustration. "I can't say I understand that kid Luffy either," he admitted with a wry smile.

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