Chapter 5: The Potent Reiatsu

And what about the other one? A gentle and calm feeling radiates from the entire body, making everyone feel quite at ease.

However, despite Sakazuki's seemingly stronger fighting prowess, Garp could sense a tremendous energy emanating from Varen. This energy even made Garp feel somewhat disheartened.

This realization caught Garp off guard. How could a young man not yet twenty years old evoke such feelings of inadequacy? It appeared that although Sakazuki appeared stronger, the disparity between the two was profound.

"It seems this kid is the one Zephyr admires. This level of power is undeniably talented."

...

"It seems this has stirred up some unnecessary commotion," Varen remarked, observing the bustling crowd around him and the distinguished Marine generals in the distance.

"It's best to focus on the duel. Losing face in front of such a crowd would be uncomfortable," Sakazuki reminded him.

The impromptu challenge issued to Varen was born out of a moment of impulsiveness. Now, surrounded by a gathering crowd, especially prominent Marine figures, Sakazuki felt a tinge of regret.

With so many eyes watching, the outcome—whether Varen's defeat or victory—risked turning into an embarrassing spectacle.

"Don't worry. Haven't I said from the start? This is merely a sparring session. How else can the Marines strengthen their skills without risking a few defeats?" Varen replied nonchalantly, a faint smile gracing his lips.

Sensing a shift in the atmosphere between them, the surroundings grew noisier.

Meanwhile, Kong and the other senior Marine officers observed with curiosity and anticipation.

"In that case, let's begin!" Sakazuki announced, his body transforming into molten liquid that seeped into the ground of the training area, scorching the surface.

Varen remained motionless, not even drawing his blade.

"Should I make the first move? Well, I've already made it. You just haven't noticed," Varen quipped, a smirk playing on his lips.

On the sidelines, Kong furrowed his brow, failing to discern Varen's move.

"This kid is going to surprise us," Zephyr remarked, amused by Kong's puzzled expression.

On the training ground, Varen focused his gaze on Sakazuki.

A thick, cerulean Reiatsu surged across the space, enveloping Sakazuki in an instant.

The intense Reiatsu felt like thousands of tons of gravity bearing down on Sakazuki's body.

Sakazuki's complexion paled, his body involuntarily kneeling, cold sweat beading on his forehead. Even his Devil Fruit's elemental ability reverted to its original form.

He sensed an overwhelming pressure striking the depths of his soul, compressing every inch of his being.

"What is this?"

Trembling, Sakazuki struggled under the Reiatsu's weight, unable to utilize his elemental abilities.

The once-lively onlookers fell silent, stunned by the sudden turn of events.

As they observed Varen and the subdued Sakazuki, they were at a loss for words.

Initially expecting a fierce confrontation, they were taken aback by the unexpected outcome.

Kong and Sengoku were equally astonished.

The atmosphere grew awkward and tense.

After a brief silence, Kong turned to Zephyr, his expression incredulous. "Is this... Is this Conqueror's Haki?"

Despite his years battling formidable pirates, Kong had never encountered someone capable of wielding their aura with such mastery.

"No! It must be a Devil Fruit ability," Garp interjected definitively.

After clashing with Roger, who had mastered Conqueror's Haki, Garp was certain this wasn't it.

Nevertheless, judging by Sakazuki's predicament and Varen's overwhelming Reiatsu, this power surpassed even Conqueror's Haki.

Advancing towards the immobilized Sakazuki, Varen drew his Zanpakutō, pointing it at Sakazuki's neck.

"Sakazuki, I've won this bout."

Staring at the sheathed Zanpakutō, Sakazuki gritted his teeth, his face flushing red.

"Just from your aura, you've bested me! You didn't even need to unsheathe your sword!"