Chapter 86: The Graduation Battles Begin

As the exam began, one group of students after another stepped onto the stage to compete.

This first batch of cadets under Zephyr's guidance was truly exceptional. Almost every student had mastered Haki, and most had learned at least one or two of the Rokushiki techniques.

These abilities alone made them superhuman.

Though the highly anticipated Marine supernovas had yet to appear, the top officers were already impressed by the quality of the cadets.

However, a clear gap in strength was noticeable. Some students, like Momonga, were significantly weaker than the strongest in the class.

This only heightened the officers' anticipation for the remaining four supernovas.

Finally, it was Kuma's turn. His opponent? Dalmatian—the future Vice Admiral of Marine Headquarters.

Dalmatian, with his distinctive half-dog face, had eaten a Zoan-type Devil Fruit that gave him the form of a Dalmatian.

He frequently used his hybrid beast form, which, while not the most visually appealing, greatly enhanced his physical abilities.

However, even in this form, Dalmatian was clearly at a disadvantage against Kuma's Paw-Paw Fruit abilities.

Standing before the towering Kuma, Dalmatian couldn't hide his unease.

Below the stage, Momonga and others cheered, but Dalmatian felt like they were mocking him.

As soon as the referee signaled the start of the match, Dalmatian vanished with Soru, appearing right in front of Kuma.

Claw coated in Armament Haki, he executed his signature Shigan attack.

Kuma, unfazed, simply raised his paw and blocked the strike effortlessly.

Dalmatian's expression changed. Without hesitation, he used Soru again, retreating as if avoiding the plague.

Everyone at the academy knew how terrifying Kuma's paw pads were—they were much more than just a "cute feature."

Despite Dalmatian's speed, he was no match for Kuma. In an instant, Kuma closed the distance.

Before Dalmatian could react, Kuma struck his back with a gentle yet devastating paw slap.

A massive paw-shaped imprint formed on the ground, with Dalmatian lying sprawled in the center—arms and legs stretched wide.

For many of the observing Admirals and cadets, this was their first time witnessing Kuma's true power.

To them, Dalmatian was already a formidable fighter—skilled in Haki, Rokushiki, and a capable Devil Fruit user. Yet, he had crumbled instantly against Kuma.

And Kuma wasn't even among the top three supernovas.

All eyes turned toward Carl and the other two on the high platform.

The same question echoed in everyone's minds:

**"Just how strong are those three?"**

The referee approached Dalmatian. Still weak, he whispered, "I lost..."

Before the referee could officially declare the winner, Kuma bent down, gently lifted Dalmatian, and placed his paw on his chest.

A red bubble emerged from Kuma's paw, and in an instant, Dalmatian regained his strength.

He staggered to his feet, turning to Kuma with gratitude.

"Thank you, Kuma."

Kuma simply smiled and shook his head. "It's fine."

The referee, momentarily stunned, quickly recovered and grabbed Kuma's hand to raise it in victory.

However, when he did, he found himself lifted off the ground as well.

Kuma carefully set the referee back down, his gentle demeanor contrasting sharply with his overwhelming power.

A thunderous applause erupted from the crowd.

On the podium, Carl smiled faintly and waved his hand. His **Dark Bible** floated from his palm, absorbing the lingering bubbles left by Kuma's ability.

Those unfamiliar with Kuma's powers were confused, but those who understood explained, sparking another wave of admiration.

With Kuma's match concluded, all eyes turned to the remaining supernovas—especially the three figures sitting above them.

Many speculated about what kind of spectacle their battles would bring.

So far, it seemed their fights were being saved for the grand finale.

Next, Ginny, Lucia, and Gion took the stage, one by one, each defeating their opponents with ease.

Lucia didn't even need to use her Devil Fruit ability.

As the weaker students were gradually eliminated, the real battles between the supernovas finally began.

Gion stepped forward, brandishing her **Konpira** blade, and smiled at Lucia.

"I've wanted to fight you for a long time. Finally, the opportunity has come."

Lucia unsheathed her sword and responded calmly, "Bring it on."

At that moment, Gion swung her sword, unleashing a powerful slash.

Lucia countered immediately, sending a sharp wave of sword energy in return.

The two attacks collided, carving a deep trench into the ground.

In the blink of an eye, both disappeared.

*"Clang!"*

The clash of their blades echoed as they met mid-air, both weapons coated in Armament Haki.

After a brief deadlock, they descended and engaged in a fierce swordfight.

The level of swordsmanship on display left even experienced Marine officers feeling inadequate.

Lucia remained eerily calm, deflecting each of Gion's attacks with precision.

Gion, however, was growing uneasy. Despite their prolonged exchange, she still couldn't gauge Lucia's full strength.

As the battle progressed, Lucia found herself gradually pushed back, nearing the edge of the field.

Seeing her chance, Gion unleashed a downward slash.

A single strand of Lucia's black hair floated to the ground.

She tilted her head slightly, her eyes flashing with an eerie purple glow.

Before Gion could follow up, an intense burning sensation spread through her body, making her grip on her sword tremble.

Purple flames ignited around Lucia as she swiftly slashed forward, forcing Gion several meters back.

Clutching her chest, Gion's face flushed as her breath became uneven.

*"What is this strange feeling? Is this her ability?"*

She looked up at Lucia and felt a chill run down her spine.

Lucia stood there, a charming smile on her face—but her aura had completely changed.

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