But compared to this world, this was probably just the starting line.
Ban knew this well.
The “rapid transformation” status was still there, likely due to the Devil Fruit continuously evolving his body.
His swordsmanship was still basic, but constant practice had improved his foundation.
His goals here were clear:
– Master Swordsmanship up to the level of Cutting Steel and become a true Sword Master.
– Learn Haki, at least Observation and Armament.
Conqueror’s Haki was uncertain, but he was confident he would be strong regardless.
As the ship docked, Ban stepped onto the railing.
“The contract is over, everyone!”
He jumped down lightly onto the small pier of Shimotsuki Village.
There weren’t many people around.
After asking for directions, he headed straight for the Dojo.
On the ship, the crew watched him leave.
“What are you staring at?
We’re different from him!
Hurry up and restock!” the captain shouted, getting everyone back to work.
SMACK!
A wooden sword struck hard, making a hollow sound.
Zoro held his head, where a large bump was forming, but his face was full of defiance.
“1959th time.
You lose.”
A girl around ten years old said calmly.
She was used to this by now.
“Just wait!
I will beat you someday!”
Zoro grabbed his sword again, staring intensely at Kuina.
He looked spirited, but with bruises and a swollen head, he looked quite funny.
Hahaha…
A laugh came from the entrance.
Standing at the door was a boy about fourteen or fifteen years old, leaning against the frame and watching them.
He wore loose white clothes and had long black hair.
He looked gentle and easy-going, but his laughter made Zoro feel mocked.
“Who are you?” Zoro demanded.
“I came to learn swordsmanship.”
Ban walked in, looking around the spacious courtyard, then back at the two children.
“To learn swords?
Wait here, I’ll tell my father!”
Kuina wasn’t surprised—students came often.
But this boy looked like he was from out of town.
When she left, Zoro walked up to Ban, looking up at him arrogantly.
“If you’re learning here, then I’m your senior!”
Ban looked down at the green-haired kid.
Comparing him to the future Commander of the Straw Hats, who could clash with Emperors, he couldn’t help but laugh again.
If only he had a camera to record this black history…
“You’re still laughing!
I will defeat Kuina one day!” Zoro wiped blood from his nose, refusing to admit defeat.
Ban shook his mind.
Defeat her?
Not in this lifetime.
But since Kuina was still alive here…
maybe he could save her?
Changing the future?
Who cares.
“If we are both learning, then the strongest one is the boss, not the one who arrived first.” Ban said simply.
“Really?
Then if I beat Kuina, does she have to call me senior?” Zoro’s eyes lit up.
“Impossible!
You will never defeat me!”
Kuina’s voice rang out before Ban could answer.
She returned with Koushirou.
“I challenge you!” Zoro roared, pointing his sword.
Zoro immediately chased after her.
Another duel was about to start.
“Sorry for the scene you witnessed.
My daughter and student are quite energetic.”
Koushirou smiled, but as he looked at Ban, his eyes behind the glasses widened slightly in surprise.
He sensed something unusual.
“It’s fine.
Swordsmen like to prove who is stronger.
Neither of them seems like the type to give up easily.” Ban replied with a smile.
“You see it clearly.”
Koushirou nodded slightly and gestured for him to enter.
Ban followed him inside.
They sat down in a room.
Ban looked calmly at the master before him.
[Top Tier Swordsman (Extremely Dangerous)]
A red warning label floated above Koushirou’s head.
Compared to the grey labels of pirates and villagers, this man was by far the most dangerous person Ban had encountered so far.
“You are not from Shimotsuki Village?” Koushirou asked politely, noticing Ban’s gaze.
“Yes.
I arrived by ship today.
I heard there is a famous dojo here, so I came to learn.”
“I see.
Then…
why do you wish to learn the sword?”
“Is that important?” Ban raised an eyebrow.
“It is.” Koushirou nodded firmly.
Ban lowered his head in thought.
After a moment, he looked up and gave his answer.
“Monday to Friday – Update 3 Chapters a Day”
“Saturday and Sunday – Off”