OPKOTW: Chapter 297/301

Chapter 297: Marine's Canine Culture?

Still speaking, Claudius moved away from the topic of the Calm Belt and returned to discussing the upcoming Reverie.

"But it may be too early to say this. I can't promise anything on behalf of the World Government for the time being, but there may be some changes in this Reverie," Claudius chuckled.

Hearing this, Otohime and Neptune were momentarily stunned.

A grand conference that would change the world and shape the future era?

Recalling the deeper implications behind Claudius' earlier words, it wasn't difficult to imagine perhaps this Highness truly intended to go further?

With that thought, Neptune asked cautiously, "Saint Claudius, do you have certain aspirations for this Reverie?"

"Your Highness seeks greater authority?" Otohime also inquired softly.

Claudius did not deny it. Instead, he smiled and nodded. "Everyone has their own ambitions, don't they? As the saying goes, people seek higher places, just as water flows downward. Naturally, I am no different."

"Your Highness, you are already a high-ranking Celestial Dragon. If you take one step further..." Neptune hesitated, his gaze flickering.

"Oh, I'm getting old," Claudius said with a smile.

Whether he was referring to his approaching forties in 1506 or lamenting the advanced age of the Five Elders, it was unclear.

However, to Otohime and Neptune, it was apparent, Claudius sought to challenge the authority of the Five Elders.

This was a monumental event. Could they, mere figures from Fish-Man Island, truly afford to get involved?

Yet, upon further reflection, if Claudius succeeded in rising to power, the benefits for Fish-Man Island would be tremendous.

After all, were the Five Elders truly immutable?

At this moment, Neptune and Otohime understood Claudius' implication, Fish-Man Island had his full support in their quest to reach the surface, but in return, they would need to back him when the time came.

For Fish-Man Island, for greater benefits, Neptune and Otohime exchanged a look. This might be the greatest opportunity in centuries, if they missed it now, who knew how long they'd have to wait for another?

And Claudius was their only bridge to the World Government not supporting him would be foolish.

"I wonder what Your Highness would have Fish-Man Island do?" Neptune finally asked, his voice deep and steady.

"Your Highness has shown great kindness to Fish-Man Island. If we can repay that kindness, we would be more than happy to assist you," Princess Otohime added softly.

Claudius smiled at their response. "You're overthinking it. I merely need your public support when the time comes. There's no need for Fish-Man Island to pay any major price."

Claudius' ambition was clear, he sought to change the hierarchy of the World Government. However, in practical terms, Fish-Man Island could offer little in direct assistance unless Neptune was willing to offer up his daughter, Princess Shirahoshi, the Ancient Weapon—Poseidon.

But that was obviously impossible. And Claudius would never make such an indecent demand turning allies into enemies was the last thing he wanted.

Perhaps, if he fully secured Fish-Man Island's future in the Calm Belt, Neptune might consider such a thing in the long run. But Claudius prided himself on having a certain moral code.

Even if Princess Shirahoshi was Poseidon, using a gentle, innocent young girl as a tool was simply repulsive.

For a long time, Claudius had maintained minimal contact with the royal families of the world. In terms of true allies, he only had two:

First, his cousin, Donquixote Doflamingo, the ruler of Dressrosa. There was no question about Doflamingo's loyalty.

The second was Fish-Man Island, where he held great influence. And in terms of long-term interests, Fish-Man Island was even more valuable.

Thus, Claudius needed them to take a stand.

There was no one else he could count on.

If Fish-Man Island publicly supported him first, it would set an important precedent. At the same time, it would solidify their direct alliance, giving Claudius the perfect justification to protect and empower them in the future.

After a moment of silence, Otohime and Neptune exchanged a firm look before both spoke resolutely:

"Rest assured, Your Highness. Fish-Man Island will always stand by you."

Claudius' lips curled into a smile. "That's truly wonderful. I also look forward to a deeper level of cooperation with Fish-Man Island."


---

Marine Headquarters – Marineford

Ever since the last World Government conference at Mariejois, the Marines had entered a subtle state of mobilization.

Many Marine Vice Admirals, who had been dispatched on various missions across the world, had begun returning to Marineford.

