At the end of the day, everyone has some degree of selfishness, and Sengoku was no exception.
In a different situation if Sengoku didn't have the backing he now enjoyed. he wouldn't dare to overreach. If a major breakthrough like the new Seastone technology appeared, his only option would have been to report it directly to the World Government and hope for some recognition in return.
But things were different now. For years, Marine's relationship with Claudius had been exceptionally close. Claudius wasn't just some random Celestial Dragon sitting idly in Mariejois; he was a true power player, a heavyweight within the Holy Land's inner circle. His authority rivaled anyone below the Five Elders themselves.
And Claudius had a natural advantage. As long as the Marines didn't pull something outrageous like declaring independence, Claudius could shield them from almost anything.
So naturally, Sengoku saw an opportunity. But this wasn't just about taking advantage of Claudius. He knew better than to let someone like Claudius do all the heavy lifting without giving anything in return. That wasn't how partnerships worked.
As someone destined to become Marine Fleet Admiral in the future, Sengoku understood the rules of the game. Friendship alone wasn't enough to bind two parties together. True alliances were built on mutual interests.
Claudius cultivated his ties with Marine because it benefited his own ambitions. Likewise, Sengoku sought to strengthen the Marines by nurturing his connection with Claudius. It wasn't a one-sided relationship but a give-and-take dynamic.
And now, the fruits of this long-standing partnership were starting to show. With Claudius' support, Marine would soon gain the capability to access the Calm Belt, a game-changer in every sense.
Through Claudius, Sengoku could position this innovation under the guise of "experimental testing." With this classification, Claudius' influence could shield the project from scrutiny by the World Government.
In truth, Sengoku's move wasn't just about technology, it was about the bigger picture. The age of pirates was snowballing out of control. Whitebeard's rise as a "Pirate Emperor" was a reality, and Sengoku had every reason to believe he wouldn't be the last. Soon, there might be a second emperor. A third. Even a fourth or fifth.
How would Marine respond to such a crisis? To truly hold their ground, the Marines needed overwhelming strength, enough to dominate the seas with absolute authority.
If Marine were three or five times stronger than they were now, wiping out the Whitebeard Pirates would be just another day's work. They could restore order to the world without breaking a sweat. But the unfortunate reality was that, while Marine was strong, they weren't invincible. Their resources were limited, their forces spread thin.
And this led to an even bigger problem: Marine's reliance on the World Government for funding.
Marine's budget, its military strength, was entirely dependent on how much funding the World Government allocated each year. Even with the best intentions, Marine couldn't expand its forces beyond the limits of its budget. Justice, while noble, couldn't fill empty stomachs. And no matter how passionate the soldiers were, they couldn't fight for justice on an empty stomach forever.
If the World Government reduced Marine's funding, even by a little, it would be enough to spark internal chaos. There would be no need for pirates to intervene, Marine would collapse under its own weight.
So for years, Marine's growth had followed a step-by-step plan dictated by the World Government's financial constraints. This slow and steady pace ensured stability, but it wasn't nearly enough to meet the challenges of the escalating pirate era.
While the World Government had been generous with funding recently, Sengoku knew this couldn't last forever. The system itself was flawed. The World Government was an enormous bureaucracy, and Marine wasn't its only concern.
In fact, Sengoku understood that the CP agencies were the World Government's true favorites, receiving preferential treatment in both resources and attention.
Although Sengoku didn't have access to the full details, he could guess the situation. The World Government was likely stuck in a vicious financial cycle. Marine's recent budgets may have been generous, but that generosity came at a cost.
The truth was, the World Government had been running at a deficit for years. It was a carefully guarded secret, one that even Claudius was unaware of. But for those paying attention, the signs were clear.
The massive structure of the World Government meant that only a fraction of the taxes collected worldwide actually made it to the central authority. Of the hundreds of billions in taxes collected, only seven or eight billion reached the World Government's coffers.
The rising tide of piracy had further worsened the situation, disrupting trade routes and strangling maritime commerce. Merchants struggled, and as their profits declined, so did the wealth of the nations they operated in. A weakened economy meant lower taxes, and the World Government's revenue continued to shrink.
In response, the World Government had been forced to increase its spending, pouring more money into Marine's military budget and other initiatives to combat piracy.
But even amidst this financial crisis, the Celestial Dragons lived in their own world, oblivious to reality. They spent extravagantly, their opulent lifestyles draining the treasury with no regard for the consequences.
The gap between the World Government's income and expenses had grown unsustainable.
Sengoku could see the writing on the wall. The military budgets of today wouldn't last forever. Two years from now, Marine might find itself facing serious cutbacks.
If there were no other options, Sengoku would accept this fate. But now, there was an alternative, a chance to break free from the World Government's tight grip.
The new Seastone technology for ships had opened a door. With the ability to access the Calm Belt, Marine could tap into untold natural resources. And while Marine wasn't allowed to engage in independent business operations explicitly forbidden by the World Government—Claudius could.
As a Celestial Dragon and head of CP-X, Claudius operated outside the usual restrictions. His pedigree and privileges made him a perfect shield.
Marine could work with Claudius to exploit the Calm Belt's resources, turning them into a new source of revenue. It wouldn't just be about survival, it would allow Marine to grow on its own terms, free from the limits of the World Government's budget.
