OPKOTW Chapter 282/286

Chapter 282: One Day, I'll Make You Kneel at My Feet!

Teach desperately wanted to grab the Dark-Dark Fruit and devour it on the spot, but he knew that this was precisely the moment when he needed to remain calm. Losing control now would be the worst mistake he could make.

Suppressing the greed burning inside him, he forced himself to look away.

Claudius observed the scene with amusement, his evaluation of Teach rising yet again.

"I never hold back when it comes to rewards," Claudius said with a smirk. "You've proven your worth through strength, and in my eyes, you're someone worth cultivating. So, do you want the Dark-Dark Fruit?"

Teach didn't hesitate for a second. "I want it."

"Then it's yours." A wicked grin curled on Claudius' lips as he signaled to Nia with his eyes.

Nia nodded and stepped forward, handing the small box to Teach.

Teach's heart pounded with excitement. He wanted to toss the fish in his hands away and snatch the box immediately. But even now, he didn't forget to flatter Claudius. Instead of discarding the fish, he shoved it into his mouth and devoured it whole bones, scales, and all swallowing it raw in just a few bites.

Nia blinked in disbelief.

"What the hell... This guy's sucking up so hard, even Spandine's kid might lose to him."

That's right—Spandam, son of Spandine, had been sent to serve under Claudius as a bootlicker. However, Claudius rarely let the idiot show himself, knowing full well that Spandam was nowhere near as competent as his father. If left unchecked, the fool might cause trouble or spill classified information.

For Spandine's sake, Claudius wouldn't dispose of Spandam outright, but he certainly wouldn't trust him with anything important. The only times he let the brat appear were on trivial, non-essential occasions.

Watching Teach swallow a live fish without hesitation, even Claudius was briefly stunned.

"Damn, this guy really is willing to do anything to curry favor with me."

Holding the small box close to his chest, Teach didn't say a word. Instead, he dropped to his knees again and knocked his head against the ground three times in gratitude.

"Thank you for your generosity, Your Highness. Teach will never forget this kindness!"

"Finally!" Teach screamed internally. "The Dark-Dark Fruit I've been dreaming of for decades is finally mine! I've spent over twenty years groveling, playing the fool, hiding in the shadows… I even swallowed a damn fish whole! But now, all the suffering has paid off. With this power, combined with my own unique abilities, I'll become the strongest in the world! Everything will bow beneath my feet!"

As these thoughts raced through his mind, Teach's gaze briefly flickered to Claudius' polished shoes.

A vicious determination burned in his heart.

"One day, I'll make you kneel before me, just as I am now. I'll have you licking my boots, Claudius!"

Of course, Claudius had no way of knowing Teach's inner ambitions. But even if he did, he wouldn't care.

To him, Teach was nothing more than a useful pawn, one he intended to unleash upon the New World. A tool to disrupt the balance, to bring down the Whitebeard Pirates, to serve as a stepping stone in his larger plans.

If necessary, he could even help Teach become an Emperor of the Sea.

Of course, that was only if Teach remained under his control.

And could Claudius control him?

Absolutely.

Even if Teach somehow obtained the Tremor-Tremor Fruit later and became a dual Devil Fruit user, what could he possibly do? By that time, Claudius would be far beyond anything Teach could reach, he might even be going toe-to-toe with the World Government itself.

And if, by some impossible chance, Claudius fell… well, the entire Marine force would still be around to clean up whatever mess was left behind.

Teach?

If he behaved, he could continue licking boots.

If not, killing him would be as easy as squashing an ant.

And if all else failed… well, worst case scenario, Claudius could always consider moving to the moon.

"You don't need to thank me," Claudius said lazily. "This is just a business deal. The transaction is complete. Now that you've proven your worth, I won't force anything upon you. You have a choice, do you want to return to the Whitebeard Pirates, or would you rather continue serving me?"

Teach knew better than to believe a single word of that so-called "choice."

If he so much as uttered the words "return to the Whitebeard Pirates," he doubted he'd even make it out of Mariejois alive.

He might see himself as the one using Claudius, but that didn't mean he underestimated him. This was a man who had killed Roger and Golden Lion, figures who once stood at the pinnacle of the pirate world.

Only an absolute fool would take him lightly.