At this moment, in the naval port, Vice Admiral Onigumo stepped off a warship, a cigar clenched between his teeth, his expression dark as always.

It wasn't that he was particularly troubled or angry, his face simply always carried that "you-owe-me-money" expression.

As a staunch supporter of Sakazuki, Onigumo was one of the Marine hawks and was deeply trusted by Sakazuki.

Their relationship was close, and both men were known for their ruthless, iron-blooded approach to justice.

If Sakazuki could justify sinking Ohara's refugee ship, then Onigumo was just as cold-blooded when carrying out missions.

He would even eliminate his own men if they failed to uphold justice.

As Onigumo stepped onto the dock, two other Vice Admirals also disembarked.

One was Vice Admiral Doberman, known for his fierce demeanor.

The other was Vice Admiral Dalmatian, a Zoan-type Devil Fruit user with the Inu Inu no Mi, Model: Dalmatian, making him one of the Marines' most skilled Zoan users.

Interestingly enough, it seemed that "dogs" held a special status within the Marines.

Many officers had dog-related names or emblems.

Take Monkey D. Garp, for example. His nickname was "Hero of the Marines", but he also embraced the name "Dog-Head Vice Admiral", even modeling his personal ship after a dog biting a bone.

Similarly, Sakazuki was known as "Akainu", the Red Dog. Even though pirates often mocked the name, he took pride in it.

Then there was Dalmatian, who, as his name implied, had a canine-themed Devil Fruit.

And of course, Doberman, his name spoke for itself.

Among Marines, Doberman was often called "Mad Dog" behind his back. He had an unfiltered mouth, a reckless attitude, and would bite into a fight without hesitation, whether or not he could win.

Even in the face of Whitebeard, he wouldn't back down.

As they met on the dock, Doberman glanced at Onigumo and greeted him. "Onigumo, you're back?"

Onigumo nodded, exhaling a puff of smoke. "Admiral Sakazuki ordered me back immediately. Same for you?"

Dalmatian lit his own cigar, biting it between his teeth as he chuckled. "Yeah. Not just us. I saw Vice Admiral Momonga heading in first."

Hearing this, Doberman smacked his lips. "Something serious must be happening."

"Who knows? The Reverie suddenly doubled in size, maybe it's connected," Dalmatian mused.

"Enough speculation," Onigumo said, striding forward. "Let's go see Admiral Sakazuki. He'll tell us everything."

Without further discussion, the three Vice Admirals made their way into Marineford.


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Chapter 298: Sakazuki—You May Not Believe It, but I Have a Very Good Relationship with the Celestial Dragons!

The benefits of Marine Headquarters are quite generous, especially for high-ranking officers. After all, Admirals and Vice Admirals are the backbone of the Marines, constantly on the front lines facing the monsters of the sea.

Even Zephyr, despite retiring, still lost an arm due to the dangers of battle.

This alone demonstrates the high risks they bear. Take Sakazuki, for example he fought fiercely on Whole Cake Island, and while others might cough up blood from the ordeal, he only spat out seawater instead.

Though top-ranking Marines rarely die in battle due to their immense strength, their chances of suffering serious injuries are extremely high.

Given that these men risk their lives upholding justice, it's only reasonable for Marine Headquarters to provide them with excellent treatment.

After all, with their strength, they could easily leave the Marines and carve out a life of wealth and prosperity elsewhere on the seas.

As one of Marine's highest combat forces and a sitting Admiral, Sakazuki naturally enjoys significant privileges.

His personal estate in Marineford is quite large.

Although Sakazuki is known for his cold and iron-blooded demeanor, his courtyard has a refreshingly vibrant feel to it.

Lush greenery flourishes, with neatly pruned trees and carefully cultivated plants filling the space.

Perhaps due to his rigid personality, every tree in his yard is meticulously trimmed not a single stray branch sticks out, all of them towering straight toward the sky.

Maybe this reflects his unyielding mindset as well?

At nearly fifty years old, Sakazuki remains unmarried and childless, still a lone wolf.

Perhaps his "Akainu" moniker has something to do with it, he might be destined to bear the title of a lone dog for life.

