Standing on the deck of the Prometheus, even though the ship had been sailing for several days now, Hancock still couldn't contain her excitement and anticipation.
Amazon Lily, located in the Calm Belt, had powerful warriors, but the nation's resources were limited, making it difficult to build many ships. Even though Hancock and her sisters were members of the royal family, they had never ventured out to sea.
On Amazon Lily, only the most powerful warriors could join the Kuja Pirates and sail under the command of the Empress. While Hancock and her sisters were undeniably talented, they still needed more time to grow into such powerful figures.
The reason the three sisters had been captured by slavers and ended up as slaves was due to their intense curiosity about the outside world. They often ventured to the coast, waving excitedly whenever they spotted a ship brave enough to traverse the Calm Belt.
In retrospect, who would dare cross the Calm Belt without reason? Only those with significant power or individuals fearless enough to risk their lives on dangerous ventures like the slave trade. It was during one of those risky moments that Hancock and her sisters encountered a slaver crew, sealing their fate as captives and taking them to the cruel world of Mariejois.
While they technically did sail on that dark journey, it was nothing like now. They were trapped in a dank, suffocating cell below deck, consumed by fear and darkness. The splendor and adventure of the sea were replaced by dread. From there, their world only worsened as they found themselves in the hellish conditions of slavery. It was only by some miracle that the three sisters survived.
Everything changed when Claudius appeared. His intervention turned their bleak fate upside down.
"Lenny and Mero were right; he really is different," Hancock thought as she glanced at the ocean where Lenny and Mero, the mermaid sisters, were frolicking without a care.
The two mermaids wore no collars, nor were they restricted in any way. They could leap into the sea and vanish to freedom at any time, yet they stayed close, playing by the ship. When they were tired of swimming, they would climb back aboard and rest, enjoy some refreshments, or lounge in the large pool on the deck.
They weren't treated like slaves at all. It seemed more like they were guests aboard this luxury ship, free to enjoy themselves.
Hancock realized that her situation wasn't so different. Other than being unable to swim due to her Devil Fruit powers, she and her sisters were free to roam the ship, just as they had back home. Claudius even mentioned they were bound for the desert nation of Alabasta, and it didn't seem like he planned to confine them to the ship. That meant she and her sisters could set foot on Alabasta and experience the desert for the first time.
"If we're allowed to wander Alabasta freely, maybe there will be an opportunity to take Mary and Sonia and escape," Hancock considered.
But her expression shifted as she muttered, "No, it's too dangerous. Staying with Claudius is safer. If we escape and get caught again, what then?"
Claudius had mentioned that soon they would receive training to become stronger. Hancock knew he was referring to Haki training. On Amazon Lily, all warriors possessed Haki, but she and her sisters had never trained seriously. Now that they understood the harsh reality of the world, they figured it was wise to take advantage of Claudius' resources. He was willing to train them, so why not use this chance to become stronger?
"Once we're stronger, we'll find a better opportunity to leave," Hancock thought, not realizing she was once again compromising with her situation.
Hancock and her sisters weren't the only ones enjoying the deck. Stella was standing beside Nia keenly learning the art of service and refining her skills.
Meanwhile, Tesoro was being drilled by three elderly scholars on economics, finance, and the intricacies of wealth management. It was exhausting, but the thought of creating a better life for himself and Stella fueled him. He absorbed every piece of wisdom from the old men with unwavering focus.
"The more I learn now, the more valuable I'll become to His Highness. If I can prove my worth, Stella's future will be secure and happy," Tesoro thought, encouraging himself to push through.
On the third floor of the ship, in the expansive library, Claudius sat with a thick history book on Alabasta. Little Robin, who had been aboard the Prometheus for weeks, hadn't stepped foot off the ship. In fact, she'd taken it upon herself to organize and categorize the entire library during her free time.
At this moment, Robin sat on the steps, leaning against the railing with a book in her hands and a cup of warm milk by her side. It was clear that she was content with this routine.
From where he sat, Claudius could see the two youngest members, Ace and Koala, poring over a picture book. He'd left most of the other children at home this time, not wanting the ship to be overcrowded. Teachers had been arranged to take care of them and oversee their studies.
But Koala was an exception. She was always a little different.
"Robin..." Claudius called out, breaking the quiet atmosphere.
Robin, who had been casually observing Ace and Koala, looked up, surprised. Her large eyes met Claudius' with a hint of curiosity.
"Would you like to join us on our visit to Alabasta?" Claudius asked with a smile.
Robin didn't hesitate. She shook her head and replied, "No, I'm not interested."
Claudius chuckled. "You'll end up as a recluse like this," he teased.
"What's a recluse?" Robin's brows furrowed slightly as she questioned.
"Ah, nothing good, that's for sure. As the saying goes, 'Reading a thousand books is only half the journey; walking a thousand miles completes it.' Books alone won't teach you everything, Robin. Sometimes, you need to see the world to truly understand it. So, why don't you come with me to Alabasta? It's the oldest known human kingdom. I'm sure it's rich in culture and history," Claudius said, his tone persuasive.
Robin's eyes softened. The idea of Alabasta did hold some allure. A kingdom with over four thousand years of history, what historian could resist such an opportunity?
"Who knows, maybe you'll even find ancient ruins," Claudius added enticingly.
That was all it took. Robin couldn't hide her intrigue any longer. She nodded in agreement.
"Hahahaha, that's the spirit," Claudius said with a laugh. In the vast expanse of Alabasta's desert, Claudius and Crocodile were locked in a fierce clash.
There was no denying it, Crocodile's power in the desert was formidable, amplified by the surrounding sands that played directly into his abilities. It made him a fearsome opponent.
On a small sand dune at a safe distance Nia and the others watched the battle unfold. Tesoro and Stella had stayed behind on the ship, with Tesoro deep in his studies and Stella choosing to keep him company. Likewise, Koala and Ace had remained on the vessel, engrossed in their own games.
Mero and Lenny, the two mermaid sisters, had insisted on seeing the desert despite knowing the sweltering heat would be a challenge for them. They claimed that they might never have another chance to witness a desert again. Now, having fulfilled that curiosity, they regretted it. Both sisters were sprawled out in a large glass tank filled with water on the sand boat, looking as though they were on the verge of being boiled alive under the scorching sun.
Hancock looked over at the mermaids, shaking her head with a touch of exasperation. "I told you it would be unbearably hot. Now, the water tank is practically steaming," she said, a trace of concern in her voice.
"Please, Hancock, I have one final wish: send me back to the ship," Mero whimpered, extending a hand out of the water feebly.
Nia chuckled at the sight and reassured them, "Hold on just a little longer. Once His Highness finishes up, we'll head to town. The oases in Alabasta's towns are quite refreshing."
Enel, who had been standing by holding his golden staff, glanced at the struggling mermaids and sighed. A small current of electricity crackled at his fingertips, and in moments, his golden staff morphed into a thin parasol. He placed it over the water tank to shield them from the sun.
Mero perked up slightly. "Enel, you really are a good guy. I've decided to forgive you for electrocuting me in the water the other day," she said with a playful smirk.
A look of embarrassment crossed Enel's face. "That was an accident," he muttered.
He paused, then added, "We're leaving Alabasta after this, and it will be some time before we return to Mariejois. His Highness might visit Fish-Man Island soon. If so, you'll finally be free. This could be the last time we see each other."
"What do you mean 'the last time'?" Lenny chimed in.
"Exactly! When you enter the New World, be sure to stop by Fish-Man Island. We'll welcome you properly," Mero added, her voice more lively now.
Enel smiled, the corners of his mouth lifting in rare cheer. "I'll hold you to that," he said, genuinely touched.
On the other side, Marigold pointed toward the battle in awe. "Sister, look! His Highness Claudius is so powerful!"
Hancock followed her gaze, watching Claudius face off against Crocodile. She nodded in agreement. "Yes, he's even stronger than the Empress."
In the distance, Claudius wielded his demon blade, Shindō, with expert precision. "One-Sword Style—Frost Flower Burial!" he called out as a frosty slash cut through the air toward Crocodile.
With a swift movement of his arm, Crocodile commanded the desert to rise. A wall of sand appeared in an instant, blocking the icy attack. The wall froze on contact, its surface glistening with frost, but Crocodile shattered it effortlessly, sending the now-loose sand surging toward Claudius.
"Desert Spada!" Crocodile shouted, his arm slicing through the air as a deadly sand blade hurtled toward Claudius.
"Your power is truly troublesome in this environment," Claudius said as he dissolved into an invisible gust of wind, letting the attack pass harmlessly through him.
Crocodile's eyes narrowed. "Your power is bizarre as ever. Just what kind of Devil Fruit is this so-called 'Nitrogen Fruit'?"
It wasn't the first time Claudius's abilities left someone baffled. His power was strange and unpredictable, even to those who fought him.
"It's just science; nothing too complicated," Claudius replied nonchalantly, unwilling to go into detail.
Before Crocodile could question him further, Claudius posed his own question. "One last thing—my frost technique hasn't been affecting you much, has it?"
Crocodile's eyes flickered with a hint of curiosity. "It has an effect, but not enough to be a concern. Why do you ask?"
Claudius's lips curled into a smile. "Just making sure. I've been wanting to try out a new move, a bit of a trump card, if you will."
Crocodile raised an eyebrow. "Go ahead and show me."
"Are you sure? I might actually defeat you with this one," Claudius said, smirking.
Crocodile scoffed, his patience waning. "In the desert, I won't lose. And even if I do, I'll accept it."
"Well then, as you wish," Claudius whispered, his voice taking on a more serious tone.
His heartbeat quickened, a signal Crocodile recognized as Claudius activating his unique power. The shift was subtle at first, but soon Crocodile felt an inexplicable tension. Claudius's skin began to flush red, as though he were holding his breath or straining under intense pressure. From his seven orifices, wisps of white vapor began to seep out, covering him in a shroud of smoke.
