As Claudius and Garp returned to Mariejois with Roger in tow, the World Government officially confirmed the arrest of the Pirate King. Roger had been captured. This news, unprecedented and world-shaking, quickly spread across every corner of the globe. Newspapers immediately printed special editions, with bold headlines proclaiming: "CP-X Revealed: Pirate King Gold Roger Captured in South Blue!"
In the Sabaody Archipelago, within Shakky's Rip-off Bar, Rayleigh, the once-first mate of the Roger Pirates, leaned against the counter. His blond hair fell over his shoulders as he casually flipped through the special edition of the newspaper. The headline, "CP-X Arrests Gold Roger in South Blue," stared back at him.
"They're planning to execute Roger in Loguetown, East Blue, two months from now," Rayleigh murmured to himself, his voice calm but his eyes reflecting a deep understanding.
Shakky, holding a glass of wine, placed it next to Rayleigh. "Roger's been caught, huh? Is that CP-X group really that powerful?" she asked, her tone filled with a hint of concern.
Rayleigh set the newspaper aside and took a sip from his glass, smiling slightly. "Maybe they are, or maybe Roger just let himself be caught. It wouldn't surprise me if he surrendered once they found him."
"Surrendered?" Shakky echoed, her surprise evident.
"Yeah," Rayleigh replied, "he had this plan for a while. Perhaps he wanted to make a statement with his death. You know how Roger is, he'd enjoy watching the World Government think they've won, only for something unexpected to happen later."
There was a brief silence as Rayleigh's words hung in the air, his casual tone making it seem like he didn't care about Roger's fate. But knowing him, Shakky wondered what emotions really stirred beneath that calm facade.
"So, the rest of the Roger Pirates... you're not planning to save him?" Shakky asked, raising an eyebrow.
Rayleigh shook his head. "No. This was Roger's choice. Besides, he wouldn't have lived much longer anyway."
Shakky smiled, taking a sip from her own glass. "Well, I thought you'd be running off for a while. Guess not."
---
In the New World, aboard the massive Moby Dick, Whitebeard, Edward Newgate, sat silently on his throne-like chair. A sake flask dangled from his large hand, his expression unreadable.
Suddenly, Marco, one of Whitebeard's closest commanders, came rushing across the deck, newspaper in hand and shock written all over his face. "Pops! Big news!" he shouted, breathless.
Whitebeard raised an eyebrow, his deep voice rumbling. "What is it, Marco? What's got you so worked up?"
"Roger... Roger's been captured! By that same CP-X group that captured Shiki!" Marco exclaimed, thrusting the newspaper toward Whitebeard.
Whitebeard's eyes widened in surprise as he took the paper and carefully read the headline. After a long silence, he finally spoke, his tone low. "It seems we've underestimated this Claudius... that Celestial Dragon is becoming quite a force to be reckoned with."
Marco frowned. "Do you think it's true? Could CP-X really have captured Roger?"
Whitebeard took a deep sip from his flask before nodding. "If Roger's been captured, it's likely true. As for this CP-X... we might've thought too little of them before. They've already proven themselves by capturing Shiki."
Marco looked concerned but didn't dwell on that. Instead, he asked, "The paper says they're planning to execute Roger in two months in East Blue. Shouldn't we go and save him?"
"No," Whitebeard responded without hesitation.
Marco's brows furrowed in confusion. "Why not? Shouldn't we at least go and see him off? He's going to die, Pops."
Whitebeard looked at Marco, his eyes softening for a moment. "I've already said my goodbye to Roger. There's no need to go."
---
Elsewhere, on a ship sailing through the first half of the Grand Line, Dragon, leader of the Revolutionary Army, was staring at the same newspaper in disbelief. Less than two months ago, he had mocked Claudius when they met in South Blue, teasing him for thinking he could casually catch Roger. And now, here was the undeniable proof that Claudius had done just that.
"How is this even possible?" Dragon muttered, rubbing his chin in thought. "Roger, caught by just a few men? What in the world happened?"
Ivankov, the flamboyant Revolutionary and Dragon's close ally, leaned over Dragon's shoulder, glancing at the headline. "Maybe Roger surrendered? Could be that Claudius just got lucky."
Dragon chuckled softly. "If that's the case, Claudius has got to be the luckiest man alive. To stumble upon Roger at the perfect moment in South Blue? It's hard to believe."
Bartholomew Kuma, the large, silent figure standing nearby, finally spoke. "Roger's choice, perhaps. But even so, Claudius managed to pull it off."
Dragon nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. Whatever the reason, Claudius has proven himself capable. CP-X isn't the 'stuffed shell' he made it out to be. If they were able to catch Roger, then what does that say about the Navy and the CP agencies that have failed all these years?"
Dragon's eyes narrowed. He knew Claudius had more power and influence than he let on. "There's no way he's shown all his cards yet."
Ivankov adjusted the ship's rudder, turning them towards a new course. "So, Boss, what now? Weren't we headed to Water 7?"
Dragon smiled faintly. "There's still time. Roger's execution is two months away. We'll head to East Blue."
Ivankov looked puzzled. "Why? Roger's death doesn't really concern the Revolutionary Army. What's the point of watching his execution?"
Dragon's smile grew slightly. "I have a feeling it won't be that simple. I'm expecting some... unexpected developments."
Ivankov laughed, "Fine, fine. You're the boss, after all. East Blue it is."
---
Dragon wasn't the only one curious about Roger's impending execution. Across the seas, other major players began shifting their attention to East Blue. In North Blue, Donquixote Doflamingo grinned as he read the news, already plotting to be present at Roger's final moments. Elsewhere, Dracule Mihawk, in the midst of challenging swordsmen across the world, also decided that he needed to witness the execution of the Pirate King firsthand.
The sea was alive with movement as countless figures—pirates, revolutionaries, and swordsmen alike began making their way toward East Blue. The looming execution of Gol D. Roger had sparked a massive surge in activity, setting the stage for an event that would change the world forever.
Back at Marine Headquarters, Sengoku stood in silence for a moment, holding the latest report in his hands. He turned to the gathered officers and said, "His Highness Claudius stayed in South Blue for nearly four months. We all thought he was taking a vacation, but now... it seems like he was laying the groundwork for something far bigger." East Blue's Loguetown, once an unremarkable place, had now become the center of attention. East Blue, often called the "weakest sea," rarely saw any notable figures pass through. But things had changed. This small, quiet town was now filled with big names from all over the world. The reason? The impending execution of the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger.
A massive Marine warship was docking in the harbor, and among its passengers stood Claudius. Garp, Sengoku, and several other high-ranking Marines were also present. Kuzan and a few others had already gone ahead to organize the security arrangements within Loguetown.
"It's quite the spectacle here today," Claudius remarked with a smile, gazing out at the crowded harbor.
Garp, born in East Blue's Kingdom of Goa, frequently returned to his home sea and had visited Loguetown many times due to its convenient position near the entrance to the Grand Line. Nodding at Claudius's comment, he replied, "Yeah, it's way busier than usual. Looks like a lot of people want to witness Roger's execution."
Claudius then pointed to a nearby ship, which had recently docked. "Speaking of which... aren't you Marines going to do something about that?" he asked, grinning slightly. The ship wasn't particularly remarkable, but the pirate flag fluttering from its mast was impossible to ignore.
It was a rare sight, a pirate ship casually moored not far from a Marine warship. The audacity of these pirates was something to behold.
Sengoku sighed heavily, his expression troubled. "If we go after these pirates now, it'll stir up chaos among the others who've come to Loguetown. The town would descend into complete disorder. Today isn't about catching pirates, it's about executing Roger. For now, we'll turn a blind eye."
"Fair enough," Claudius shrugged, unconcerned. "I'm not the one in charge of catching pirates. That's your Marine business."
"You don't seem bothered by much," Sengoku said with a faint smile.
There was a brief moment of silence before Sengoku pulled out a Den Den Mushi and made a call. Kuzan's voice quickly came through.
"Everything set?" Sengoku asked.
"All prepared. The execution platform is built and secured. We're just waiting for you," Kuzan replied, his tone lighthearted.
"Good. We're heading over now," Sengoku confirmed before hanging up.
He then turned to a nearby Marine Rear Admiral and gave orders, "Move into the town. Organize the crowd in the square and make sure the path to the execution platform is secure. We can't afford any mistakes."
"Yes, Admiral Sengoku!" the Rear Admiral responded, quickly organizing a group of Marine soldiers. They disembarked and began forming ranks, moving efficiently into Loguetown to establish order.
Sengoku, satisfied with the preparations, turned to Claudius. "Let's head into town."
Claudius waved him off with a smile. "You go ahead. I don't want to draw too much attention. People know about CP-X now, but not many are familiar with my face. I haven't exactly let my image circulate. If I walk into town alongside the top brass of the Marines, I'll blow my cover. CP-X thrives on its discretion, after all."
Sengoku hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Fair point. Do as you wish, then."
With that, Sengoku, Garp, and the other Marines disembarked, leaving Claudius on the ship. There were still a few hours before Roger's execution at noon, so Claudius wasn't in any rush. He strolled off the ship, blending into the crowd.
