Chapter 44 : Articuno

Realm of the Pokemon, Articuno, Elemental Art of Ice, and Summoning Beast Pacts.

Bleach Realm, Tōshirō Hitsugaya, Shikai of Hyōrinmaru.

One Piece Universe, Aokiji (Kuzan), Freezing Fruit.

Akame ga Kill World, Esdeah, Monarch of the Frozen Empire.

Fairy Tail Universe, Gray, Ice Magic.

As the names of the five worlds and their candidates appeared on the spinning wheel, Uchiha Ran felt his heart skip a beat.

In all seriousness, facing any of these candidates head-on would be a daunting task, and he would likely fall short against all five.

The Articuno from the Pokemon Realm was nothing short of impressive. In a more realistic world, it was akin to Lugia, one of the three legendary avian deities under the Sea God's dominion. Even though it might not be the most formidable of combatants, it could casually conjure frigid gusts and coat the skies with its snow-inducing flaps. Its powers manipulated the very sky, allowing it to unleash freezing lights, blizzards, and even the absolute zero. These ice-based abilities were overwhelmingly potent.

Tōshirō Hitsugaya from the Bleach Realm held the position of captain within the Gotei 13 of the Soul Society. He led the Tenth Division and was recognized as the "genius boy" among the captains, owing to his youth. His Zanpakutō, Hyōrinmaru, represented the core strength within the Bleach world. Its Shikai possessed fundamental auxiliary skills, among which was the most potent ability—Tensō Jūrin, a basic yet overwhelmingly powerful skill capable of manipulating all things in the heavens.

In the One Piece Universe, Aokiji, one of the three Admirals of the Marines, stood as a prominent figure. He would easily match a Kage-level ninja in the shinobi world and even rival a Super Kage. Possessing the Logia-type Ice-Ice Fruit, Aokiji could transform any part of his body into ice and freeze all that he touched. The body-made light-blue ice could morph into various weapons of his choosing, granting him an offensive prowess that extended beyond physical contact. Aokiji's power was such that he could freeze not only objects but even parts of the sea.

Esdeath of the Akame ga Kill World possessed more strength than one might assume. Combining the traits of Tegu with the essence of the devil, she exercised command over ice with remarkable versatility. Her offensive and defensive capabilities were unparalleled, and she could manipulate both speed and precision to devastating effect. Her most formidable ability, "Mahapdama," claimed the capability to freeze time and space itself. Additionally, the technique "Ice Cavalry" catered to group warfare by creating an army of ice cavalry, capable of storing immense energy over several days and releasing it in a single, devastating snowstorm during crucial battles.

Within the Fairy Tail Universe, Gray excelled in the art of ice magic, though not necessarily on a grand scale. His true prowess shone through the Ice Demon Slayer Magic, a lost form of magic that was incredibly potent.

Reflecting upon the five worlds and their candidates, Uchiha Ran's thoughts raced. The potential was staggering—any of these inheritances could elevate him to Kage-level power or beyond, even considering the robustness of his existing ice manipulation.

"The strength is astonishing. What choices will be available up ahead?"

"Indeed, luck will play a part as well, given the nature of a lottery."

"It seems we'll be relying on luck."

Uchiha Ran organized his thoughts swiftly, looking ahead with anticipation. "I wonder which two he'll end up with."

Arranging the five options in order of preference, Aokiji from the One Piece World easily occupied the top spot. The Frozen Fruit and elemental abilities it conferred would be a significant boon, enhancing his strength substantially.

Ninjas and mages shared similarities, emphasizing offense over defense. While Master boasted world-destroying capabilities, his vulnerability could be exploited by a simple kunai. Gaining elemental properties would offer resistance against conventional physical attacks, significantly boosting his prowess. Moreover, the Frozen Fruit would augment his bloodline limit, synergizing well with his ice release ninjutsu.

Next in line, Hitsugaya's Hyōrinmaru would bolster his direct combat skills, and its potential for growth was immense. Peak form would rival even Six Paths strength, a claim not made lightly.

Esdeath's inheritance had merit, yet it mirrored some of Haku's existing capabilities. The value added would be more modest in comparison.

As for the Articuno, its worth depended largely on its origin world. The range of strength varied considerably. Acquiring its techniques would essentially mean adding a few new ninjutsu to his arsenal.

Careful analysis of the five options completed, Uchiha Ran made a decision. Regardless of potential consequences, he intended to advise. Strengthening his allies would, in turn, strengthen his position on the list.

In this ninja world, there was little to fear until the time of Infinite Tsukuyomi.

However, success in the Haku lottery hinged on luck.

"Could you share any insights into these five inheritances, Fifth Hokage?"

The ninja world lacked knowledge about these inheritances, and curiosity rather than emotional sway filled most hearts. Yet Orochimaru, perceptive as ever, noted Uchiha Ran's momentary distraction.

Sarutobi Hiruzen shot a glance at the "Fourth Kazekage," his fury almost breaking free.

"He is no more than a proxy."

"Who's to say?"

Uchiha Ran glanced at Orochimaru, an unspoken confirmation lingering in his smile.

The broadcast on Gold List's screen shifted.

"Time for the lottery."

Haku declared.

The pointer spun, eventually landing on the Articuno.

The live broadcast flickered.

[In Kanto Region Island, a legend foretells the world's end when the God of Fire, God of Ice, and God of Thunder clash with humanity.]

The video commenced with a depiction of the fierce battle among the three Legendary avian deities.

Witnessing this level of combat prowess, Uchiha Ran's eyebrows arched ever so slightly.

"Judging by their power, I'm fortunate this isn't a subordinate fight."

"The strength of these Three Legendary Birds should be on par with the Nine-Tails."

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