The Path of Power: Takeda’s Encounter with Kozuki Oden’s Legacy

Kuri!

Once a lawless land, it transformed into a

paradise after the reforms of a man named Kozuki Oden.

The streets buzzed with activity. Vendors shouted from their stalls, and the scene was bustling with life.

"Kozuki Oden… One must admit, he's an extraordinary man," remarked Itō Tōsai, his body still wrapped in bandages, though he had largely recovered. His expression turned grave as he spoke of Oden.

The group had just entered Kuri, and Takeda was naturally very interested in the master of this city.

The three ninjas, Aji, Sasuke, and Mizaemon, had covered their faces with headscarves, cautiously scanning their surroundings to avoid unexpected trouble.

As they walked through the streets, they listened to Ito recounting the deeds of Kozuki Oden.

"He's a man of remarkable talent—a legend almost from birth to adulthood."

"As a child, he wielded the famed sword Enma, capable of using Ryuo to infuse it into his dual swords. This is something even the strongest samurai struggle to achieve!"

"When he grew older, he became fascinated with the outside world and attempted numerous times to break through Wano's borders and smuggle himself out."

"But he never succeeded and even severed ties with his father, Kozuki Sukiyaki, because of this."

"Later, Kozuki Oden traveled throughout the Land of Wano, gathering retainers known as the Nine Red Scabbards. He returned to this land, enacted bold reforms, and turned it into a paradise."

"That's how he earned the recognition and respect of countless people, gaining immense fame in Kuri and across Wano."

Itō Tōsai spoke at length, his face filled with admiration.

As an opponent, he respected Oden's strength and methods. As an observer, he was awestruck by such a legendary life.

"You fought him once. How strong is he?" Takeda asked.

"My lord, you know I practice the Ittoryu . When I draw my sword, the battle is over. Yet even now, I cannot forget that fight!" Itō Tōsai's expression grew serious.

"It was during a sunset. We met by chance."

"Having defeated Shutenmaru, Kozuki Oden was curious about me. He laughed and said—"

"'So it's you? The one who defeated Ashura. You don't look like much!'"

"There was battle intent in his laughter, mixed with a hint of scorn. And just like that, the fight began!"

Takeda, listening to the story, couldn't help but note how vividly Itō Tōsai narrated it, even imitating Oden's tone.

"His Two-Sword Style is incredibly powerful, his strength overwhelming. After hundreds of clashes, we decided to use our ultimate techniques to determine the winner."

"And after that one strike—"

"I lost."

Itō Tōsai's face turned somber. He opened his robes, revealing a prominent scar.

"This is what he left me with."

Then he looked up, his gaze serious and heavy, addressing Takeda.

"If you plan to fight him, my lord, you must be cautious!"

"You're very strong, but his strength is not like yours. It's a kind of oppressive power that words cannot describe!"

"He's truly formidable!"

IItō Tōsai repeated his warning, his tone resolute.

Takeda took note. He already knew Kozuki Oden was exceptionally powerful—a man who could cross swords with the young Whitebeard and even injure Kaido. His strength was undeniable.

To face such a man, Takedawould need to elevate his power to the same level.

"So, who are the strong ones in Kuri?" Takeda suddenly asked, his eyes gleaming with battle intent.

The fusion of Ryuma's legacy strengthened with battles, and the more frequent and intense the fights, the faster his growth.

To fight Kozuki Oden, he needed one fierce battle after another!

"There are many!"

"Most of them are either his followers or samurai who admire and revere him," Itō Tōsai said with a slight squint.

"Good. Then I'll start with them!" Takeda smiled.

Just then, a group approached from ahead. The man leading them had a thin mustache and a sinister look. Behind him, Aji and the others' expressions suddenly changed.

"My lord, it's the Yamada family!"

Takeda looked up. The group had already reached them, charging forward without hesitation.

Takeda's party paused their steps, standing firmly in place, refusing to move.

"Out of the way! Don't you recognize a lord of the Yamada family?"

"How dare you block the path of Lord Yamada!" someone shouted loudly.

Takeda grinned, drawing his long sword and resting it on his shoulder, laughing boldly.

"And what of it?"

"On this road, it's you who should make way for me!"

As his words fell,Yajuro, Itō Tōsai, and the others stepped forward, glaring at the opposing group.

"That man!?"

"It's Itō Tōsai!"

Someone quickly recognized Itō Tōsai, their face changing slightly.

"And who's that other guy? He's too arrogant!"

"To act so recklessly against the Yamada family!"

Bystanders began murmuring in curiosity.

Yamada Tono's expression turned grim. His eyes sharp, he glared at Takeda.

Opening his mouth to speak, he was interrupted as Takeda suddenly roared—

"Get out of my way!"

"Or I'll cut you down!!"