This time, Claudius hadn't brought his usual entourage. Nia was still in Mariejois, while Stussy had already infiltrated Loguetown in advance. Crocodile, who was eagerly awaiting Roger's execution to gain his "freedom" from Claudius's watch, had also gone ahead to explore the town. With so many pirates gathering in one place, Crocodile couldn't resist scoping out the scene.
The only person accompanying Claudius was Enel. The young man looked around in awe, wide-eyed and curious about everything. As they walked through the crowded streets, Claudius enjoyed the anonymity of the moment.
Loguetown wasn't large, but with so many people flooding in from all over the world, it felt cramped. As Claudius wandered with Enel at his side, his eyes caught a familiar figure in the distance, one that was both recognizable and outlandish.
Donquixote Doflamingo, his cousin, was as flamboyant as ever. Today, the future "Joker" of the underworld looked like a walking spectacle. Draped in his iconic pink feathered coat, wearing lace-trimmed orange sunglasses, and dressed in checkered pants with peasy shoes, Doflamingo didn't look like a pirate at all. If anything, he resembled a pop idol more than anything.
Around Doflamingo, a group of lackeys helped clear a path for him, keeping the crowd at bay. Claudius smiled and, with Enel in tow, made his way over.
As they neared, one of Doflamingo's men Vergo, as serious as ever—stepped forward, blocking Claudius's path. "Stop," he said coldly, his face still stained with remnants of a doughnut he'd recently eaten.
But before Vergo could say more, Doflamingo's familiar laugh rang out. "Furufurufurufu! Cousin, it's been too long! I figured you'd show up here, so I saved you a spot. Come, join me!" Doflamingo greeted Claudius warmly, a wide grin on his face.
Vergo froze for a moment, realizing who stood before him. "My apologies, Saint Claudius," he said quickly, bowing with respect. Vergo understood that there was only one person Doflamingo would call cousin, a Celestial Dragon, and more specifically, Claudius, the leader of CP-X.
Claudius waved the apology away. "It's fine," he said, before walking over to Doflamingo.
"Doffy, it's been a while. You've grown, haven't you? Almost catching up to me," Claudius said with a grin.
Doflamingo laughed. "I couldn't let you leave me behind, cousin. But you... you've outdone yourself. First, you capture the Golden Lion, and now, you've even managed to get your hands on the Pirate King himself! How did you pull that off? I'm dying to hear the story."
Claudius chuckled. "It's a long tale, and it starts with me being on vacation in South Blue..."
As Claudius began recounting his adventures to Doflamingo, the square around them continued to fill with notable figures. Hawkeye Mihawk, carrying his massive cross-shaped sword on his back, stood nearby, his hawk-like eyes scanning the area. He, too, was here to witness the execution of the Pirate King.
In another corner of the crowd, two familiar figures, Shanks and Buggy, squeezed through the throngs of people. Their expressions were a mixture of sadness and anxiety, knowing what fate awaited their captain. In addition to the growing number of familiar faces in the crowd, Crocodile had also blended into the sea of onlookers. His once straightforward demeanor had started to evolve, as he leaned more and more into the image of a pirate. Standing not far from him was a man with an imposing and ominous figure, Moria. His sharp, ghastly appearance made him stand out, and like everyone else, he seemed eager to witness the execution of Gol D. Roger.
Above them all, perched on the roof of a nearby building, stood a man in a kabuto cap and a long cloak. It was none other than the leader of the Revolutionary Army, Dragon, watching everything unfold with quiet intensity.
Claudius, unaware of Dragon's presence, was engaged in conversation with his cousin, Doflamingo. However, Dragon's sharp eyes had already spotted Claudius among the crowd. His gaze shifted to Doflamingo, and a slight frown crossed his face.
"So, he's connected to the Donquixote family of North Blue," Dragon muttered to himself. "Could Doflamingo be the hidden power backing Claudius? But from what I remember, the Donquixote family wasn't supposed to be particularly influential anymore..."
Since Roger's capture, Dragon had been suspicious that Claudius possessed some secret force that allowed him to achieve what no one else had. Now, seeing Doflamingo and his entourage, Dragon's suspicions only deepened. Still, even with this realization, he couldn't quite figure out how Claudius had managed to capture Roger.
Meanwhile, Claudius and Doflamingo continued their conversation.
"Cousin," Doflamingo began with a grin, "after Roger's execution, I plan to enter the Grand Line as a pirate."
"Oh? You're leaving North Blue behind?" Claudius asked with an amused smile.
"North Blue is too small," Doflamingo replied, his eyes gleaming with ambition. "I've stirred things up enough there. It's time to head to the Grand Line—and eventually, New World. Once I've built up enough power, I'll return to claim what the Donquixote family once owned."
Claudius raised an eyebrow. "Ah, I see. You mean Dressrosa—the kingdom that was once ours, back in the day?"
"Exactly," Doflamingo said, a dangerous light flickering in his eyes. "Eight hundred years ago, we ruled Dressrosa. If I can't return to Mariejois, then I'll take back what rightfully belongs to us. It's time."
Claudius chuckled, impressed by his cousin's boldness. "You've got a point. If you manage to seize Dressrosa, I'll make sure the paperwork goes through properly. I'll see to it that you're recognized as the rightful king."
Doflamingo laughed, his trademark grin widening. "Furafurufurufu! Then I'll owe you one, cousin. It seems you've solidified your standing in Mariejois. Has that rat Lancelot been giving you any trouble?"
At the mention of Lancelot, Claudius's expression darkened for a moment, before he waved it off with a smirk. "Give me trouble? Do you think I'm still the same as I was back then? I'm an upper Celestial Dragon now. Lancelot should count himself lucky if I leave him alone. He's in no position to give me trouble."
Doflamingo's eyes widened in surprise. "Upper Celestial Dragon? Already?"
Claudius nodded, looking satisfied. "I made a deal with the Five Elders. If CP-X could capture Roger, they'd promote me to the upper ranks. They've fulfilled their end of the bargain."
Doflamingo's grin returned, sharper than ever. "So, cousin, does that mean you'll finally deal with Lancelot? After all, he caused you quite a bit of trouble back in the day."
Claudius's eyes gleamed dangerously. "I've moved past what happened back then. But if Lancelot crosses my path or gets in my way... well, accidents happen, don't they? Especially with things about to get chaotic."
Doflamingo smirked knowingly. "It sounds like you've already got something planned."
Claudius chuckled darkly. "I wouldn't call it a plan just yet, but let's just say the idea is taking shape. Why? Were you thinking of handling him yourself?"
"Is there an opportunity?" Doflamingo asked, his ambition barely hidden.
"There will be," Claudius replied, his voice low. "When the time comes, I'll let you know."
Doflamingo's grin grew even wider. "I'll be ready, cousin. Thank you for keeping me in mind."
Their conversation continued for a few more minutes, until Claudius casually asked, "How's Rosinante doing these days? I haven't seen the kid in a while."
Doflamingo's cheerful expression faltered for a brief moment. He sighed, shaking his head. "He's still the same. We... don't see eye to eye on many things."
Claudius nodded, sensing there was more to the story but deciding not to press further.
Just then, a commotion rippled through the crowd, and both Claudius and Doflamingo turned their attention toward the square.
Marine soldiers had formed a path through the throngs of people, separating the square in half. The road they had cleared led directly to the execution platform, where Sengoku, Garp, Tsuru, Gion, Kuzan, and other Marine officers stood at the ready. Although a rescue attempt was unlikely, the Marines weren't taking any chances. Their presence was meant to discourage anyone from trying to disrupt the execution.
Soon, the square grew quiet, the atmosphere thick with anticipation. Claudius and Doflamingo, both standing tall, could see over the heads of the crowd, their eyes locked on the far end of the street.
"It's time," Claudius murmured.
Doflamingo nodded silently. The sound of clanking chains echoed through the air as the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, finally appeared.
Roger's wrists and ankles were shackled, the chains jangling with each step he took. Despite the restraints, he moved with an air of confidence, his burgundy captain's coat trailing behind him. He didn't look like a man walking to his death—he looked like a king ascending to his throne.
Doflamingo's eyes widened in awe. "So that's the Pirate King... what presence."
Claudius nodded. "Yes, that's Roger. An extraordinary man. It's a shame."
"What's a shame?" Doflamingo asked curiously.
"It's a shame that he's about to die," Claudius said softly. "The world will be a little less interesting without him."
Doflamingo glanced at Claudius, surprised by the hint of sadness in his cousin's voice. He wasn't sure if it was his imagination, but for a moment, it seemed like Claudius truly lamented Roger's fate.
The crowd watched in silence as Roger walked down the road, his eyes fixed ahead, his expression calm. Even in chains, the Pirate King exuded a power and charisma that left everyone in awe. Roger's footsteps were steady, unhurried, with a faint smile lingering on his face. He seemed at peace, as if life and death had already ceased to matter to him. Each step he took reverberated through the square, his presence pressing on the hearts of everyone watching.
As he passed by Claudius, Roger turned his head slightly and glanced his way, a playful smirk appearing on his face as if sharing a private joke. Claudius returned the look, rolling his eyes and mirroring Roger's smile with one of his own.
This brief, subtle interaction went unnoticed by the crowd. Finally, Roger reached the foot of the execution platform.
The eyes of Sengoku, Garp, and the other Marines were fixed on him, but Roger didn't pay them any attention. Just before ascending the steps, he murmured softly, "Farewell, Garp."