Of course, Sengoku had no intention of reporting this development to the higher-ups. Instead, he labeled the Seastone technology as "still in testing," ensuring that no one could interfere for the time being. Claudius' support would cover any minor infractions, smoothing over potential complications.
And Sengoku had no doubt that Claudius was just as eager to see this succeed. The prospect of vast wealth and influence in the Calm Belt was too enticing to ignore.
By working together, Claudius could serve as Marine's "umbrella," shielding them from bureaucratic scrutiny while they developed the Calm Belt's resources. With this new revenue stream, Marine could finally break free from its financial shackles.
If the plan succeeded, Sengoku was confident Marine could enter a new era of rapid development. With increased power and resources, they could suppress pirate forces worldwide with ease.
It wasn't a perfect plan there were risks and potential pitfalls but with Claudius covering their tracks, Sengoku believed the partnership was rock-solid.
"Having a backer is a wonderful thing," Sengoku thought to himself with a satisfied smile. Sengoku had his plans, but Claudius wasn't without his own.
The Calm Belt, an untapped reservoir of immense natural resources, was a place Claudius had been eyeing for a long time. However, for the longest time, he hadn't found a practical way to exploit it. His original idea was to wait until Amazon Lily came into play specifically, to see if their unique "sea serpent biotechnology" could be of any use.
He'd also considered the Seastone-coated ship technology used by the Marines to navigate the Calm Belt. Yet, he wasn't sure when exactly this technology had been developed. From his memory, this innovation came into play during the Summit War, when Vice Admiral Momonga used it to summon Boa Hancock to fulfill her Warlord obligations.
As of now, Claudius wasn't sure if Marine had already perfected the technology. This uncertainty was part of the reason why he had always wanted to probe deeper into Marine's mysterious Scientific Division. Technology, after all, was the primary driver of progress. Even something seemingly simple could lead to massive breakthroughs and unimaginable profits.
Now, however, Claudius didn't need to chase after the technology himself, Sengoku had delivered it right to his doorstep. Only an idiot would refuse such an opportunity.
Why had Claudius spent so much effort maintaining close ties with Marine's upper echelons over the years? Was it purely out of nostalgia for Zephyr's kindness? Perhaps a little, but not nearly enough to justify his actions.
The real reason was far more practical: Claudius wanted to influence Marine Headquarters in the long term. He aimed to make his personal presence felt within the Marine hierarchy.
While direct control over Marine similar to how the World Government wielded authority was ideal, Claudius knew it wasn't realistic. Marine's structure was too insulated, its systems too rigid. It wasn't a power easily infiltrated or controlled. So, he settled for a different approach: gradually accumulating influence within Marine, waiting for the right opportunity to leverage the banner of "justice" to his advantage.
And this opportunity had finally arrived. Sengoku's proposal to use Claudius as a shield for broadening Marine's financial resources wasn't just about tapping into the Calm Belt. It was about opening a door, one that allowed Claudius to embed himself in Marine's operations.
Once this door was opened, Marine, having tasted the benefits, wouldn't be able to close it again.
For Claudius, the profits of the Calm Belt were secondary. The real prize was the influence and leverage this arrangement gave him over Marine. After all, wealth was just money, but power was the ability to shape events.
The World Government kept Marine under control by holding their purse strings. The threat of cutting military expenditures was enough to force even someone like Akainu to compromise. No matter how fiery his "absolute justice" burned, even Akainu had no choice but to bow to reality when the World Government controlled the funding.
But now, thanks to Sengoku, Claudius was planting a seed of independence within Marine. With this new financial channel, Marine wouldn't be as constrained by the World Government's budgetary whims.
From Sengoku's perspective, this deal was a minor gray area, barely a violation. With Claudius covering for them, it was a negligible risk. Claudius was a Celestial Dragon, the very embodiment of the World Government's legitimacy. So long as the money was technically coming from Claudius, it was just an extension of the system itself.
But from Claudius' perspective, this was much more significant. He was laying the groundwork to influence the World Government's strongest force, making it easier to sway Marine's actions in the future.
As for the immense profits of the Calm Belt, Claudius felt that with his identity and Marine's partnership, those profits were already as good as his. Even if this arrangement lasted for seven, eight, or ten years before the World Government caught wind of it, Claudius wouldn't lose any sleep over it.
If they did catch on, what could they even say? Claudius could easily argue that all the money had gone toward strengthening the World Government's forces, specifically Marine and CP-X. It wasn't as if he were embezzling funds or using the money for personal gain.
After all, both Marine and CP-X were officially part of the World Government. Claudius could even frame it as a move to reduce the World Government's financial burden, sparing them from the need to provide annual funding.
Although Sengoku himself lacked the authority to formalize such a deal, Claudius was confident in his own ability to convince the Five Elders if necessary.
He could present the Calm Belt's development as a win-win. If the World Government attempted to control it directly, at least half the resources would be lost to corruption before reaching their hands. Claudius, however, had no need for such underhanded tactics. As a Celestial Dragon, the World Government's wealth was already his wealth, there was no reason to siphon funds.
By placing himself in charge, Claudius could ensure all resources were collected efficiently and allocated transparently. And with this newfound wealth, Marine and CP-X could strengthen their forces, stabilizing the seas and securing the World Government's rule.
It was a proposal that ticked every box.