Crocodile noticed the sand beneath Claudius's feet crystallizing with frost. The air felt different, almost thinner, as if it had become lighter. Crocodile's brows furrowed in confusion.
In the next moment, Claudius pressed his hands together at his chest and spoke, "Uranus—Death of Winter."
A transparent liquid spread rapidly from under Claudius's feet, rippling out like a small tide that consumed the desert around him. Crocodile's instincts kicked in, and he turned to sand, lifting himself into the air. From above, he could see the liquid envelop the ground below.
He felt relieved for a moment, believing he had escaped the attack. But then, the liquid began to evaporate rapidly, turning into thick white mist that rose around him. The sand below was now covered in a layer of frost, an impossible sight in the heart of the desert.
"Was that it? Impressive, but too slow. Easy to dodge," Crocodile thought, a hint of smugness seeping into his mind. He was ready to counter when an odd sensation washed over him. His head felt light, and his vision wavered as if he were intoxicated.
"What's going on?" Crocodile's thoughts turned sluggish as Claudius's voice reached his ears.
"The true power of this move lies in its most subtle effect. Ever heard of 'nitrogen narcosis'?" Claudius said, stepping forward with a grin.
Crocodile's eyes widened in sudden realization, but it was too late. His consciousness slipped away, and he fell from the sky, landing unceremoniously in the frost-covered sand below. Rainbase, an oasis city in Alabasta, is part of a land where every city is centered around an oasis. Building a city in the desert without such a water source would mean certain death.
In Claudius's memory, Rainbase would later be transformed by Crocodile into one of the most prosperous cities in Alabasta. It would become famous, in particular, for hosting the most impressive casino in the first half of the Grand Line. But right now, Rainbase was still just a modest town with a small population.
Crocodile, as one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, had entered Alabasta and swiftly dealt with some of the pirate threats. His power and decisive actions earned him the status of a noble—a knight—bestowed upon him by King Nefertari Cobra. The fief he was granted was none other than the city of Rainbase.
Although Alabasta's civilization was advanced in many respects, its governance still held onto some archaic traditions. Nobles here, even new ones like Crocodile, wielded significant power within their domains.
At this time, Claudius and his group were guests in Crocodile's newly acquired mansion in Rainbase. Crocodile had recovered from the effects of Claudius's "Death of Winter" technique, but he was still trying to understand how he had been caught off-guard. What kind of ability was that?
He wasn't the only one curious. The rest of Claudius's party looked just as puzzled.
"Why are you all staring at me like that? Do I look strange?" Claudius asked, lounging on a sofa with a glass of wine in hand.
After a pause, Crocodile frowned and said, "I may not know a lot about your abilities, but I have to ask, what exactly happened back there?"
"Yeah, what was that? Did you make Crocodile drunk with some kind of drink?" Enel added, his curiosity piqued.
Even little Robin, who had been quietly holding a book, was now eyeing Claudius with interest.
Claudius chuckled. "Ah, this is the power of science. You see, 'Death of Winter' is all about deception. It looks imposing and dramatic, but the real trick is in the 'intoxication.'"
Crocodile had suspected that the move was all show, but it still left him baffled. How could something that looked so grand fail to touch him physically yet still take him down?
"A large amount of liquid nitrogen rapidly vaporizes, increasing the nitrogen concentration in the surrounding area. This process is nearly imperceptible. You don't feel any difficulty breathing, and for a few seconds, there are no adverse reactions. But by the time you notice it, it's too late. You're already in a state of what I like to call 'nitrogen intoxication,' much stronger than any alcohol. Once that kicks in, any effective response is pretty much impossible," Claudius explained with a grin.
The room fell silent as everyone tried to digest what he had just said. Though the words made sense individually, they seemed foreign when strung together in this context.
Crocodile and the others looked utterly perplexed.
Claudius sighed and waved his hand dismissively. "Ah, it's terrible when there's a lack of culture. Forget it. Just think of it as a really powerful move."
Not wanting to seem ignorant, Crocodile took a sip from his glass, choosing not to press further. He then shifted his gaze to Enel. "I heard you won't be heading back to Mariejois after this?"
"That's right. I'm planning to roam the seas as a pirate and aim to become one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, like you," Enel replied confidently.
"With your Thunder Fruit powers, that should be achievable. I'll admit, I'm a bit envious of such a powerful ability," Crocodile said, his tone genuine.
After exchanging a few more words with Enel, Crocodile turned back to Claudius. "I've already finalized an arrangement with Doflamingo. He'll be providing the contraband—Dance powder."
Claudius nodded approvingly. "Good. So, what's your plan for Alabasta?"
"The Nefertari family holds significant influence in Alabasta. They are revered and trusted by the people. The first step is to erode that trust, to sow the seeds of doubt and internal strife," Crocodile said calmly, as if he were discussing the weather.
"So, you'll be aiding the rebels to undermine the royal family?" Claudius inquired, a slight smirk on his lips.
"Not exactly. That approach is too blunt. I aim to position myself as the hero of this nation. Once the rebels topple the royal family, I'll step in to quell the rebellion and restore order. With that move, I'll be seen as the savior of Alabasta and gain control of the country," Crocodile explained.
"Sounds like a solid plan, but building that kind of reputation will take time," Claudius said.
Crocodile nodded in agreement. "Exactly. Accumulating that level of prestige is a gradual process."
Claudius took a thoughtful sip from his glass. "Stick to your plan. I won't interfere."
Crocodile seemed satisfied with that response. After a moment's pause, he added, "There are rumors of Poneglyphs in Alabasta. Are you interested in those? Should I obtain one for you?"
At this, Robin's eyes lit up with sudden interest. She stared at both men, anticipation flickering in her gaze.
Claudius chuckled. "The Poneglyphs, huh? They're just icing on the cake. I'm not particularly concerned about them."
There was a time when Claudius would have been intrigued by the mysteries of the Void Century and the secrets hidden in the Poneglyphs. But he had since realized something: historical revelations might shake the world, but they were only catalysts. True change was brought about by power.
An ordinary man could uncover the greatest of secrets and broadcast them to the world, but what would that achieve? He would remain a nobody, easily swept away by the tides of history. The real players the ones who stood to gain would always be those in power.
So Claudius didn't care much about the Poneglyphs anymore. Whether someone exposed their secrets or not, he was more focused on consolidating his strength. That was what really mattered.
"Just icing on the cake, huh?" Crocodile echoed, a smile playing on his lips. "You might be right." In the Alabasta desert, a camel caravan was slowly making its way through the dunes, heading toward Rainbase. Among the riders was a figure who seemed entirely out of place, not because of his presence, but because of his sheer size. While the rest of the caravan sat comfortably atop camels, this towering man could only walk alongside the group. It wasn't an act of discrimination but sheer practicality the camels simply weren't tall enough to accommodate his massive frame.
Wearing a Madara bear-eared cap and tinted glasses that obscured his eyes, the figure carried a Bible in one hand. His face remained stoic and unreadable. This was none other than the infamous "Tyrant," Bartholomew Kuma—a notorious pirate on the surface, but secretly an essential cadre of the Revolutionary Army.
Next to him rode another man, his face concealed beneath the traditional desert garb of Alabasta. Despite his attempts to blend in, his sharp, commanding gaze and the prominent blood-red tattoo over his left eye made his identity unmistakable. This was Monkey D. Dragon, the leader of the Revolutionary Army and one of the most wanted men in the world. With a bounty of 2 billion berries on his head, he was a constant thorn in the side of the World Government, a man whose name sent ripples through even the highest echelons of power.
Dragon stared out at the endless dunes, deep in thought. "Crocodile has settled here as one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea..." he muttered to himself.
"What's the problem, Dragon?" asked Ivankov, riding beside him on a camel.
"There's definitely a problem," Dragon replied, his tone quiet but firm, his piercing gaze cutting across the landscape. "I'm worried about Claudius and what he might be planning for Alabasta."
Ivankov raised a curious brow. "Why would you think that?"
Dragon exhaled slowly, gathering his thoughts. "The Nefertari royal family of Alabasta is... unique. By bloodline, they could have been part of the Celestial Dragons, but they gave up that privilege long ago. They refused to move to Mariejois and chose to stay with their people instead. Their actions have made them an outlier, a potential problem for the World Government. At the last World Summit, King Cobra even proposed reducing the Heavenly Tribute. It wouldn't surprise me if Claudius were ordered to deal with them quietly."
Ivankov fell silent for a moment, digesting this. "But I thought you admired the Nefertari royal family? Didn't you say they were different from the rest of the oppressive nobility?"
"They are different," Dragon admitted, his voice tinged with both respect and frustration. "The Nefertari family governs with compassion. They care for their people, despise exploitation, and even consult public opinion in their decisions. They're one of the few royal families in this world that could serve as a model for others. That's exactly why they're a threat to the current system."
Ivankov's frown deepened. "So... what do we do? Do we intervene if Claudius is really planning something?"
Dragon hesitated, then sighed. "For now, this is just speculation. I can't predict Claudius's moves entirely, he's an enigma. He's a Celestial Dragon, yes, but he doesn't operate like the rest of them."
"You still trust him?" Ivankov asked, raising an eyebrow.
Dragon smiled faintly. "Trust is a strong word, but I don't think Claudius has deceived me yet. He's not a traditionalist. His vision aligns with ours in certain ways. A top-down change complementing our bottom-up revolution... it's not impossible."
"Maybe, but don't forget—he is a Celestial Dragon. And people can change, Dragon," Ivankov warned.
"True," Dragon admitted, "but at least for now, I don't believe he poses an immediate threat to us. If things change, we'll act accordingly."
The caravan eventually arrived at Rainbase, stopping just outside the city. Dragon decided to visit Claudius in person. Kuma and Ivankov, however, chose to remain outside, setting up camp in the dunes. Their identities were far too recognizable, and their presence in the city would draw unnecessary attention.