Besides, Teach had no real loyalty to Whitebeard.

His ultimate goal was to obtain the Tremor-Tremor Fruit. But if he tried to take it by force now, he'd get crushed in an instant.

With the Dark-Dark Fruit finally in his hands, he couldn't afford to be reckless.

No—his best option was to keep playing the game.

Claudius had already hinted at his intentions toward the Whitebeard Pirates. That meant chaos was coming.

And where there was chaos, there was opportunity.

Teach had always believed in one thing: never set sail without a storm to ride.

And if Claudius was about to stir up a hurricane, then Teach was more than happy to ride its waves.

So, the choice was obvious.

Before Claudius even finished speaking, Teach had already responded.

"I have already sworn my loyalty to Your Highness," he declared. "Even though I have received the Dark-Dark Fruit, I humbly request to remain at your side to serve you with unwavering devotion."

Claudius raised an eyebrow.

"Huh. Aren't you just a crude, uneducated pirate? Where'd you learn how to be this eloquent all of a sudden?"

What Claudius didn't know was that Teach had been preparing for this moment for a long time.

Knowing he'd have to navigate the world of the Celestial Dragons, Teach had spent his free time reading every book he could find on manipulation and servitude.

Among them was a particular title: The Ultimate Guide to Bootlicking.

The author?

Spandine.

Of course, Teach hadn't expected that name to pop up, but he had to admit the book contained some valuable techniques.

And so, watching Teach's ever-improving sycophantic skills, Claudius couldn't help but chuckle in satisfaction.

"Very well," Claudius said, nodding approvingly. "I didn't misjudge you. Get up, Teach."

Teach stood swiftly, his face full of what appeared to be unwavering loyalty.

Claudius leaned back slightly, observing him with interest.

"I mentioned before that I intend to deal with the Whitebeard Pirates," he said. "Perhaps you could be of some help in this matter?"

Teach bowed his head immediately. "I would be honored to serve, Your Highness. Please give your command."

Claudius tapped a finger on the table thoughtfully.

Then, after a pause, he asked, "I have my own plans, but as someone who has been on Whitebeard's crew for years, perhaps you have some ideas of your own? Let's hear them."

Teach was cunning just like Claudius, just like Sengoku. He understood that the best way to win favor wasn't just to follow orders, but to contribute valuable strategies.

And so, instead of waiting to be instructed, he took the initiative.

"If we can capture one of Whitebeard's division commanders," Teach suggested, his eyes flashing darkly, "then we'll have plenty of opportunities to shake things up."

A grin spread across Claudius' lips.

"Interesting," he mused. "Tell me more."

Chapter 283: Pirates Can Never Be Killed, Right?

Teach spoke in a hushed tone, outlining his plan in great detail. His voice carried a hint of excitement as he laid everything out.

"Once we have a hostage in our hands, we gain the upper hand.

With the old man's personality, he won't abandon his crew.

Even if he knows it's a trap, he'll still charge in headfirst. As long as we set things up properly…

The Whitebeard Pirates will be finished!"

Teach's excitement was evident as he shared his thoughts.

Claudius, sipping his tea, nodded occasionally, giving the impression that he agreed with Teach's plan.

Standing nearby, Nia, the head maid, couldn't help but feel confused.

"Why is His Highness even asking this? Isn't this exactly what he and Fleet Admiral Sengoku discussed before?"

Claudius noticed Nia's puzzled expression but didn't bother explaining.

Participation, it was all about making Teach feel like he was an important part of the plan. Claudius knew exactly what kind of person Teach was—an ungrateful, backstabbing wolf. There was no way Teach would genuinely work for someone else without thinking he was using them in return.

So, the best way to handle him? Let him believe he was the one in control.

Claudius had already predicted that Teach would propose a plan like this, which was why he allowed Teach to speak freely. If there were any differences, Claudius could subtly "suggest" some adjustments to steer things in the right direction.

When the time came and everything unfolded as planned, Teach would look at the situation and think, "Damn, Claudius really trusts me. Everything is going exactly as I planned!"

That sense of self-importance would make Teach feel more secure and more reckless.

Teach was cunning, adaptable, and good at judging situations, but he had a fatal flaw: arrogance.