Of course, all of this hinged on Claudius remaining loyal and not overstepping his bounds. But as a Celestial Dragon especially one as high-ranking as he was, Claudius had a natural advantage in earning trust.
After carefully weighing the pros and cons, Claudius decided that Sengoku's plan was not only feasible but highly advantageous for everyone involved.
Sharing a knowing look, Claudius and Sengoku both broke into laughter. The understanding between them had deepened, and without others to intrude, their alliance now felt solidified.
Placing a hand on Sengoku's shoulder, Claudius said with a grin, "Sengoku, I'll make sure Water 7 prioritizes this project. We'll push aside any unimportant orders and focus all our efforts on your Marine and CP-X ships. Let's make sure we complete these experimental results as soon as possible to serve the World Government."
"Hahahaha, much appreciated, Your Highness," Sengoku replied with a smile.
"There's no need to stand on ceremony," Claudius said grandly. "Up until now, perhaps there's been a bit of distance between us. But starting today, we're truly on the same side. Don't worry, Sengoku I'll never shortchange your Marines. How about a fifty-fifty split? I won't take advantage of you."
Sengoku's eyes widened slightly at the offer. He had been prepared to settle for a three-to-seven or even a four-to-six split, given the weight of Claudius' involvement and his role as a protective shield. To hear Claudius suggest an even fifty-fifty split without hesitation was beyond generous.
Claudius, a Celestial Dragon, had no need to make such an offer, but the fact that he did was enough to leave Sengoku thoroughly impressed. As the two continued walking and chatting, Claudius eventually said, "Sengoku, once I've taken care of the mess in Mariejois, how about we meet at Sabaody Archipelago?"
Sengoku nodded. "I'll leave it to your arrangements."
During the earlier meeting, Sengoku had successfully passed the responsibility for dealing with Fish-Man Island onto Claudius. Nusjuro had also agreed that Fish-Man Island was a logical starting point to make progress, an opening to begin "tearing a hole," as Sengoku had put it.
The reasoning was straightforward: while Whitebeard's flag could be seen flying in various territories, there was no justification for it to be raised over a member nation of the World Government. That had to be addressed. Fish-Man Island was such a place, and it had to be resolved.
The meeting concluded with Nusjuro deciding to reevaluate and reorganize the World Government's relationship with Fish-Man Island.
In the original timeline, there was no such effort. Princess Otohime's plans were disrupted when she was captured by a Celestial Dragon an event that should still be two years away. That incident strained the relationship between Fish-Man Island and the World Government even further, leaving it unresolved for years.
Even later, at the World Summit, Fish-Man Island still operated under the protection of pirates, with Whitebeard's flag being replaced first by Big Mom's and later by Luffy's. The island's allegiance was dictated by strength, with one pirate group after another acting as its "guardian."
Although the Five Elders had attempted to improve relations with Fish-Man Island, appointing Jinbei as one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea was merely a symbolic gesture with limited impact.
But this time, things were different. Claudius, as Sengoku described, was an anomaly among the Celestial Dragons, much like how Garp was a disruptive force within Marine. Claudius could do things that the Five Elders couldn't or wouldn't, and he felt no qualms about breaking convention.
The preliminary plan was for the World Government to free one-third of Mariejois' Fish-Man Island slaves, focusing primarily on the merfolk. It was a gesture of goodwill designed to show sincerity toward Fish-Man Island.
This wasn't about morality or fairness, merely pragmatism. It would give the Celestial Dragons time to process the changes while demonstrating to Fish-Man Island that the World Government was serious about improving their relationship. The message was simple: "We're showing you good faith. Now it's your turn to meet us halfway, take down Whitebeard's flag, and we'll provide the protection you need."
Of course, this plan applied only to slaves from Fish-Man Island. It wasn't a blanket liberation effort, nor was it meant to address other types of slavery. This was just one part of a larger strategy.
The reason Claudius and Sengoku planned to meet at Sabaody Archipelago was that the area had been designated for cleanup as well. Unlike Mariejois, where freeing slaves meant dealing with the Celestial Dragons directly, Sabaody was less complicated. The merfolk and fish-men there were mostly held by slave traders, who lacked the untouchable status of the Celestial Dragons.
The decision was clear: crush them completely. Nusjuro and Claudius agreed to a no-tolerance policy, wipe out the slave trade in Sabaody related to Fish-Man Island. Any merchant caught trafficking merfolk or fish-men would face absolute consequences. If they dared to repeat their crimes, they'd pay with their lives.
Sabaody Archipelago also held symbolic importance. Part of the plan was to establish a special zone on Sabaody where Fish-Man Island residents could come freely, providing them with a safe haven. This gesture was another way of demonstrating the World Government's commitment to change.
After parting ways in front of the Social Square, Sengoku headed to the port to return to Marineford and make the necessary preparations, while Claudius returned to his palace to set things in motion.
As soon as Claudius stepped inside, he saw Nia waiting for him.
"Nia, I need you to contact the Ministry of Internal Affairs and find out how many slaves in Mariejois are from Fish-Man Island. They have three days to compile the information and send me a full list," Claudius instructed with a smile.
Though curious about the sudden request, Nia refrained from asking questions and simply nodded. "Yes, Your Highness. I'll handle it immediately."
Once Nia left, Claudius made his way to the courtyard. There, he spotted Lenny and Mero chatting with the three Boa sisters by the pool.