---
By the time Dragon met Claudius, night had fallen. Alabasta's desert sky was clear, untainted by clouds, and the stars twinkled brightly above, a breathtaking view that seemed almost otherworldly.
"You actually came in person?" Claudius asked, stepping out into the courtyard to greet him. He looked Dragon up and down, noting the dust clinging to his clothes. "You could've just sent someone to collect the books. Was this really necessary?"
Dragon removed his desert veil, revealing his sharp features and the unmistakable tattoo over his eye. He smirked lightly. "Can't a guest visit for a drink and a chat?"
Claudius laughed and gestured for him to come inside. "Fair enough. My apologies for the lack of hospitality. Come on in."
The two sat in the courtyard, sipping tea under the starlit sky. After a moment of silence, Dragon spoke. "See? Doesn't this show I'm sincere?"
Claudius chuckled. "What's the point of sincerity between us? You, of all people, should know there's no such thing as pure altruism in this world."
Dragon smiled faintly, not disagreeing. "Fair enough. But I do have a gift for you."
"A gift, huh?" Claudius asked, raising an eyebrow. "What's the occasion?"
Dragon leaned back, his tone light but deliberate. "The World Government's been hunting us relentlessly. I thought I'd make your job easier by giving you something you can use."
"Generous of you," Claudius said, his voice laced with amusement. "But aren't you worried I'll use this 'gift' to hurt you?"
Dragon shook his head. "It doesn't matter. There's a group of people within the Revolutionary Army who have... questionable loyalties. Consider this my way of taking out the trash while giving you something to appease the Five Elders."
Claudius's expression didn't shift, but he understood the subtext. These "traitors" were likely being served up to the World Government intentionally, Dragon's way of controlling the narrative and diverting attention. Still, Claudius saw no need to point this out. Why ruin the game?
"Very well," Claudius said, taking a sip of tea. "And what's the catch? You didn't come all this way just to clean house, did you?"
Dragon smiled, leaning forward slightly. "I heard about your Seven Warlords of the Sea initiative. I think we should talk about it..."
"I think the concept of the Seven Warlords of the Sea is fascinating. Legal pirates? That's certainly a unique approach," Dragon said with a slight smile.
If one were unaware of Claudius' deeper intentions, they might think this was just the World Government's attempt to divide pirate forces, creating a schism between allies and enemies.
But Dragon knew Claudius too well. To him, the Seven Warlords of the Sea represented something far more significant. It was a calculated move by Claudius, a strategy to build his personal powerbase under the very banner of the World Government itself.
Normally, the Seven Warlords of the Sea were tools wielded by the World Government. But in Claudius' hands, this system had the potential to become a blade aimed back at the heart of the government itself, a force that could betray them from within if necessary.
"Well, yes, I do work for the World Government. Naturally, I should be doing my part to ease their burdens. In this age of rampant piracy, one has to find ways to patch the leaks in the ship, don't you think?" Claudius said with a casual smile, his tone so genuine that it seemed as though he had no hidden agenda.
Dragon smiled too but made no effort to expose Claudius' "mask."
"So, do you think we can place one of our people within the Seven Warlords of the Sea?" Dragon asked, his tone light but purposeful.
"You mean Bartholomew Kuma?" Claudius raised an eyebrow.
"Exactly. Considering his reputation and strength, he seems to fit the criteria for the Seven Warlords of the Sea, doesn't he?" Dragon nodded.
"Oh, he certainly fits the profile," Claudius acknowledged. "But let me make one thing clear, Dragon. By pushing Kuma into this position, you're essentially slipping a piece of your puzzle into my hand. And while that's a tempting offer, it's not enough compensation for what you're asking."
Bartholomew Kuma, or "The Tyrant," was infamous across the seas. Though ruthless toward other pirates, he rarely targeted civilians or caused unnecessary destruction. His calculated approach had earned him fear and respect, making him a prime candidate for the Seven Warlords of the Sea.
However, Kuma wasn't one of Claudius' people. While Claudius didn't need all the Warlords to be under his control, he certainly intended for most of them to be. He even had plans to include Dracule Mihawk in the group, not because Mihawk was someone Claudius could manipulate, but because Mihawk's apolitical and solitary nature would reassure the World Government that the Seven Warlords weren't entirely Claudius' pawns. Mihawk was a perfect "mascot" for the organization an unassuming, neutral figure.
As for the rest of the Seven Warlords, Claudius already had his own list in mind. Crocodile was a guaranteed choice, as was his own cousin, Donquixote Doflamingo—two seats filled.
Other candidates like Gecko Moria didn't interest him, and Jinbe, though notable, had no immediate relevance since he was still loyal to Ryugu Kingdom. The remaining slots were tentatively assigned to Hancock, Enel, and Ace. That left one final position, which Kuma could potentially fill, but only if Dragon made it worth Claudius' while.
"Don't you think you're being a bit greedy? 'Not enough compensation,' really?" Dragon frowned.
"Greedy? You must be joking," Claudius retorted. "Do you think Seven Warlords of the Sea positions are like cabbages sold on the street? That there's an endless supply? I'm holding onto a limited resource here, Dragon."
Dragon rubbed his temples, clearly annoyed but unwilling to argue further. After a moment's thought, he sighed. "Fine. What do you want? How much is it going to cost me?"
Claudius smirked. "Simple. After Kuma joins the Seven Warlords of the Sea, I get a share of whatever benefits your Revolutionary Army reaps from his position."
"You're not even trying to hide your greed, are you?" Dragon raised an eyebrow. "Do you even know what we intend to use Kuma for?"
"I don't know, and frankly, I don't need to. But whatever it is, I'm sure it'll pay off handsomely for you, won't it?" Claudius replied, still smiling.
Dragon didn't deny it. Although Claudius didn't have all the details, he had a general idea. Dragon intended to use Kuma to infiltrate the Marines' scientific division and exploit its resources. That was likely just one piece of Dragon's larger scheme, but it was enough to justify Claudius' terms.
Claudius himself had some influence over the Marines' scientific division, but directly utilizing it would draw too much attention from the World Government. If he wanted to keep certain gains hidden, he needed a proxy like Kuma.
After a long pause, Dragon finally nodded. "Fine. Let's do it."
"What, no counteroffer?" Claudius asked, genuinely surprised.
"Would it make a difference if I tried?" Dragon replied, giving Claudius a sharp look.
"Not at all," Claudius said with a grin. "Business is business, after all. Mixing it with personal relationships only complicates things."
Dragon snorted. "I figured as much. Still, don't think you've won here. The next time you need a favor, don't blame me if I make you pay dearly for it."
"Hahaha! I'll take my chances," Claudius laughed heartily.
The two continued to discuss the arrangement briefly. Claudius assured Dragon that Kuma's position in the Seven Warlords of the Sea would be reserved, but reminded him that the plan was long-term. Dragon would need to be patient and allow Claudius to move at his own pace.
Dragon had no choice but to agree. He could only urge Claudius to expedite the process as much as possible.
Changing the subject, Dragon casually poured himself a cup of tea and asked, "What's the deal with Crocodile going to Alabasta? What are you plotting?"
Claudius raised an eyebrow as he sipped his tea. "What do you mean, 'what am I plotting'? Crocodile went there on his own. Why are you poking your nose into this?"
Dragon set the teapot down and, after a brief silence, said, "Let's not beat around the bush. The Nefertari royal family in Alabasta, they're good people. Are you planning to target them?"
Claudius was quiet for a moment before placing his teacup on the table. Meeting Dragon's gaze, he replied, "And if I said yes?"
A glint of understanding flickered in Dragon's eyes, and he asked, "Is there no way to avoid this?"
Claudius sighed, feigning helplessness. "It's not entirely up to me, you know. I am still a servant of the World Government, after all. And the Nefertari family... well, let's just say their refusal to fully cooperate with the Government has made them a target. They've been talking about reducing their Heavenly Tribute payments. You can imagine how well that went over."
In truth, the Five Elders hadn't explicitly ordered an attack on Alabasta. But Claudius didn't hesitate to use them as a scapegoat, framing his own plans as mere obedience to higher orders.
Now, it wasn't about what he wanted to do to the Nefertari family. It was about following the will of the World Government. Surely, Dragon could understand that Claudius had no choice in the matter... or so Claudius wanted him to believe. Dragon took another sip of tea, his expression seeming somewhat conflicted.
Claudius noticed Dragon's hesitation and stayed silent. The atmosphere between the two grew heavy as neither spoke for a while.
After a long pause, Dragon finally asked, "So, what exactly are you planning to do in Alabasta?"
Claudius glanced at Dragon with a somewhat amused expression, saying nothing, which only made Dragon feel a little awkward.
After a moment, Claudius spoke. "Is it really appropriate to ask?"
Dragon shook his head with a faint smile. "No, it's not. I guess it's as inappropriate as you prying into how our Revolutionary Army handles its affairs."
"Hahahaha! At least you understand that much, Dragon. Tell me, do you have any personal connection to the Nefertari royal family?" Claudius asked with a chuckle.
Dragon shook his head. "Not really. Back when I was with the Marines, I met them once or twice, but we didn't have much interaction."
"Exactly. Since there's no personal connection, why are you so interested in involving yourself in this muddy water?" Claudius asked casually, lifting his teacup to take a sip.
"It's not really about them. It's more... regret, I suppose. There aren't many royal families like the Nefertari clan left in the world. You know that as well as I do," Dragon replied after some thought.
Claudius nodded slowly, acknowledging the point. From an outsider's perspective, the Nefertari family truly was an exceptional royal family. They ruled Alabasta with fairness and maintained their kingdom's prestige. If they hadn't governed so well, they likely would've been overthrown long ago.
But from Claudius' perspective, their excellence was precisely the problem. In this world, "a piece of unblemished jade invites trouble." If the Nefertari family had been an ordinary royal family from a small and insignificant kingdom, Claudius might have even protected them.
