Pirate: I have a Hollow living inside me

For the past two days, Kuina has been trying to master Conqueror's Haki, and Rocks is curious about Kuina's progress.

Kuina flicked a strand of her golden hair and slowly said, "You can control yourself, but you can't yet limit the scope of your abilities. As for the Conqueror's Haki you mentioned, that's still a long way off..."

Because of her training in Haki, Kuina is already able to control the release of Conqueror's Haki.

If we divide it into stages, this is the first stage.

Robin was surprised: "You managed to control it in less than three days? Your talent is truly remarkable."

Kuina's talent may not be as great as Rocks', but she is definitely among the best in this world.

In addition, Kuina is truly diligent, the queen of training on the Black Demon, and even when injured, she doesn't let it interfere with her daily practice...

Kuina glanced at Lox: "Not as good as a certain monster..."

She knew that Rocks possessed Conqueror's Haki since childhood, and that he could use it freely.

Now, he can even turn Armament Haki into an attack.

"I felt really embarrassed after my companion said that..."

Rocks chuckled, "Although I've been able to control Conqueror's Haki for a long time, I only gradually mastered it after going to sea."

"In terms of speed alone, you are probably better than me."

“You figured it out on your own, but I had your guidance, which is different.”

Kuina shook her head: "In terms of domineering presence, I am still far inferior to you."

In terms of mastery of the three types of Haki, she is still far from Rocks' level, and it won't be easy for her to catch up in a short time...

Speaking of Armament Haki, she's currently only at the "hardening" stage.

The secrets of external distribution and internal sabotage have not yet been grasped.

If we're talking about something that can catch up with Rocks, it's only Observation Haki...

At least in terms of Observation Haki, Rocks is not far behind her.

"Haha, don't underestimate yourself. After all, I was born with Observation Haki and Conqueror's Haki, and my Armament Haki is also aided by my Zoan-type Devil Fruit ability."

Rocks chuckled: "However, because of the 'Great Demon' within me, my Observation Haki hasn't progressed as fast as yours..."

Among the three types of Haki, the advanced levels of Armament Haki and Conqueror's Haki are...

However, there has been no sign of him developing advanced levels of Observation Haki.

Lox also had some guesses about the reason.

It is very likely related to the Black Winged Demon Hollow, whose Observation Haki evolved from the Demon Hollow's "Spiritual Pressure Detection Circuit".

It has similarities to Observation Haki, but also differences.

The "spiritual pressure detection loop" definitely does not have the ability to "predict the future"...

The Conqueror's Haki evolved from "spiritual pressure burst" may also have different aspects, but in the original Bleach manga, spiritual pressure can also be used as an attack.

Therefore, it was natural for Rocks to master Conqueror's Haki, while Observation Haki differed and could not produce the same "foresight."

certainly.

Rocks also had another guess.

When he uses his intangible state, the energy and the power of the Great Demon's origin will subtly influence Rocks's psychology and emotions.

Entering a slight "rage" state.

The use of Observation Haki requires a calm mind to ensure its effectiveness.

When one is emotionally agitated or loses their rationality, it can interfere with the use of Observation Haki.

This is also why Conqueror's Haki that is strong enough can render Observation Haki ineffective.

When Lox enters a state of slight "berserk," his ability to master the advanced technique of "foreseeing the future" becomes even greater...

"My father taught me the Isshin-ryu swordsmanship, which mentions the concept of 'the breath of all things.' The reason I was able to reach the level of 'slicing iron' is because I became aware of this..."

Kuina pondered for a moment and said, "The breath of all things... it sounds somewhat related to Observation Haki, and also to one's state of mind. That's why my Observation Haki has progressed so rapidly."

“You’ve also studied Isshin-ryu swordsmanship, I think you could try to learn that style…”

However, Kuina didn't finish her sentence.

She acknowledged that Rocks was very skilled in swordsmanship.

However, Isshin-ryu swordsmanship is a technique-based style, and Rocks excels in this area...

There's practically no skill involved; it's all about stats in battle!

"Really?"

Rocks, completely oblivious to his own limitations, nodded: "If it helps with Observation Haki, then I guess I'll have to seriously relearn the Isshin-ryu swordsmanship..."

Is it related to mood?

That is indeed related to Observation Haki.

How about we start practicing Isshin-ryu swordsmanship again?

Since I haven't found a good method yet, I might as well try it in my daily practice.