"Your Highness, you're back!" Lenny said cheerfully as she noticed him approaching.
"Yeah, I'm back," Claudius replied with a nod and a smile. However, there was a hint of melancholy in his voice as he continued, "Lenny, Mero, it's time for you two to pack your things."
The two mermaid sisters froze, clearly confused.
"Are you sending us away, Your Highness? Are you giving us to someone else?" Lenny asked nervously.
Claudius chuckled and patted her head gently. "Of course not. What kind of person do you think I am? I promised you a long time ago that I'd set you free. In a few days, I'm heading to Fish-Man Island, and that's where you'll finally be able to go home."
The moment Claudius finished speaking, Lenny and Mero's faces lit up with joy.
Watching from the side, Hancock looked at Claudius in surprise. Though she had overheard this promise before, she had always thought he was simply placating the two mermaids. She never imagined he'd actually follow through especially so soon.
Lenny, however, noticed the slight sadness in Claudius' expression. Feeling a pang of guilt, she hesitated before saying, "If we leave, Your Highness will be lonely, won't you? Why don't we stay a little longer? You'll have another chance to visit Fish-Man Island in the future."
Claudius smiled warmly at her words, his mood visibly lifting. "No need. Every journey has its end, Lenny."
After a brief pause, he added with a playful grin, "Besides, I've worked hard for you merfolk this time. I just persuaded the Five Elders to implement some changes in Mariejois. Three days from now, we'll be freeing one-third of the Fish-Man Island slaves in Mariejois. For Sabaody Archipelago, the World Government will prioritize cleaning up the mermaid slave trade there as well. And that's not all, new legislation will be put in place to protect the personal safety of Fish-Man Island residents. From now on, anyone who harms or enslaves merfolk will face severe punishment. It's no longer just empty formalities. How does that sound?"
Though Claudius exaggerated slightly by taking full credit for these reforms, he didn't feel too bad about it. After all, he was spearheading the effort, so why not claim a bit of the glory?
Lenny and Mero were ecstatic, their gratitude and excitement evident in their expressions.
"My doors will always be open to you," Claudius added with a smile. "If you ever feel like visiting, you're always welcome."
At this moment, Hancock spoke up, her voice tinged with anticipation. "What about us?"
"What about you?" Claudius asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Can we be free too?" Hancock asked eagerly.
Claudius burst into laughter. "Free? Hahaha! Don't even dream about it! You three will never escape my grasp!" Mariejois was unusually noisy today, especially within the Celestial Dragons' residential district commonly referred to as the "House of the Gods."
The source of the commotion? None other than Claudius himself.
The Ministry of Internal Affairs didn't dare keep a Celestial Dragon like Claudius waiting for the three days he had allotted. In just a day and a half, they delivered a comprehensive list of all slaves in Mariejois originating from Fish-Man Island to Claudius' palace.
With the list in hand, Claudius gathered a large entourage and began his self-proclaimed mission to "clean up" Mariejois.
Walking down one of the grand avenues of the Domain of the Gods, Claudius held the list in one hand, a pen in the other. Having just left a Celestial Dragon's estate, he crossed a name off the list with a flick of his pen.
Trailing behind him was a frail fish-woman, her body scarred and her spirit broken, moving like a lifeless puppet. She followed Claudius' group in silence, a stark reminder of the system he was now challenging.
"Who's next on the list?" Claudius muttered, scanning the names. Then, with a slight smirk, he said, "Well, well, well, Rosward. Let's see what you've been hiding."
The list showed that Saint Rosward's household held four fish-women as slaves.
"Tch, unbelievable. I only have two mermaids in my house, and that bastard dares to keep four? Disgusting." Claudius clicked his tongue in irritation.
Without looking back, he waved his hand and declared, "Turn around. We're heading to Rosward's place."
As the words left his mouth, a familiar voice called out behind him.
"Your Highness, what's all this commotion about? Making such a scene?"
Claudius turned, and his expression brightened as he recognized the speaker. "Well, if it isn't Stussy. Long time no see."
It was indeed Stussy. She looked as youthful and radiant as ever, her appearance unchanged despite the years.
"You haven't aged a day," Claudius said with a grin. "Still as stunning as always."
A faint blush crept onto Stussy's face as she rolled her eyes. "Oh, stop it. I'm barely over twenty, what's supposed to change?"
Claudius chuckled but didn't press the topic further. For all the years they'd known each other, Stussy had never revealed her real age. It didn't matter to him, she was beautiful, and that was enough. (T/N: Once again don't forget that this fic was written back in 2020)
Thanks to Stussy's influence, even Nia, his ever-efficient butler, had maintained a near-ageless appearance over the years. What sort of tricks these two women used to maintain their looks was a mystery to Claudius, but he wasn't particularly concerned. If he ever stumbled upon a way to prolong his own life, whether through "pure gold" or the Ope-Ope Fruit—he'd gladly seize the opportunity.
"Hahaha, just got back today?" Claudius asked, changing the subject.
Stussy nodded. "That's right. I only just returned to Mariejois and thought I'd come see what you were up to. As soon as I entered the Domain of the Gods, I could tell something was off, the atmosphere was strange. I asked around and found out you're on some kind of mission. Care to explain?"
"Hah, it's simple enough," Claudius replied with a laugh. "I'm raiding houses."
