Chapter 4 Opportunities for Further Education
Bruch successfully secured an opportunity to study at the headquarters, accompanied by Kiora.
He is Bruch's most skilled subordinate in Branch 52, a genuine rarity in terms of talent.
After an uneventful week in the 52nd branch, they finally received the naval vessel sent to transport them to their positions at headquarters.
On the dock, the navy personnel from the 52nd branch stood in two lines, demonstrating the utmost respect to welcome the head of the headquarters.
Disembarking from the warship was a middle-aged man with a strikingly large physique, nearly three meters tall.
"This is."
"Hiss~"
"Unbelievable, he personally comes here! "
The conversations erupted among the sailors on both sides.
"Silence! "
Captain Curson also exhibited a look of surprise before chastising the naval crew who were talking.
He stepped forward briskly, saluted with a precise military gesture, and then spoke with enthusiasm:
"Welcome, Admiral Aokiji , to Branch 52. I am Captain Curson from our headquarters, currently serving as the commander of the Naval Base at Branch 52."
Upon Aokiji's arrival, Bruch experienced a moment of astonishment, as this represented the pinnacle of the navy's combat strength.
Aokiji observed the enthusiastic Captain Curson and waved his hand, saying:
"Ah, no need for such formality, Captain Curson. Please let everyone disperse. I came here because I heard of North Blue's exceptional navy! "
"Yes! "
Captain Curson then ordered the soldiers to dismiss. " Admiral Aokiji, please follow me."
With that, Captain Curson guided Aokiji into the 52nd branch.
In the private office of Captain Curson.
Aokiji took a seat typically occupied by Captain Curson, exuding a relaxed demeanor.
Curson stood to the left of Aokiji, gesturing towards Bruch, he said:
"Admiral, this is Second Lieutenant Bruch, who is about to go to headquarters for additional training. "
He then introduced the chief beside Bruch: "This is Kiora, who is also bound for the headquarters for further training. These two are exceptional naval talents from our 52nd branch. "
Aokiji regarded both individuals Curson introduced, particularly Bruch, stating:
"Ah, very impressive. Your name is Bruch, correct? "
Upon hearing Aokiji's inquiry, Bruch promptly saluted and responded:
"Reporting to Admiral Aokiji, I am the captain of the third fleet in the 52nd branch, Bruch, holding the rank of second lieutenant. "
Aokiji waved his hand, ruffled his fluffy afro, and spoke in a casual tone:
"There's no need for such formalities. We're just chatting. Feel free to relax. "
He then pulled out a piece of white paper from his pocket and continued reading:
"Bruch joined the navy at fifteen . Previously, he was a pirate hunter and was the sole survivor after a pirate attack devastated his hometown, Banana Town. "
Aokiji observed Bruch's upright posture and continued speaking:
"Does the proclamation of enlisting in the navy prioritize civilian safety? That's correct. Or does it hinge on the might of a swordsman or one skilled with devil fruit powers? "
Aokiji tucked the details back into his arms and rose to his feet.
"Could you elaborate on your fruit ability? "
Bruch recognized Aokiji's intent. Understanding the navy's core and his subordinate's powers was essential. After a brief pause, he replied:
"To report, my Devil Fruit ability manifests as an ancient animal blood bat! "
"Interesting,"
Aokiji responded casually, awaiting further information.
"My fruit grants me control over the power in my blood, thereby increasing my physical strength. "
Bruch kept it simple, knowing that claiming he was a vampire might lead to dissection for research purposes. The world government the navy served wasn't known for its kindness.
Aokiji eyed Bruch, taken aback, and murmured quietly to himself:
"An ancient species from the animal category? Impressive abilities, and the power to manipulate blood. That level of strength is indeed remarkable among ancient types. "
Then Aokiji turned his attention to Kiora and remarked:
"Kiora, a resident of Alros Island, previously served as a navigator on the Fishbone Pirate Ship. Following the crew's downfall at Bruch's hands, he joined Branch 52? You were a pirate? "
As Aokiji's inquiry hung in the air, small beads of sweat began to form on Kiora's forehead, and he opened his mouth as if to speak.
At that moment, Bruch stepped forward and stated, " Admiral Aokiji, Kiora was not a willing pirate. The pirates, noticing his navigation talents, forcibly recruited him. "
Upon processing this information, Aokiji scratched his head and sighed, "Pirates! They truly are the root of all evil! "
He then added, "Indeed, those are two commendable young men; it's settled. "
Looking at Bruch and Kiora, he commanded:
"Let me take my leave! "
In response to Aokiji's statement, Captain Curson said:
"Isn't Admiral going to stay and rest for a couple of days? Allow the officers and soldiers of Branch 52 to entertain you. "
Aokiji raised his hands, his expression reflecting resignation.
"I wish to rest too, but due to Vice Admiral Garp, I'm also responsible for picking up the individuals from the East Blue headed to headquarters for further training."
When Captain Curson heard Aokiji's response, he understood.
Vice Admiral Garp is known for his spontaneous and laid-back nature. Naturally, he wouldn't take on tasks that seemed laborious, such as recruiting soldiers.
Subsequently, Bruch and Kiora gathered their belongings and boarded the headquarters' warship.
It must be said that the flagship warships of the main base are impressive. The vessels at the branch are still powered by oars, but this one employs steam propulsion. It is entirely mechanical.
From its external appearance, this seems to be an ordinary warship from the main base. It certainly lives up to the reputation of the headquarters.
Bruch and Kiora let out a sigh, then departed from Aris Island amidst waves of farewell.
As they watched the island recede into the distance, with soldiers energetically waving from the shore, Bruch couldn't help but feel a sense of wistfulness.
After all, feelings linger in one's heart for places where substantial time has been spent—specifically, two years in this instance.
He remembered Captain Curson's parting words.
"The headquarters is your true home. With your abilities, you should engage in battles on the Grand Line; otherwise, you will fade into obscurity in the four seas. "
Bruch gazed at the island, now a mere silhouette, noting the navy flag planted above.
He positioned his right hand into a fist, raised it to his forehead, and stood tall, performing a proper naval salute towards the indistinct flag.
Kiora mirrored his actions behind him. They understood that a return to the 52nd branch was unlikely.
Unless they were complacent and lackluster, they were all top talents meticulously chosen by the 52nd branch. To honor this selection, they would commit themselves to rigorous training.
"Farewell, 52nd branch, farewell, Captain Curson, farewell, comrades! "
With that, Bruch and Kiora entered the cabin without looking back, while Aokiji on the deck continued to watch them.
"Youth really is a wonderful thing. "