However, as rulers of the powerful kingdom of Alabasta, with significant military strength at their disposal, they became a strategic target. For Claudius, building his power meant he couldn't afford to let such a potential threat stand.
"I understand where you're coming from, Dragon, but I have my own burdens to carry," Claudius said softly. "You don't tell me the Revolutionary Army doesn't shed blood for its cause, do you?"
Dragon fell silent, not responding to Claudius' rhetorical question.
"Whether it's your bottom-up revolution or my top-down approach, blood will be spilled. If you flinch today, you'll end up paying the price tomorrow. Don't underestimate this world, Dragon," Claudius said seriously.
Dragon suddenly smiled. "Are you lecturing me now?"
"Of course," Claudius replied with a laugh.
Dragon knew there was no changing Claudius' mind. He also recognized that he was unnecessarily meddling in something unrelated to him. Deep down, he understood Claudius was right—this wasn't his fight, so why wade into it?
After some quiet reflection, Dragon decided to back off. As Claudius had said, there was no point in stirring up unnecessary trouble.
"You've made your point. What else can I say? If I keep pushing, I'll just look unreasonable," Dragon said, shrugging his shoulders.
"Good, good. Let's not dwell on unpleasant topics. Besides meeting me, do you have any other plans while you're in Alabasta?" Claudius asked.
Dragon shook his head. "I'm just passing through. My next stop is East Blue."
"East Blue? Ah, right, that's your homeland, isn't it?" Claudius remarked with a grin.
"Yeah. The Goa Kingdom. It's said to be the most beautiful country in East Blue, though... well..." Dragon's tone softened for a moment, as if reminiscing, but a flicker of disgust soon crossed his face.
Claudius knew about the Goa Kingdom. It was indeed renowned as the most beautiful country in East Blue, with its polished image of wealth and prosperity. However, it achieved this reputation by ruthlessly discarding anything deemed undesirable. The nobles lived in luxury, while the poor barely survived in the squalor of the kingdom's infamous Gray Terminal.
"It sounds like East Blue is in for some trouble," Claudius said with a chuckle.
Dragon waved his hand dismissively. "You're reading too much into it. Nothing major. I'm just visiting a friend and taking care of some business while I'm there."
"Care to share the details?" Claudius asked curiously.
"Tequila Wolf," Dragon replied nonchalantly. "I think it's a place with fertile ground for sowing the seeds of revolution."
The Tequila Wolf country was a peculiar place. Technically, it wasn't even a proper nation since it had no king or centralized government. But its history spanned more than 700 years, making it one of the most unique regions in East Blue.
Over seven centuries ago, the Celestial Dragons had conceived an ambitious plan to connect the world's islands through an extensive network of bridges. While it sounded grandiose at the time, the sheer scale of the project made it utterly unrealistic. From a modern perspective, it was nothing short of absurd.
However, viewed through the lens of history, the idea wasn't entirely without merit. It was a colossal undertaking meant to benefit future generations, even if it was impractical in its own time.
When the Celestial Dragons proposed the project, the World Government had taken it seriously. But the labor requirements were astronomical, so vast that not even the wealth of the World Government could sustain it. To address this, they came up with a "brilliant" solution: instead of hiring workers, they would use slaves.
At first, the slaves were primarily pirates and criminals captured by the World Government. But as time went on and the government's morality eroded, they began enslaving innocent people as well. Generations of slaves and their descendants toiled on these bridges, and over centuries, their numbers grew into what could be described as a nation in itself, a nation built on suffering.
The Tequila Wolf Country's resentment toward the World Government had festered for centuries. And yet, despite their hardships, they had managed to achieve remarkable feats. Over 700 years, they successfully connected many of East Blue's islands through their bridges. This had significantly boosted the region's prosperity, as the bridges became vital trade routes linking various countries.
Claudius had once studied the history of the Tequila Wolf Country and its cultural significance. He even speculated that its existence might explain why East Blue had earned its reputation as the "weakest sea."
The bridges not only enhanced the World Government's control over the region but also improved the standard of living for the people. Pirates who ventured into East Blue often found themselves captured and sent to the Tequila Wolf Country as laborers. Over time, the harsh consequences deterred many would-be pirates from even attempting a career in piracy, giving East Blue its reputation as the most peaceful sea.
Perhaps this was why the World Government promoted East Blue as a shining example of stability—a sea untouched by chaos, serving as a symbol of their governance.
And now, Dragon intended to use the Tequila Wolf Country as a foothold to plant the seeds of revolution. In a few decades, this region, which had contributed so much to East Blue's prosperity, would likely see drastic changes. By then, the bridges might no longer serve their original purpose.
But history always marched forward. Even if the bridges were abandoned, perhaps new technologies like the sea train would emerge to take their place. The world was ever-changing, after all. Dragon left Alabasta shortly after, wasting no time lingering. It seemed he truly had no intention of involving himself in Claudius' affairs.
As for his mention of heading to East Blue to meet a friend, Claudius could only speculate. If his guess was correct, it was most likely Koshiro from Isshin Dojo in Shimotsuki Village.
After all, in Claudius' memory, Koshiro seemed to have subtle ties to the Revolutionary Army, often supplying them with essentials like food and other resources. His dojo could even be considered an unofficial safe house for the Revolutionary Army in East Blue.
Speaking of Koshiro, Claudius couldn't help but muse over the man's origins. There was something distinct about him that hinted he might hail from Wano Country. The clues were numerous: his name was uniquely Wano-esque, his village bore the name Shimotsuki, and he possessed the sword Wado Ichimonji one of the most famous blades crafted by Shimotsuki Kozaburo, a legendary swordsmith who had fled Wano decades ago.
Kozaburo, renowned for forging both Wado Ichimonji and Enma, was a pivotal figure in Wano's history. The latter blade had belonged to Kozuki Oden, while Wado Ichimonji now rested with Koshiro. Everything about Koshiro from his name to his sword to the name of his village hinted strongly at his Wano heritage.
"Koshiro... Kuina should've been born by now, right? I wonder if Roronoa Zoro, that directionally challenged fool, has stumbled his way to that village yet. No... it's probably still too early for that," Claudius muttered to himself, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
Zoro was undeniably a rare talent one destined to ascend to the pinnacle of swordsmanship. Claudius wouldn't deny being interested in him, but raising a child from scratch wasn't something he had any patience for. He was content to let Koshiro handle Zoro's training and perhaps revisit the matter once Zoro had fully matured as a swordsman.
Kuina, on the other hand, intrigued Claudius even more. In his eyes, her talent may have surpassed Zoro's, but her only perceived "flaw" was that she was a girl.
Koshiro, being from Wano, likely carried some of its deeply ingrained patriarchal values. In Wano, samurai were almost exclusively male, and the idea of a powerful female swordsman was nearly unheard of. It was no surprise that Koshiro doubted Kuina could ever reach the summit of swordsmanship.
But Claudius didn't share that belief.
The world had no shortage of women who stood at its apex. From Charlotte Linlin to Boa Hancock, to Admiral candidate Gion and Chief Staff Officer Tsuru, and even Stussy, one of the underworld's queens, all of them were powerful figures who had carved out their place in the world. If these women could dominate in their respective fields, why couldn't a female swordsman stand at the pinnacle of kendo?
Especially Gion her abilities as a top-tier swordsman were unquestionable, even without relying on her "Bunny Knight" combat style.
Claudius didn't buy into Koshiro's belief that women couldn't excel in swordsmanship.
The real tragedy of Kuina's story, in his opinion, was her untimely death a vivid reminder of how fragile humans truly were. Despite her relentless efforts and immense potential, a single accident had claimed her life.
"Maybe when the time is right, I should make a trip to East Blue myself," Claudius murmured.
He firmly believed that Kuina was destined to become a great swordsman. If he could intervene and save her from her fate, she might one day grow into the world's strongest female swordsman. Such a figure would undoubtedly be a valuable asset. If the opportunity arose, he wouldn't mind recruiting her into CP-X as one of his trump cards.
After Dragon's departure, Claudius spent a few more days discussing plans with Crocodile. Their conversations revolved around the core strategy for taking control of Alabasta. While the broader outline was set, Crocodile would need to fine-tune the details over time.
Once everything was settled, Claudius saw no reason to linger in Alabasta any longer. Robin, however, seemed especially curious about the kingdom after hearing its rich history and ties to the Void Century.
Before leaving, Claudius asked Robin if she wanted to stay in Alabasta. He assured her that if she chose to stay, Crocodile could look after her temporarily.
Though tempted, Robin ultimately shook her head. "No, I'll stay with you for now," she said.
Her decision wasn't based on logic but rather a lingering sense of insecurity. For Robin, the Prometheus felt like a piece of Ohara a living remnant of her home and Claudius, who had been entrusted to protect her by her mother and Professor Clover, was her anchor of trust. As long as she remained on the ship or by his side, she felt safe.
The thought of staying in Alabasta, even temporarily, filled her with anxiety.
"I'll come back and explore Alabasta when I'm older," Robin added softly.
Claudius didn't press the issue. He had no desire to leave his "librarian" behind in the desert anyway.
After bidding farewell to Crocodile, Claudius set sail from the Port. His next destination was Little Garden, where he hoped to capture a dinosaur as a pet.
The voyage to Little Garden was long, and midway through the journey, Claudius received a call from Stussy.
"Stussy! It's been a while. Where are you now? Have you missed me?" Claudius asked with a grin.
Stussy's lips curled into a smile as she replied, "Of course I miss you, Your Highness. But I know you're not a fan of pretty ornaments without value, so I've been working hard to stay useful. Otherwise, what if you decide to throw me away one day?"
"Throw you away? Do I seem like such a heartless man?" Claudius said with mock indignation.
"All men are the same," Stussy quipped before continuing in a more serious tone. "By the way, Your Highness, something big has happened on my end recently."
"Oh? Where are you right now?" Claudius asked, raising an eyebrow.
"I'm in the New World, near the seas around Wano," Stussy replied.