Stussy blinked in disbelief. "Raiding houses? You're raiding Celestial Dragons' homes?"
"Why not?" Claudius shrugged as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
"Your Highness, isn't that going a bit too far? What if this backfires? Can you handle the consequences?" Stussy asked, her tone laced with concern.
Her worries weren't unfounded. Even though Claudius held a special status and was valued by the Five Elders, openly antagonizing other Celestial Dragons could create enormous pressure, pressure that even he might struggle to withstand.
Claudius understood her concerns perfectly. His reputation as a "wild card" among the Celestial Dragons allowed him to act freely in many ways, but it wasn't without its risks. This entire "clean-up" operation was bound to offend the majority of Mariejois' elite families.
And once it was over, Claudius would have no choice but to lean even harder on the Five Elders for protection. Without their support, the backlash could be overwhelming.
But Claudius didn't care.
Outside of his own Donquixote family, the rest of the Celestial Dragons meant nothing to him. In his eyes, they were just parasites. This world wasn't big enough for all of them to coexist forever. Eventually, there would be only one family standing at the top, and he intended for it to be the Donquixote family.
Even the Five Elders posed a dilemma for Claudius. Initially, he'd viewed them as the root of the World Government's problems. But over time, as he interacted with them more, he began to see them in a different light.
Unlike most Celestial Dragons, the Five Elders genuinely seemed to care about the world's stability and development. They understood that a strong, orderly world would make the World Government stronger. They worked tirelessly to suppress piracy and maintain peace, and they fought back against the Revolutionary Army because it threatened the established order.
Of course, they had their flaws, power-hungry and self-serving as they were but who didn't? Claudius hadn't yet uncovered any deep, unforgivable secrets about them. For now, he could only speculate about their darker side.
What troubled him more was how well the Five Elders treated him. Despite occasionally setting him up to take the fall for various schemes, they had otherwise supported him wholeheartedly, even going so far as to groom him for greater responsibilities.
Sometimes, Claudius couldn't help but wonder: were they preparing him to succeed them one day?
This thought made him hesitate. If the Five Elders continued treating him with such generosity, would he even have the heart to eliminate them when the time came?
For now, though, these were questions for the future. As long as they maintained this mutually beneficial relationship, there was no harm in letting things play out. If they could accept his leadership down the line, Claudius might even consider sparing them.
But as for the rest of the Celestial Dragons? They were irrelevant to him. He wasn't afraid to offend them, if anything, they'd likely hate him even more after today's events. And if they wanted to complain, they could take it up with the Five Elders.
"Don't worry, Stussy," Claudius said confidently. "If this operation creates any trouble, there are people above me who can handle it. If the sky falls, the tall ones will hold it up."
With that, Claudius handed Stussy a royal order from the Five Elders, granting him full authority over the operation.
Stussy skimmed the document, her eyes widening slightly. She couldn't help but smile. "I see. You're carrying out the higher-ups' orders. Well, I suppose that makes things easier."
As they talked, Claudius' group reached the gates of Saint Rosward's estate. The gates were shut tight, as if to ward off Claudius' intrusion.
Looking at the grand, ornate palace, Claudius smirked. "Ah, how welcoming. Locking me out, are they? Well, no matter."
Without hesitation, he turned to his men and ordered, "Break the door down. Let's see what treasures they're hiding inside." Hearing the relentless pounding on his courtyard gates, Saint Rosward was both nervous and furious.
"What the hell is Claudius trying to do? I've shut the gates and stayed out of his way, and now he's banging on my door?" Rosward fumed, pacing back and forth in his courtyard, his face red with anger.
Surrounding him was a group of slaves, along with his mentally deficient son, Saint Charlos, who was sitting on a chair being carried by attendants.
Charlos, still recovering from the beating he'd received from Claudius some time ago, flinched at the noise outside. His injuries had yet to fully heal, and every movement reminded him of the pain. Hearing the commotion, Charlos looked panicked.
"Father! That guy is here for trouble again! Let's run away!" Charlos blurted, his voice trembling with fear.
He didn't dare provoke Claudius anymore. The last time, he'd only taken his shoes off, and yet Claudius nearly beat him to death. He still couldn't take care of himself not that he ever really could. Just the thought of Claudius storming in made him shudder.
Suddenly, a thought crossed Charlos' mind, and he twisted his bloated body in a panic. "Quick! Someone bring me water to wash my feet! If my feet are clean, maybe Claudius won't hit me!"
Rosward's eye twitched as he watched his son. He nearly spat blood in anger.
"What kind of idiot are you?!" Rosward roared, slapping Charlos across the face. "Calm down! I'm here! Let's see if Claudius really has the guts to lay a finger on you while I'm standing! If he tries anything, I'll take this straight to the Five Elders and demand justice! We're Celestial Dragons! How dare we endure this kind of persecution?!"
Charlos froze in shock, holding his cheek where his father had slapped him. "Father... you hit me?" he stammered in disbelief.
Rosward's anger flared again, and he looked like he was about to kick his son, but a young Celestial Dragon girl tugged at his arm.
"Father, don't be mad at Brother. He's just scared," said the girl gently.
Rosward sighed and patted her on the head. "Shalria, stay behind me. Don't worry, I won't let anything happen to you."
