One Piece: My code name is Green Bull

"If I could become Zephyr's disciple…"

A glint flashed in Jon's eyes. Despite training hard for the past decade, he knew having a teacher made a significant difference. His father could offer guidance, but compared to Admiral Zephyr, it wasn't on the same level at all.

So, when Jon heard this news from his father, he was genuinely moved.

Even though his principle was to keep a low profile until he gained enough strength, he couldn't pass up such a rare opportunity.

"Dad, what are the requirements for going to Navy Headquarters?"

Jon knew that the Navy Headquarters sought talent this time, not just anyone. There would undoubtedly be requirements.

Wilson replied, "Each branch can only submit one name, and candidates must be under thirty. The final performance of the nominee will also be tied to the branch's achievements. If the chosen candidate performs poorly, it will negatively impact the branch."

"That makes sense."

The requirements didn't surprise Jon. Under thirty was the prime age for growth; over thirty, people become set in their ways. Unless someone had extraordinary potential, they couldn't compare to those under thirty.

Linking the nominee's performance to the branch was a way to prevent people from abusing their power and choosing candidates irresponsibly.

It was clear that the Navy Headquarters was looking for geniuses, not cannon fodder.

"Dad, I want to go to Navy Headquarters this time."

Jon didn't hesitate. He directly expressed his decision.

Wilson nodded approvingly. "Of course, I'm planning to submit your name. Although there are some other promising candidates at the base, you're my son. Even if it costs me, this spot will be yours."

This opportunity was something many would fight tooth and nail for, but Wilson was willing to bypass internal selection for his son.

It was only natural to prioritize his son in this moment, no matter the cost.

Jon understood his father's sentiment. He'd do the same if he were in his father's shoes. Close friends or acquaintances couldn't compare to one's own son.

"Dad, I'll leave it to you. You can tell the others that if I establish myself at Headquarters, I'll make sure they're rewarded."

Wilson laughed heartily, "That's my responsibility. Don't worry about it."

One month later!

The Navy Headquarters' transport ship was set to arrive at the 47th branch base tomorrow. The night before his departure, Wilson called Jon into his office.

"Jon, tomorrow you'll board the ship for Headquarters. But before that, there's something I want to give you."

Wilson moved to the corner of the office, tapping on the wall a few times. With a slight push, a hidden compartment appeared, containing a small safe.

Wilson opened the safe and carefully took out a wooden box, placing it in front of Jon.

Seeing his father's cautious and serious expression, Jon knew that this box held something important.

"About three years ago, during a mission to eliminate pirates, I obtained a treasure of the sea. At the time, I couldn't resist and kept it for myself. I've saved it until now, and I want to give it to you."

Wilson's solemn expression made Jon nervous too. "A treasure of the sea?"

"Devil Fruit."

"Devil Fruit?"

Jon was stunned, looking at his father in disbelief.

Devil Fruits, in the world of One Piece, are special fruits that grant extraordinary powers upon consumption. Though called "devil fruits," they're treasures of the sea to many.

Devil Fruits fall into three types: Paramecia, Logia, and Zoan. Even the most basic Zoan fruit fetches a price of over 100 million Berries on the market.

A Devil Fruit could instantly turn an ordinary person into a powerhouse. Its value was immeasurable. But the price was that the consumer would be hated by the sea, losing strength in water and becoming unable to swim.

For many, eating a Devil Fruit was the quickest way to power. Jon never expected his father to have one hidden.

Wilson opened the wooden box, revealing a green fruit that looked like an oversized peach. Unlike a peach, however, the surface was covered in swirling, vine-like patterns, giving it a mysterious aura.

"So, this is a Devil Fruit?"

Jon's eyes widened as he looked at the green fruit, filled with awe and curiosity.

"Yes, it's a Devil Fruit. Only Devil Fruits remain unspoiled after years of storage," Wilson explained.

As Jon looked at the fruit, he felt no greed. Instead, he asked out of curiosity, "Dad, since you got this three years ago, why didn't you eat it yourself? You could gain some power and greatly boost your strength."

Wilson replied seriously, "That's true, but eating it also comes with risks. Aside from not knowing the ability, the inability to swim is a fatal weakness for someone who spends most of their time fighting at sea."

Jon nodded. That made sense. Many people focused on the power of Devil Fruits, ignoring the drawbacks.

But in a sea battle, the inability to swim could be deadly. If one accidentally fell into the sea with no one to save them, it would mean certain death.

"Besides, I'm getting old. Even if I gained a power, it'd be hard to develop it fully. So I kept it, intending to pass it on to you so that you can decide."

Wilson looked at Jon intently. "Jon, you're different. You have far more talent than I do, with a bright future. You're just missing an opportunity. Now, this is it—an opportunity you might be able to seize."

"You want me to eat it?" Jon asked.

Wilson shook his head. "No, I've researched it extensively and couldn't determine the fruit's power. I don't have the courage to eat it myself, so I wouldn't force you. I'm giving it to you to make your own choice."

"Every decision has two sides. Do you risk gaining an unknown power but accepting a fatal weakness, or do you pass it up? Only you can decide."

Wilson patted Jon's shoulder and handed him the wooden box. "I've done all I can. The rest is up to you."

"Before you reach Headquarters, you need to decide what to do with this Devil Fruit. If you decide to eat it, so be it. If not, present it as a contribution at Headquarters. It's a valuable strategic asset, and doing so will earn you merits that will help you in the future."

Jon held the Devil Fruit, feeling its weight. It was more than just a Devil Fruit; it was his father's hope and love. His father had carefully planned Jon's journey to Headquarters, sacrificing a great deal.

"Dad, don't worry. I won't let you down."

For his father, who wanted him to succeed, Jon was determined to stand out in the selection.

"I believe in you!"

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