Sengoku, overhearing this, looked at Garp, but Garp simply closed his eyes, a flicker of melancholy crossing his face.
Sengoku opened his mouth as if to speak, but Garp cut him off in a low, firm voice. "Shut up, Sengoku. Don't say a word."
Sengoku, taken aback, decided to remain silent, watching Roger continue his ascent.
Roger climbed the stairs to the platform, where two executioners with long blades waited for him. Standing tall, he cast his gaze across the massive crowd, a faint chuckle escaping his lips. "So many people came just to watch me die? I'm honored."
Without any sign of fear or regret, Roger crossed his legs and sat down on the platform, settling himself comfortably. He placed his shackled wrists on his knees, relaxed, as if he was merely a spectator at his own execution.
Looking out across the square, Roger took in the sights of Logue Town, his birthplace. The sun was shining brightly, and he squinted slightly, remarking, "Still feels the same... this heat. It hasn't changed since I left all those years ago."
He thought back to his journey, the adventures, and ultimately, his decision to end it all here. "Starting and ending here... maybe that's how it was meant to be," he whispered to himself.
For a fleeting moment, Roger's mind drifted south, across the vast ocean, to a small island in South Blue. There, he imagined Rouge, his beloved, watching toward the east, her gaze reaching across the sea to meet his in spirit. He closed his eyes and whispered, "Farewell."
The moment passed, and Roger refocused on the present. One of the executioners stepped forward and asked, "Do you have any last words, Roger?"
Roger grinned, rattling the shackles on his wrists. "Mind taking these off? My wrists are itchy."
The executioner scowled, clearly irritated. "What nonsense are you talking about? That's impossible!"
Roger sighed, smiling. "Relax. Do you really think I'd run now?"
"If you have nothing to say, then savor these last few minutes in silence," the executioner replied curtly.
Sitting on the platform, Roger glanced out into the crowd. His eyes landed on two familiar faces hidden within, a young man wearing a straw hat and a red-nosed clown by his side.
"Oh, Shanks and Buggy... they came all this way to see me off?" he thought, a fond smile playing on his lips.
Both Shanks and Buggy noticed Roger's gaze, and a wave of grief washed over them. This simple, heartfelt smile from their captain was almost unbearable.
"Captain Roger..." Buggy whispered, his voice choked with emotion.
Shanks clutched his straw hat, tears welling up in his eyes.
Elsewhere in the crowd, a white-haired boy watched Roger intently. Despite his youth, he was struck by the calm, smiling man on the platform. He couldn't understand why a man about to die would smile like that, but the sight etched itself deeply into his memory.
"Smoker! I told you not to run off!" a man's voice called from behind the boy.
The white-haired boy, Smoker, reluctantly stepped back, casting one last look at Roger.
The square remained silent, the entire crowd holding its breath as the clock tower's minute hand crept toward noon. Then, in the final seconds before the execution, a voice broke the silence.
"Roger! You're about to die! Tell us—where did you hide all your treasure?! The One Piece!!!" someone shouted.
The square erupted with murmurs, as others echoed the question. Sengoku's face darkened. "Prepare to execute him! Don't let him say another word!" he commanded.
But Roger, as if he had been waiting for this question all along, threw his head back and laughed. "You want my treasure? If you want it, you can have it! Go and find it! I left everything this world has to offer there!"
"Execute him! Now!" Sengoku roared, his voice filled with urgency.
But it was too late. Roger's words had already pierced the hearts of everyone present.
The executioners brought their blades down, crossing them into Roger's chest. The sun was at its zenith, and at that precise moment, the bell in the clock tower rang out. The Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, was dead.
Yet with his death, he had planted a seed that would change the world. His final words ignited a flame in countless hearts. Men across the seas set their sights on the treasure he left behind, dreaming of adventure, glory, and wealth. This was the dawn of a new age, an age known as the "Great Pirate Era."
In the square, pandemonium erupted as the realization set in. Men who had merely come to witness an execution now felt a surge of ambition and hope.
Laughter broke through the crowd as Claudius watched the chaos unfold. "Ahahahahahaaha! You really knew how to go out with a bang, Roger!"
Beside him, Doflamingo chuckled darkly, his eyes gleaming. "It seems the World Government's attempt to quash the pirate spirit has backfired spectacularly. This sea is going to be thrown into chaos! Ahahaha! I think I made the right choice in becoming a pirate."
Claudius smirked, the thrill of the new era lighting a fire within him. "You're right, Doflamingo. With all these changes, how could we not play our part?"
Doflamingo turned to him with a grin. "What's this, cousin? Are you planning to sail under a pirate flag too? A Celestial Dragon pirate? Now that's a sight."
Claudius laughed, shaking his head. "No, not quite. I just meant... now is the perfect time to put my plans into motion." Amidst the bustling crowd, Stussy was concealed, observing the people around her with a slight smile. She couldn't help but feel a bit impressed as she murmured to herself, "As expected, His Highness called it right. Things have already spiraled out of control."
Before coming to Logue Town, Claudius had warned his companions that something unexpected and monumental was likely to happen. And sure enough, Roger's final words had set off a chain reaction that none of them could contain.
In another part of the crowd, Crocodile was chuckling to himself, now fully understanding why Claudius had encouraged him to go to sea at this exact time. He admired Claudius's foresight even more now. Following him had been the right decision. This was the dawn of a new era!
On a nearby rooftop, Dragon stood watching the scene unfold, a rare smile on his face. "So it's happening... just as I hoped. With the seas thrown into chaos, our Revolutionary Army will be able to grow and strengthen."
After bidding farewell to the eager Doflamingo, who was brimming with excitement to begin his own pirate journey, Claudius turned to Enel. Together, they began to make their way back to the harbor. The spectacle was over, and Claudius was ready to head back to the warship for some rest.
"Your Highness, did you really expect all of this to happen?" Enel asked, glancing up at him curiously.
Claudius smirked, still visibly amused. "More or less. I knew that Roger wasn't going to go quietly. Hahaha, the man sacrificed himself to set the seas ablaze, launching a whole new era of chaos. By now, Mariejois and Marine Headquarters must be in absolute turmoil."
And he was right. With Roger's execution broadcast live and news spreading like wildfire, the World Government had no way of stopping it. The Five Elders, who had hoped this would be a display of power, were likely in a state of shock. Instead of deterring pirates, Roger's final declaration had ignited a worldwide frenzy.
"Do you think Crocodile is really not coming back?" Enel asked again.
"No, he's out there for good now. He wants to carve his own path on the sea, just like everyone else. I can't help but envy him a little... he's got freedom," Claudius admitted with a wistful smile.
"If you had the choice, would you go too?" Enel asked, his eyes alight with curiosity.
Claudius laughed, nodding. "Maybe. If I weren't a Celestial Dragon, I might have taken my own ship out there. Set sail to see what the world has to offer."
Enel looked thoughtful for a moment before nodding with understanding. "Yeah... I'd want to go too."
Claudius chuckled at his sincerity. "Well, then, you have something to look forward to. But you're still young. I'd say... wait until you're sixteen. Six more years."
"Six years, huh?" Enel calculated in his head, already eager for the day.
"Six years isn't long," Claudius replied with a smile.
Just then, a familiar figure appeared beside them, blending into the crowd with surprising ease. Dragon gave Claudius a knowing grin. "Everything going according to plan, Your Highness?"
"Here to gloat?" Claudius snorted, though he was clearly amused.
"I half-expected to see you pulling your hair out," Dragon teased. "But judging by that smirk, it seems you saw this coming?"
"More or less. What about you? Here to enjoy the chaos?" Claudius asked with a raised brow.
Dragon chuckled. "Chaos is good for us. The Revolutionary Army will use this time to expand quickly."
"Ah, so even you're heading out onto the seas," Claudius remarked, a slight grin playing on his lips. "The call of adventure got to you too, huh?"
Dragon looked out toward the horizon, his gaze serious yet filled with purpose. "Is there any reason to stop a man from running to the sea?"
With those words, Dragon turned and disappeared into the crowd, leaving Claudius to chuckle at his friend's dramatic exit.
Enel looked up, clearly intrigued. "Your Highness... is there really no reason to stop a man from running to the sea?"
Claudius stopped, considering the question before bursting into laughter. "Hahaha! No, there's no reason at all! In this world, there's nothing that can stop a man from chasing his dreams and seeking his treasure on the open sea. That's the beauty of it... the romance of it!"
Enel seemed to absorb those words, and then asked, "What about you, Your Highness? Don't you want to go to sea? Like Crocodile?"
Claudius paused, a hint of reflection in his gaze. "Me? I am already at sea, Enel."
Enel looked down, a bit puzzled by his answer. They were standing on solid ground, after all. But Claudius didn't explain further, leaving the thought lingering in the air as he continued to lead them toward the port.
Back at the harbor, they were met by Gion, who looked visibly anxious. "You're just wandering around? Don't you realize what's happening? Things are going out of control!"
Claudius grinned nonchalantly. "Of course, I know. The whole world's turning upside down, thanks to Roger."
"This is serious, Claudius!" Gion said, almost scolding him.
"I never said it wasn't serious," Claudius replied calmly, holding back a laugh.
Gion shot him a frustrated look, hands on her hips. "Then what are you going to do about it?"
