Are You Looking Down on Me?

"Your captain? Is he a swordsman too?"

Hearing Shanks's words, Asama Ryoma's eyes lit up, and anticipation rose within him. From what Shanks had said, this so-called captain was even stronger than Shanks himself. Didn't that mean he was at least a master swordsman?

Asama Ryoma had misunderstood. The strength Shanks referred to was not swordsmanship. Mirai's own swordsmanship was only at the peak of a first-rate swordsman, and he had only forced it to that level through his powerful physique. In terms of swordsmanship alone, Mirai was hardly impressive. After all, in the Naruto world, he had primarily relied on Ninjutsu and the Sharingan. After awakening the Eternal Mangekyo and Rinnegan, he used even less taijutsu, mostly relying on the Rinnegan, Sage Body, and Kekkei Mōra in battle.

"Well, I suppose he counts as one. You'll find out soon enough!" Shanks did not know quite how to answer. Strictly speaking, he had never seen how profound Mirai's swordsmanship truly was. Still, Mirai did carry a sword, so he could be considered a swordsman for now. After saying that, he ignored the anticipation in Asama Ryoma's eyes and left on his own. Everyone along the way automatically made room for him. Shanks's strength had earned their recognition. To swordsmen and those who loved swordsmanship, Shanks was worthy of respect. Wherever he passed, people looked at him with admiration. Mihawk, however, stared at Shanks with a fighting spirit in his eyes, as though he had sensed something. Shanks turned to look at Mihawk as well, a similarly meaningful smile appearing in his eyes.

"Captain, Asama Ryoma really is strong. Sorry, I embarrassed you!" After arriving at Mirai's side, Shanks scratched his cheek awkwardly. Being defeated in his very first match made him feel somewhat ashamed.

"It's fine. I might not fare