Before Claudius could respond, Stussy added, "Gecko Moria and his crew have been wiped out."
Claudius paused, momentarily taken aback. Then, with a hint of amusement, he scratched his head and asked, "Let me guess he went to Wano to pick a fight with Kaido?"
"Pretty much," Stussy said with a laugh. "I think he got inspired by all the commotion lately. Doflamingo clashing with the Red Count, Crocodile creating waves with Bullet and making a name for himself, it must've lit a fire under Moria. So, he decided to take his shot at Kaido. Well... it didn't end well. His entire crew was annihilated."
"And Moria himself? Is he dead?" Claudius asked, still smiling.
"No confirmed reports of his death, but it seems he managed to escape. His abilities are quite impressive, after all," Stussy noted.
"True, the Shadow-Shadow Fruit is a powerful ability," Claudius admitted.
He had always thought Moria's fruit was incredibly versatile, especially its "Shadow Clone" ability, which created a duplicate nearly equal to the original in strength. The ability to control someone's life and death by stealing their shadow was also immensely dangerous.
Unfortunately, Moria had squandered such potential. Instead of maximizing its power, he had turned it into a tool for cheap tricks, hiding behind hordes of zombies while cackling in the shadows. What a waste. Although it was a pity that the Shadow-Shadow Fruit was wasted on someone like Moria, Claudius didn't really care. Whether Moria lived or died wasn't his problem.
Stussy also understood that Moria wasn't exactly a pressing issue. She had simply missed Claudius over the last couple of days and used the topic to start a conversation.
After chatting a bit more about Moria, Stussy changed the subject. "By the way, Your Highness, are you aware of something that's been going around in the New World recently?"
Claudius raised an eyebrow. "Oh? What is it?"
"There's a term that's started making waves in the New World," Stussy said softly. She paused for a moment, seemingly choosing her words carefully, before continuing, "They're calling it the 'Pirate Emperor.'"
Hearing this, Claudius' eyes lit up, as if something had clicked in his mind.
The term "Pirate Emperor" was new, but it wasn't hard to see where it was heading, it was likely the precursor to what would later become the "Four Emperors." In the past, there had been no such terminology, only vague categorizations of pirate power levels.
Even during the time of Rocks D. Xebec, one of the most formidable pirates in history, the term "Pirate Emperor" wasn't used. Xebec had been called the "Pirate Overlord," and that was the extent of it.
Later, Golden Lion Shiki became the most powerful pirate after Xebec's era. At his peak, even Whitebeard—Edward Newgate—was slightly overshadowed by him. Pirates like Kaido and Charlotte Linlin, who were still climbing the ranks, were no match for Shiki back then. Yet, even Shiki had only inherited the title of "Pirate Overlord," not "Pirate Emperor."
"What exactly are you trying to say?" Claudius asked quietly, his tone thoughtful.
"The current structure of the New World's pirate factions is becoming increasingly clear," Stussy explained. "And without a doubt, the most dominant force is Whitebeard's crew. The Whitebeard Pirates hold countless territories in the New World. Just their flag alone is enough to ensure the safety of an entire country.
"Take Fish-Man Island, for example. Two years ago, it was devastated by the chaos of the Great Pirate Era. But now, under the protection of Whitebeard's banner, while it hasn't fully recovered, things have improved significantly. That should give you an idea of how much influence Whitebeard has."
Claudius nodded in agreement. Stussy's observations were accurate. Although there were many pirates in the seas, the only one who could truly be called a "Emperor" was Edward Newgate—Whitebeard.
Kaido was strong, yes, but his recklessness and lack of a cohesive strategy meant he hadn't yet established dominance. Charlotte Linlin's development was more organized than Kaido's, but her territory, Totto Land, wasn't yet the impregnable fortress it would become. Moreover, her children hadn't matured into the powerful force they would eventually be, leaving her empire somewhat incomplete for now.
Meanwhile, among the rest of the prominent pirates, the standouts were "pretenders" like Doflamingo and Crocodile, individuals whose reputations often exceeded their actual strength. They were from the same tier as Moria, yet had managed to elevate their standing through cunning and ambition.
It was as if the current pirate landscape was a case of "in the land of the blind, the one-eyed man is king." This situation was largely due to the efforts of the Marines and the World Government, who had systematically eliminated many of the true heavyweights of the previous generation.
From Ochoku to Captain John, from the Golden Lion Shiki to the Red Count, and finally to powerhouses like Byrnndi World and Douglas Bullet, the World Government had dismantled one major pirate after another.
This left a vacuum, where newer pirates like Doflamingo, Crocodile, and Moria were able to rise to prominence, despite being far from the level of someone like Newgate.
This created an interesting dynamic: while the pirate forces were somewhat depleted, the Marines remained at the peak of their strength, maintaining their position as the dominant force in the seas, even in the midst of the Great Pirate Era.
As for Shanks? He was still a "salted fish," as Claudius liked to put it—a late bloomer, to say the least.
At the moment, Shanks and his Red-Haired Pirates were likely still a small-time crew with minimal influence. He had yet to gain the fame or status of figures like Doflamingo or Crocodile. His only real claim to fame was being a former crewmember of the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, which gave him some level of credibility among the major players.
And yet, within a few years of entering the New World, Shanks would skyrocket in prominence. Six years before the main story began, he would ascend to the position of "Emperor of the Sea."
His meteoric rise was proof that the Four Emperors weren't established all at once but gradually, much like the system of the Seven Warlords of the Sea.
Returning to the topic, Claudius nodded and said, "When Roger was alive, it was undeniably his era. But now that Roger is gone, and others like Shiki have fallen, this is without a doubt Newgate's time.
"I don't see that changing for at least another decade or two. Unless someone like Bullet or World manages to emerge again, Newgate's position as the dominant force in the seas is secure. But I doubt the World Government will make any aggressive moves against him for the sake of stability."
Stussy nodded. "Even the World Government has its limits..." she trailed off, not finishing her thought.
Claudius smirked. "So what's the point of this whole 'Pirate Emperor' thing? Is it just people hyping up Newgate?"
"More or less," Stussy replied. "In the eyes of the pirates, Newgate is already being called the 'Pirate King' in everything but name. Many believe that if there's ever going to be another Pirate King, it has to be him."
Claudius paused for a moment, then said, "That's true—if he wanted it."
Newgate was a peculiar figure. Despite his immense power, he had no interest in claiming the title of Pirate King. Yet his sheer strength allowed him to dominate the pirate world, suppressing any challengers.
As long as Newgate stood unshaken, no one else could claim the throne. This had left the title of Pirate King vacant for over two decades since Roger's death.
This was undeniably Whitebeard's era.
"This is just the beginning. It wouldn't surprise me if, in the future, we see a second, third, or even fourth 'Pirate Emperor,'" Claudius remarked with a smile.
"Perhaps. But compared to the situation with Moria, this is undoubtedly a much bigger issue. Even if you think the World Government won't take action, I believe they'll have to respond in some way. Doing nothing would damage their authority," Stussy said softly.
Claudius stroked his chin, considering her words. Just as he was about to respond, the butler Nia entered the room, holding a Den Den Mushi.
For a moment, Claudius felt a sense of déjà vu. The same waters, the same scenario...
"Your Highness, there's an urgent summons from Mariejois. You're required to return immediately for an important meeting," Nia said quietly.
Claudius groaned, covering his face with one hand. Was it really so difficult to catch a dinosaur in Little Garden? Once again, his plans were being derailed.
"Well, that was fast," Claudius muttered helplessly. "I barely finished saying the World Government wouldn't act, and now this happens. Stussy, it seems you've jinxed me."
Stussy chuckled mischievously. "Hehehe, I'll be heading back to Mariejois as well. I can't wait to see you there."
***
I'm thinking of picking up a new ff to translate, but I'm a bit stumped. If you know of a good ff that hasn't been worked on yet and think it'd be worth translating, drop me a link, and I'll check it out. Claudius sighed in frustration. As much as he wanted to visit Little Garden to capture some dinosaurs, an urgent summons from Mariejois left him no choice but to abandon his plans. Occasionally, he couldn't help but think about how easy life would be if he were just a typical, pampered Celestial Dragon, living idly without a care in the world.
But, of course, that was just a fleeting thought. He couldn't help but chuckle at the ridiculousness of it. The reality was that an order was an order, and he had no intention of testing the limits of the higher-ups' patience.
Rushing back to Mariejois, Claudius didn't want to risk arriving late. After all, many influential figures would be present. It wouldn't do to appear disrespectful by showing up last, as though he thought himself above everyone else.
When the ship docked at the port, Hancock, still pouting, voiced her displeasure. "I thought we'd have more time to enjoy ourselves. We didn't even get to see any dinosaurs! And now we're heading back to the cage?"
Claudius glanced at the young Hancock, her face still carrying traces of childhood innocence despite her growing beauty. Amused, he replied, "In this world, once you step into the fray, you don't get to make all your own choices. Work hard and grow strong, and maybe one day you'll be able to live as freely as Enel."
That's right Enel had stayed behind in Alabasta, eager to learn from Crocodile. His goal? To understand what it meant to be a great pirate.
The thought made Claudius laugh to himself. Was there really a need to seek guidance on how to become a pirate? Still, it wasn't entirely surprising. Crocodile had played something of a mentor role for Enel, even teaching him the finer points of fishing. So, for now, Enel intended to study under Crocodile before setting out on his own.
As for Hancock, her relationship with Claudius had improved during this trip. Though she was still somewhat guarded, she had grown to acknowledge that Claudius wasn't like the other Celestial Dragons she had encountered.
However, her defiance hadn't entirely faded. Hearing Claudius' words, Hancock scoffed, "I won't let myself become one of your pawns like Enel."
"'Pawn'?" Claudius echoed, knocking lightly on her head with his knuckles. "Don't talk about him like that. Enel isn't a pawn, he's one of my precious subordinates. And who knows? Maybe you will be, too, one day."
