OPKOTW Chapter 302/306

Chapter 302: Borsalino – What Am I Working For? Not Just the Perks?
The island of Punk Hazard, once devastated by Caesar Clown's experiments, was not in great shape. The toxic gas leak had covered the entire island, contaminating a large portion of the research equipment and materials.

At the time, the gas was so deadly that evacuation had been the only option, prioritizing lives over assets.

As a result, Dr. Vegapunk had ultimately pinned the blame on Caesar Clown, leading to the scientist's imprisonment in Impel Down.

Of course, Caesar wasn't actually rotting in prison right now, he had been temporarily "loaned" by Crocodile from Doflamingo to work on military projects in Alabasta.

Now, however, Punk Hazard had begun to recover.

The once-lethal gas had mostly dissipated, though the air still carried traces of toxicity.

On the island, a large number of Marine soldiers, clad in protective suits, were conducting searches.

They were pulling out scientific research materials from the abandoned facility, salvaging equipment contaminated by the gas, and assessing whether any of it could be cleaned and reused.

After all, this was cutting-edge scientific gear, expensive stuff.

Some of the precision instruments, barely the size of a palm, were worth more than an entire warship.

It would have been painful to just abandon them.

Meanwhile, just off the coast, several Marine warships remained anchored in the waters near Punk Hazard.

Because the toxic concentration had decreased, the crews on these warships didn't need to wear protective gear like those on the island.

This fleet belonged to Marine's Scientific Division, and the commander in charge was none other than one of Marine Headquarters' highest combat forces—Admiral Kizaru, Borsalino.

In Claudius's mind, Borsalino was the strongest Admiral.

Not just one of the three top Marine officers, the strongest in actual combat ability.

Though Sakazuki and Kuzan were technically on the same level as Borsalino, Claudius couldn't help but feel that both of them were still just a bit behind him.

Among the Marines, the only person who could truly surpass Borsalino was Garp but Garp was an anomaly, so Claudius never even counted him as human.

And today, Borsalino was just as laid-back as ever.

He wore his signature yellow-striped suit, along with the Marine justice cape draped over his shoulders.

His orange sunglasses sat comfortably on his nose, adding to his signature look.

By all appearances, he should have looked dashing but his usual sluggish, sleazy demeanor ruined the effect.

With a small pipe resting between his lips, he took slow, deliberate breaths through his nose.

For a moment, it was unclear whether he had a cold or if he was just being lazy as usual.

Bzzt… Bzzt… Bzzt…

The sound of a Den Den Mushi buzzing snapped Borsalino from his daze.

He lazily patted himself down, searching for the transponder snail.

Finally locating it, he answered in an unbothered tone.

"Moshi moshi~? Oh Sentomaru, what's the situation on the island?"

"Boss, no signs of life. We've moved everything worth salvaging to the shore. You can send the warships to retrieve the cargo," came the immediate response from Sentomaru.

"Ohhh? Is that so~?" Borsalino drawled.

"Then, anything that needs to be destroyed… be sure to handle it properly."

"No worries, I've already rigged everything with explosives."

After a few more casual words, the call ended.

With that, Borsalino retrieved a gas mask, strapped it over his face, and ordered the warships to begin transporting the recovered materials.

As a Logia-type Glint-Glint Fruit user, Borsalino wasn't worried about the toxins, as long as he didn't breathe them in, he'd be fine.

So while his subordinates were clad in full protective suits, he was just wearing a face mask.

After a long day of work, the Marines had finally cleaned up the mess left behind from the Punk Hazard incident.

As their warships began departing from the island, Sentomaru pulled out a remote detonator.

With a simple press of a button, massive explosions engulfed the island.

The old research facility, once a proud Marine installation was now reduced to rubble.

Borsalino, however, didn't even glance at the destruction.

Casually pulling off his gas mask, he tossed it aside, checked his wristwatch, and muttered,

"Sentomaru, once you leave this sea area, take the fleet back to Marineford."

Sentomaru blinked. "Boss, are you heading to G-1?"

Borsalino took another puff from his pipe before replying, "Mmm, that's right. Kuzan said this morning that he's already arrived."

"As for His Highness Claudius… he's probably still on Fish-Man Island."

