Onepiece: I'm Gojo Satoru

A month was all Satoru had to prepare for the upcoming battle to decide the Navy's fourth admiral. The stakes were high, and the secrecy surrounding the event added an air of tension. While Satoru didn't know who the World Government would send as his opponent, he held unwavering confidence in his strength. After all, over the past year, he had honed his skills to a level he never thought possible.

What unsettled him more, however, was the World Government's growing ambition. Their interference in naval affairs was becoming increasingly blatant. Despite their supposed authority over the Navy Headquarters, they had never stationed their own personnel within its ranks. Now, their attempt to plant someone directly into a high-ranking position was nothing short of an open challenge.

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The Navy Headquarters' Concerns

In a shadowy conference room within the Navy Headquarters, Akainu's voice rumbled with irritation. "Is that brat up to the task?" he demanded, his stern expression matched by the heat radiating from his body.

Though Akainu's brand of justice often clashed with others in the room, he shared their distaste for the World Government meddling in naval operations. For someone as ambitious as Akainu, the thought of a government watchdog monitoring his every move was intolerable.

The usually indifferent Kizaru spoke up, surprising everyone. "If that kid hasn't slacked off, he'll be fine. A year ago, he was already capable of holding his own against Kaido. Imagine what he's capable of now."

Akainu scowled. "Are you implying he's surpassed us?"

Kizaru shrugged nonchalantly. "Not saying that. Just stating the facts. Satoru's abilities grow fast—faster than anyone I've seen. If anyone can handle this, it's him."

Zefa, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke. "His technique alone makes him more than a match for most. Unless the World Government sends one of their elites with advanced Conqueror's Haki, he won't lose."

The mention of Conqueror's Haki drew knowing looks. Few within the World Government's ranks possessed it, as their rigid training often suppressed the individuality required to awaken it.

Still, Akainu wasn't convinced. "If he fails, he'll have me to answer to." With that, he stormed out of the room, his frustration evident.

---

Satoru's Summons

Back at the G8 base, Satoru received his orders: return to the headquarters immediately. The timing was suspicious, but he knew it was an opportunity to prove himself.

"They're getting impatient," Satoru muttered with a wry smile. The Navy hadn't seen him in action against any significant threats for over a year, which had undoubtedly raised doubts.

Before leaving, Satoru called his trusted lieutenant, Clair, to his office. "Clair, I'm leaving for the headquarters. While I'm gone, the base is your responsibility. I expect it to remain in the same state as I left it—no, better."

Clair saluted sharply. "Understood, sir. But… what's the purpose of your return? They're not trying to replace you, are they? If that's the case, we won't stand for it. We only recognize you as our leader."

Satoru felt a surge of pride at her loyalty. Over the past year, he had poured his heart into building trust and camaraderie with the G8 navy, and it was moments like these that made it all worthwhile.

"Don't worry," he reassured her with a confident grin. "When I return, it'll be as a navy admiral."

Clair's eyes widened in shock. "An admiral? But… there are only three! Did something happen to one of them?"

Satoru chuckled at her innocent conclusion. "Let's just say there's about to be a fourth. But remember, this is top secret. Don't tell anyone."

Clair straightened, her expression serious. "You can count on me, sir. My lips are sealed tighter than a treasure chest."

---

A Battle Worth Winning

As Satoru prepared for his journey to the headquarters, he couldn't shake the feeling that this battle was more than just a test of strength. It was about safeguarding the independence of the navy. The World Government's attempt to infiltrate their ranks had to be thwarted, and Satoru intended to stand as the barrier they couldn't breach.

With his skills, determination, and the trust of his men behind him, he knew one thing for certain—victory would be his.