Claudius gave her a patient look, shrugging his shoulders. "What can I do? I'm not a miracle worker. I can't stop the tides from turning. No one can."
"But... but you're a Celestial Dragon!" Gion protested.
"And that means I'm supposed to have control over the world?" Claudius chuckled. "Look, calm down. Let's wait for Sengoku and the others to return. I'm sure they'll have a plan."
Gion took a deep breath, trying to gather herself. "Fine... maybe you're right. But... it's unsettling. This era is out of control."
Claudius gave her a reassuring smile, placing a hand on her shoulder. "No one can stop the winds of change, Gion. But if you can't stop it, you can at least ride it. There's always a way forward."
As they stood there, they could see the streams of people leaving Logue Town, filled with newfound purpose. Claudius watched them go, knowing that this was only the beginning. Soon, the sea would be teeming with pirates, adventurers, and dreamers, each one chasing the legacy that Roger had left behind.
In the Holy Land of Mariejois, inside a vast conference room within the headquarters of the World Government, the most powerful figures were gathered. It had been about half a year since Roger's execution, yet the world was still reeling from the aftermath.
The Marines and CP agencies had been working tirelessly to handle the resulting surge of pirate activity. But despite their best efforts, the increase in pirates had been explosive, far outpacing what they could contain. This sudden shift had left the World Government scrambling, and now, they were meeting for the fourth time in six months to discuss strategies for controlling this turbulent new era.
Sitting around the round table, Marine Admiral Sengoku wore a deep frown, a look mirrored by his colleagues Tsuru, the Chief Staff Officer, and Vice Admiral Sakazuki, who were also present as representatives of Marine. Across from them were members of the CP agency, men with featureless masks and pristine white suits, giving them an air of eerie, silent authority.
On the opposite side of the table sat Claudius, a cigar dangling lazily from his lips. He looked completely at ease, exuding a calm confidence that seemed almost out of place in such a high-stakes meeting. Behind him stood Stussy, holding a stack of documents, her demeanor that of a loyal and observant secretary.
They didn't have to wait long before the doors opened, and the bald elder of the Five Elders, Saint Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro, known as one of the highest authorities in the world, entered. He scanned the room, noting with satisfaction that everyone was present, then took his seat at the head of the table. Drawing a cigar from his coat, he cut and lit it, exhaling a slow plume of smoke before addressing the room.
"Alright, let's get started," he said, his voice calm but firm. "Let's begin with reports from the Naval Headquarters and the CP agencies. What's the current situation?"
Sengoku exchanged a glance with the head of the CP agency, then took the lead. "Our Marine branches worldwide have ramped up recruitment efforts. However, it takes time to train and equip new soldiers. From the initial recruitment to becoming battle-ready, it requires at least a year. Building up enough strength to tackle this new wave of piracy... it's going to take a while. This isn't going to be a short fight. We're looking at a prolonged struggle on the seas."
Nusjuro nodded thoughtfully, acknowledging the challenge but withholding any criticism. He knew that these kinds of things couldn't be rushed.
The CP agency representative, a man referred to as "Gis," took over. "We've made some progress. First, we've focused on targeting potential threats early on, dealing with smaller but promising pirate crews before they can grow. We've managed to eliminate many of these 'saplings' before they could take root and expand."
Gis hesitated slightly before adding, "Additionally, we've come across a group we believe warrants attention. They call themselves the 'Revolutionary Army.' Although they haven't done anything overtly hostile yet, their ideology is... concerning."
Claudius raised an eyebrow, a slight smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. The CP agency was already aware of Dragon's activities. Impressive, he thought, given how new and low-profile the Revolutionary Army still was. For now, they hadn't been deemed a true threat, but the seeds of future tension were already planted.
Nusjuro took this information in stride. "Understood. Sengoku, continue expanding Marine's ranks as quickly as possible. We'll increase the military budget this year to support these efforts."
"Yes, sir. It's all in the name of justice," Sengoku replied, a subtle gleam of satisfaction in his eyes.
The elder then turned to Gis. "Keep up the pressure. Eliminate these up-and-coming pirates as soon as possible. We may not be able to cut down their numbers significantly, but if we can prevent the strongest from rising, it's still a victory."
"Yes, my lord," Gis responded promptly, his tone filled with deference.
Claudius remained silent throughout these exchanges, calmly taking drags from his cigar and watching the others speak. His relaxed demeanor contrasted sharply with the urgency of the discussion, almost as if he were detached from their concerns.
Finally, Nusjuro's gaze landed on Claudius, and his stern expression softened slightly. As a member of the Celestial Dragons, Claudius was family to him, so to speak, and beyond that, Claudius had proven himself capable by capturing both Golden Lion Shiki and, ultimately, the infamous Pirate King, Roger. Even if the latter event had set off an unintended tidal wave, the elder still admired Claudius's results.
"Claudius, what about you? Do you have anything to report on CP-X's recent activities? Any suggestions on how we might handle the escalating crisis at sea?" the elder asked, a faint smile on his lips.
Claudius straightened up, setting his cigar aside as he reached for a document that Stussy quickly handed him. With a casual smile, he opened the folder and spread it out on the table in front of him. "Actually, Your Excellency, I do have something I'd like to propose. I've been preparing a plan, and I'd like to hear your thoughts on it."
As he spoke, Stussy efficiently handed out copies of the document to each person around the table. Sengoku opened his copy, and his eyebrows shot up in surprise. The file contained profiles on two pirates: Crocodile and Doflamingo.
Crocodile was a relatively new but rising figure on the Grand Line. Sengoku already knew that Crocodile had once been a subordinate of Claudius, which had puzzled him before. Why would Claudius, a high-ranking Celestial Dragon, sponsor a pirate? And now, here was Doflamingo, Claudius's cousin, also active as a pirate under the name "Donquixote." What was Claudius's angle in all this?
As Sengoku flipped through the file, a murmur of interest spread around the table. Even the bald elder looked intrigued as he reviewed the information.
The elder finally looked up, his curiosity evident. "So, Claudius, what's the purpose of showing us this? What are you proposing?"
Claudius chuckled and said, "These two, Crocodile and Doflamingo, are some of the most promising young pirates in the current era, wouldn't you say?"
Gis nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Your Highness. They've both established themselves quickly."
"Then, using them as an example, let me introduce a concept I call 'The Seven Warlords of the Sea Plan,'" Claudius said, an almost wicked glint in his eyes.
Everyone was silent, watching him intently.
Claudius continued, "To put it simply, this plan is about 'ruling Pirates with Pirates.' Instead of fighting the rising tide of piracy head-on, we endorse certain pirates, ones we can control and use them to manage the chaos in our favor." Listening to Claudius's explanation, Sengoku, Gis, and the others all looked visibly confused.
Even Nusjuro seemed puzzled. He frowned slightly and asked, "Using thieves to catch thieves? What do you mean by that? Explain it clearly."
Claudius smiled, took another puff from his cigar, and said, "Ever since Roger's death, the seas have not become quieter as we had hoped. Instead, thanks to his last words, the number of pirates has skyrocketed—at least tenfold."
He paused for a moment to let the point sink in, then continued, "It's only been half a year, and while the number of pirates has increased dramatically, they haven't yet reached the level of true threat. However, I'd like to make a bold prediction: within five to ten years, that could very well change."
Sengoku thought over Claudius's words in silence. Claudius was absolutely right.
While the number of pirates on the seas had multiplied, none of them had yet achieved the same terrifying reputation and strength as established forces like Whitebeard or Kaido. For now, as long as Marine had enough manpower, they could still keep things under control.
But there was a problem: Marine did not have enough manpower, and the rate at which they could recruit and train new soldiers was far slower than the rate at which new pirates were appearing.
If things continued this way, the question was no longer if, but when this quantitative growth of pirates would lead to a qualitative leap—a situation where dozens, if not hundreds, of powerful new pirates would emerge. Pirates who could eventually stand toe-to-toe with legends like Whitebeard.
After a long pause, Sengoku nodded solemnly. "Your Highness is right. Our problem isn't just the sheer number of pirates. We're inevitably going to see a new generation of elite pirates rising up. This could become a serious threat."
Nusjuro and Gis also nodded, the gravity of the situation clear to them.
Claudius, noting their agreement, smiled. "Exactly. This is something we can't afford to ignore. And so, I propose a solution: a plan to 'use pirates to fight pirates'—to put it simply, we create our own pirate forces, ones loyal to the World Government, who can combat the uncontrolled chaos on the seas."
As soon as he finished speaking, Sengoku's expression shifted. Though he trusted Claudius, the idea still seemed radical. However, Nusjuro's eyes flashed with intrigue, showing a glimmer of interest in the proposal.
"Oh? That's an interesting idea," Nusjuro said. "Explain it in more detail."
Claudius nodded, exhaled a stream of smoke, and replied, "Let's call this the 'Seven Warlords of the Sea' plan for now."
He reached for a stack of files on the table, gesturing for them to take a look. "Take these two pirates, for instance. They're actually part of our CP-X organization. Crocodile is someone even Sengoku Admiral is familiar with; he was previously one of my subordinates and has now gone undercover as a pirate. As for Doflamingo, I don't think I need to introduce him—he's my cousin, a Donquixote by blood and another member of CP-X. Like Crocodile, he's taken orders from me to become a pirate."
Sengoku nodded, confirming Claudius's words. "That's right."