When the operation began and he saw things playing out just as he envisioned, he would inevitably grow overconfident.

And that, in itself, was another layer of control.

If Claudius ever decided Teach was no longer useful, his arrogance would make him easy to deal with. But if Teach still had value, allowing him to become complacent would only make him more reliant on Claudius.

A pawn was most useful when it believed it could reach the other side of the board.

After all, a piece that thought it was winning would struggle harder to stay in the game.

Teach continued presenting his plan, his words filled with confidence. Claudius nodded, pretending to be deep in thought. After a while, he finally spoke.

"What you're saying makes sense. The plan is solid, and the strategy is feasible. But Teach, Whitebeard's division commanders aren't easy targets.

The World Government has attempted similar operations before. The Marines have put considerable effort into this kind of plan… yet nothing has ever come of it."

Hearing Claudius acknowledge his strategy, Teach couldn't help but puff up with pride.

"Ze hahahaha! Your Highness, that's only because I wasn't there!"

Claudius laughed. "I see. So, you're willing to take on this mission?"

Teach suddenly realized he might have gotten too carried away.

Quickly adjusting his demeanor, he adopted a more humble tone. "Of course, Your Highness. I am more than willing to serve you. Not only does my identity make me the perfect fit for this plan, but I can also coordinate with you from the inside, setting up the perfect opportunity to eliminate one of Whitebeard's division commanders."

Claudius tapped his fingers against the table, as if considering Teach's words. Then, he smiled and said, "You're bold, Teach. I admire people like you. Very well—let's go with your plan."

Teach was thrilled, but before he could speak, Claudius added,

"But don't be too hasty."

Teach immediately calmed down.

"If we're going up against Newgate, we can't afford to be reckless.

The World Government will need to make proper preparations on its end. You, on the other hand, should return and lay low for now. Wait for the right moment.

Once everything is in place, I'll contact you."

As soon as Claudius finished speaking, Nia produced a Den Den Mushi from seemingly nowhere and handed it to Teach.

"Take this. His Highness will contact you when the time comes."

Of course, Claudius wasn't about to give Teach his personal Den Den Mushi signal, who knew what kind of trouble this guy might cause? Instead, he provided him with a "VIP line", ensuring controlled communication.

Teach understood the reasoning. The key to this plan was catching Whitebeard off guard. If everything was set up properly, they could strike before he had any time to react.

He had waited decades for his moment. What was another year or two?

Teach nodded without hesitation. "Yes, Your Highness. I will follow your instructions and remain undercover within the Whitebeard Pirates."

Claudius acted as if he valued Teach immensely, nodding in satisfaction.

"Good. I won't forget your contributions to this plan.

And once things are in motion, I will arrange for you to become a Warlord of the Sea."

Teach had already suspected that killing Moria would earn him a Warlord title, just as Claudius had hinted before. With that in mind, he had been scheming on the journey back and forth.

Teach had no intention of serving under Claudius forever. This was merely a temporary alliance, a way to seize more power before eventually going his own way.

But before that, he needed to extract every possible benefit from this arrangement.

A Warlord title would be useful, a perfect cover to protect himself while gathering strength.

So, the moment Claudius made the offer, Teach eagerly responded, "Thank you, Your Highness!"

Claudius remained calm. "You've been away from the New World for a while now. If you don't return soon, Newgate might grow suspicious.

Now that you have the Dark-Dark Fruit, go back and resume your role.

Wait for my signal."

Teach understood, this was his cue to leave.

He bowed deeply and said, "Yes, Your Highness."

Turning to leave, he suddenly paused, as if remembering something. Then, with a hesitant expression, he glanced back at Claudius.

Claudius smirked.

"Hah. You're really selling this act, aren't you? No wonder you played dumb under Whitebeard for so long."

Feigning mild confusion, Claudius raised an eyebrow. "Something wrong?"

Teach coughed awkwardly. "Ahem… Pardon my boldness, but… does Your Highness possess one of the Road Poneglyphs?"

A wicked smile played on Claudius' lips. He gave Teach a meaningful look before replying,

"Quite knowledgeable, aren't you? Most people don't even know those exist.

Yes, I do.

I took one from Whole Cake Island back in the day."