Perhaps we will gain something from it.

"Um... good luck..."

Kuina turned her head away: "I believe you can do it..."

Previously, I thought that Rocks' swordsmanship, which resembled wielding a fire poker, was unique.

She doesn't think that way anymore.

Rocks simply doesn't know how!

At least in terms of skill, Rocks was inferior to even an apprentice who had studied for a few months...

Why did you turn your head away?

Rocks smirked: "Although I'm not good at technical swordsmanship, my skills have improved to this level, so even if I'm not good at it, I won't be too bad, okay!"

"..."

Kuina chuckled as she recalled the scenes of Rocks practicing his sword.

However, she quickly composed herself and nodded seriously, "Oh, yes... I believe you!"

Locus: "..."

Girl, you've successfully ignited my competitive spirit.

After I have relearned the Isshin-ryu swordsmanship, I will then have a contest with you using the Isshin-ryu swordsmanship.

We'll beat you so badly you won't know which way is up!

Don't cry!

Rocks never felt that he was incapable of mastering technical swordsmanship.

However, compared to skillful swordsmanship, he was more adept at wide-ranging and sweeping swordsmanship.

That doesn't mean he can't!

Robin tilted his head and asked curiously, "Is Locke... really that bad at swordsmanship in terms of technique?"

"Anyway, I can't give an evaluation."

Kuina suppressed a laugh: "Since he plans to relearn Isshin-ryu swordsmanship, you'll see..."

Robin looked suspicious, but didn't say anything.

Lox's face darkened: "Very well, Kuina, you're very good. Once I've relearned the Isshin-ryu swordsmanship, I'll challenge you to a duel. I don't believe that with my swordsmanship talent, I can't beat you!"

Kuina raised her head, her ponytail swaying slightly with the movement: "Just with Isshin-ryu swordsmanship? Are you sure?"

Locus gritted his teeth: "Confirmed!"

"Then I'll take it!"

Kuina laughed: "I hope you won't regret it!"

She was no match for Rocks in previous sparring matches because Rocks' stats far surpassed hers.

In a purely technical swordsmanship sparring match, she didn't think she would lose to Rocks.

She has grown up and is no longer the kendo novice who had just graduated!

"Anyone who dares to provoke me will come to a bad end, Miss First Mate!"

“Talking tough won’t work, Captain.”

The two locked eyes, sparks flying between them, their gazes blazing with fighting spirit...

"Hey, hey, hey, do you want to have a swordsmanship match?"

Nami, who had just returned after adjusting the course of the Black Demon, overheard their conversation.

Seeing the two of them in such a tense situation, she immediately became interested.

Nami exclaimed excitedly, "Captain vs. First Mate, that's going to be really interesting! When are you two going to start sparring? I want to see it!"

She cried out in her heart: Fight! Fight now!

Nami's words also attracted the attention of others.

what?

The captain and first mate are about to have a sword-fighting match.

This is quite rare!

Curiosity is human nature, as is the desire to join in the fun!

"Does the captain and first mate spar in swordsmanship? I'd be quite interested."

Yixiao, who was helping to steer the ship, also came here.

With his eyes tightly closed, he revealed an interested smile: "Please allow me to watch the battle then!"

Moria also joined in the fun: "Hehehe, it would be a huge loss not to witness the swordsmanship sparring between two top swordsmen!"

"If I remember correctly, the battle between Shanks and Mihawk once shocked the world!"

"I've heard about that battle, but I wasn't in the New World at the time, so it's a pity I couldn't witness it firsthand..."

Even a smile brings back memories of this incident.

He was not present at that battle, which he greatly regretted.

He was also somewhat curious that his captain and first mate wanted to have a swordsmanship match.

I want to see it for myself!

After all, these two are quite strong!

Locus: "..."

Kuina: "..."

Are you guys really that boring?

Their mere sparring match can draw so much attention...

It must be because life on the ship is too boring on weekdays, right?

"Everyone, please have some snacks first. This is one of our specialties... Wait, what are you doing here...?"

Olivera and Leilia, the new members of the Blackwing Archdemon Adventure Group and chefs, emerged from the kitchen.

She was also holding snacks and drinks in her hands.

They were surprised to see all their friends gathered together.

What happened?

After learning the reason, they were very interested.

They expressed a desire to witness firsthand the kendo sparring between the captain and the first mate...

So, after discussion, the other members decided on their own to hold this sparring match on Fishman Island!