"But the Prometheus is fast, if I take my time, I'll be the last one to show up. Wouldn't that be terrible?"

"Yeah, it'd look like you think you're more important than a Celestial Dragon," Sentomaru teased.

Borsalino smirked.

After a brief pause, Sentomaru checked his surroundings to make sure no one else was listening.

Then, lowering his voice, he said, "Boss… I already know about the War at the Summit."

Borsalino raised an eyebrow.

"Ohhh? And who told you that?"

"I got a special assignment, so I found out. Don't worry—I've got the tightest lips in the world. No one will know I know," Sentomaru declared, patting his chest.

Borsalino sighed.

"Well, now I know you know…"

Honestly, Sentomaru wasn't the most discreet person.

Still, Borsalino didn't doubt his loyalty.

With a more serious tone, he warned, "Sentomaru, this is serious. Don't slip up, even a minor leak could get you court-martialed."

"Relax, Boss. My mission is just to construct the Seastone-Alloy Defensive Wall at headquarters. I'm not leaving Marineford, so there's no chance of leaks."

Hearing that, Borsalino relaxed a little.

Sentomaru was his protégé, he had always taken good care of the kid.

In the future, he planned to let Sentomaru gradually take control of Marine's Scientific Division.

"By the way, Boss," Sentomaru said, rubbing his chin. "No matter how this war ends, it'll change the Marines, right?"

Borsalino took a long drag from his pipe, exhaled a plume of smoke, and replied,

"Ohhh, definitely. I know what you're asking… but don't get involved. Just do your job. Don't meddle in these political games."

"Boss… you really don't have any ambition?" Sentomaru asked.

"None," Borsalino answered immediately.

Frankly, he had zero interest in anything beyond Marine Admiral.

It was already exhausting enough.

The only reason he hadn't retired was because of the five insurances, housing fund, high-level commercial insurance, pension benefits, and retirement subsidies.

Becoming Fleet Admiral? No way.

He refused.

Being an Admiral was already tiring why give up the simple joys of life?

Fishing, kicking back, and collecting a paycheck?

Now that was the dream.

Sentomaru wasn't surprised by the answer, he had expected it.

Still, his curiosity wasn't satisfied.

"Okay then… between Kuzan and Sakazuki, who do you think will win?"

Borsalino adjusted his sunglasses and gazed at the sea.

Then, in an uncharacteristically serious tone, he said,

"Sakazuki. It has to be Sakazuki."

"What do you mean?" Sentomaru frowned.

Borsalino exhaled slowly and said,

"I believe in Sakazuki, and I know that he's the only one who will succeed. Simple as that."

Sentomaru wanted to ask why, but Borsalino just waved him off.

"Go. If you don't hurry, you'll miss the return fleet to Marineford."

Seeing that his boss clearly wasn't in the mood to elaborate, Sentomaru gave up.

"Alright then, Boss. Take care, I'm heading back."

As Sentomaru left, Borsalino's warship set sail, heading straight for the G-1 Marine Branch.

__________
Chapter 303: Kuina – Zoro's Just a Weakling?


Kuzan had a good relationship with Borsalino.

Then again, Borsalino was a smooth operator he got along with just about everyone.

Now that the two had reunited at the G-1 Marine Branch, they were chatting and joking like old friends.

In Gion's office, Borsalino, Kuzan, and Gion were casually discussing various matters.

If Kuzan could win the support of an Admiral, it would be a major advantage in the upcoming Fleet Admiral selection.

However, Kuzan didn't bring up the topic.

He knew exactly what kind of person Borsalino was, he never took sides, remained strictly neutral, and never got involved in politics.

Expecting Borsalino to back him?

That was pointless.

And to be honest…

Kuzan himself wasn't even sure if he wanted to be Fleet Admiral.

If it weren't for his rivalry with Sakazuki, he probably wouldn't have fought for the position at all.

"Need my help?" Gion asked, slightly unwilling to stay out of it.

Kuzan smiled.

"Help with what? I'll be fighting alongside Borsalino, and Claudius will be there too. You really think we'll lose?"

Borsalino chuckled and added,

"You'd be better off focusing on your job here, Gion. Once this place becomes the new Marine Headquarters, you're going to have a lot on your plate."