At this moment, he was shirtless, sitting before a bonsai tree, holding a large pair of shears in his hands. He carefully snipped away excess branches, leaving only the main trunk, standing tall and rigid.

A cherry blossom tattoo stretched across his left chest, partially obscured by the numerous battle scars covering his torso. His shaved head and solid muscles made his imposing presence all the more clear and commanding.

The severed branches burned to ash in his hand, the residual magma-like heat reducing them instantly. A gentle breeze carried the ashes away, letting them fall as fertilizer onto the grass below.

As Sakazuki meticulously pruned his bonsai, three Vice Admirals approached, Onigumo, Doberman, and Dalmatian.

"Heh, I knew the Admiral would be tending to his plants," Doberman chuckled.

Dalmatian grinned as well. "It's his hobby, after all."

Onigumo, however, said nothing. Instead, he skillfully walked into the inner hall, retrieved a teapot and several cups, and set them down on a nearby table. After pouring the tea, he finally broke the silence.

Meanwhile, Sakazuki remained indifferent, continuing to carefully prune his bonsai. Only after removing the last unsatisfactory branch did he put away his shears and turn to his three subordinates.

"That tea you're drinking is made from the tea leaves that Saint Claudius gifted me. Make sure you don't waste it," Sakazuki said calmly.

Though his face remained stoic, his voice carried a rare trace of warmth, it seemed that even someone as harsh as him could relax around like-minded comrades.

Doberman took another sip, then smirked. "Your Highness even sends gifts to the Admiral?"

Sakazuki adjusted the placement of his bonsai and replied without turning back, "You may not believe it, but I actually have a very good relationship with Claudius."

"The camaraderie from fighting together on Whole Cake Island?" Dalmatian asked, grinning.

After a moment of thought, Sakazuki shook his head. "That was just my duty. I believe it's because that Highness sees potential in me."

At this, Onigumo twitched his lips slightly and said, "I don't know what gave you that illusion, Admiral. If I recall correctly, Saint Claudius has always had a close relationship with Fleet Admiral Sengoku. Isn't he more inclined toward the moderate faction?"

Sakazuki shot Onigumo a glance before responding, "Onigumo, do you know why I became Admiral, while you didn't?"

After thinking for a moment, Onigumo replied seriously, "Because you're stronger than me?"

Sakazuki shook his head. "No. Because I understand people better than you."

"What do you mean?" Onigumo frowned, confused.

"The world is changing."

"In the past, Saint Claudius aligned himself with Fleet Admiral Sengoku and the moderates because that was what he needed at the time."

"But soon, the world will undergo drastic changes and when that happens, the people he relies on will change as well."

"And at that time… he'll need someone like me."

Sakazuki's gaze drifted back to his bonsai tree.

"A drastic change? Someone like you?" Doberman muttered, still not fully understanding.

However, Dalmatian caught on. "Admiral, are you saying… Saint Claudius will shift his stance?"

"He's already gathered enough power. I don't know exactly what he intends to do, but I'm certain that he'll be shaking things up and these changes will benefit us. That's all that matters," Sakazuki replied evenly.

Though many saw Sakazuki as nothing more than a battle-hardened brute, underestimating his intellect would be a grave mistake. Otherwise, he wouldn't have reached the rank of Admiral.

Sakazuki was sharp he had sensed the shifting tides within the World Government and realized that Claudius' focus was changing.

Previously, while consolidating power, Claudius needed the stability provided by the moderates.

But soon, when he made his move, he would require the strength and decisiveness of the hawks those who dared to fight and conquer.

This was why Sakazuki was convinced that Claudius would turn to him next.

"So… what are you implying?" Doberman asked, still piecing things together.

Sakazuki no longer kept them in suspense.

"I believe that Saint Claudius intends to nominate me as the next Fleet Admiral. And I believe my chances are very high."

At those words, Doberman, Onigumo, and Dalmatian were stunned.

Fleet Admiral Sengoku was still in power and widely respected even Sakazuki admired him.

So why bring up the next Fleet Admiral so suddenly?

Was Fleet Admiral Sengoku planning to step down? That made no sense, he was still doing an excellent job!