Of course, it was actually Dragon who had acquired it, but there was no way Claudius would tell Teach that.

Hearing this confirmation, Teach's heart burned with greed.

"Your Highness… what do you plan to do with it?"

Claudius chuckled.

"You certainly have ambition, Teach.

Enel, Doflamingo—many pirates serve under me. If a Pirate King must rise, it's far better for him to be secretly controlled by the World Government than to allow the seas to descend into endless chaos."

"In this world, pirates can never be completely eradicated. I understand that much.

But if you prove yourself, who knows? You might just get a chance."

Teach was stunned.

"Damn… This guy really thinks big."

It wasn't enough for Claudius to control the Warlords. Now, he wanted to create a World Government-approved Pirate King?

At that point, Marines would be under government control… and pirates would be, too.

Wouldn't that make the entire world his?

Teach inwardly marveled at the sheer audacity of the idea.

But outwardly, he smiled and said, "I will do my best to prove my worth to Your Highness!"

Claudius waved a hand dismissively.

"Good. Now go."

Chapter 284: I Always Win Without Defeat!!!

With Teach in place, the key piece of the plan had been "arranged perfectly," significantly increasing its feasibility.

Now that the blueprint for the operation had taken shape, the next step was to report it to the Five Elders.

At the same time, Claudius was already preparing to dig a trap for them.

A few days later, after refining his plans into official documents and submitting them, the Five Elders spent three days deliberating. Ultimately, they agreed the strategy was viable and proceeded to convene the higher-ups of the World Government.

Officials from Marine Headquarters, the CP agencies, and even certain underworld factions were summoned to Mariejois for a strategy conference aimed at finalizing the plan.

Once everything was set in motion, it would only be a matter of execution.


---

Claudius sat leisurely in the courtyard, a newspaper in hand.

There was nothing particularly important in it, just gossip and rumors. One article claimed that Red-Haired Shanks had stirred up trouble in the New World and then abandoned the mess to Whitebeard. Another absurd claim suggested that the "stingy old man" was still spending time with women, refusing to pay up.

Claudius chuckled at the ridiculousness of it.

Shanks ditching responsibilities? That sounds plausible.

But Whitebeard? That old man needs an IV just to stay alive, and they expect me to believe he's out womanizing?

Clearly, these rumors were nothing but nonsense.

As he continued reading, his Den Den Mushi suddenly rang. Claudius glanced at it before answering with a smirk.

"Well, well, if it isn't our dear young master. What's the occasion?"

"Furufurufuru~ Come on, cousin, drop the act. Do you have to call me that?"

Doflamingo's voice came through the line, his tone amused.

"Hahaha," Claudius chuckled.

The two continued exchanging small talk for a while before Claudius finally asked, "So, King of Dressrosa, what brings you to me today?"

"Well, funny you should mention Dressrosa," Doflamingo said. "Next year, the Reverie is happening.

As Dressrosa's king, I'll be heading to Mariejois for the summit.

And cousin, from what I hear… you're planning something big for that conference.

Isn't that right?"


---

The year was 1517 of the Sea Calendar.

The Reverie, held once every four years, was set to take place in 1518. Dressrosa was on the list of participating nations, and as its official, World Government-recognized king, Doflamingo would be attending.

Hearing his words, Claudius' expression became contemplative.

After a brief pause, he muttered softly, "Yes… the Reverie... That's where I'll change the entire World Government."

On the other end of the line, Doflamingo's breath hitched slightly, his excitement growing.

Like Claudius, he despised the Celestial Dragons of Mariejois—all of them, except for his cousin.

He knew Claudius' ultimate goal: to completely reshape the Celestial Dragon hierarchy.

For centuries, the descendants of the Twenty Kings had ruled, but Claudius intended to change that.

In the future, there would only be one king.

And that king… would belong to the Donquixote family.

Doflamingo knew he would never sit on that throne himself, but he didn't care. He was more than happy to see his cousin ascend to the highest seat in the world, so long as it meant watching those damned Celestial Dragons suffer.

So, with a sinister grin, Doflamingo spoke.

"Then, cousin… when the time comes, can I have those bastards for myself?"

Claudius laughed.

"Wouldn't that be a bit boring?" he mused.

"For 800 years, the people of the world have been forced to endure the oppression of the Celestial Dragons.