Gion gave them both an annoyed look.

"You two have zero loyalty. We were Admiral candidates together, shouldn't you take care of me, the one who got kicked out to a branch office?"

Borsalino simply waved his hand.

"You chose not to become an Admiral. If you really wanted it, you wouldn't have lost to me~."

That was technically true.

Borsalino had never actively fought for the Admiral position. He was far too lazy for that.

If Gion, Tokikake, and the others hadn't turned down their promotions, Borsalino never would have been pushed into the role.

"How could I compete with you?" Gion scoffed.

In terms of seniority, Borsalino was the oldest among them, he had even joined the Marines before Sakazuki.

And in terms of strength?

It wasn't just Claudius who thought Borsalino was the strongest.

Even Kuzan and Sakazuki had their doubts about whether they could truly surpass him.

Gion was confident in herself, but even she had to admit that she was still a long way from Borsalino's level.

"Tsk."

Borsalino simply waved it off.

"Anyway, just focus on your job, Vice Admiral Gion~."

Gion frowned slightly, resting her hand on Konpira, the sword at her waist.

"You saying my sword isn't good enough?"

Kuzan chuckled.

For some reason, the conversation had lightened his mood.


---

Meanwhile…

Off the coast of the G-1 Marine Branch, the warship Prometheus, carrying Claudius slowly approached the island.

They had traveled directly from Fish-Man Island, making good time.

On the ship's fourth-floor deck, Robin stood with a spyglass in hand, observing the Marine base in the distance.

"G-1… Wasn't this base built years ago? Why does it still look like a construction site?" she asked curiously.

She had a point.

The G-1 Marine Branch had been established long ago, back when the Marines first attempted to expand into the New World.

Yet even now, it looked like a never-ending project.

Large construction vessels carrying materials were constantly moving in and out of the base.

"The scale of this place seems huge, far beyond a standard Marine branch," Nia, the butler, noted.

At that moment, Claudius stepped onto the deck, dressed in a crisp white suit with a brown-black coat draped over his shoulders. A cigar rested between his fingers.

He looked sharp, exuding an air of authority and a bit of that classic underworld charm.

Hearing Robin and Nia's questions, he smiled.

"Oh, I haven't told you yet, have I?"

"The G-1 Branch is crucial to the Marines' future plans."

"Once construction is complete, Marine Headquarters will be relocated from Marineford to this base."

"This is going to be the new Marine HQ."

"The new Headquarters?" Robin looked surprised.

"So that's why Gion was transferred here," Nia nodded, finally understanding the importance of her role.

Claudius walked to the railing, gazing at the Marine base ahead.

"Gion needs to speed up construction… or she won't make it in time."

"Make it in time for what?" Nia asked curiously.

"The upcoming war. We're going to fight Newgate at Marineford."

Claudius took a slow drag from his cigar before continuing.

"I've never personally seen him fight, but Sengoku and Garp both speak highly of him."

"Sengoku says Whitebeard has the power to destroy the world."

"Garp, on the other hand, said that if Whitebeard really fights at full power, Marineford might not survive the battle."

A slight grin played at the corner of Claudius's lips.

"So after this war, Marineford is going to be in ruins. It might even break apart into a chain of small islands."

"And when that happens… the Marines will need to move into the New World."

Robin looked toward the G-1 Marine Base again.

"But will this project be finished in time?" she asked, doubtful.

Claudius exhaled a puff of smoke.

"That depends on Gion. If she pushes hard enough, she might make it."


---

At the G-1 Marine Port…

As Prometheus docked, a female Marine stood at the harbor, waiting expectantly.

She was dressed in uniform, a katana secured at her waist.

Her posture was upright, exuding both confidence and discipline.

As soon as the gangplank was lowered, she spotted Claudius stepping onto the dock.

Her face lit up, and she enthusiastically waved her arm.

"Claudius~~~!"

Hearing the familiar voice, Claudius looked over and smiled.

"Oh? Kuina, long time no see. You've grown into quite the beauty."

Kuina had a bold personality almost boyish in her mannerisms.

As Claudius approached, she reached out to pat him on the shoulder only to realize she couldn't reach.

Undeterred, she settled for giving his waist a firm slap instead.