Nusjuro and the others had no further questions, and indicated for Claudius to continue.
"Now," Claudius continued, "pirates are different from the Marines. Building up Marine forces requires rigorous recruitment, training, and a host of other measures. But a pirate crew? As long as a leader has the strength and reputation to command loyalty, followers will naturally flock to them."
He smiled. "Pirates can grow their forces far more quickly than we ever could with the Marines, and that's exactly the advantage I want to exploit."
Sengoku's interest was piqued. "Your Highness, can you elaborate?"
Claudius leaned forward, a mischievous gleam in his eyes. "Before I explain, let me ask you a question, Sengoku. What are the two main ways a pirate grows in strength?"
Sengoku thought for a moment before replying, "In general, there are two ways. First, by committing enough crimes to be recognized as a threat by the World Government. As they grow more dangerous, their power and reputation also grow. If we can't deal with them in time, they eventually become feared across the seas—just like Roger did."
"Correct. And the second way?" Claudius asked.
"The second," Sengoku continued, "is through infighting and dominance within the pirate community itself. Pirates fight each other constantly, and those who emerge victorious build their own prestige, eventually growing into powerful figures by stepping over the bodies of the defeated."
A wicked grin crossed Claudius's face. He clapped his hands together and said, "Exactly. In other words, it's through constant internal conflict, mergers, and conquests that a pirate can rise to greatness. Now, here's the question: if we wanted to cultivate our own pirate lords, which path would we choose?"
Sengoku didn't hesitate. "Naturally, we wouldn't condone any evil deeds. The second method is the only choice."
But as he spoke, realization dawned on him. His initial skepticism began to crumble as Claudius's plan took root in his mind.
Nusjuro laughed, pointing at Claudius with an approving grin. "Impressive. Very impressive. No wonder we put our trust in you. This is such a simple yet brilliant idea; why didn't we think of it sooner?"
There was no denying it. By creating their own pirate lords, the World Government could harness the same rapid force expansion that pirates enjoyed, turning uncontrollable pirate forces into allies. These sanctioned pirates, operating under the government's control, could combat those pirates who refused to obey. This would weaken the pirate community as a whole, and the power of these allied pirates would only grow with time.
Once these controlled pirates gained enough reputation, they would indeed become formidable pirate lords. And with several powerful pirate captains working under the World Government's thumb, in alliance with the Marines, they could finally establish some measure of stability across the seas.
"As you can see," Claudius continued, "the ultimate goal of the Seven Warlords of the Sea plan is to weaken the pirate forces from within. By turning pirates against pirates, we can gradually break their unity and reduce them to scattered, disorganized factions, making it easier for the Marines to keep order."
Claudius's smile was full of confidence as he explained. "In the end, these government-sanctioned pirates will be strong enough to challenge uncontrollable pirates like Whitebeard. When the time is right, we can use this advantage to dismantle the pirate threat piece by piece, turning them into nothing more than isolated bands."
Sengoku was visibly impressed, murmuring to himself, "To have pirates launch a civil war among themselves, leaving the World Government and Marines to simply clean up the aftermath... it's ingenious."
Claudius nodded and said, "Yes, it's pretty much what Sengoku laid out."
Without waiting for any responses, he tapped the ash from his cigarette and continued, "The reason I'm calling this the 'Seven Warlords of the Sea' project is that I want CP-X to gain control over seven powerful pirates. Think of them as knights under a king—warriors who clear the path for their liege. That's the role I envision for the Seven Warlords of the Sea."
This time, Nusjuro was the first to react, a faint smile appearing on his lips. "The theory sounds reasonable. What exactly do you have in mind?"
Claudius grinned. "Well, what I've just described is the concept. The actual plan is much more complex. I estimate that it will take at least ten, perhaps even twenty years to see it fully realized. But despite the long timeline, if we succeed, it will have a massive impact. I believe it's worth the investment."
"Alright then," Nusjuro said with a nod, indicating a measure of approval. "If the end result is worthwhile, let's hear the details."
His words set the tone for the meeting, signaling that the Five Elders were tentatively in favor of the idea. After all, even if Claudius hadn't proposed it now, the World Government would eventually come up with its own version of the Seven Warlords of the Sea. However, that approach would likely result in a situation where the warlords were only "controllable" in name, while in reality, they remained self-serving pirates. Claudius's method, on the other hand, seemed far more promising.
"The first point," Claudius began, "is that we can't reveal their affiliation just yet. For now, they should continue to operate as pirates. Take Crocodile and Doflamingo, for example. What we need to do is provide them with some breathing room. CP should immediately halt any assassination plans against them, and the Marines should ease up on their efforts to hunt them down."
There was no hesitation in Claudius's voice. Gis, despite his high rank, was ultimately a servant to the Celestial Dragons. He bowed respectfully and replied, "As you command."
After a moment of silence, Sengoku gave a reluctant nod. "The Marines will loosen their pursuit."
Claudius's smile widened as he continued, "Next, we need to expand our roster of candidates. Currently, I only have two promising options—Crocodile and my cousin. But I plan to scout for more candidates over time. For instance, there's a young talent named Enel under my care. He possesses the Thunder Fruit and shows great potential. I'll send him out to sea to start building his reputation as a pirate, as a preliminary step towards becoming one of the Seven Warlords."
Nusjuro nodded. "Indeed, selecting the right individuals is crucial. In just half a year, you've already cultivated two prospects. The era of the great pirates could last for quite some time, so you've got plenty of time to get this right. Don't rush."
Even Nusjuro, with all his influence, understood that such things couldn't be rushed.
Claudius agreed. "The third point is that both the CP agency and the Marines should offer these prospects some 'support.' By backing them discreetly, we can not only eliminate less desirable, uncontrollable pirates but also help our chosen candidates establish a reputation. It's a win-win."
Sengoku considered Claudius's suggestion and, after a brief hesitation, nodded. "If done correctly, we could make it work."
In fact, Sengoku was already thinking ahead, considering whether the Marines should also cultivate their own pirates as spies. For example, Whitebeard had a penchant for adopting sons. If they could place a couple of agents in his crew, they might be able to deliver a critical blow or gather crucial information when the time was right. It was a tactic Sengoku would indeed pursue in the future—like with Drake, who was trained as a Marine spy and later infiltrated Kaido's ranks.
"That's the general framework of the plan," Claudius said, wrapping up his proposal. "If there are no objections, I'll submit a formal report to you five shortly."
There was no need to rush into legalizing piracy just yet. Once the Seven Warlords were fully established, they could solidify their roles as 'allies' of the World Government all at once.
Nusjuro exhaled a cloud of smoke, a contemplative look on his face. "Your CP-X certainly knows how to deliver unexpected strategies. First, there was Golden Lion and Roger, and now, you're presenting a practical response to the age of piracy."
He paused, then nodded approvingly. "I'm inclined to authorize this project in principle, pending the others' agreement. Soon, CP-X will have the mandate to take charge of the Seven Warlords of the Sea initiative."
Claudius's face lit up with a broad smile. "I'm grateful, my lords!"
Nusjuro glanced around the room. "Does anyone else have anything to add?"
Seeing no further objections, he concluded, "Very well. Let's all get back to our respective duties and proceed according to the decisions reached in this meeting."
With that, he stood and left the room. Sengoku nodded at Claudius before departing, his mind already busy with the implications of this "pirate management" strategy.
Claudius wasn't bothered by Sengoku's silence. He simply acknowledged the Admiral with a smile, then turned to the CP agents and asked, "Is Spandine here?"
A man standing at the back of the CP group quickly stepped forward, removing his mask. "Yes, Your Highness Claudius, I'm here!"
"Good. Stay behind for a moment; I have a few words for you," Claudius instructed.
Spandine's superior, Gis, chimed in, "Spandine, don't let His Highness down."
Once everyone else had filed out, Claudius grinned at the subservient Spandine. "I hear you've recently gotten your hands on some promising recruits in CP-9?"
Spandine, bent at the waist in a humble bow, responded enthusiastically, "Well, our CP-9 can't compare to the caliber of candidates Your Highness is raising. Enel is truly an exceptional talent, put him in the Marines, and he could be an Admiral someday!"
Claudius chuckled. "Your flattery skills are improving."
"I live to please, Your Highness," Spandine replied with a broad smile.
Claudius's expression turned thoughtful. "There's someone named Rob Lucci, right?"
Spandine paused before quickly replying, "Yes, we have a young recruit by that name who's still in training."
"Good. Keep training him for now. I'm interested in this kid. Once his training is complete, send him to me. No problem with that, is there?" Claudius said, patting Spandine on the shoulder.
"No problem at all, Your Highness! If you're interested, we'd be honored to send him to you. Even if you wanted all of CP-9, it would be our privilege," Spandine answered eagerly.
Claudius chuckled again. "You've got a good attitude, I'll give you that. If you ever need a favor, let Stussy know. As long as it's nothing too outrageous, I'll see what I can do."
With that, he left the meeting room, still smiling.
Spandine remained behind, bowing repeatedly. "Thank you, Your Highness! Thank you, Your Highness!" In the Holy Land of Mariejois, within the palatial quarters of Claudius, a certain quietness had settled in. With Crocodile off on his own adventures, the palace felt emptier, and Enel, left without his usual companion, seemed a bit lonely. To fill his time, he threw himself into intense training.