When the time comes, we need to give them a way to vent all that resentment, don't you think?"

Doflamingo took a deep breath, intrigued.

"What are you planning, cousin?"

Claudius' smirk widened.

"Those arrogant bastards love flaunting their nobility before the world, don't they?

Fine.

Let's make sure the whole world gets a good, long look at them."

Doflamingo's eyes lit up.

"Oh… He's planning a public display."

As Claudius said, the people's hatred had been building for centuries. If he wanted his new government to be seen as a true force of change, he needed to give them a symbolic victory—one that would make them feel the shift firsthand.

Imagine it:

The once-untouchable Celestial Dragons, dragged out in chains.

The so-called "gods" of the world, paraded through the streets before the people they had tormented.

The same people who had once been forced to kneel before them… now standing tall as their former oppressors cowered in disgrace.

Doflamingo grinned.

"Cousin… Leave that task to me."

"Ahahahaha! I was counting on it!" Claudius laughed heartily.

After their laughter died down, Doflamingo grew quiet, his tone more serious.

This was no small matter. They weren't just rebelling against the World Government, they were waging war against eight centuries of absolute power.

Even after everything he had seen, the sheer scale of Claudius' ambition was overwhelming.

And for the first time in a while… he felt uneasy.

After a moment of silence, he spoke.

"Cousin… are you sure about this?"


---

Claudius didn't answer right away.

Instead, he gazed at the lake before him.

The surface was calm, reflecting the sky above.

Then, suddenly, a tiny insect landed on the water, creating ripples that spread outward.

In an instant, several large fish surged to the surface, snapping at the disturbance.

A small, seemingly insignificant ripple… had thrown the entire lake into chaos.

Smiling, Claudius finally responded.

"Dover… in this world, there is no such thing as certainty.

All I can do is give it my all… and leave the rest to fate."

He paused for a moment before adding,

"But that's enough.

Eight hundred years ago, our ancestors, the Donquixote family rose from Dressrosa and reshaped the world.

Now, eight centuries later… I will lead us to the top once again."


---

"The King of the World huh?" Doflamingo chuckled.

"Yes," Claudius declared confidently. "The King of the World."

"Furafurufuru… Cousin, you never change.

Ah… but we are family.

I'll bet my life on you."

Claudius smirked. "It's not just you.

Nia. Stussy. Crocodile. Enel. Tesoro.

Thousands of people have placed their fate in my hands.

With so much at stake… do you really think I'd let them lose?"

Doflamingo didn't press any further.

He didn't need to.

After exchanging a few final words, the two brothers ended their call.


---

Claudius turned back toward the lake.

A single bug had fallen onto the water's surface.

And just like before, it sent ripples through the lake, drawing in the predators lurking beneath.


---

"Your Highness," Nia's voice came from behind. "Sengoku has arrived. The meeting with the Five Elders is about to begin.

It's time to go."

Claudius rose to his feet.

Nia stepped forward, draping a dark brown coat over his shoulders.

Claudius adjusted it slightly before smiling.

"It begins now," he murmured.

"Let's lead them onto the stage."

Nia smiled. "Wishing you victory, Your Highness."

Claudius chuckled.

"Victory?

I never lose."

Chapter 285: Tension

At the entrance of the World Government's headquarters in Mariejois, Fleet Admiral Sengoku stood with his arms crossed, maintaining a relaxed posture as if waiting for someone.

As for the Marine officials he had brought with him, figures like Sakazuki, Garp, and others they had already followed Kong into the building. By now, they were likely seated in the conference room.

Sengoku, however, remained outside, clearly waiting for a specific individual.

Before long, a familiar figure approached, the noble silhouette of Saint Claudius, walking at a leisurely pace. Following close behind him was Queen Stussy.

Sengoku smiled, stepping forward to greet him.

Claudius also grinned, quickening his stride. When they met, Sengoku was the first to speak.

"Your Highness, it's only been a few days, yet you seem to be in even better spirits."

Claudius chuckled. "Good news tends to have that effect on people. With the way things are progressing, I'm about to change the entire landscape of the New World. Of course, that makes me happy."

"Hahahaha! A grand ambition, but a tough battle lies ahead," Sengoku replied with a laugh.