"Borsalino and Kuzan are already here. They're in Gion's office waiting for you. If you don't hurry, you'll miss them."

"Ahahaha, is that so?" Claudius chuckled.

He reached out and ruffled Kuina's hair.

Noticing her slender waist, he casually remarked,

"By the way… just a random thought."

"Huh? What is it?" Kuina asked.

"Since you've been in the New World, maybe you don't know… but your little brother has already set sail. He's made it to the Grand Line."

Kuina blinked in confusion.

"Little brother…? Wait, you mean Zoro?!"

Her eyes widened in surprise.

"Did he come looking for me?"

"Well, you haven't gone home in over ten years… of course he came looking for you~."

Claudius smirked.

Kuina folded her arms.

"I made a promise when I left. I won't go home until I've made a name for myself as a swordsman."

"I have to prove that a woman can stand at the top of the sword world!"

Before Claudius could respond, she excitedly asked,

"So? How's Zoro doing? He's strong, right?"

Claudius burst into laughter.

"Hahaha, nah—he's just a weakling."

Kuina's face twitched, and she let out a long sigh.

"Tch. Figures. That's exactly what I expected."


___________

Chapter 304: Kuina - After This Battle, Should I Go Home and Get Married?

Kuina held onto Nia, while Robin remained on the ship, choosing to continue her peaceful life as a recluse.

Meanwhile, Claudius walked beside them, chatting and laughing as they strolled.

"At least he doesn't have to worry about food and shelter. Even if he's a rookie, he can still get by in the first half of the Grand Line. Being a bounty hunter isn't bad, it's basically the same job as you, just targeting pirates," Claudius said with a smirk.

Kuina crossed her arms.

"It might sound arrogant, but leaving the East Blue is like finally stepping out of a small pond. But if he just messes around in the first half of the Grand Line, it's meaningless."

"They call it 'Paradise' for a reason. I just hope he doesn't get blinded by his own strength there."

She spoke like an old veteran, judging Roronoa Zoro's journey from a distance.

After a short pause, her brows furrowed.

"And another thing, Claudius don't compare me to him."

"I'm a Marine—an upright, righteous, lawful protector of peace and justice!"

"I love this sea, and I protect it. That's completely different from bounty hunters who only chase profit!"

Claudius chuckled at her conviction.

"I figured this out a long time ago," he teased.

"Figured what out?" Kuina asked, tilting her head.

"That you're a little too serious sometimes," Claudius laughed.

Kuina's face twitched, and she pouted.

"You're one to talk."

"Ahahahaha!" Claudius laughed, then paused, raised an eyebrow, and smirked.

"So what now?"

"What now?" Kuina frowned slightly, unable to understand his meaning.

"Wow, women really are ruthless," Claudius teased, then continued,

"Your childhood rival has spent over a decade training relentlessly just to catch up to you. He left everything behind, threw himself into the Grand Line without hesitation, following your trail.

All just to stand before you once more, proudly and on equal footing."

"Pfft." Nia couldn't help but laugh at Claudius' dramatic storytelling.

"What are you laughing at?" Claudius shot her a look of dissatisfaction.

"I'm laughing because, Your Highness, your storytelling is getting more and more ridiculous. You took a simple rivalry and turned it into some kind of love story," Nia said teasingly.

Kuina's face turned red.

She had always viewed Zoro's journey as the pursuit of a rival, nothing more. She had never stopped to think about it from another angle.

But now, hearing Claudius frame it like this… it made her feel a little embarrassed.

"Could that idiot really think that way?"

As soon as the thought crossed her mind, her face flushed even more.

"What do you mean? This is love, alright? You're still too young, Nia," Claudius said, patting her shoulder earnestly.

Nia chuckled softly, "Your Highness, I'm seven years older than you."

"Cough cough" Claudius cleared his throat awkwardly. Then, as if nothing had happened, he raised his head and said, "Oh? Is that so? Our dear Nia is so beautiful, I thought she was barely in her teens. Did I get that wrong?"

Hearing Claudius' words, a smug smile appeared on Nia's face. She playfully responded, "Oh my, how could you ever be wrong, Your Highness?"

"Hahahaha!" Claudius laughed heartily.