Hancock swatted Claudius' hand away. "Don't count on it. I'm the heir to Amazon Lily's throne. I'll become the empress of the Kuja Tribe. I'm not one of your subordinates."
"Is that so?" Claudius teased with a grin. "I thought I was quite generous to my subordinates. If you joined me, perhaps Amazon Lily would thrive like never before. But, never mind you can't force these things, can you?"
Hancock froze for a moment, then glanced at Claudius. She wanted to retort but hesitated, feeling trapped by her own earlier defiance.
She couldn't deny the truth in his words. Claudius wielded wealth, influence, and connections that could undoubtedly benefit Amazon Lily. If she were willing to lower her pride a little, she could potentially secure immense advantages for her people.
"Should I really lower my head for the sake of Amazon Lily?" Hancock wondered silently, conflicted.
But Claudius paid her no further attention. As the ship docked, he disembarked quickly. Not far away, he spotted a warship, and to his surprise, Sengoku was stepping off it.
Claudius decided to put the Hancock situation aside for now. After all, the duck was already in his grasp. It wouldn't fly away so easily.
As Sengoku approached, Claudius waited, greeting him with a smile.
"Your Highness, what a coincidence! I didn't expect to run into you here at the port," Sengoku said, his tone warm and cordial.
"Indeed," Claudius replied with a smile. "I rushed back as quickly as I could and managed not to be late."
Despite the fact that Sengoku had planted an undercover agent in Doflamingo's operation, Claudius bore him no personal grudge. He understood that Sengoku had been forced into a difficult position. There was no need to hold it against him.
The two exchanged casual pleasantries as they walked. Soon, a few other Marine officials joined them, and the group headed to the World Government's headquarters in Mariejois.
Without even stopping by his residence, Claudius went straight to the familiar conference room. The room was already filled with figures from both the Marine and CP agencies. Claudius took his seat, with Sengoku sitting next to him.
Looking around, Claudius noticed that the Five Elders had yet to arrive. Figuring it would take some time before the meeting began, he turned to Sengoku and asked, "So, what's the rush this time? Why the urgent summons?"
"What else could it be?" Sengoku said with a bitter smile. "Your Highness, you must have heard about it. Whitebeard—Edward Newgate—has more influence in the New World than our World Government. His flag alone offers more security than the franchise agreements of the World Government."
Claudius chuckled lightly. "Isn't that old news? Everyone knows the World Government's control over the New World is weak. It's no secret."
"It's true that this has always been the case," Sengoku admitted. "But until recently, it was a quieter reality, hidden from the public eye. Now, with the rumors about a so-called 'Pirate Emperor,' Whitebeard's dominance has been thrust into the spotlight. It's becoming a matter of public perception, and that's bad for the World Government's image."
Claudius smirked and teased, "Well, it sounds like the Marines are about to take the brunt of the criticism for this. Pirates are your jurisdiction, after all. I'm sure the CP agents will have a field day mocking you."
Sengoku sighed, his expression bitter. "As if I don't already know that. Your Highness, you'll need to speak up for us later."
Claudius burst out laughing. "Oh, no, no—I wouldn't dare cross those five old men. You'll have to fend for yourself, Sengoku. Good luck."
Shaking his head, Sengoku sighed again. He knew Claudius was only teasing. Regardless, he couldn't escape the inevitable scolding from the Five Elders.
After a moment, Claudius raised an eyebrow and asked, "Do you have any concrete countermeasures in mind?"
"Against the World Government or against Whitebeard?" Sengoku replied with a wry smile.
Before Claudius could answer, Sengoku continued, "For the World Government? The only 'countermeasure' we have is to keep pretending to be humble. What else can we do? Refuse their funding?"
Claudius laughed again, finding Sengoku's honesty amusing. Beneath his serious exterior, Sengoku clearly had a sharp sense of humor.
"We're used to being scolded, beaten down, and then being the ones to clean up the mess. It's just how it is," Sengoku said. "As for Whitebeard..." He trailed off, his expression growing serious.
After a brief pause, he shook his head. "There's not much we can do. The tide has already turned. If we're being honest, this all traces back to Roger and his parting words before his execution. That bastard..."
Claudius nodded in agreement. Without Roger, there would have been no Great Pirate Era. The Marines' carefully laid plans to suppress piracy had been thrown into chaos, and now they were struggling just to maintain balance.
The original Marine strategy had been straightforward: eliminate Roger and his contemporaries to strike fear into the hearts of pirates everywhere. With that fear, they'd clean up the remaining major figures like Newgate, Kaido, and Linlin.
But Roger's declaration of the One Piece had turned the seas into a chaotic free-for-all, rendering those plans irrelevant. Now, the Marines were just trying to hold the line.
"It really is a tough situation for you," Claudius said sympathetically, shaking his head. Claudius chatted a little longer with the visibly frustrated Sengoku. Soon after, the arrival of one of the Five Elders was announced.
As usual, not all five appeared. Presiding over this meeting was Saint Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro, commonly referred to as the Bald Elder. From the moment he entered the room, his foul mood was palpable. His expression was grim, and his heavy footsteps filled the air with tension as he approached the table.
With a sharp motion, Nusjuro threw a folder onto the table, the slap of paper echoing in the room. He sat down heavily and snorted coldly, "The 'Pirate Emperor,' huh? How very impressive. Why haven't I heard that there's another 'great noble' in this world holding court over us?"
Claudius suppressed a laugh, carefully glancing at Sengoku, who looked as though he had been hit by a bus. The Admiral's expression was filled with aggrieved resignation, as if mentally preparing himself for the verbal lashing to come.
"Thank goodness I'm not Marine," Claudius thought with amusement. "Kong probably saw this coming and sent Sengoku in his place to take the heat. What a clever move. Hahaha!"
As expected, Nusjuro's attention quickly focused on Sengoku. His sharp gaze bore down on the Admiral as he said, "Well, Sengoku, what's with that look? Feeling wronged, are we? Is it not Marine's responsibility that the pirates have grown so out of hand?"
Sengoku, clearly holding back a sigh, bowed his head slightly and replied, "It's Marine's unshirkable responsibility."
"Then why do you look so aggrieved?!" Nusjuro barked, leaning forward.
What do you want from me? Sengoku thought bitterly. But outwardly, he quickly adjusted his posture, straightened his back, and said, "I don't feel wronged at all."
"Now you're sitting up like nothing matters! Do you think this isn't a big deal?!" Nusjuro snapped again, his tone growing even harsher.
Sengoku nearly choked. Seriously, what am I supposed to do here?
Meanwhile, members of the CP agency sitting across from Sengoku were barely containing their smirks. Seeing the Marines and especially Sengoku being dressed down was a rare treat. The rivalry between Marine and CP was no secret, and watching Marine get scolded was a small victory in their long-standing feud.
Even Gis, the leader of the CP delegation, couldn't help but show his amusement. Though he tried to suppress his laughter, his shoulders trembled slightly, betraying his glee.
Sengoku shot him a glare that could have melted steel, but Claudius was thoroughly enjoying the scene. Watching Sengoku get chewed out while the CP agents gloated made for an entertaining show.
But Nusjuro wasn't blind to Gis's amusement. His sharp gaze turned toward the CP leader, and his tone grew icy. "Gis, don't think you're in the clear."
"You've had every resource you could possibly ask for—funding, manpower, intelligence and yet, what do we have to show for it? You promised to dismantle the Revolutionary Army within three years, yet they've only grown stronger. Care to explain that?"
Gis's smirk vanished instantly. His shoulders straightened, and he looked like he'd rather be anywhere else. Wasn't this meeting supposed to be about the pirates? How did we end up talking about the Revolutionary Army?!
Meanwhile, Sengoku felt a wave of relief wash over him. Thank you, Gis. I owe you for taking the spotlight off me. Truly.
But Nusjuro wasn't done with Marine just yet. "And don't think this Revolutionary Army issue doesn't concern you, Sengoku. One of your people, Monkey D. Garp, is directly tied to this mess. Or have you forgotten that the leader of the Revolutionary Army is his son?!"
Sengoku froze, a shiver running down his spine. He remained silent, knowing there was nothing he could say to deflect this particular accusation.
Having vented his frustrations on Marine and CP, Nusjuro finally turned his attention to Claudius. His sharp eyes bore into him, and Claudius instinctively straightened in his seat. Why is he looking at me? Surely, I'm not in trouble... am I?
"Claudius," Nusjuro began, his tone pointed. "I've heard you've been quite 'busy' recently. Is CP-X running out of things to do?"
Claudius felt a pang of dread but maintained a calm facade. He replied in a steady voice, "Sir, you've misunderstood. CP-X has been operating at full capacity. In fact, I just returned from Alabasta after handling the task assigned to me."
Nusjuro raised an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. "Alabasta? That doesn't seem like a high-priority matter. Sounds more like you took a little vacation."
Claudius inwardly cursed his luck. Why did he have to call me out on that? But outwardly, he shook his head and replied firmly, "On the contrary, Sir. While in Alabasta, I also gathered intelligence on the Revolutionary Army."
This seemed to catch Nusjuro off guard. "Oh? The Revolutionary Army, you say? And what did you find?"
Claudius silently praised his good fortune. Thank you, Dragon, for providing me with an excuse. Without that little gift, I'd have been cornered here.
"Yes, Sir," Claudius said with a confident nod. "We identified the location of a Revolutionary Army cell. Spandine is currently leading an operation to apprehend them. Initial reports suggest there are high-ranking cadres among their ranks. Once they're captured, I'll hand them over to CP for interrogation. I believe this could lead to a significant breakthrough."
Just as Claudius finished speaking, his Den Den Mushi began ringing. The sudden sound drew everyone's attention, and the room fell silent.
Claudius glanced at the device, his eyes lighting up when he saw the caller. Spandine, you really are my lucky star today.