Before the three of them could voice their confusion, Sakazuki continued:

"The selection of a new Fleet Admiral isn't a sudden event. It takes years for the signs to emerge."

"After all, the Marine system is massive and requires stability."

"While it won't happen immediately, I've noticed the early signs."

"That's why I need to be prepared. If the Fleet Admiral's position does open up… I intend to take it!"

Sakazuki knew that Fleet Admiral Sengoku wouldn't be stepping down anytime soon.

But the signs of change were there.

And to strengthen his claim, he needed the backing of someone influential someone like Saint Claudius.

Yes, Sakazuki had already made up his mind.

He would secure Claudius' support just as Sengoku had once done.

But this time, unlike back then, Claudius had options.

And Sakazuki intended to make sure he was the only choice.


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Chapter 299: Only Where the Enemy Is!

Hearing Sakazuki's words, Onigumo remained silent for a moment before finally speaking.

"If a hawk faction Marine becomes Fleet Admiral, it will naturally be a great thing. We will fully support you, Admiral."

The Marines were divided into three major factions.

First, the neutral faction, led by Borsalino, consisting mainly of Tokikake, some laid-back Vice Admirals, and those who preferred to go with the flow.

Second, the dove faction, led by Kuzan. In truth, Fleet Admiral Sengoku had also belonged to the dove faction. However, an unspoken rule existed within the Marines, whoever assumed the position of Fleet Admiral had to maintain absolute balance.

Thus, after becoming Fleet Admiral, Sengoku had been forced to downplay his dove faction ties.

To keep things fair, he had entrusted control of the Marine science division to the neutral faction, strongly supported Sakazuki's promotion to Admiral, and refrained from suppressing the hawks.

At the same time, he still took care of the doves, including Kuzan, ensuring a degree of harmony within Marine ranks.

More importantly, Sengoku had worked tirelessly to reduce factional conflicts within the Marines.

Thanks to his prestige and the tremendous benefits he had secured for the organization, internal power struggles had remained manageable.

For the most part, the factions had achieved genuine cooperation with the only notable exception being the ongoing rivalry between Sakazuki and Kuzan.

At the very least, it wasn't as severe as it could have been.

Currently, the dove faction still held significant influence. Vice Admiral Momonga, for instance, was one of its strongest members, and as the highest-ranking Vice Admiral, he commanded a great deal of authority.

Meanwhile, Sakazuki was the undisputed leader of the hawk faction.

Historically, the doves had produced multiple Fleet Admirals. Even Kong, the former Fleet Admiral, had been part of the dove faction.

Although this long-standing power dynamic had never led to open hostility, if given the choice, the hawks would naturally prefer one of their own to take command.

And now, Sakazuki was the most promising hawk Marine to ever stand on the verge of claiming the Fleet Admiral position.

At a time like this, the hawk faction had no reason to hesitate they would throw their full support behind him.

After all, the Fleet Admiral influenced the entire Marine hierarchy. If the leader was iron-fisted, then the Marines as a whole would adopt a harsher, more decisive approach.

And in turn, this tougher ideology would shape new Marine recruits, subtly swaying them toward the hawk mentality thereby strengthening the faction's influence over time.

Hearing Ghost Spider's words, Sakazuki nodded.

"Very good. We must remain united. Now, let's discuss something important do you know why Marine Headquarters summoned you this time?"

"Isn't it because of the Reverie?" Dalmatian responded instinctively.

"I don't know why, but its scale has suddenly doubled, so naturally, more personnel are needed."

Doberman nodded in agreement, but Onigumo frowned slightly.

"Admiral, is there another reason?"

Sakazuki remained silent for a moment before replying.

"The expansion of the Reverie you would never have guessed is actually a cover operation to coordinate with our Marine mobilization."

As soon as Sakazuki said this, Onigumo, Doberman, and Dalmatian were all shocked.

Wait… since when did the Marines have this much authority? The Reverie itself is just a smokescreen for our movements? That's insane!

"What the hell is going on? Is something big about to happen?" Doberman asked, clearly startled.

After all, for the World Government to orchestrate such a massive distraction, something monumental had to be in the works.

Both Onigumo and Dalmatian looked at Sakazuki in astonishment, their eyes filled with curiosity and doubt.