Claudius patted him on the shoulder and smiled. "With thousands of Marine elites at your command, why should I fear a few pirates? Besides, I have you, don't I?"

"You have my word, we won't let you down," Sengoku assured him.

After exchanging greetings with Stussy, Sengoku walked alongside Claudius, and the three of them entered the headquarters building.


---

Inside, security was as strict as ever, and the halls were filled with high-ranking officials and nobility.

Seeing the Fleet Admiral and Saint Claudius walking together, many of those present instinctively felt that something significant was about to unfold.

Speculation ran through their minds, perhaps it was related to the upcoming Reverie?

But guessing was pointless. They had no choice but to continue their own business while waiting for news.

Sengoku led Claudius to the conference room. The door was open, indicating the meeting had yet to start. The Five Elders had not yet arrived.

However, even before stepping inside, they could feel the tension in the air.

Inside, the CP agency representatives were in a heated dispute with Marine Headquarters.

"Commander Kong, you're biased toward the Marines just because they're your people!

Three times now, we've requested Marine reinforcements. If they had arrived on time, the damn Revolutionary Army wouldn't have escaped!"

A masked CP official slammed his hand on the table in frustration, glaring at Garp, Sakazuki, and Tsuru on the other side.

Garp, however, was completely unfazed. He casually sipped his tea and munched on his senbei, paying no attention to the outburst. His thick-skinned attitude made it clear, he couldn't care less.

Tsuru also remained indifferent, her expression calm as she sipped her tea. If you want to complain, go ahead. I won't waste my breath arguing with you.

It wasn't that Marine Headquarters feared the CP agencies, far from it. They simply didn't see the need to engage in pointless arguments.

Besides, the current Marines had a sense of superiority.

At present, the Marines had everything, funding, manpower, resources, and overwhelming military strength. Their forces exceeded a million soldiers.

In contrast, these CP agents were nothing but bureaucratic loudmouths. Why bother taking them seriously?

Tsuru was patient. Garp was indifferent.

Sakazuki, however, had no such restraint.

The moment the CP agent finished speaking, Sakazuki scoffed coldly.

"Watch your tone before you speak.

Marine Headquarters is not your subordinate organization don't forget that.

The Revolutionary Army is your responsibility. You failed. Don't try to dump your mess onto us.

Requesting reinforcements is just that, a request.

If Marine has available forces, we help. If not, we don't. There's no rule that says we have to clean up after you."

Sakazuki's words were sharp and unforgiving.

His belief in absolute justice made him intolerant of incompetence, and he had never been one to hold back his opinions.

The CP agent was momentarily stunned, unable to argue back.

After all, Sakazuki was right. Their request for Marine assistance was just that, a request. There was no obligation for Marine Headquarters to comply.

And at this moment, Marine's full focus was on the Whitebeard Pirates. They had no time to concern themselves with CP's failures.

Kong chuckled, knocking on the table to get everyone's attention.

"This meeting isn't for useless bickering," he said.

"Right now, we need to cooperate. The Three Great Powers must work together on this operation.

Set aside your petty grievances for now.

And be warned, if anyone causes unnecessary problems, they'll answer to me.

Marine Headquarters has nothing to lose here. If this operation falls apart, it won't be our reputation on the line."

The CP agents fumed silently.

They had already failed multiple missions against the Revolutionary Army, leading to growing frustration. Now, they were expected to work with the very Marines who barely tolerated them?

And to make matters worse, Kong was clearly favoring Marine Headquarters over them.

But they had no choice but to hold back their resentment.

Just as another CP official was about to argue, the sound of approaching footsteps silenced the room.

Claudius stepped inside with a broad grin.

"Hahahahaha! I could hear you all from outside, sounds lively in here!"


---

The moment Claudius entered, the masked CP agent known as Gis immediately straightened up. The other CP agents followed suit, standing at attention with visible respect.

Not just them—Garp, Tsuru, even Sakazuki stood up as well.

Sakazuki, who once had strong opinions about Claudius and the Warlord of the Sea system, no longer held any resentment.

Because now, this Celestial Dragon was Marine Headquarters' greatest financial backer.

Billions of Berries flowed into Marine funding every year, thanks to Claudius.