From their conversation, one might think Claudius was some notorious villain terrorizing the innocent. Well, given the current circumstances, perhaps that wasn't entirely wrong.
Suddenly, there was a loud crash. The ornate gates of Rosward's estate fell to the ground with a thunderous bang, crushing the manicured flower beds below.
Through the settling dust, Claudius strode in with his usual carefree demeanor. He looked around the courtyard, rubbing his chin as if inspecting the place.
"Not bad, not bad. The landscaping here is pretty unique," he mused aloud.
"Claudius! What is the meaning of this?!" Rosward roared, stepping forward in fury.
"What's the meaning of this?" Claudius replied casually. "I was just passing by and noticed your door seemed broken wouldn't open no matter how hard I knocked. So I did you a favor and opened it for you. Don't worry, I'll send someone to install a brand-new one later. I'm very considerate like that."
Rosward's face turned crimson with rage. His hand trembled as he pointed at Claudius. "Get out of here! You're not welcome in my home!"
Claudius didn't bother responding. He stepped forward, brushed aside Rosward's hand with ease, and leaned down slightly. Using his height advantage, he tapped Rosward on the forehead with his finger and said, "Listen here, Rosward. Don't stand here pointing at me like you're somebody important. Don't forget your place. We may both be Celestial Dragons, but there's a hierarchy even among us. You're just a mid-level Celestial Dragon, while I'm from the Donquixote family. Don't get too full of yourself."
The tap on the forehead made Rosward stagger back a few steps. He clenched his fists, swallowing his humiliation as he stared at Claudius with a mix of anger and fear.
"Don't be too arrogant, Claudius!" Rosward finally snapped. "I haven't even settled accounts with you over what you did to Charlos last time. Now you come storming into my home? If you don't give me an explanation, I'll take this straight to the Five Elders!"
"Oh? Are you threatening me?" Claudius asked, his voice dripping with mockery. Then, with a smirk, he added, "Let me give you a little advice, Rosward: don't push your luck. Resisting the law is a serious offense, you know?"
Rosward felt like his brain had short-circuited. Resisting the law? He was sitting at home minding his own business, and now Claudius was accusing him of breaking the law? What law? What nonsense was this?
Ignoring Rosward's dumbfounded expression, Claudius shifted his gaze to Charlos. The moment Charlos caught Claudius' eye, he flinched as though he'd been struck, trembling in his seat. Claudius, however, didn't bother with him. Picking on Charlos was hardly satisfying, it was like bullying a puppy.
Behind Rosward, Claudius noticed a young girl peeking out nervously. Shalria, if he remembered correctly. She was pretty, but he had no time to concern himself with her.
"I hear you've got four mermaid slaves in your house," Claudius said, his tone turning cold. "Hand them over now. If even one is missing, you'll find out why the flowers are red."
"Preposterous!" Rosward roared. "Even if you're a high-ranking Celestial Dragon, you can't just waltz in here and rob us! Those mermaids are my property, my slaves!"
Claudius waved dismissively at one of his attendants and said, "Write this down. Rosward obstructed justice, resisted law enforcement, and refused to surrender illegal slaves. Record this as an act of defiance against the World Government."
Behind him, one of his clerks dutifully scribbled the words into a notebook.
Rosward was livid. "What law did I break? What nonsense are you spewing, Claudius?!"
Instead of answering, Claudius slapped Rosward across the face, sending him sprawling to the ground. He then turned to his entourage and ordered, "Go inside, find those four mermaids, and bring them out. Take anything else that looks interesting while you're at it, we can't visit a place like this and leave empty-handed."
Rosward writhed on the ground, his voice trembling with rage. "Claudius, you're nothing but a bandit! This isn't over, I'll make sure you pay for this!"
Claudius casually dusted off his hands, ignoring the outburst. "Bandit? Me? Nah, I'm just following orders from the Five Elders. See for yourself."
He tossed the royal edict onto Rosward's chest, then leaned down with a grin. "This is official business, sanctioned by the highest authority. If you've got a problem, go ahead and take it up with them. But let me give you some advice, don't waste your breath. I've got more houses to raid today, and as long as you stay out of my way, I couldn't care less about you."
Without waiting for a response, Claudius strode deeper into the estate, his entourage following close behind. For three full days, Claudius stirred up chaos across Mariejois, leaving no stone unturned. Nearly every Celestial Dragon family had been "visited" by him, their homes ransacked under the guise of enforcement.
Like at Saint Rosward's estate, wherever Claudius went, he left with something valuable, whether it was slaves or treasures. By the end of it, Claudius had accumulated a small fortune.
He wasted no time. All 300+ freed mermaid slaves were loaded onto his ship, and with Mero and Lenny accompanying him, Claudius set sail for Sabaody Archipelago. Once there, he planned to have his massive flagship, the Prometheus, coated, a task that would take at least a week given its size.
But Claudius wasn't one to sit idle. During that week, he intended to get a few things done. First, he'd send word to Fish-Man Island, letting them know to prepare for his arrival. Second, he would oversee a joint operation between CP-X and Marine Headquarters to clean up Sabaody Archipelago. The normally chaotic island was about to become a war zone.
Back in Mariejois, inside the grand offices of the Five Elders, a pile of complaints sat on their table, and none of them were laughing.