Sakazuki wasted no time.

"Under the command of Saint Claudius, CP-X will be spearheading a joint operation between Marine Headquarters and the Cipher Pol agencies."

"Our staging ground will be Marineford."

"Our main combat forces will be Marine Headquarters and the Seven Warlords of the Sea."

"And before the Reverie even begins…"

"We will launch a calculated, premeditated frontal assault against the Whitebeard Pirates."

"The goal of this war…"

"Is to completely annihilate the active forces of the Whitebeard Pirates, led by Edward Newgate himself!"

The moment Sakazuki finished speaking, the three Vice Admirals were completely stunned.

"Wait… what?!

Marine Headquarters is declaring WAR on Whitebeard?!"

Dalmatian blinked a few times, as if trying to process what he had just heard.

"My life just went through a rollercoaster of emotions… Admiral, can you say that again? We're going to war with the Whitebeard Pirates?"

"Yes." Sakazuki's voice was calm, yet resolute.

"The strategic purpose of this war is to shatter the current era!"

Onigumo narrowed his eyes. "Shatter the era?"

"You mean… the era of the Great Pirate Age?" Doberman asked, excitement creeping into his voice.

"Exactly." Sakazuki's tone hardened.

"We will end the Age of Pirates."

"We will erase the shadow of Roger."

"And we will erase the shadow of Whitebeard!"

Dalmatian murmured, still slightly unsure. "This… this is really happening, huh?"

Then, as realization struck him, his expression shifted. A battle-hungry grin spread across his face.

"This is exhilarating… I'm literally trembling with excitement! Hahahaha!"

"So this is the change you spoke of, Admiral?" Onigumo asked.

"Saint Claudius is leading CP-X, and this initiative originates from him?"

Sakazuki nodded.

"Yes. Since CP-X is leading this operation, I believe this marks Saint Claudius' shift in strategy. This type of initiative has never happened before."

"Whether it was Roger or Shiki, past wars were always initiated by the World Government or Marine Headquarters."

"But this time… the driving force behind the war is Saint Claudius himself."

"I see this as a sign, the beginning of a new era."

Sakazuki was absolutely correct in his assessment.

Until now, Claudius had been consolidating power, steadily building his influence.

But now, he was taking the offensive not just against the World Government, but also against the pirates of the New World.

In a steady buildup phase, a dove faction Marine like Sengoku was essential.

But to lead an aggressive charge, only a hawk Marine could be trusted.

That was why Claudius was now considering supporting Sakazuki as the next Fleet Admiral.

And Sakazuki understood this perfectly.

This war…

Was a test.

A battlefield examination to see who was fit to lead the Marines in the new age.

So, when Doberman asked, "Admiral, what's your plan?"

Sakazuki answered in a booming voice:

"This war is codenamed Marineford War—the Battle of the Best."

"This is Saint Claudius' grand opening move."

"We, the hawk Marines, never ask who the enemy is."

"We only ask… where the enemy is!"

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Chapter 300: Sengoku – Being a Fleet Admiral is So Boring

In the Fleet Admiral's office at Marine Headquarters in Marineford, Fleet Admiral Sengoku had just finished his work for the day.

For several days in a row, he had been working overtime under intense pressure, but today, he finally had a brief moment of respite.

Setting down the last of the paperwork, he happily picked up his teacup, took a sip of the hot tea, and felt his entire body relax.

Turning his gaze outside the window, he saw seagulls—the symbol of peace—flying in flocks against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. White clouds drifted lazily, and the warm sunlight bathed everything in a comfortable glow.

"It's been a long time since I had such a leisurely moment huh? Maybe His Highness was right that day. I'm getting old, what am I still fighting for? Why don't I just retire after the war is over?" Sengoku muttered to himself as he sipped his tea.

Thinking about it, he was around the same age as Zephyr.

And yet, while Zephyr's hair was still jet black, Sengoku had already begun dyeing his own hair to maintain his authoritative presence.

That's right. Sengoku's hair had long since turned completely white, but to uphold the dignity of his position and maintain a strong image, he constantly dyed it black, giving him the appearance of a man in his fifties rather than someone older.