Under his influence, Marine forces had expanded, strengthened, and prepared for greater battles.

With each passing year, Sakazuki saw a Marine force more capable of executing absolute justice.

To him, this was what a Celestial Dragon should be. If all Celestial Dragons were like Claudius, the world would already be at peace!

Kong greeted him warmly. "Saint Claudius, welcome."

Claudius chuckled. "No need for formalities, everyone, sit down and relax."

With that, he and Sengoku made their way to their seats. As always, Claudius took the position directly opposite the Five Elders, with Stussy to his left and Sengoku to his right.

Once seated, Claudius turned to Gis.

"Gis, today's meeting is CP-X's responsibility. Whatever tensions exist between you and Marine, settle them later.

This operation is too important for anyone to screw up.

If anyone causes problems, don't expect me to be merciful."

Gis's heart tightened.

It was clear—Claudius was warning them.

The CP agencies might serve the World Government, but Claudius and Marine Headquarters were working as one.

If they made trouble here, they wouldn't just be angering Marine, they'd be crossing him.

Though unsettled, Gis quickly responded with deep respect.

"Understood, Your Highness. We will prioritize the greater good."

Claudius smirked. "Good."

Leaning back, he pulled out a cigar, lit it, and took a slow drag.

The Five Elders had yet to arrive, but there was no rush.

For now, Claudius was content to chat with the assembled powerhouses, easing the tension in the room.

With him present, the hostility between Marine and CP agencies gradually faded.

Chapter 286: So, Whitebeard and I Are About Even, Right?

Claudius hadn't seen Sakazuki in quite some time. When he finally did, he couldn't help but feel amused.

The last time they had worked together was back on Whole Cake Island. Back then, Sakazuki had charged in like a raging beast, directly facing off against Big Mom, a true display of unrelenting aggression.

Though he had suffered severe injuries in the end, there was no denying that Sakazuki had played the role of a frontline tank perfectly. He was fearless, unyielding, and never backed down.

Of course, Claudius liked people like that.

Why?

Because now, they were about to go up against Whitebeard, the strongest man in the world, an even greater threat than Charlotte Linlin.

In terms of sheer durability, Charlotte Linlin was likely superior to Whitebeard.

But when it came to raw offensive power, there was no comparison, Whitebeard was on an entirely different level.

Now, as they prepared to engage this high-damage boss, what was Marine missing?

A tank, of course.

And who better for the role than Sakazuki?


---

Claudius took a sip of tea, then smiled as he addressed him.

"Sakazuki, it's been a while.

How have you been?

We're about to go to war with Whitebeard and the entire Whitebeard Pirates.

You're one of the Marine Admirals, you'll be a key player in this battle.

Make sure you're in peak condition. If you need to delegate more tasks to your subordinates, do it.

You need to be at your absolute best."

There was no way for Sakazuki to know just how manipulative Claudius was being.

He was too straightforward, too direct.

So, to him, this simply sounded like genuine concern from an old comrade.

The usually grim-faced Admiral even attempted a stiff smile, though it looked more like he was in pain than anything else.

With a nod, he responded, "I appreciate your concern, Your Highness. Rest assured, I'm in top condition. I'm ready to head to the battlefield at any time!"

"Ahahahaha! That's the spirit!" Claudius laughed.

"This is what I expect from a Marine Admiral, fierce, determined, never compromising, always striking evil down with full force!"

Sakazuki nodded solemnly, his sense of duty unwavering.

"A soldier's duty is to protect the seas and eradicate evil. That is my lifelong mission!"

Claudius smirked. "I like that attitude.

Sengoku is getting older. In a few years, he'll probably retire.

When the time comes, I think you have the best chance of succeeding him.

So, keep working hard—make sure you prove yourself!"

Sakazuki's expression became serious. He didn't bother hiding his ambition.

Across the room, Sengoku let out a long sigh.

"Seriously, Your Highness? Kong hasn't even retired yet, and you're already calling me old?"

Since taking on the role of Fleet Admiral, Sengoku had worked closely with Claudius, and Marine Headquarters had grown stronger than ever.

His leadership, combined with the overwhelming support Claudius provided, had increased his prestige significantly.

He had personally led the takedown of Charlotte Linlin, further solidifying his reputation.