Meanwhile, Claudius sat leisurely by the pond, enjoying a chat with two beautiful mermaid sisters who had been gifted to him by his cousin, Doflamingo. They had become quite the conversation partners in the otherwise grand but quiet palace.
"So, is Fish-Man Island really as amazing as you say?" Claudius asked, a smile on his face. "One day, I'll have to visit. Maybe I'll bring you two along for the trip."
The two mermaids were eagerly sharing tales of the island's enchanting beauty, the unique underwater scenery, and the vibrant, colorful coral reefs. It was clear they missed their homeland, and they painted a picture of Fish-Man Island as a true paradise under the sea.
Yet, as Claudius mentioned taking them back someday, he noticed a mix of excitement and hesitation in their expressions. Seeing this, Claudius chuckled softly.
"When the time comes, you'll be free to return home," he said warmly.
One of the mermaids, named Mero, looked at him in surprise. "Truly, Your Highness? You would let us go?"
"Of course. When have I ever broken my word?" Claudius replied, a genuine smile playing on his lips.
The other sister, Lenny, slapped her tail against the water in excitement, her face lighting up. "Your Highness, you are truly kind!"
After their initial excitement, the sisters exchanged looks, and Mero added with a touch of sadness, "But... after all this time, it would feel strange to leave. You've treated us well, Your Highness. Unlike others, you never saw us as mere 'fish' or slaves. Life here, though different, has been comfortable. It's hard to imagine leaving."
"Are you saying you'd miss me?" Claudius teased.
Both mermaids blushed slightly, and Mero admitted, "Perhaps a little. We'd worry you'd be lonely without us here."
Claudius glanced around his grand yet mostly empty palace. Unlike most Celestial Dragons, he kept few servants, only Nia and a small group of maids to manage his affairs. He wasn't exactly surrounded by throngs of people.
"Lonely, huh?" Claudius murmured, as if considering it for the first time. Then he laughed and reassured them, "Well, if I do start missing you two, I'll just come and drag you back. How does that sound?"
The sisters laughed, and Lenny replied, "We'd gladly come back if Your Highness called for us. We could never forget our time here."
"But don't get too excited," Claudius said with a grin. "It'll probably be a year or two before I actually make the trip. Until then, you'll just have to make do with Mariejois."
The sisters pouted in mock disappointment, splashing the water playfully. "Your Highness, you're so wicked! Telling us now only to make us wait."
"Hey, I'm a Celestial Dragon. Being a little wicked is practically my job," Claudius said, laughing along with them.
As they enjoyed their light-hearted banter, Stussy walked into the courtyard, a smile on her face. She greeted the mermaids politely before turning to Claudius. "Your Highness, Vice Admiral Garpsent a message. He's inviting you to join him for a 'vacation' in South Blue."
"A vacation?" Claudius scoffed, seeing right through the proposal. "That old dog Garp just wants to drag me into his schemes. I'm sure this 'vacation' has less to do with relaxing and more to do with his... side mission in South Blue. Marine and CP have been crawling all over that region, trying to snuff out any traces of Roger's legacy."
Claudius was certain Garp's true intentions lay with Rouge, Roger's lover, who was rumored to be hiding out in South Blue. Although Claudius respected Rouge as the mother of Roger's child, he knew any involvement on his part could invite a world of trouble. If he were seen aiding her, it could undermine the trust Five Elders had placed in him, complicating his standing within the World Government.
"No, I won't be going," Claudius said, shaking his head. "Let Garp handle his own business. I'm not about to risk my position for his whims."
"Understood. I'll politely decline on your behalf," Stussy said. "Do you need me to come up with an excuse?"
Claudius waved his hand dismissively. "No need. He'll figure it out."
After a moment, Claudius's eyes brightened with an idea. "Stussy, don't you think it's about time we had our own ship?"
Stussy looked at him, slightly surprised. "Our own ship, Your Highness?"
"Yes. I'm tired of grabbing whatever vessel happens to be available in Mariejois's port. It's about time I had something custom-built to my own tastes," Claudius said, a hint of excitement in his voice. "A powerful ship, designed exactly how I want it. We could travel comfortably, without relying on the standard issue Marine ships."
Stussy chuckled. "If you want a ship, Your Highness, I'm sure there are plenty of shipwrights who'd be eager to build one for you. In fact, you'd probably have a fleet of luxury vessels gifted to you if you asked."
Claudius shook his head. "No, this has to be different. I want one of the best ships in the world... or at least one that rivals them," he said, clearly envisioning something grand.
Seeing his enthusiasm, Stussy asked, "And do you have a particular shipbuilder in mind?"
Claudius grinned. "Yes, the best. I'm thinking we should head to Water 7. Roger's ship, the Oro Jackson, was built by a shipwright there a man named Tom. I want him to build our ship."
"Should I make the arrangements?" Stussy asked.
Claudius nodded. "Yes. Let's leave as soon as possible. Knowing Garp, he might decide to drop by here if he doesn't hear from me soon. I'd rather avoid getting roped into whatever he's planning."
"Understood, Your Highness. I'll start the preparations immediately," Stussy said, already turning to handle the details.
After Stussy left, Claudius turned back to the mermaid sisters, who had been listening intently. "Would you two like to come along? I imagine you get pretty bored stuck here all the time."
"Really, Your Highness? You'd take us with you?" Mero asked, her eyes wide with excitement.
"Of course," Claudius said with a reassuring smile. "It's a small thing. Consider it a change of scenery."
The sisters looked at each other, grinning, and Lenny beamed, "We'd love to go, Your Highness!"
Claudius laughed. "Good! Then get ready. We're off to Water 7 to commission the grandest ship the seas have ever seen!" As soon as Claudius decided to set sail, his team moved with impressive speed. Several strong servants pushed a large fish tank through the halls of Mariejois, in which swam the mermaid sisters, Mero and Lenny. Claudius and Stussy led the way, while Nia, the head butler, walked beside them, holding little Enel's hand. They made their way across Mariejois toward the port, drawing the attention of passersby.
Many people looked on with envy, including several other Celestial Dragons. After all, mermaids were a rare and prized sight in Mariejois, and Claudius was in possession of not one, but two. When they realized it was Claudius the rising star among Celestial Dragons walking ahead, any thoughts of jealousy quickly shifted to respect.
Once they departed, Claudius's luck with the sea remained as unpredictable as ever. It had been over two weeks since they left Mariejois, and while they hadn't been in a hurry, leisurely passing a few islands here and there, they didn't stay long in any one place. However, one thing was clear: the sea was teeming with pirates.
On almost every island they visited, pirate flags flew high at the ports. If there was an island where they didn't see at least one or two pirate ships docked, it felt strange. Islands with strong defensive forces or stationed Marines were somewhat safer, but on others, piracy was rampant. Many islands were raided three or even four times a day, with different pirate crews clashing in chaotic fights for territory and plunder.
Claudius knew this pandemonium was part of the initial madness sparked by Roger's declaration, marking the dawn of the Great Pirate Era. As time passed, both the Marines and local islands would adapt, managing the chaos better. For now, though, the sea was a frenzied mess.
As Claudius's ship approached the waters near Water 7—a hub of shipbuilding on the Grand Line the capital city of shipwrights looked bustling as ever. The constant traffic and trade kept the place alive and thriving, unlike other islands that struggled amidst the surge in piracy.
But the commotion on land had little to do with Claudius, who was lounging comfortably on a sun chair on the deck, reading the daily news. Most recent headlines were dominated by reports of new rising pirate stars, including his "associates" Crocodile and Doflamingo, along with other names like Mihawk and Moria.
On the other side of the deck, Stussy and Nia were enjoying a game of badminton, dressed in bikinis that showed off their athletic and toned figures. The game wasn't easy, though, as the sea breeze often disrupted their shots, adding an extra challenge.
Meanwhile, Enel had found his own way to relax he sat by the railing, fishing rod in hand, patiently waiting for a catch. He seemed to have developed a fondness for the tranquility of fishing, despite his usual impatience.
In the water below, two graceful mermaid figures swam in joy, diving and surfacing like dolphins, occasionally leaping out of the water in elegant arcs before splashing back down. It was Mero and Lenny, clearly ecstatic to be back in the ocean after so long in captivity. Claudius had allowed them to swim freely, only asking that they return to the ship when they were tired. For the most part, they stayed in the water, only climbing aboard to rest before diving back in.
Claudius was amused by their loyalty. If they wanted to escape, they could have done so easily by disappearing into the vast ocean. But they stayed, perhaps out of genuine attachment to their Celestial Dragon master, or perhaps out of a sense of gratitude. Either way, Claudius felt a touch of pride.
As he lounged, Stussy suddenly paused in the middle of her game, looking out to sea. She was so distracted that Nia's badminton shot bounced off her head, but she ignored it, calling out, "Your Highness, looks like we've got another group of... visitors."
Claudius didn't even glance up. "Enel," he said calmly.
Enel sighed, setting down his fishing rod. "Are they really coming at us again? These pirates are so annoying. Your Highness, I don't think I want to be a pirate anymore."
Claudius laughed. "Then maybe you should be the kind of pirate who cleans up the trash! Take control, keep them in line, and take out those who don't obey!"