"Seems like Spandine has an update," Claudius said aloud.
Nusjuro nodded, his curiosity piqued. "Let's hear it."
Claudius answered the call, and Spandine's voice came through, brimming with excitement. "Your Highness! I have excellent news!"
"Spandine," Claudius replied smoothly. "I'm currently in a meeting with the elders. Go ahead and report."
"Yes, of course!" Spandine's tone turned more formal as he continued, "I'm pleased to report that the operation was a success. We captured a group of Revolutionary Army operatives, including two high-ranking cadres. Even better, all were taken alive!"
Claudius couldn't help but grin. "Well done, Spandine. You've exceeded expectations. Bring them back to Mariejois immediately. Rewards will be waiting for you."
Spandine, practically giddy with gratitude, thanked Claudius profusely before ending the call.
When Claudius turned back to the room, he noticed that Nusjuro's expression had softened considerably.
"Excellent work, Claudius," Nusjuro said, his tone genuinely approving. "Once again, you've proven yourself reliable."
Claudius offered a modest smile, though inwardly he sighed in relief. Crisis averted. For now, at least. At this moment Nusjuro was visibly in a much better mood. He couldn't help but feel a sense of pride. Now this is what it means to have capable people on your side. Claudius' ability to deliver results at critical moments clearly set him apart. He was shaping up to be the most reliable Celestial Dragon of his generation, a rarity that Nusjuro couldn't help but appreciate.
Without even needing direct orders, Claudius had taken the initiative to address the Revolutionary Army issue. Unlike the CP agencies, who had spent years only managing to capture small-time players, Claudius' CP-X had managed to grab two cadres in a single operation. To Nusjuro, this demonstrated that CP-X was proving to be an extremely useful organization.
Meanwhile, Claudius was breathing a quiet sigh of relief. The operation had gone better than he could have hoped, and now he could take the credit while passing off the risks. Putting on a confident front, he said, "I've always kept the guidance of the Five Elders in mind, never daring to slack off. It's my responsibility to contribute to the World Government, and it's the very purpose of CP-X to solve problems for our cause."
Hearing this, Nusjuro's satisfaction grew even further. He nodded approvingly and said, "It's good to hear you think that way. Excellent work, Claudius."
Claudius nodded humbly and added, "Once Spandine escorts the captured Revolutionary Army operatives back to Mariejois, CP-X will transfer them to the CP agency for interrogation. I trust they'll yield results soon enough."
This was Claudius' way of skillfully passing the responsibility along. He knew very well that the operatives Dragon had handed over were likely expendable pawns. Even if they were cadres, Dragon would have thoroughly prepared them to give false leads or useless information. Anything gleaned from interrogating them would likely turn into traps for the World Government.
Claudius wasn't about to step on those landmines. His role was done, he had captured them and earned the credit. What happened next was someone else's problem.
Gis, however, wasn't privy to this subtext. Hearing Claudius' gesture, he was genuinely touched. "Thank you for your generosity, Your Highness. Our CP agency will spare no effort in interrogating these operatives and securing actionable intelligence. We'll strive to neutralize the Revolutionary Army as soon as possible."
Claudius waved his hand in an almost magnanimous fashion and said, "Of course, of course. We're all part of the same family. It's only right to support one another."
The sense of satisfaction he felt at passing the responsibility while being thanked for it was almost addictive. Not bad. Not bad at all. Maybe I should 'help' like this more often, Claudius mused.
Unaware of Claudius' real intentions, both Gis and Nusjuro continued to regard him with approval. Nusjuro, in particular, was especially pleased with how Claudius had shared the credit so generously. "Look at Claudius' mindset and awareness," Nusjuro said, casting a critical glance at both Sengoku and Gis. "Now compare it to your agencies. Don't you feel ashamed? Both of you represent vital branches of the World Government, yet you can't cooperate sincerely. Why can't you work together more like this?"
After a few more words of reprimand, Nusjuro took a sip of tea to calm himself. Then, in a slightly more relaxed tone, he said, "In the end, I just want you all to focus on the bigger picture. Do your jobs, cooperate, and take a page from Claudius' book."
Setting down his teacup, Nusjuro turned back to Claudius. "Speaking of which, you've always shown a knack for flexibility and results. What's your take on this 'Pirate Emperor' situation? Any ideas on how we should handle it?"
Claudius froze for a moment. Is this what they call shooting yourself in the foot? I really was on vacation, I didn't give this matter a second thought!
Scratching his head in mild embarrassment, Claudius replied, "Well, regarding this 'Pirate Emperor' situation—specifically Whitebeard, I must admit that CP-X hasn't had the bandwidth to focus on it yet. My knowledge on the matter is limited, and I'd prefer not to speak out of turn. Perhaps I could learn from the perspectives of others here before offering my own thoughts?"
Nusjuro considered this for a moment. He nodded thoughtfully, reasoning that Claudius had indeed been occupied with Alabasta and the Revolutionary Army. While CP-X was proving to be an effective organization, it was still relatively new and lacked the resources and legacy of the older CP agencies. It was only natural that Claudius couldn't tackle everything at once.
"I see. That's understandable," Nusjuro said.
Claudius, sensing Nusjuro's leniency, quickly added, "However, once this meeting concludes, CP-X will begin looking into the matter. I assure you, we'll do everything we can to support the World Government on this issue."
"Heh, when you say that, Claudius, it really puts me at ease," Nusjuro said with a smile.
Satisfied for now, Nusjuro turned his attention to Sengoku. "Alright, Sengoku, what about Marine? Do you have any strategies or countermeasures?"
Sengoku resisted the urge to sigh. Can I say we have nothing? Keeping his expression composed, he answered, "From what I can see, the situation in the New World is relatively stable at the moment. While Marine has managed to plant a few footholds in the region, they're still new. Expanding Marine's influence in the New World to create an effective deterrent will take considerable time.
"As for the Whitebeard Pirates specifically, if it comes to a direct confrontation, Marine Headquarters is confident we can defeat them."
Nusjuro frowned slightly. Sengoku's response felt like empty words. If Marine can't even handle a single pirate crew, what good are they? But at the same time, Nusjuro knew the reality, mobilizing enough forces to take on Whitebeard directly would destabilize the entire region. It wasn't a question of whether Marine could win, it was a question of whether they could afford the consequences of such a fight.
I asked for ideas beyond brute force, Nusjuro thought with irritation. Instead, all I get is this pretense of readiness. Do they think I don't understand the stakes?
Still, Nusjuro chose not to escalate things further with Sengoku. He turned to Gis instead. "What about the CP agency? Any ideas?"
Gis hesitated, clearly uncomfortable. After a moment of thought, he said, "Our CP agency is exploring options to destabilize the Whitebeard Pirates from within. If we can sow discord and create internal divisions, that would be ideal."
Hearing this, Claudius nearly laughed out loud. Internal divisions? You're talking about Whitebeard's crew here, one of the most famously united groups in the New World! Their entire ethos is built around loyalty and family. Unless you somehow have the Dark-Dark Fruit and a line to Teach himself, good luck with that nonsense! During the meeting, Claudius came to a deeper realization about the inner workings of the World Government. It wasn't just the external forces pressing against them, their internal rot and stagnation were all too apparent, and the worst part was, they were aware of it.
Nusjuro glanced unhappily between Sengoku and Gis, his displeasure clear. He wasn't blind to the underlying challenges of the situation. He knew full well that Whitebeard's influence was an almost insurmountable problem. But doing nothing? That was out of the question.
His expression darkened as he said in a low voice, "I don't care how complicated the situation is. We must come up with a plan today. That plan will be implemented, regardless of whether it works or not. We cannot sit idle. If we do nothing, where is the majesty of the World Government?"
At those words, the room fell silent. Everyone present knew how difficult it was to deal with Whitebeard, and no one wanted to be the first to speak.
Claudius leaned back in his chair, his thoughts churning. Dealing with Newgate was no simple matter, but if someone could figure out a way to eliminate him, it would be beneficial, even for Claudius. Whitebeard was a giant of an era, suppressing chaos and maintaining a delicate balance. If he were to fall, the sea would plunge into further turmoil.
From Claudius' perspective, a chaotic sea would serve his larger plans. A more unstable world would give him greater opportunities to strengthen CP-X and extend his influence. Whitebeard, on the other hand, was a symbol of stability in his own way, even if it wasn't the kind of stability the World Government liked.
But after a moment's thought, Claudius frowned. If Whitebeard were so easy to deal with, someone would've taken him out long ago. The only scenario I can think of where he'd fall would be something on the scale of the Summit War years down the line. Even then, it wasn't like Whitebeard would go down easily.
As these thoughts ran through his mind, Sengoku suddenly broke the silence. "It's not entirely hopeless. There may be a possible breakthrough."
The room's attention shifted to him immediately. Claudius, surprised, thought, You don't get called The Resourceful Admiral for nothing, do you?
Gis and even Nusjuro turned their focus to Sengoku, waiting for him to elaborate.
After a brief pause, Sengoku continued, "That said, it won't be easy."
"Speak your mind," Nusjuro said, his tone slightly more even.
Sengoku nodded and said, "Currently, Whitebeard's banner flies over Fish-Man Island. Fish-Man Island, as you all know, is a legitimate member of the World Government. If we could remove Whitebeard's pirate flag from Ryugu Palace, it would deal a serious blow to his prestige and influence."
Nusjuro frowned at this suggestion. His initial frustration with Whitebeard's influence stemmed from the exact issue Sengoku had pointed out: a World Government member state, Fish-Man Island, sought security under Whitebeard's flag rather than the Government's. The mere sight of that flag spoke volumes about the World Government's failure to protect its own.
But the problem wasn't as simple as Sengoku made it sound. Fish-Man Island's unique history made it a deeply complicated matter.
Nusjuro sighed and said, "Sengoku, you're aware of the... factors that have driven Fish-Man Island to this point, aren't you?"
Sengoku was silent for a moment before nodding. "I am."