Off to the side, Kuina shuddered in disgust.

"You two are absolutely nauseating," she muttered.

Claudius ruffled her hair playfully and confidently declared, "What do kids know?"

Before Kuina could protest, he pressed on,

"So, Roronoa Zoro's love story, crossing thousands of miles to find you doesn't move you even a little?"

"...Maybe, but it's unnecessary," Kuina said, tilting her chin up in a tsundere manner.

"Then I really feel bad for Zoro," Claudius sighed.

Before Kuina could retort, he suddenly smirked as if remembering something amusing.

"Ahem. But maybe I misunderstood. After all, he didn't come alone. I heard from Spandine that he brought a little beauty along with him. It seems like they have a pretty close relationship."

He turned to Nia, "By the way, what was her name again?"

Nia quickly answered, "Your Highness, it's Nami."

"Ah, yes, yes! Look at my memory. Nami. A ship sailing the seas, carrying a handsome man and a beautiful woman together, huh..." Claudius muttered in an exaggeratedly dramatic tone.

Of course, he knew full well that Zoro was the type of guy who only had eyes for swords and booze. The idea of him having any romantic feelings for Nami was ridiculous.

Kuina knew that too.

But somehow, hearing Claudius put it that way… it annoyed her.

It felt as if something that belonged to her was being taken away.

"Hmph!" Kuina snorted coldly.

Claudius smirked at her reaction. Raising an eyebrow, he asked again,

"So what?"

"...So what?" Kuina hesitated.

"Zoro has already taken 9,999 steps. If I were you, why not take just one step and see what happens?" Claudius said in a coaxing voice.

Kuina's expression became conflicted. Her fingers brushed against the hilt of Wado Ichimonji at her waist.

She wanted to say something, but the words caught in her throat.

"What if I'm wrong? What if Zoro never had those kinds of feelings for me?"

"Kuina," Nia suddenly spoke, her voice gentle.

Kuina looked up.

Nia smiled and said softly,

"At times like this, you can be a little selfish.

It's not about what he thinks. It's about what you want."

Claudius nodded in agreement, watching Kuina with a knowing smile.

Kuina lowered her head, deep in thought.

Then, a moment later, she lifted her gaze and declared,

"Fine. I'll take a step and see."

"Hahahaha!" Claudius burst out laughing.

At the same time, he thought to himself, Zoro, bro, this is the best I can do for you.

Kuina and Zoro were a perfect match.

Claudius had always thought it was a shame how things had played out before.

But now, seeing this moment, he felt genuinely happy.

"When this battle is over, I'll go back," Kuina said firmly.

Claudius' face changed instantly.

He clamped a hand over her mouth and said, "Keep that kind of thought to yourself! Saying it out loud is a death flag!

People who say 'I'll go back after the battle' usually don't make it back!"

Kuina rolled her eyes at him.

After chatting a bit longer, Claudius glanced around to make sure no one else was nearby.

Lowering his voice, he asked, "By the way, Kuina, is everything alright at G-1? No one's been giving her trouble, right?"

Kuina smirked.

"Don't worry. Do you think Sister Gion is as careless as you? Honestly, I feel bad for her and Nia, how did they end up stuck with a scoundrel like you?"

"Hey, I'm a Celestial Dragon, can you show some respect?" Claudius protested.

"Pfft. Maybe other people fear you, but I don't. And you know why?

Because you were the one who dragged me out of the East Blue."

Then, her tone shifted to something more serious.

"But, Claudius..."

"Hm? What is it?" he asked.

"For all these years, I never properly said it.

So… thank you.

Thank you for taking me seriously.

Thank you for bringing me into this different world."

Before Claudius could respond, Kuina gave him a hearty slap on the back.

"Now hurry up! Don't keep Gion waiting. That's not very gentlemanly."

"Hah, don't worry. I'm a true gentleman," Claudius chuckled.

______________
Chapter 305 – Kuzan: All Men Understand

As soon as he pushed open the door to Gion's office at the Marine base, Claudius saw three familiar figures—Kuzan, Borsalino, and Gion.

"Hahahaha, it's been a long time, Gion." Claudius laughed as he stepped inside.

When he spoke, he completely ignored Kuzan and Borsalino.

