Chapter 27: The Confrontation Ends

Although the progress is currently only 10%, and there is still 90% left to fully unlock Aizen's power, having stronger strength means that Varen can challenge stronger opponents and unlock the template faster.

Sooner or later, Varen will reach the level where Aizen could easily blast the Reiatsu Palace, and even stronger! Because Varen will not follow exactly in Aizen's footsteps, especially after obtaining Hōgyoku.

The role of Hōgyoku is not just to break the boundary between Shinigami and Hollow, but to guide a person's potential and help the user become stronger in the direction they desire.

Meanwhile...

In a blink of an eye, the confrontation between the Whitebeard Pirates and the Golden Lion Pirates gradually calmed down with the passage of time and Marine's watchful presence. The signs of conflict slowly dissipated, and the main force of the Whitebeard Pirates retreated to their lair. The Golden Lion Pirates vanished without a trace, floating away.

This confrontation came and went quickly, just as most people expected. In the end, both Whitebeard and Golden Lion gave up, not giving Marine a chance to launch a sneak attack.

But with the end of the confrontation, another issue began to sweep across the entire New World—Varen's rampage at sea a few months ago, which had angered many powerful factions. Originally, it was thought that after this incident was over, retribution would begin. But at this moment, news spread like wildfire that Varen was actually a Marine! Don't think too much—it naturally came from the Roger Pirates.

This news inevitably spread to various major forces, especially the Golden Lion and Whitebeard.

Moby Dick

A massive and imposing figure stood on deck, the crescent-shaped Whitebeard emblem swaying in the sea breeze.

Whitebeard Pirates

"Is the guy who targeted us actually a Marine? Quite bold to sail alone in this New World," Whitebeard said, sitting atop his throne-like chair, unfazed by the new information.

Although Varen caused quite a stir in the New World before, it was nothing more than a small wave to figures like the three great pirates. Still, Whitebeard was surprised by Varen's daring actions.

In the New World, Marines had too many enemies, and few would act alone, even Marine Admirals. But a student from the Marine Elite Camp dared to do this, which surprised Whitebeard.

"There's really a terrible talent coming out of Marine," Whitebeard remarked before dismissing the issue. Although he recognized Varen's genius, he still considered himself Whitebeard, one of the strongest beings in the world.

Golden Lion Pirates

"Marine's bastard, letting a student from the elite battalion come to the New World and cause chaos," Golden Lion snarled after hearing about Varen. Unlike Whitebeard, he was visibly agitated.

To Golden Lion, Marine's actions were a provocation to all New World pirates. Allowing a student to act freely in this dangerous sea was an affront.

"This wouldn't have happened if we knew his identity earlier," a cadre tried to calm Golden Lion.

Golden Lion understood the message and, though angered, decided not to challenge Naval Headquarters recklessly. "I'm not going to make a big fuss over a brat," he said, but a murderous intent still flashed in his eyes. Since Varen was a Marine, they'd meet again sooner or later. When that time came, and Garp wasn't around to protect him, Golden Lion would strike.

Indeed, Marine couldn't protect Varen 24/7, especially with Garp's unreliable nature. After the commotion, Garp summoned Varen. The confrontation between Golden Lion and Whitebeard had ended, so Garp planned to let Varen wander the New World again, as Zephyr had tasked him with this trial.

Inside Garp's Office

"Varen boy, what do you want to see me for? If it's about going to sea, then don't bother. This is the trial that Zephyr entrusted to you," Garp said, assuming Varen wanted more practice time.

Varen shook his head. "Vice Admiral Garp, what I want to discuss is not about going to sea, but another important issue."

There was a touch of helplessness behind Varen's square-framed glasses.