On the other hand, Zephyr, despite losing an arm and suffering from asthma, seemed to be growing younger in spirit.

What caused such a stark difference between them?

Was it strength? No, that wasn't the issue.

It was lifestyle and stress.

Zephyr became an instructor because he wanted to, not because he had to. Teaching wasn't just a job for him, it was something he enjoyed.

But Sengoku?

As Fleet Admiral, he bore the burden of overseeing the entire Marine force.

He commanded over a million soldiers, but that authority came with immense responsibility.

For a moment, he recalled Claudius's previous joke about retirement.

This time, Sengoku seriously considered it.

If given the opportunity, should he really just step down?

He didn't have to leave the Marines entirely, he could follow Zephyr's example and take a position in the background.

"Speaking of which... there is a position for Chief Inspector, isn't there?" Sengoku mused aloud.

The role of Marine Chief Inspector was essentially a retirement position, similar to being the head of the Marine Training Camp.

It was an honorary title, reserved for high-ranking veterans who had made significant contributions.

A perfect post for fishing if he wanted to.

After pondering for a moment, Sengoku chuckled to himself. "I'll keep that in mind. When I step down as Fleet Admiral, I'll take up the Chief Inspector position, hahahaha."

With that settled, his thoughts naturally turned to a crucial question:

"Who should become the next Fleet Admiral?"

In the past, Sengoku had strongly favored Kuzan for the position.

Kuzan had always seemed like the ideal candidate for Marine leadership.

But now, Sengoku wasn't so sure.

Just as Sakazuki had realized that times were changing, Sengoku could feel the shift as well.

He had already placed his bets on Claudius.

Deep down, he could sense that Claudius was planning something major.

If that was the case, he had to consider the best-case scenario, because if Claudius failed, then Sengoku's opinions on Marine leadership wouldn't matter.

At that point, he'd be thrown into Impel Down as a prisoner, and whoever became Fleet Admiral wouldn't concern him anymore.

So, assuming Claudius succeeded…

With everything Sengoku knew about Saint Claudius, if Claudius took control of the World Government, there was no way he would let such an advantageous situation go to waste.

Claudius would definitely launch a powerful campaign into the New World.

Now that he thought about it, perhaps the Seven Warlords of the Sea system had been created as a stepping stone for this very purpose…

Once a stable foundation was built and the Warlords started cooperating closely with the Marines, the structure would be in place.

And from there?

Claudius would need major victories to solidify his "new government."

What better way to achieve that than by waging war on the pirate era itself?

To accomplish both of those goals, the Marines would have to become an aggressive, war-ready force.

And the only candidate suited for leading such a Marine force…

Was Sakazuki.

"No wonder His Highness said he was very optimistic about him that day."

"Had he already foreseen this outcome? His ambitions are truly vast..."

"While we're still thinking about war, His Highness is already thinking about the future."

"Is it confidence? Or something more?"

Sengoku found himself chuckling at the thought.

If Claudius came into power, and if Sakazuki showed even the slightest inclination for the role, Claudius would undoubtedly appoint him as the next Fleet Admiral.

At that moment, Claudius would be in a position where no one could challenge his decisions, he would be focused on establishing his absolute authority.

So even Sengoku would be wise not to interfere.

Otherwise, he would likely meet an unfortunate fate.

"In that case... I guess the decision of the next Fleet Admiral isn't really up to me, is it?" Sengoku mused.

"Kuzan... what will happen to you, then?"

That was the next dilemma.

Kuzan and Sakazuki despised each other.

If Kuzan became Fleet Admiral, Sakazuki would be furious, but he would probably stay as an Admiral.

But if Sakazuki became Fleet Admiral?

There was no way Kuzan would accept working under him.

That was precisely why Claudius had predicted this conflict.

After all, Kuzan had previously spared Nico Robin and even let the Straw Hat Pirates go.

Sakazuki, on the other hand?

He never showed mercy. To him, absolute justice meant eliminating all threats.

"Kuzan's relationship with His Highness Claudius is still good… Maybe Claudius has other plans for him?" Sengoku pondered aloud, rubbing his chin.

Years ago, Kuzan had saved Claudius's life on that island alongside Zephyr.