Gion's expression showed a hint of excitement, but she quickly suppressed it, adjusting her posture to sit properly.

"Your Highness," Kuzan and Borsalino both stood up, greeting Claudius with smiles.

Claudius waved a hand and said, "When it's just us, no need for formalities. Just make yourselves comfortable."

After having them sit back down, Claudius suddenly sniffed the air and asked with some confusion, "What's that smell? Smoke?"

Hearing this, Gion's expression shifted slightly, and she immediately turned to look at Borsalino. Borsalino, surprised by her sudden glance, was just about to ask why she was looking at him when Gion spoke up.

"Borsalino, how many times have I told you not to smoke in here? You never listen. Now look what you've done…" Gion scolded him in irritation.

Borsalino looked aggrieved. When did I ever smoke? Sure, he was a bit lazy, but he still had standards. He would never just light up in front of a lady.

In fact, when he first walked in, he had been wondering the same thing, why does this room smell like smoke? Was it Kuzan? Did Kuzan smoke in here?

Before Borsalino could defend himself, Kuzan chuckled and said, "Yeah, Borsalino, smoking so much isn't good for your health~"

Hearing this, Gion gave Kuzan a subtle but knowing glance he understands me. Meanwhile, Borsalino, feeling wronged, could only sigh and nod.

Claudius, on the other hand, shot a playful glare at Gion, making her feel a little embarrassed. But since he didn't say anything more, she let it slide.

Claudius casually walked over to the sofa, sat down, picked up the cup of tea that had been poured for him, took a sip, and let out a satisfied sigh.

"This is nice."

"A little nap before the battle?" Kuzan asked with a smirk.

"More like a warm-up." Claudius replied, smiling.

Then, he continued, "This mission is pretty straightforward—three of us teaming up to bully an idiot."

"Your Highness, Weevil is very strong," Nia standing behind Claudius, whispered.

"Yeah, but he's still an idiot." Claudius replied casually.

"Although it's not exactly polite to mock someone's intelligence, Your Highness is right. It really is just bullying a fool," Kuzan agreed with a nod.

Ordinarily, they wouldn't speak so crudely about someone, but Edward Weevil was a full-fledged pirate and worse, he had severed Zephyr's arm. Among those present, aside from Nia, everyone had been mentored or deeply influenced by Zephyr.

Even Borsalino, despite his obsession with Devil Fruits and occasional disagreements with Zephyr, still respected him. Since Zephyr had remained in the Marines, Borsalino maintained a decent relationship with him.

As a result, no one here had any sympathy for Weevil. Their words reflected that.

At some point, Borsalino pulled out a nail clipper and leisurely began trimming his nails as he asked lazily, "Since Your Highness is in charge of this mission, what's the latest intelligence on Weevil?"

Claudius wasn't bothered by Borsalino's laid-back attitude, he was used to it. Having worked with the Marines many times, he knew that as long as their relationships were solid, there was no need to nitpick over small things.

Seeing Claudius extend a hand, Nia promptly placed a Den Den Mushi in his palm.

Claudius casually dialed a number.

Before long, the call connected.

From the other end, Spandine's irritating voice came through.

"Your Highness! Ah, Saint Claudius, I trust you're doing well?" Spandine greeted with a fawning tone.

Claudius chuckled. "I'm doing fine, Spandine. How's that task I assigned you?"

"Rest assured, Your Highness! When have we ever let you down? We've got eyes on him at all times, and Lucci's team is tailing him as we speak," Spandine quickly reported.

"Good. So, where is that bastard now?" Claudius' tone grew serious.

"Polani Island, Your Highness. We've already drawn up a plan for you. If I'm not mistaken, you're currently at the G-1 Marine base, correct?" Spandine inquired.

Claudius nodded. "Yeah, Kuzan, Borsalino, and I are all here."

"In that case, a warship or Prometheus would be too conspicuous. Weevil's old hag of a mother is a cunning and cautious woman. I recommend that Your Highness and the Admirals first head to Pori Island. From there, you can take the sea train directly to Polani Island.

The travel time is quite short. If you leave today, you'll arrive by nightfall at the latest," Spandine suggested respectfully, checking the notes he had written.