The pile was made up entirely of letters from furious Celestial Dragons, all directed at Claudius. The grievances were identical: accusing Claudius of raiding their homes, stealing their slaves, and even taking their rare treasures.
Of course, Claudius denied everything. "What nonsense," he'd say. "As an upper-tier Celestial Dragon, I have more wealth than any of you. Why would I stoop so low as to covet your measly possessions?"
The Bald Elder picked up one of the letters and shook his head. "Apparently, Claudius did agree to replace the gate at Rosward's estate, but what he installed instead was a giant iron wall that sealed them inside completely. They can't even leave their own house because he didn't bother leaving a keyhole."
"Hahahaha!" The Sword-Wielding Elder chuckled, tapping his sword's hilt. "That kid has really caused a stir. Mariejois has been in an uproar for days now. He's become the embodiment of chaos like a plague god come to life."
"And he refuses to admit he's taken anything from them," added the Blond Elder, shaking his head in exasperation.
The initial edict to free the mermaid slaves had been a relatively straightforward order, but Claudius had turned it into a full-blown spectacle, stirring up all of Mariejois. Now, not only the Celestial Dragons, but nearly everyone in Mariejois knew what he'd done.
News had spread that Saint Claudius had stormed through the Domain of the Gods, liberated over 300 mermaid slaves, and was now escorting them to Fish-Man Island.
Even the major slave traders in Mariejois, sensing which way the wind was blowing, had sent their remaining mermaid slaves to Claudius without waiting for him to demand them. They couldn't afford to provoke someone who dared to disrespect even other Celestial Dragons.
In the past, Claudius had a decent reputation in Mariejois. While he was known to be eccentric, people didn't see him as a threat. But now? His actions had cemented him as someone no one wanted to cross.
By the time he left for Sabaody Archipelago, his new reputation as "Mariejois' Demon King" was solidified. Even the Five Elders, sitting amidst piles of complaints, couldn't deny that Claudius had lived up to his title.
"How should we handle this?" asked the Bearded Elder with a small grin.
"Well," the Bald Elder began, "it's not like Claudius is doing this for himself. He's carrying out an important task for us. No matter how messy this has become, he acted without hesitation showing us his loyalty in the process. We can't let him feel abandoned now."
The Bald Elder's tone was protective, and his fondness for Claudius was evident. Truthfully, the more he watched Claudius, the more he appreciated him. In fact, he'd even started entertaining the thought of arranging a marriage between Claudius and his granddaughter. After all, Claudius wasn't just competent he was reliable, resourceful, and carried himself like a leader.
But for now, those musings were set aside.
The Curly-Haired Elder frowned and rubbed his chin. "Still, he's a bit too arrogant. If this continues, the grievances in Mariejois will grow too large to ignore. We need to rein him in just a little."
The Bald Elder nodded thoughtfully. "That's fair. We need to address the optics. Perhaps something symbolic to appease the others."
"Let's fine him," the Blond Elder suggested after a moment. "Five hundred million berries."
The Bald Elder considered the figure and then nodded. "Alright, five hundred million it is."
On the surface, it sounded like a significant punishment, but in reality, it was little more than a slap on the wrist. The annual funds allocated to Claudius by the World Government were well beyond that amount, not to mention the wealth he'd accumulated through other ventures.
And after ransacking the Celestial Dragons' estates during his "operation," Claudius had likely pocketed a sum well exceeding two billion berries. Losing five hundred million would hardly faze him.
With the matter settled, the conversation shifted.
"So, what's he up to on Sabaody Archipelago?" asked the Blond Elder.
"Causing even more trouble than he did in Mariejois," the Bald Elder replied, pulling out two files from the stack of reports. He opened them and placed them on the table for the others to see.
The top report was accompanied by a gruesome photograph: a pyramid of severed human heads. In the underworld, such displays were referred to as skull towers, used to terrify and suppress opposition.
"Killing," murmured the Blond Elder, raising an eyebrow.
"Indeed," the Bald Elder confirmed. "Claudius cleaned out the slave trade on Sabaody Archipelago. Every slave trader there has been executed, their heads piled up in the lawless zone as a warning. Even a number of pirates got caught up in the purge. The message is clear, and the results have been effective."
"Violent, but efficient," the Sword-Wielding Elder noted, leaning back in his chair. "It seems Claudius' methods are already producing results."
"Ultimately, it's just some scum getting what they deserve," the Bald Elder said. "And beyond eliminating the slave trade, this sends a strong message. Whether it's Mariejois or Sabaody Archipelago, the World Government's sincerity toward Fish-Man Island is on full display. Claudius' actions speak for themselves."
Indeed, Claudius' over-the-top antics weren't just about theatrics they were calculated. By raising such a commotion, he demonstrated the World Government's commitment to improving relations with Fish-Man Island. The more chaos he caused, the more weight his negotiations would carry.
For the Five Elders, this was all part of the plan.
"Think about it," the Bald Elder said. "For Fish-Man Island, Claudius went as far as offending the entire Celestial Dragon community in Mariejois. He left Sabaody Archipelago soaked in blood with over two thousand heads on display. If that's not sincerity, what is?
"If they still hesitate or try to push back, they're only making things harder for Claudius. And do you think someone with the title of 'Mariejois' Demon King' will let himself be embarrassed on Fish-Man Island? I'd love to see them try." Early in the morning, at the Marine station on Sabaody Archipelago, Sengoku was busy handling the aftermath of the recent chaos.
