Reality

Tenzin sat cross-legged on the floor of Sengoku's office, his hands clasped in prayer beads, his eyes shut as always. His calm presence contrasted sharply with the tense atmosphere. Across the desk, Sengoku leaned forward, his braided beard resting on his chest as he eyed his son. Beside him, Garp lounged in a chair, chewing loudly on a rice cracker, his jovial demeanor doing little to mask the grim nature of their discussion.

Sengoku cleared his throat, drawing Tenzin's attention. "You've been called on your first mission outside Marineford, Tenzin. You'll be accompanying Garp on this one."

Garp grinned, crumbs falling from his mouth. "It's gonna be fun, kid! Nothing like a little real-world experience to toughen you up."

Tenzin opened his eyes, tilting his head slightly. "I understand, Father. But may I ask—what exactly is the nature of this mission?"

Sengoku's expression darkened. "The pirate you're going after is no ordinary criminal. His name is Zorath 'The Flayer.' He commands a crew of roughly fifty, all known for their brutality. Zorath himself has a bounty of 400 million berries."

Garp leaned forward, the grin fading from his face. "This guy isn't like most pirates who just rob and plunder. He's got a nasty habit of targeting Marines specifically. Wherever he goes, he leaves bodies behind—tortured, mutilated. He doesn't just kill; he sends a message."

Tenzin's hands tightened slightly around his beads, but his face remained impassive. "Amitabha," he whispered. "The suffering of this world knows no bounds."

Sengoku nodded grimly. "We've received reports that Zorath's crew is heading toward a small island used as a Marine outpost. The outpost sent a distress call yesterday, but we haven't heard anything since. You'll go with Garp to investigate and, if possible, bring Zorath to justice."

Garp patted Tenzin on the shoulder, his boisterous energy returning. "Don't worry, kid. I'll be there to make sure you don't get in over your head. You'll see what the world's really like—and maybe get a few good punches in while you're at it!"

Before Tenzin could respond, the door creaked open, revealing a tall, lean man with sharp features and a stoic demeanor. His neatly combed hair and crisp uniform contrasted with the rugged air of Garp's usual crew.

"This is Bogard," Sengoku said, gesturing toward the newcomer. "He's Garp's right-hand man and will ensure you're safe during this mission."

Bogard inclined his head slightly. "A pleasure to meet you, Tenzin. I've heard much about your discipline and talents."

Tenzin rose to his feet and bowed respectfully. "The pleasure is mine. I look forward to learning from you, Bogard-san."

The next morning, Tenzin stood before his small group of followers under the tree where they often gathered. The ten young cadets looked up at him with a mix of admiration and concern.

"I will be leaving Marineford for a time," Tenzin said, his voice steady. "I am tasked with aiding in the capture of a dangerous pirate. While I am away, I trust you all to continue your training and your meditations."

Hideki stepped forward, his shaved head gleaming in the morning sun. "Tenzin, you've taught us so much already. We'll make sure to keep improving. When you come back, we'll be strong enough to stand beside you."

Tenzin smiled faintly. "Amitabha. Strength is not measured solely by the body but by the spirit as well. Remember that as you walk your path."

The group bowed deeply as Tenzin turned to leave, their voices united. "We wish you well, Tenzin!"

The marine vessel cut through the waves as Tenzin stood on the deck of Garp's ship, a sleek Marine vessel outfitted for speed and durability. The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and freedom, though the mood among the crew was tense.

Many of the Marines stole glances at Tenzin, their expressions a mix of curiosity and disbelief. At seven years old, he was far younger than anyone else aboard, yet he carried himself with a composure that seemed almost otherworldly. His shaved head, kasaya, and ever-present beads only added to his mystique.

"Is that the kid we're bringing?" one Marine whispered to another.

"Yeah, heard he's Sengoku's son. But he's just a boy!"

"Don't underestimate him," another chimed in. "I've seen him sparring. The kid's a prodigy."

Despite the murmurs, Tenzin remained focused, his eyes closed in meditation as the ship sailed toward their destination.

Bogard approached Garp, who was lounging nearby, his hands behind his head. "Sir, are you sure about bringing him along? He's talented, but this mission could get dangerous."

Garp chuckled. "That's exactly why he's here. Sengoku wants the boy to see what the world's really like—to understand the stakes. Besides, with me around, he'll be fine."

Bogard didn't look entirely convinced but nodded. "Understood, sir."

By the time the ship neared the island, the sun was dipping toward the horizon, casting an orange glow over the water. Smoke rose in thick, dark plumes from the outpost, visible even from a distance.

As the ship docked, the stench of blood and charred wood hit the crew, and a heavy silence fell over them. The beach was littered with bodies, many of them Marines in tattered uniforms.

Garp stepped forward, his grin replaced by a grim expression. "Stay sharp, everyone. This isn't gonna be pretty."

Tenzin stepped off the ship, his sandals crunching against the blood-soaked sand. His Observation Haki flared instinctively, seeking any signs of life. His usually serene face was shadowed with sadness. "Amitabha," he whispered, fingers brushing his beads. "May these souls find peace in the cycle of rebirth."

The crew fanned out cautiously, weapons drawn, as they moved into the ruined outpost. The air was thick with the acrid smell of smoke and death. Tenzin's voice broke the silence. "There is movement ahead. Faint, but present."

Garp nodded. "Good eyes, kid. Let's see what we're dealing with."

As they pressed on, the devastation became even more apparent. Buildings were reduced to smoldering husks, and the ground was littered with shattered weapons and lifeless bodies.

The Marines, hardened as they were, exchanged uneasy glances. Bogard tightened his grip on his sword, scanning the shadows.

Tenzin remained calm, though his heart ached at the suffering before him. This was a far cry from the peace he sought—a harsh reminder of the world he had been reborn into. Still, his resolve only strengthened.

"Let us proceed with caution," Tenzin said softly, his voice steady despite the horrors around them. "The echoes of violence linger here, but they may guide us to the source."

Garp gave a rare nod of approval. "You've got a good head on your shoulders, kid. Let's just hope you're ready for what comes next."

As the group moved deeper into the outpost, the eerie silence persisted, broken only by the crackling of distant flames.