Chapter 45 Arrival

The return to Naval Headquarters was a moment of relief for the students of the elite camp. After the grueling experience in the New World, the familiar sight of the coast and the grand structures of the base felt like a sanctuary. The harsh reality of battling powerful pirates and surviving the unpredictable dangers of the New World had tested their limits, leaving them both exhausted and eager to recover.

Despite their fatigue, one name dominated their conversations—Aizen.

Memories of their first encounter with him resurfaced vividly. From the very beginning, Aizen had established himself as an overwhelming presence, his mastery of techniques like Haki setting him apart. He had been sent to the New World long before them, a decision that had solidified his exceptional status. Over the past year, stories of his accomplishments had reached their ears, from the crushing of the World Destroyer to his encounters with Whitebeard himself. Each tale only heightened his legend.

Sakazuki's fists clenched at the mention of Aizen. He could still recall the weight of Aizen's Reiatsu pressing him down during their first meeting, a force so immense it had immobilized him. The humiliation had fueled his training, pushing him to new heights. Yet, even as he honed his Haki and refined his abilities, the nagging doubt that the gap between them had widened lingered.

Kizaru, leaning lazily against a post, seemed far less concerned. His usual indifference was intact, though his smirk hinted at a deeper understanding of the situation.

"You're still hung up on him, huh?" Kizaru remarked, his tone casual yet cutting. "Let's be honest, that gap you're trying to close might be bigger now."

Sakazuki shot him a glare, the fire in his eyes undeniable. "I don't care how big the gap is. I'll close it. No matter what, I'll surpass him."

Kizaru shrugged, his smirk widening. "Keep telling yourself that."

Their exchange was cut short by Zephyr's commanding voice. "Enough. Focus on preparing for your final assessment. I'm not here to listen to idle chatter."

One of the students hesitated before speaking up. "Teacher Zephyr, shouldn't we wait for Aizen? He didn't come back with us."

Zephyr's expression softened slightly, though his tone remained firm. "No need. He's already left the New World branch and should be arriving any moment now."

As if on cue, a figure stepped into view, emerging from the shadow of the port. Dressed in pristine white, Aizen's calm and composed demeanor immediately drew all eyes. His hand adjusted his glasses with a familiar motion, his sharp gaze sweeping over the gathered students. His presence was as commanding as ever, effortlessly silencing the crowd.

For many, Aizen's return felt surreal. His feats in the New World had elevated him to near-mythical status. Even those who had once felt confident in their own abilities couldn't help but feel dwarfed by the man who now stood before them.

Sakazuki's jaw tightened, his resolve burning brighter than ever. Polusalino, however, simply gave a knowing glance before resuming his relaxed stance.

Zephyr's eyes lingered on Aizen. A year ago, he had seen a young man with an unshakable will, someone who spoke of becoming a hero with sincerity and conviction. Over the past year, Aizen's actions had proven that his words were more than mere declarations. His contributions in the New World had left an undeniable mark, not just on the Marines but on the world itself.

"Now that everyone's here, let's not waste any more time," Zephyr announced, his voice cutting through the moment. "We'll begin the final assessment immediately. Form teams of three, and you'll face me directly. I'll determine your strength in the simplest way possible. Whether you graduate and where you're placed afterward will depend entirely on my judgment."

The atmosphere grew tense as the students prepared for the challenge ahead, each of them acutely aware of the monumental task before them. Eyes darted between Aizen and Zephyr, the anticipation thick in the air. For many, this was their moment to prove themselves. For others, it was a chance to close the gap—or at least try. Aizen, as always, remained calm, his expression unreadable as he prepared for the next chapter of his journey.