Since then, Kuzan and Claudius had maintained a distant but amicable friendship.

And knowing Claudius's personality, Sengoku believed he wouldn't let someone like Kuzan go to waste.

"Perhaps... Claudius already has a position in mind for him?"

But that was something Sengoku couldn't predict, nor was it his concern.

"Forget it... I should focus on the upcoming war. Have I overlooked anything?"

Sighing, Sengoku reached for another document on his desk.

Then, he chuckled bitterly.

"I really am a workaholic, aren't I? Can't even enjoy a break properly..."

Just as he was about to start reviewing the paperwork for the following day, the door to his office suddenly swung open.

With a loud, boisterous laugh, Garp strolled in, holding a bag of rice crackers in one hand.

"Ahahahaha! Sengoku! Let's go out for a drink!"

Sengoku glanced up at his longtime friend and let out a helpless sigh.

Lifting the document in his hand, he said, "Can't you see I'm busy? Why don't you do something serious for once?"

Garp pouted in mock indignation. "Oi, what do you mean I don't do anything serious? I'm inviting you out for a drink! Even Tsuru is coming."

Hearing that, Sengoku hesitated for a moment.

Then Garp smirked. "Oh, and I'll pay."

The moment those words left his mouth, Sengoku immediately tossed the document onto his desk, stood up, and said,

"Let's go! Let's go! It's not every day a cheapskate like you offers to pay, this is a historic event! I have to be there!"

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Chapter 301: Momousagi – No Fear in Being Favored

At the Marine G-1 Branch in the New World, Gion sat at her desk, flipping through the documents in her hand. She had just received the battle plan for the upcoming operation at Marine Headquarters.

What frustrated her was that she wasn't listed as a first-priority combatant. Instead, she had been placed in the third sequence, which meant she was likely to see no action at all, her role was to remain in the New World and handle any disturbances caused by Kaido and Shanks.

Of course, she wasn't the only one assigned to this post. Tokikake, Zephyr, and a few others would be stationed alongside her for the mission.

In short, the frontline battlefield at Marineford had nothing to do with her.

The document in her hands contained intelligence on the Beast Pirates, recently provided by CP agents.

As for the Red Hair Pirates?

Well, there was nothing.

No information. No confirmed whereabouts.

It was as if they had vanished.

Currently, there were three Emperors of the Sea—Whitebeard, Kaido, and Shanks.

Among them, Whitebeard and Kaido operated within well-established territories, making them relatively easier to track.

Even Kaido, despite Wano Country's strict isolationist policies, had some of his movements leaked to the World Government through CP channels.

But Shanks?

That man was a phantom.

One month he might be in the New World, the next, he could have crossed the Calm Belt and appeared in the North Blue.

Trying to track the Red Hair Pirates?

That was wishful thinking.

Unless by sheer luck, finding Shanks was nearly impossible.

"Factories in Wano suspected of producing weapons? What the hell am I supposed to do with that information? What I need is Kaido's location!"

Gion frowned and tossed the intelligence report onto the table with frustration.

Reaching for a pack of lady's cigarettes, she pulled one out and placed it between her lips. Just as she was about to strike a match, a sudden knock came at the door.

"Come in," she said casually.

The door swung open, and in walked a tall, lanky figure with a slightly slouched posture.

His curly hair looked perpetually unkempt, and a green, netted sleep mask rested on his forehead. He wore a blue button-down shirt beneath his standard-issue Marine vest.

His entire demeanor radiated laziness.

There was no mistaking him.

This was Kuzan, one of Marine Headquarters' three Admirals.

"Ah ra ra… Did I just walk in on your little secret? You've started smoking? That's not good. Claudius might not like that," Kuzan teased, grinning as he saw Gion holding a lit match in one hand and a cigarette in the other.

Gion took a slow drag, flicked the match out, and exhaled a small puff of smoke. Then, with a raised eyebrow, she glanced at Kuzan.

"I'm not his servant. We're not even married yet. He has no say in what I do. And besides, this isn't some big secret."

Leaning back in her chair, she added, "But enough about me, what brings you here? Were you also pulled from the frontline and sent to 'fish' with me?"