Enel's eyes sparkled with excitement. "Right! When I'm the boss of the pirates, I'll make sure they listen, and anyone who doesn't... I'll wipe them out!"
Rising to his feet, Enel spotted the pirate ship closing in on them, clearly aiming to launch an attack. With a focused look, he raised his arm, lightning crackling around him.
"Divine Judgment!" Enel shouted, sending a massive bolt of lightning into the sky. Moments later, a powerful thunderbolt descended, striking the pirate ship with terrifying accuracy. The ship was obliterated in a flash, shattered to pieces, with nothing left but debris floating on the water.
Satisfied, Enel returned to his spot by the railing, picking up his fishing rod as if nothing had happened. Claudius glanced over, chuckling, "Good work, Enel. I don't think they'll be bothering us again."
Stussy laughed as well, leaning over to Enel. "Divine Judgment, hmm? That's a grand title. Do you plan on becoming a god someday, Enel?"
Enel, who had been puffed up with pride just moments ago, suddenly looked sheepish. "No, no, of course not. But His Highness here, he's like a god on Earth, right? So, as his follower, that makes me something like a divine messenger! Isn't that right, Your Highness? That's why my punishment is Divine Judgment!"
Claudius chuckled from his spot on the lounge chair. "Sure, Enel, we'll go with that. Just keep at it."
Nia smirked, arching an eyebrow at Enel. "A god's envoy, is it? Quite the grand ambition for a young fisherman."
Claudius, amused, intervened, "Alright, alright, don't tease the kid too much." He glanced at the small device on the table next to him—a Log Pose, its needle shifting back and forth.
"We must be getting close to Water 7. The needle's movements are becoming more frequent," Claudius noted with a smile.
For someone who had taken several trips across the Grand Line, he'd picked up a few tricks of navigation. The Log Pose needle tended to stabilize when an island was far off, but as they drew nearer, it would oscillate and adjust rapidly, indicating the proximity of their destination.
Satisfied, Claudius reclined once more, his gaze shifting to Enel. "You're doing great, Enel. Thunder Fruit is indeed one of the strongest Logia fruits out there. Keep honing your skills."
Enel gave a proud nod but stayed silent, focusing once more on his fishing. The Capital of Water 7 was a massive shipbuilding island, unique in its layout, with a complex system of waterways weaving through it. Over time, the island had slowly been sinking into the sea, prompting the islanders to continuously build upward, layer upon layer, creating a landscape where much of the original "Old City" lay submerged beneath the water.
As Claudius's grand ship docked at the port, it was clear that the City of Water 7 was no longer in its golden age. The shipbuilding industry had started to decline, though the bustling atmosphere from its prosperous days still lingered in the air. Yet, beneath this facade, there were countless unemployed shipwrights struggling to find work. Claudius observed this mix of vitality and hardship as he arrived.
The city, composed of winding canals rather than roads, made it easy for the two mermaid sisters, Lenny and Mero, to get around they could simply swim along the waterways. Claudius and his entourage rented a small boat, attaching a pair of "Bull" sea creatures, iconic to the city, at the front. These Bulls functioned like horses pulling a carriage, albeit in water, propelling them smoothly through the canals.
"Such a fascinating island," Claudius mused, admiring the city's unique culture as they glided through the water. "They rely solely on the shipbuilding industry to sustain their economy. But with a place like this, it's a shame to ignore its other strengths. If I were running things, I'd make this a tourist destination. Imagine building around their distinct traditions the Bulls, the Mask Carnival, and the grand 'Aqua Laguna' tidal wave. A little vision could turn this into a world-renowned resort!"
Stussy, sitting beside him, smiled. "Your Highness, you really do have a knack for seeing opportunity. Who knew you'd come up with such a profound observation so quickly?"
Claudius laughed, clearly enjoying the flattery. "Hah! You're just feeding my ego now. Still, who knows? Maybe I'll buy this place someday," he joked, though a glimmer in his eyes suggested he might actually consider it.
"So, where to, Your Highness?" Nia asked, steering their conversation back on track.
"We're looking for Tom's Workers, the shipyard run by a merman named Tom. Roger mentioned he's one of the best shipwrights out there. Let's ask for directions," Claudius replied.
As they made their way through the waterways, they soon encountered a boatman coming the opposite way, also using Bulls to pull his boat. Claudius raised a hand in greeting, and the man waved back.
"Hey, friend! Could you tell us how to get to Tom's Shipbuilding Company? I'm looking for Tom," Claudius called out.
The boatman paused, scratching his head as he processed the request. "You're here to see Tom? You mean, to build a ship?"
"That's right. A friend recommended him, said his craftsmanship is the best on the island," Claudius confirmed with a nod.
The boatman seemed to hesitate. "Your friend's not wrong. Tom is indeed the best shipwright in Water 7," he said, nodding in agreement. "But... well, let me give you some advice. Tom's in serious trouble with the World Government. Getting involved with him now might bring more problems than it's worth."
"Trouble with the government?" Claudius raised an eyebrow, feigning mild surprise, though he had some inkling from Roger's past tales.
The boatman glanced around before speaking in a lower tone, "Yeah, Tom's been under scrutiny ever since it came out that he built a ship for the Pirate King, Roger. The World Government considers him an accomplice, and he's being treated like a criminal. Because of him, business in Water 7 has taken a hit, and the locals aren't standing up for him. If you associate with him, it could be bad news."
Claudius nodded, mulling over this. "Well, it's a good thing I have a bit of pull with the World Government," he said with a smirk. "If Tom is willing to build my ship, I might just be able to help him out of this little predicament."
The boatman's eyes widened. "You're serious about seeing him?"
"Absolutely," Claudius replied with confidence.
"Alright then. Follow this canal, take a left at the second intersection, and you'll reach the scrapyard. But you'd better hurry, some World Government agents are already there. They might be taking him away soon."
Claudius thanked the man, and they quickly continued down the canal. True to the directions, they soon arrived at a large scrapyard piled with discarded and scrapped ships, remnants from people who had upgraded to newer vessels. Just beyond the scrap heap was a small dock swarming with men in black suits, agents of the government.
"It looks like Tom really is in trouble," Stussy whispered, noting the cluster of officials.
Claudius stretched his neck, rolling his shoulders as he prepared to step in. "Looks like some CP agents. Let's go see what they're up to."
At the dock, Tom, a stout merman with a hammer slung over his shoulder, was standing alongside his two apprentices as they were questioned by a slimy-looking government agent—Spandine, the head of CP5. Spandine was here to arrest Tom on charges of aiding the Pirate King by building him the infamous Oro Jackson.
"You admit to building a ship for Roger, don't you?" Spandine sneered, barely hiding his contempt.
Tom didn't flinch. "Aye, that ship was my work," he said proudly. "The Oro Jackson was one of the finest ships ever built, and I won't deny it."
Spandine's eyes glinted with satisfaction. "Good. That makes you an accomplice to the Pirate King. You're coming with me to Enies Lobby for trial," he declared, waving a hand for his agents to advance.
But just then, a calm yet commanding voice called out, "Hold it right there."
Spandine turned, annoyed at the interruption, until he saw who it was. His face instantly went through a series of expressions: shock, panic, and then forced respect. He bent his spine in a deep bow, plastering on an obsequious smile. "Your Highness Claudius! What brings you here?"
Claudius approached casually, hands in his pockets and a small smirk on his face. "Oh, Spandine, I came to see Tom. I heard he's the best shipwright in these waters, and I want him to build a ship for me. Now, is that a problem?"
Spandine stammered, immediately dropping any mention of Tom's supposed crimes. "No, no, not at all, Your Highness! It's... it's absolutely convenient. Too convenient!"
Claudius raised an eyebrow, barely containing his amusement at Spandine's groveling. "Good to hear. So, Tom, what do you say? Care to build a ship for me?"
Tom looked at Claudius, surprise flickering in his eyes. He hadn't expected a Celestial Dragon to intervene, let alone request his services. "Aye, Your Highness, I'd be honored to build a ship for you," he replied, his voice steady despite the strange turn of events.
Claudius smiled warmly. "Perfect. Then it's settled. Spandine, you wouldn't want to interfere with such an arrangement, would you?"
Spandine shook his head frantically, forcing another grin. "No, no interference at all, Your Highness. In fact, we'll clear out immediately. Don't want to inconvenience you."
"Excellent," Claudius replied, his tone both a dismissal and a subtle reminder of his authority.
"Now that that's handled, let's talk about this ship I want. I hear you're the best, so I'll leave the details in your hands. But I want it to be something... exceptional."
Tom grinned, his pride as a shipwright reignited. "Aye, Your Highness. Exceptional, you say? Then you've come to the right man."
Claudius chuckled, pleased. "Good. Let's get started, then." Claudius took a good look around the small, rundown dock. The place was practically falling apart, showing none of the prestige one would expect from a "master shipwright." It looked like the kind of place barely able to produce a fishing boat, let alone a vessel worthy of royalty. "Tom, the so-called 'best shipwright,' living in conditions like this?" Claudius thought.
Turning to Spandine with a sly smile, Claudius said, "By the way, aren't you supposed to be tracking down those scholars researching taboo history alongside the Marines? What brings you here to Water 7? Don't tell me you're here to commission a ship as well?"
Spandine's face twitched, visibly uncomfortable with the question. He struggled to respond, shifting uneasily. Just as he opened his mouth to explain, a young voice cut through the tension.