"Hahaha, you're getting more meticulous these days. Not bad, I'm impressed," Claudius praised.

Spandine's old face lit up with joy, and he replied eagerly, "It's an honor to be of service to Your Highness!"

After asking for additional details, Claudius ended the call.

"I have to admit, while Spandine has his quirks, his ability to get things done is impressive," Kuzan remarked thoughtfully.

"No wonder His Highness trusts him with important tasks," Borsalino agreed.

Spandine wasn't particularly well-liked within CP organizations, as he often caused trouble there. However, in Marine circles, he had a strong reputation.

He had assisted the Marines in completing several difficult missions. Even Kuzan and Borsalino had worked with him on occasion, and they found his efficiency reliable.

Claudius grinned and said, "The guy is quite capable. As for his minor personality flaws well, nobody's perfect. As long as he gets results, that's all that matters."

After a brief pause, Claudius asked, "So, you two professional pirate hunters—got any ideas?"

Kuzan and Borsalino exchanged a glance and both chuckled.

After a moment, Borsalino said, "Your Highness, your record in catching pirates isn't any worse than ours. Kuzan and I have never caught a Pirate Emperor, after all."

"Hahaha, fair enough. I think Spandine's suggestion is solid. Let's go with that," Claudius said with a grin.

"Agreed," Kuzan and Borsalino nodded.

At that moment, Gion spoke up in frustration, "Can't I come too?"

Claudius rolled his eyes. "Come on, aren't you busy enough already? Before Marineford gets wrecked, I hope you can at least finish your work. Otherwise, Sengoku might go bald from stress!"

Gion knew her work was important, but she still pouted slightly in dissatisfaction.

Claudius winked at her, and Gion blushed.

"Let's rest for the night and leave tomorrow," Claudius decided after a moment of thought.

After all, he had just arrived and was already leaving again, it was a bit exhausting. A night's rest wouldn't hurt.

However, Kuzan and Borsalino seemed to misunderstand something. They exchanged knowing looks before Kuzan suddenly stood up and said, "Borsalino, feel like getting a drink?"

"Of course," Borsalino replied, just as quick-witted.

Claudius, unaware of their train of thought, said, "I'll come too."

"No, no, please rest well, Your Highness," Kuzan quickly waved him off, giving him a look that all men understand.

Claudius was left speechless.

_________
Chapter 306 – Borsalino: What? Am I Not Worthy of Being Fleet Admiral?

For a moment, Claudius didn't understand what Kuzan meant, so he instinctively replied, "I just have something to talk to you about. This actually works out."

As soon as Claudius finished speaking, Gion snorted heavily, clearly displeased.

Nia smiled, and Kuina, standing near the doorway, shook her head at Claudius in exasperation.

This left Claudius confused, but it didn't take him long to realize what was happening. After all, he wasn't an idiot. He glanced at Gion, feeling a little awkward.

But since he had already said it, taking it back now would only make things more embarrassing.

So, he had no choice but to push forward. He looked at Kuzan and said, "You know the G-1 branch well. You lead the way."

Kuzan gave Claudius a look full of disappointment, as if scolding him for wasting an opportunity.

"I'm not familiar with it," Kuzan replied.

"No, you are," Claudius insisted.

"I'm really not…" Kuzan sighed. He used to be familiar with it, but after the major renovations, he hadn't been back.

"Alright, alright, I'll lead the way," Borsalino cut in, not wanting to watch them bicker any longer.

Claudius shot Kuzan a glare. Kuzan rolled his eyes in response, thinking, How is this my fault? I gave you a chance, and you wasted it.

In the end, Claudius followed Borsalino out, looking somewhat defeated, while Nia and Kuina stayed behind, smiling knowingly.

Gion, meanwhile, turned her attention to Nia.

"It's been a while, Gion. You've become even more beautiful," Nia said with a warm smile.

Gion had a good impression of Nia, even though she was well aware that someone as stunning as Nia likely had a not-so-innocent relationship with Claudius.

Gion smiled and said, "Nia, you have to share Stussy's secret skincare formula with me this time."

"I want in on this too! I've always heard that Stussy has eternal youth. People say she found the Fountain of Youth as a child true or false?" Kuina chimed in with curiosity.

With that, the group split up.