Within this timeline, Marine Headquarters had undergone drastic changes.

In the past, due to the chaotic state of the seas and the lack of major victories, Marine influence had remained relatively weak.

This had resulted in deep internal divisions, factions constantly at odds, each pushing their own vision of justice.

Sakazuki and Kuzan had been the most divided, with their ideologies clashing openly.

But now, things were different.

With a clear leadership structure and a rapidly expanding force, there was no time for infighting.

Though Sakazuki and Kuzan still held different views, they were no longer bitter rivals.

The once-divisive struggles for control had settled, and the unity within Marine Headquarters had solidified under Sengoku's command.

Because of this, when Claudius made his playful remark about Sakazuki's future promotion, Sengoku didn't feel offended, he simply saw it as friendly teasing.


---

Kong chuckled. "Well, well, looks like my wings have gotten old, huh?

Tell you what, if you actually manage to take down Whitebeard this time, I will retire and hand you my position as Supreme Commander!"

Sengoku waved his hand dismissively. "No thanks, I'm not that ambitious."

Meanwhile, a different figure sat silently in the room—Gis.

The masked CP official remained quiet, but under his mask, his expression was shifting rapidly.

"Commander-in-Chief of the entire military… that's the position I want."

But seeing how Marine Headquarters was dominating the discussion, he realized just how much influence Claudius had given them.

The odds of him securing that position… were shrinking.


---

Claudius shifted the conversation.

"Alright, enough about that.

Let's talk about Newgate.

They call him the Strongest Man in the World.

His strength must be something else, huh?

I've never fought him myself, but Marine Headquarters must have experience with him."

After a brief pause, Claudius turned to Sakazuki with a grin.

"Marine Admirals represent the highest combat power of the World Government.

Sakazuki, what's your assessment of Whitebeard?

Think you can take him?"

Sakazuki furrowed his brows slightly.

As an Admiral, he had absolute confidence in his strength.

But he wasn't arrogant enough to claim he was the strongest in the world.

So, after a moment of thought, he replied,

"I'd say… we're about even."

Claudius blinked.

Something about that answer felt oddly familiar...

"Is he seriously pulling a 'We go 50-50' line right now?"

He almost expected Sakazuki to follow up with "But he's often single-killed by me."

Feigning relief, Claudius nodded.

"Ah, so you can handle him.

That puts my mind at ease.

I'll leave the main assault to you, then.

We'll back you up, let's take him down in one go!"

Sakazuki's blood boiled at the thought.

He didn't care if there was some hidden catch in Claudius' words.

Even if Claudius hadn't assigned him the role, he would have thrown himself into the front lines anyway.

There was no way he could stand by and do nothing while Whitebeard stood before him!

So, the moment Claudius finished speaking, Sakazuki straightened his back and declared,

"Your Highness, you have my word, I will bring you Whitebeard's head!"

Claudius burst into laughter.

"Hahahaha! That's the kind of talk I like to hear!"

Across the table, Sengoku shook his head helplessly.

"Sakazuki is still too young. And Claudius… he's completely shameless."

Was he seriously just baiting Sakazuki into rushing headfirst into battle?

It was a classic case of manipulation, encouraging the hotheaded Admiral to volunteer for the most dangerous role.

But then again, Sengoku couldn't say anything.

After all, Sakazuki would charge in regardless.

And if he wanted to be at the front lines… well, why stop him?


---

As they continued chatting, Stussy quietly checked her pocket watch.

Then, leaning close to Claudius, she whispered, "Your Highness, it's almost time."

Claudius raised an eyebrow.

Sure enough, he soon heard footsteps approaching from the hallway.

Moments later, the doors swung open.

The Five Elders had arrived.

As silence filled the room, even Garp put away his senbei, his usual carefree attitude replaced with formality.

Nusjuro entered alone.

Upon seeing Claudius, he smiled.

"It's been a while. What have you been up to?"

Claudius smirked.

"Naturally, I've been busy working toward world peace."

Nusjuro chuckled.

"You always have a way with words."

Then, taking his seat, he knocked on the table and said,

"Alright, everyone's here. Let's skip the nonsense.

The meeting on the Whitebeard Pirates' crusade plan begins now."