Kuzan ignored the question and instead smirked.

"Oh? So you two are already discussing marriage? Ah ra ra… I have to hand it to Claudius, he even managed to win over our Marine's flower."

Gion's cheeks flushed slightly at the remark, and she shot back, "Are you just bitter because you're a lifelong bachelor?"

Kuzan chuckled as he made his way to the office sofa, slumping onto it with his usual lazy posture.

"Nah, I'm just feeling a little nostalgic. Time sure flies, doesn't it?"

Gion rolled her eyes and took another drag of her cigarette.

After a brief silence, Kuzan spoke softly.

"I'm still in the first battle sequence. As an Admiral, I'll be fighting at Marineford."

Gion flicked her cigarette ash into an ashtray and nodded.

"I figured as much. It would be disgraceful if one of the highest combat forces didn't show up for such a battle."

Kuzan simply shrugged in response.

Gion leaned forward slightly, eyes narrowing.

"So? What's the real reason you're here? Shouldn't you be on standby at headquarters?"

"Waiting for someone," Kuzan answered vaguely.

After a short pause, he added, "And I needed to clear my head. Got a bit bored."

Gion smirked, tapping her chin.

"Hah. It must be serious if you of all people are feeling restless. Let me guess…"

Her eyes suddenly lit up, and she smirked.

"You're not scared, are you? After all, Whitebeard is the world's strongest man. It's normal to be afraid anyone could die in this war."

Kuzan shot her an annoyed look.

"You know that's not what's bothering me. Don't say dumb things like that."

Gion laughed heartily at his reaction, but her tone turned serious as she spoke again.

"You're thinking about Sakazuki, aren't you?"

At her words, Kuzan visibly tensed for a brief moment.

Reaching up, he pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed.

"Yeah… that's part of it."

Gion exhaled a puff of smoke, watching Kuzan carefully.

"I have a feeling I know what you're worried about. But I'll ask anyway, what exactly is on your mind?"

Kuzan let out a deep breath and muttered, "You already know, Gion. After this war, everything is going to change not just for the world, but for the Marines as well."

He stopped there, unwilling to say more.

Gion seemed to understand what he meant.

Taking another drag from her cigarette, she exhaled slowly and said, "Maybe you're overthinking it. There could still be a way out of this."

Kuzan gave a wry smile.

"A way out, huh? If only things were that simple."

Gion decided not to push the topic further. Instead, she changed the subject.

"By the way, who are you waiting for? Did you get a new assignment?"

"Nothing to do with you," Kuzan said, smirking. "Just stopping by to clear my head. G-1 is a good place for that."

"Oh? So now you're keeping secrets from me?" Gion huffed playfully. "I'm a Vice Admiral, you know. Don't underestimate me."

Kuzan chuckled at her reaction.

"Relax, it's nothing major. I'm just waiting for Borsalino and Claudius to arrive."

"Claudius is coming?"

Gion's eyes lit up with excitement, but then her expression shifted.

Suddenly remembering the cigarette in her hand, she quickly snuffed it out in the ashtray.

Then, sniffing the air, she frowned slightly, there was still a lingering scent of smoke.

Without hesitation, she strode over to the window and flung it open, letting the fresh air in.

Kuzan gave her a knowing look and smirked.

"Weren't you just saying he 'can't control you'?"

Gion shot him a glare.

"Next time, tell me sooner if he's coming! Instead of making me listen to your brooding nonsense first! You're so annoying do you know that?"

Feigning injury, Kuzan clutched his chest.

"Wow, so heartless. Is this what I get for stopping by?"

Then, with a chuckle, he shook his head.

"They won't be here for another two days. I just arrived ahead of them."

Gion double-checked her uniform, making sure she didn't smell of smoke.

"Oh? And what's the mission?"

Kuzan smiled faintly.

"At this point, what else? It's about Edward Weevil the one who injured Zephyr."

Gion's eyes flashed coldly.

"Tch. A shame I can't personally avenge Zephyr-sensei."

Then, stretching her arms, she sighed.

"I have a feeling my assignment here at G-1 will be completely uneventful. What a waste."

Kuzan sighed as well.

"No one expected things to escalate this quickly."