"They're not here to order a ship! They're here to drag Master Tom to Enies Lobby and convict him!" The young man, known as Cutty Flam, but later famous as Franky, blurted out angrily.
"Flam!" Tom shouted, trying to silence his apprentice. He glanced at Claudius, the realization dawning that this young man was someone important, someone who could make a World Government official like Spandine grovel. He didn't want to escalate matters without fully understanding Claudius's intentions.
Feigning ignorance, Claudius frowned at Spandine, who now looked like he wanted to melt into the ground. "Convict him? On what grounds?" Claudius asked, feigning genuine curiosity. "What did Tom do?"
Spandine stammered, unable to come up with a smooth response, but ultimately surrendered to the situation. "Well, Your Highness, it's... complicated. Tom here... he built a ship for the Roger Pirates. The Oro Jackson. Given the recent... uhm... scrutiny around anything related to Roger, we were instructed to investigate anyone associated with him. Shipwright or not, building a ship for the Pirate King could make one an accomplice."
"He's just a shipwright!" Cutty Flam interjected angrily. "He didn't team up with Roger. He just made him a ship!"
Claudius chuckled and clapped Spandine on the shoulder. "So, you're just looking to climb the ranks by bringing in someone like Master Tom, huh? Trying to show off to the higher-ups?"
Spandine laughed awkwardly, not daring to deny it. "Uh... well, Your Highness, it's... it's not exactly like that..."
"Relax, Spandine. Don't make such a big deal out of this," Claudius said smoothly. "The man's a shipwright. Shipwrights build ships, don't they? Do you expect him to open a newsstand instead?"
"Yes, yes! Exactly, Your Highness! I was overthinking things," Spandine quickly agreed, nodding vigorously.
Indeed, Claudius was right. The situation with Tom was hardly worth all this fuss. If you branded every person who provided Roger with services as an accomplice, you'd have to start arresting cooks who fed him, tailors who clothed him, and shopkeepers who sold him supplies. The Five Elders wouldn't want to waste their time on such trivial matters.
The truth was, Spandine had just wanted to make himself look good. His efforts in finding the elusive scholars were going nowhere, and he needed something to show the Five Elders he was still working hard. So, he'd thought targeting Tom would make for a nice bit of "progress."
"Well, if Tom is talented enough to build a ship for the Pirate King, he must be skilled indeed. And I just happen to need someone with his expertise," Claudius said with a pleased nod. He then turned to Tom, who was watching with both confusion and hope in his eyes. "Tom, would you consider building a ship for me? Of course, you'll be well-compensated."
Tom hesitated, taken aback by the sudden shift. Wasn't this man here to arrest him? How had this turned into a business proposition? "Well... I..."
Sensing an opportunity to ingratiate himself, Spandine jumped in before Tom could finish his thought. "Tom! You should consider it an honor to build a ship for His Highness! You built one for Roger, but building one for His Highness Claudius? That's a blessing in itself! Your Highness is one of the most esteemed Celestial Dragons, far more important than any pirate! If you do a good job, he might even put in a good word for you. No one would dare trouble you after that!"
For all his faults, Spandine was a master of flattery, and Claudius couldn't help but smirk in amusement. Spandine's words, while exaggerated, were well-timed. Claudius wasn't above enjoying a bit of well-delivered praise.
"Alright, alright, Spandine, enough," Claudius said with a laugh. "Let's not bully the man. I'm here to do business, not coerce him. If Tom isn't happy, he won't put his best work into the ship. And I don't want a second-rate vessel."
Spandine bobbed his head vigorously. "Yes, Your Highness. Such wisdom! Your insight and patience are truly unmatched. I could never hope to compare."
Tom finally understood the situation. This was an opportunity, one that might just save him from the trouble looming over his head. If he could win the favor of a Celestial Dragon, particularly one as influential as Claudius, he could finish his sea train project without fear of the World Government's interference.
"Your Highness," Tom said, finally making up his mind. "I'd be honored to build a ship for you. I promise it'll be one of my finest works."
Claudius's face broke into a satisfied grin. "Excellent! That's what I wanted to hear."
He turned back to Spandine and said, "Now, Spandine, since I've found a talented shipwright here, there's no need to cause trouble, is there? After all, the World Government should be nurturing talent, not stifling it. This way, Tom can put his skills to good use, benefiting us all."
"Yes, yes, Your Highness! You're absolutely correct. How could I have been so shortsighted?" Spandine agreed eagerly, eager to stay in Claudius's good graces.
"Good. Then go focus on your actual assignment, those scholars, was it?" Claudius continued, waving a dismissive hand. "When I report to the Five Elders, I'll let them know you were the one who helped me find such an excellent shipwright. They'll be pleased to hear you're fostering talent for the government."
Spandine's face lit up with gratitude. "Thank you, Your Highness! Your generosity knows no bounds. Assisting you is the greatest honor of my life."
Claudius chuckled, amused by Spandine's endless flattery. "Alright, enough. Go on now."
Spandine quickly took his leave, bowing and scraping as he departed with his agents, clearly relieved to escape the situation without any repercussions. Once the government agents were gone, Claudius turned back to Tom with a relaxed smile.
Tom and his apprentices didn't dare respond too freely; they simply stood quietly, watching Claudius with cautious expressions.
Claudius chuckled, then brushed off some debris from an old chair nearby and took a seat. "So, in your current situation," he asked, "are you even able to build a ship right now?"
Tom hesitated. "Well... that depends on the type of ship Your Highness wants. If it's just a regular ship, we can start anytime. But if you're looking for something truly remarkable, we may need more resources. Perhaps an advance payment would help us get started."
Claudius raised an eyebrow. "If I wanted an ordinary ship, why would I come to you, Tom?" he replied with a smirk. "No, I want the best ship in the world. Can you handle that?"
Tom straightened up with a confident gleam in his eye. "Your Highness, I've built some of the finest ships to ever sail the seas. If you give us the right resources and freedom, I assure you, I can build the best."
Claudius laughed, clearly pleased with the man's spirit. "That's what I like to hear. Alright, let me lay out my expectations: First, the ship must be big and impressive, something that commands attention. Second, it should be comfortable and luxurious, fit for a royal. Third, I want it fully functional with no major flaws or weak points. And finally, it should be strong in combat. Understand?"
Tom pondered for a moment, then scratched his head. "Your Highness, building a ship with all those qualities is fine... but when it comes to luxurious interiors, I might need some assistance. I'm a shipbuilder, not an interior designer."
Claudius nodded thoughtfully. "Fair enough. I can arrange for someone to handle the finer details of the interiors. But still, this environment you're working in... it doesn't quite feel right for building a ship worthy of Celestial Dragons."
Tom's face turned a bit red as he looked around the rundown dock. Before he could respond, Claudius casually mentioned, "Oh, I should probably introduce myself properly. My name is Donquixote Claudius, and yes, I'm one of the Celestial Dragons. No need to be nervous, though—I'm not big on formalities. As long as you do the job well, we'll get along just fine."
Tom's eyes widened in shock as the name sank in. Donquixote Claudius, the Celestial Dragon responsible for capturing both Golden Lion Shiki and Pirate King Roger. The mysterious power within the World Government everyone whispered about. Realizing he was in the presence of such a high-ranking figure, Tom quickly pulled his apprentices to their knees out of respect.
"Alright, that's enough," Claudius waved his hand, signaling for them to stand. "Now, I hear your company has been struggling lately. How about this, I'll buy Tom's Workers outright and invest heavily to restore it. In exchange, you'll be responsible for building my ship. After that, once you've proven yourself, CP-X will be a steady source of work for you. Marine also needs more suppliers for their warships, so you could have plenty of business coming your way. Sound good?"
Tom seemed taken aback. This was an incredible opportunity. But he hesitated, not because of any dislike for the proposal, but because of his longstanding dream of building the sea train. Would he be able to pursue that if he agreed to Claudius' offer?
Seeing Tom's hesitation, Claudius narrowed his eyes slightly. "Something wrong with my offer, Tom?"
Quickly, Tom shook his head. "No, Your Highness, it's just... well, I have a project I've been dreaming of for years, a sea train that could connect the islands of this region. I'd hoped to dedicate my life to making it a reality."
Claudius's interest was piqued, though he kept his expression neutral. Of course, he was already aware of Tom's sea train project from his own knowledge. It was a revolutionary technology that would not only benefit the people but could also become a strategic asset for the World Government, allowing faster troop deployment across the islands. And it was sure to be profitable as well.
With a supportive smile, Claudius replied, "The sea train, huh? That's an ambitious project. But I'm a fair man, Tom. If you build me a ship that meets my expectations, I'll support your research on the sea train. With the resources of the World Government backing you, think how much faster you'll be able to bring your dream to life."
Tom was stunned. This deal was far better than he could have ever imagined. With the backing of a Celestial Dragon, not only would he be able to achieve his dream, but he'd also gain protection and resources beyond anything he'd hoped for.
Claudius continued, "And once Tom's Workers is up and running with my investment, you'll be free from financial concerns. No more worrying about who will pay the bills or buy materials. All I ask is that you build me a ship that truly stands out."
Tom couldn't believe his luck. Bowing deeply, he said, "Thank you, Your Highness! I'll make sure we craft a ship that lives up to your expectations."