"Then do you think your suggestion is feasible?" Nusjuro pressed.
Sengoku hesitated before replying, "It won't be easy, but we have to start somewhere. We'd need to create an opening, a shift in their trust."
Nusjuro shook his head slightly, his tone carrying a note of resignation. "It's not just difficult, it's near impossible."
The situation with Fish-Man Island was far from straightforward. While it had long been a member of the World Government, its relationship with Mariejois was strained due to the enduring issue of slavery.
Officially, slavery had been outlawed by the World Government decades ago, yet the practice persisted openly in Mariejois, especially among the Celestial Dragons. Fish-Men and Merfolk were particularly valued as slaves, which only exacerbated the racism and exploitation faced by Fish-Man Island's people.
This historical mistreatment had left the island's rulers deeply distrustful of the World Government. Turning to Whitebeard for protection wasn't a choice they made lightly, it was one born of desperation.
If the World Government wanted to replace Whitebeard's flag with their own, they would need to rebuild trust with Fish-Man Island. But that would require addressing the root of the problem: the institution of slavery in Mariejois.
And that was no small task. Even the Five Elders, who personally disliked the slave trade, knew how entrenched the practice was among the Celestial Dragons. Changing that would be akin to trying to uproot a mountain.
The room grew tense as the implications of Sengoku's suggestion sank in. It wasn't just about removing a flag, it was about confronting a deeply ingrained system.
Just as Claudius was considering how to stay out of this mess, Sengoku's next words sent a chill down his spine.
"But," Sengoku continued, his tone shifting, "if there's anyone who could take the first step, it might be His Highness Claudius."
Claudius froze. What the hell, Sengoku? Why are you dragging me into this?
Hearing Sengoku's suggestion, Nusjuro turned his attention to Claudius. His expression was one of intrigue, as if he were seriously considering the idea.
Claudius, suppressing the urge to glare at Sengoku, forced a polite smile and said, "What do you mean by that, Sengoku? Are you suggesting I take responsibility for the slavery issue in Mariejois?"
"Not all of it," Sengoku replied with an awkward smile. "Just the issue of slaves from Fish-Man Island. It's a more contained problem, and if addressed, it could serve as a gesture of goodwill toward Ryugu Palace. That, in turn, might lead to progress on the flag issue."
Claudius narrowed his eyes slightly, realizing Sengoku was deliberately throwing him under the bus. But Sengoku wasn't entirely wrong, compared to dismantling the entire slave system, focusing on Fish-Man Island's specific grievances was more manageable. Still, it wasn't a task Claudius wanted to take on lightly.
Before Claudius could respond, Nusjuro leaned forward slightly, his interest clearly piqued. "Claudius, this might actually work. You've always been bold and unorthodox, traits that could make a difference here. After all, your reputation in Mariejois is... unique. You have room to maneuver in ways others don't."
Claudius sighed inwardly. By 'unique,' you mean I'm seen as a troublemaker, don't you? But he knew better than to argue with Nusjuro in this setting.
Leaning toward Sengoku, Claudius whispered in a low, irritated voice, "Sengoku, are you trying to set me up?"
Sengoku, trying to look as innocent as possible, replied just as quietly, "Help me out here, Your Highness, or they'll tear into me even harder."
Claudius sighed again, this time more audibly. "After this meeting, you'd better give me a damn good explanation."
"I promise, Your Highness, you won't be disappointed," Sengoku said quickly. Coming out of the World Government headquarters, Claudius walked side by side with Sengoku seemingly deep in conversation.
"Let me get this straight: the mess was caused by the Marines, but somehow it all landed on me. Sengoku, you're really something. You found the perfect job for me," Claudius said, his tone carrying a hint of dissatisfaction.
Sengoku looked slightly embarrassed but managed a wry smile. "Your Highness, isn't the CP-X division specifically there to handle issues that both the Marines and the CP agencies struggle with? I'll admit it, there are some things that even the Marines just can't manage."
Claudius raised an eyebrow in surprise and remarked, "I didn't expect this."
"Didn't expect what?" Sengoku asked with a curious smile.
"I didn't expect you, Sengoku to have such a thick skin. You're really something else," Claudius said with a tone of disdain.
"Hahahaha!" Sengoku laughed heartily but then shook his head and said, "Ah, sometimes, there's no choice but to adapt."
"Fine, I'll let it slide this time, but your Marines owe me one," Claudius said, arching an eyebrow.
"And what exactly do you have in mind?" Sengoku asked, nodding with a polite smile.
"The Scientific Department," Claudius replied without hesitation.
"This..." Sengoku hesitated for a moment, clearly finding the request somewhat tricky. After all, the Marine Scientific Department was a highly sensitive unit, handling crucial technology and research.
"Don't worry. I'm not asking to take over or command them," Claudius clarified, waving his hand dismissively. "I just mean that if there's something interesting or useful that I know you guys have, you won't keep it hidden from me."
Sengoku considered it for a moment. That request wasn't too unreasonable. After all, they all worked under the World Government, and Claudius held a prestigious position. Refusing him outright wouldn't look good.
In truth, Claudius had been fairly accommodating to the Marines overall. He didn't make a habit of demanding favors or causing unnecessary trouble for them.
And from Claudius' perspective, maintaining a good relationship with the Marines made sense. Their combat strength and unique system of "justice" could prove useful in the future. Helping them clean up their current mess was part of a larger picture.
"Since Your Highness has made this request, the Marines certainly won't keep anything good from you," Sengoku said with a smile.
Claudius nodded in satisfaction. Just recently, he'd struck a deal with Dragon over Bartholomew Kuma, and now, he'd secured an arrangement with the Marines as well. With all these connections, the Scientific Department's resources should be within his grasp soon.
As they continued walking, Sengoku suddenly said, "By the way, Your Highness, about the matter of the warships you promised to help push along..."
"Warships? I don't recall owing you anything about warships," Claudius replied, puzzled.
"Ahem, it's not that you owe us. It's just that we Marines discovered that the warships produced by Water 7 are of exceptional quality. We want to increase our orders, but their production seems to have reached its limit. They're avoiding taking on too many orders from us, so I was hoping you could put in a good word for us."
Sengoku's tone was amiable, almost pleading, as he added, "We're all part of the same family, after all."
Now Claudius understood. Smirking, he said, "So now you're impressed with the shipbuilding skills of Water 7? Fine, I'll help you out. But what's with the sudden rush to produce so many new warships? You're not exactly expanding recruitment right now, are you?"
Sengoku hesitated briefly but decided to explain. "It's partly related to the Scientific Department. We've recently developed a technology that allows Seastone to be applied to warships. Ships equipped with this can essentially blend in with the sea."
"Blend in with the sea?" Claudius asked, intrigued.
"Exactly. With this technology, the warships emit a unique signal that makes them undetectable to sea beasts and Sea Kings. This significantly reduces the chances of warships being attacked by marine creatures," Sengoku explained.
"Don't underestimate this," Sengoku continued. "Every year, at least 20% of our warships are damaged by attacks from sea creatures. While the issue is minor in most standard waters, in the New World, it's a completely different story. The seas there are full of dangerous monsters, and our warships frequently come under attack. This new technology could save us an enormous amount of resources and, more importantly, the lives of countless soldiers."
"And I assume this would also let you navigate the Calm Belt safely?" Claudius asked, raising an eyebrow.
"In theory, yes," Sengoku admitted. "But the Calm Belt is still a high-risk area, and the technology isn't fully tested yet. We haven't officially implemented it."
Claudius rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "Interesting. And because of this, you need more new warships? I assume it's because retrofitting old ones with Seastone is too costly?"
"Exactly," Sengoku replied. "Seastone is incredibly valuable. Retrofitting old ships feels like a waste, so we're hoping to produce a new fleet specifically designed for this technology. That's why we need your help to speed up production."
Claudius smiled faintly. "So, once you have a fleet of these ships, the Calm Belt becomes open for exploration?"
"Potentially, yes. This hasn't been officially reported to the higher-ups yet. In fact, Your Highness, you're one of the first to know about this outside of the Marines," Sengoku said with a sly grin.
Claudius' interest was piqued. Smiling, he replied, "I see. Looks like you've been saving this little secret to win me over, huh, Sengoku?"
"Heh, sometimes you have to give a little to get a little," Sengoku said with a chuckle.
After a moment of contemplation, Claudius said, "Do you need me to cover for you?"
"Ahem, well... given that this technology hasn't been fully tested in the Calm Belt, it's still a theoretical application. The Calm Belt is dangerous, after all. Personally, I think it'll take another three to five years of experimentation before it's ready for full deployment. What do you think?" Sengoku said cautiously, testing the waters.
Claudius nodded knowingly. "You're right. Rushing something like this would be reckless. If certain nosy Celestial Dragons got wind of it and decided to demand a test run through the Calm Belt for fun, only to meet with disaster, who'd take the blame? It's better to wait until the technology is completely mature and proven before anyone hears about it."
Sengoku was relieved to see Claudius on the same page. "Exactly! Rushing things could lead to unnecessary problems. It's always better to proceed carefully."
Claudius added with a sly grin, "Of course, CP-X operates on the same principle, helping the World Government solve problems. Perhaps we could collaborate on this? It might speed things up, don't you think?"
Sengoku laughed and nodded. "Your Highness, that's an excellent suggestion. The Marines would be happy to cooperate with you."
Despite their cautious words about the dangers of the Calm Belt, both men were clearly aware of the enormous potential profits and resources waiting to be exploited there. For centuries, the Calm Belt had remained untouched, its natural treasures and opportunities beyond reach.
Now, with this new technology, the possibility of free passage through the Calm Belt was within sight. Though dangerous, the benefits were undeniable.
For the Marines, assembling a large fleet was entirely feasible. And for Claudius, with Water 7 under his control, the opportunities were just as promising.
Between them, the allure of the Calm Belt was becoming hard to ignore.