Aizen's hand crackled with energy as he invoked his next technique.
"**Hadō no. 4: Byakurai!**"
A blinding streak of white lightning erupted from his palm, splitting the air with a deafening roar. It struck toward Zephyr with unrelenting force, illuminating the entire field like a bolt from the heavens.
The impact was catastrophic. A shockwave rippled outward, shaking the ground beneath them. Polished stone cracked, and a deafening boom echoed, causing Kizaru to instinctively cover his ears.
"What... is this guy even human?" Kizaru muttered, his usual casual demeanor replaced with unease. "That kind of power... no way he's younger than me!"
As the smoke and dust settled, all eyes turned to Zephyr, who stood firm amidst the chaos. His arms were crossed protectively over his chest, and though his body bore no visible injuries, a faint trench several meters long stretched behind his feet.
"Unbelievable..." Kizaru muttered, his voice tinged with disbelief.
Zephyr's gaze bore into Aizen. Though his expression remained calm, his thoughts churned. *That boy actually pushed me back.*
Despite not using his full power, Zephyr could not ignore the sheer force of Aizen's attack. It was unlike anything he had encountered from someone so young.
For the first time in years, Zephyr felt a spark of something he thought he'd lost: hope.
"A true genius..." he murmured under his breath, his fists clenching.
A Young Hero's Dream
Zephyr straightened, his gaze never leaving Aizen. "Aizen, isn't it? Tell me, what do you hope to achieve in the future?"
Aizen paused. His square-framed glasses caught the sunlight as he adjusted them. He met Zephyr's eyes with a calm yet determined expression.
"In the future?" Aizen repeated, a faint smile playing on his lips. "I want to become a hero. A hero who protects the people and upholds justice."
The wind swept through the training ground, tousling his white hair. His voice, calm yet filled with unwavering resolve, carried across the field.
Zephyr's eyes widened. The words struck a chord deep within him, rekindling a memory of his own youth. He saw a reflection of himself in this young man, brimming with idealism and the desire to protect the innocent.
For a moment, the seasoned Admiral said nothing. Then, he exhaled deeply, as if releasing years of pent-up emotions.
"You're remarkable, Aizen," Zephyr said, his voice softer now. "That will be all for today. Tomorrow, I will announce the roster for the elite camp."
Without another word, Zephyr turned and walked away, leaving the remaining students to process what had just happened.
Zephyr's Revelation
Later, in Marineford's main building, Zephyr strode into the Admiral's office, his steps firm and purposeful.
Sengoku, seated behind a mountain of paperwork, looked up, surprised. "Zephyr? I thought you were testing the recruits today."
Zephyr leaned over Sengoku's desk, his eyes blazing with excitement. "Sengoku, we've found a genius! A true genius!"
Sengoku raised an eyebrow. "A genius, you say? Someone managed to impress even you?"
Zephyr nodded, slamming his hand on the desk. "It's unbelievable! That boy—Aizen—isn't just talented. He's a monster. At his age, his power is already beyond what we were capable of in our prime. I'm certain he'll surpass us in no time!"
Sengoku leaned back, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. Zephyr's enthusiasm was infectious.
"A prodigy, huh?" Sengoku mused. "That's good news. The Marines could use a bright star like that right now."
But beyond his words of encouragement, Sengoku's thoughts mirrored Zephyr's. If this boy truly had the potential Zephyr claimed, he might one day tip the balance of power in favor of the Marines.
For now, though, Sengoku was simply pleased to see his old friend energized again. Zephyr, once weighed down by grief and despair, now carried a spark of hope in his eyes.
"Bring him to his full potential, Zephyr," Sengoku said with a knowing smile. "Marineford could use a hero."
And with that, the future of one young man began to shape the destiny of the sea itself.
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I know it's really fast of asking what you guys feel about fanfic but, still if you wanna say something about the first 3 chapters go ahead and comment I'll personally reply single comment
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