Meanwhile, Claudius quickly realized that Borsalino had no idea where to find a decent bar in the G-1 Marine base. He had just been pretending to act knowledgeable.

In the end, Claudius had no choice but to sigh and lead the two Admirals back to Prometheus.

If the G-1 base doesn't have what we need, my ship certainly does!

Unlike most Celestial Dragons, Claudius wasn't overly extravagant, he could blend in with both high society and more casual settings without any issues.

So, the three of them, all old men in their forties or older, settled down for drinks. No fancy setups—just a simple, comfortable atmosphere.

They sat in the ship's Ocean Restaurant as the sky darkened. The warm glow of the lights set a pleasant mood, making the place feel rather elegant.

It was a shame they didn't indulge in anything gourmet. Instead, they simply had the chef grill some skewers and grabbed a few bottles of the most common beer. With that, they drank happily.

After clinking glasses, Claudius sighed, "We've known each other for so many years, yet this is the first time we've had a drink together like this, isn't it?"

Borsalino chuckled softly. "It does seem that way."

Kuzan stroked his chin and mused, "Well, everyone's always been busy."

Claudius gave Borsalino a long look, making the latter feel awkward.

Borsalino frowned. "What's with that look, Your Highness? I am busy, you know. You're not looking down on a Marine Admiral, are you?"

"Hahahaha, busy? Yeah, sure, you're really busy," Claudius laughed.

After a few drinks, the atmosphere became much more relaxed. Kuzan finally asked, "So? I went out of my way to create such a good opportunity for you, yet you insisted on coming with us for drinks. What was it you wanted to talk about?"

By this point, Kuzan had dropped the formalities—no more "Your Highness" or "Saint Claudius."

Claudius didn't mind. He took a bite of grilled meat, washed it down with beer, and let out a satisfied sigh before finally saying, "I've been feeling a little bored lately."

Kuzan paused, instantly realizing that Claudius was leading into something serious.

Taking a sip of his drink, Kuzan sighed and admitted, "Yeah… me too."

"You and Sakazuki really can't get along?" Claudius asked.

Kuzan went silent for a moment before giving Claudius a complicated look. "I guess I shouldn't be surprised. You chose him."

"Why do you look like I'm breaking up with you?" Claudius muttered helplessly.

"Well, I was the first one to meet you on that island, wasn't I?" Kuzan grumbled.

Claudius cringed at his tone and said, "I haven't even had that much to drink yet, and you're already making me nauseous. Cut it out."

"Hahahaha," Kuzan laughed, dropping the act. "But honestly, Sakazuki might be more suited for the position than I am."

"What made you think I picked him?" Claudius asked curiously.

"If you had chosen me, you wouldn't be bringing this up," Kuzan replied matter-of-factly.

He knew that if he became Fleet Admiral, Claudius wouldn't even need to consult Sakazuki. Sakazuki would have no choice but to accept it and keep doing his job, even if it meant swallowing his pride.

But for Kuzan, it was different. It wasn't about pride.

If he stayed in the Marines under Sakazuki's leadership, it wouldn't just be difficult, it would create problems.

That was the real reason Kuzan was considering leaving. It wasn't that he was petty or unwilling to lose; it was that his ideology simply clashed with Sakazuki's.

At that moment, Borsalino, who had been sipping his drink quietly, suddenly spoke up.

"You guys never considered me?"

Both Claudius and Kuzan froze.

Claudius, especially, looked genuinely surprised. "Wait… Borsalino, you wanted to be Fleet Admiral?"

Borsalino's expression darkened. "I wasn't planning to fight for it, but the fact that you both completely ignored me kinda stings, you know."

Kuzan hesitated for a moment, then awkwardly muttered, "Uh… sorry?"

"You picking a fight with me, old man?" Borsalino's face twitched.

But the tension quickly dissolved into laughter.

Claudius took another sip of his drink and smiled. "You know, upholding justice and maintaining peace aren't things that can only be done in the Marines. Sometimes, a change of scenery, a fresh perspective can be a good thing. You might even find new opportunities, Kuzan."

Kuzan smirked. "Why do I feel like you're trying to push me into retirement?"

He clicked his tongue, shaking his head with a wry smile.