In the past few days, Claudius had turned the entire Sabaody Archipelago upside down. True to his nature, though, Claudius was the type to throw everything into disarray and then walk away, leaving others to deal with the fallout. Naturally, Sengoku found himself left to clean up the mess.
"Admiral Sengoku, the coating on the Prometheus is complete!" a Marine colonel reported as he entered the office.
Hearing this, Sengoku looked up from the pile of documents cluttering his desk. Raising an eyebrow, he asked, "Where is Saint Claudius?"
"We're not sure, sir. He didn't return last night. Shall we begin searching for him?" the colonel asked hesitantly.
Sengoku waved off the suggestion. "No need. His Highness knows exactly when the coating would be finished. With his strength and identity, there's nothing on Sabaody Archipelago that could pose a real danger to him," he said, though there was a faint edge of exasperation in his tone.
As if on cue, Claudius strolled into the office, his expression lighthearted as usual. "A Celestial Dragon goes missing overnight, and Admiral Sengoku isn't the least bit worried? That's truly disappointing. I'm hurt, Sengoku," Claudius teased with a smile.
Sengoku chuckled as he gestured to the mountain of paperwork on his desk. "Worried? About you? If it were anyone else, I'd have mobilized an entire fleet. But you, Your Highness? I only need to worry about the bloodbath you've caused. Who would dare provoke you when they know the kind of chaos you bring with you?"
He pointed to the stacks of reports on his desk, most of them related to Claudius' actions over the past few days.
"Ahahahaha, fair point," Claudius laughed, completely unbothered.
"It's not trouble, just...time-consuming," Sengoku said dryly. "These could be handled by subordinates, but since you're back, let's get moving. The Prometheus is ready, and I've got plenty of other work waiting for me in Marineford. I can't afford to sit around here forever."
Claudius nodded, unbothered by Sengoku's impatience. "No problem, let's head out."
---
The enormous Prometheus was now fully coated in a shimmering bubble and ready to dive into the depths of the sea. This was Claudius' first time experiencing the process of descending beneath the ocean, and he couldn't help but marvel at the breathtaking scenery that unfolded before him. Schools of vibrant fish swam past the bubble coating, their movements graceful and hypnotic.
Even Robin, who rarely left her library, had emerged onto the deck. With wide, curious eyes, she leaned against the railing, taking in the sights of the underwater world.
Sengoku, holding a glass of juice and leaning casually against the mast, took a rare moment to relax. "So, Your Highness, you've been missing for the past two days. Care to share what you've been up to?" he asked with a raised eyebrow and a smirk.
Claudius didn't look away from the fish swimming just outside the ship's protective bubble. "I heard there was an interesting guy on Sabaody, so I went looking for him. Spent two days searching but only found his partner. So, I had a couple of drinks with her. That's about it."
Sengoku blinked, momentarily stunned. "So...you went looking for a man, didn't find him, and just decided to hang out with his partner instead? Your Highness, the way you Celestial Dragons operate never ceases to amaze me."
In truth, Claudius had been searching for Silvers Rayleigh, the legendary "Dark King." They had crossed paths years ago and shared a certain camaraderie. Claudius had been curious to see him again.
But Rayleigh, likely aware that both Claudius and Sengoku were on the island, had chosen to lay low. As someone who preferred to avoid unnecessary trouble, Rayleigh likely concluded that the simultaneous presence of a Celestial Dragon and a Marine Admiral spelled potential disaster.
So, in true Rayleigh fashion, he had likely taken to the sea, vanishing before Claudius could catch sight of him.
Meanwhile, Claudius had spent those two days at Shakky's Rip-Off Bar, enjoying drinks and lively conversation with Shakky, the proprietress.
Sengoku, however, had no idea who Claudius had been looking for, nor did Claudius plan to tell him. After all, it wasn't like Rayleigh needed to appear on Marine's radar.
Still, Sengoku found the situation absurd. Shaking his head, he decided not to press the matter further. As Marine Admiral, he felt it was beneath him to pry into such frivolous gossip. Clearing his throat, he changed the subject. "Speaking of interesting things, Your Highness, I almost forgot to show you something."
Claudius turned away from the mesmerizing underwater view and looked at Sengoku. "Oh? What is it?"
Reaching into his coat, Sengoku pulled out a slightly wrinkled bounty poster and handed it to Claudius.
"Take a look at this," Sengoku said, a faint smile tugging at his lips.
Claudius unfolded the poster and read the name printed across it: Enel. His brow furrowed in mild surprise.
"Huh, Enel? Haven't checked on him recently," Claudius murmured, scratching his chin. He had assumed Enel was still following Crocodile around, learning the ropes of piracy.
It turned out he was wrong.
"Thirty million berries," Claudius remarked with a hint of amusement. "Not a huge bounty, but for a newcomer, it's respectable. How long has it been since he set out? Two months?"
"Not even two months," Sengoku replied, shaking his head. "But he's made a name for himself already. He's destroyed five pirate crews in such a short span. Oddly enough, he hasn't harmed any civilians or merchant ships. His actions are...unusual, to say the least. People are starting to call him the 'Raiden Karmapa'. A pirate who enforces his own brand of justice on the seas. It's almost embarrassing for us Marines, but at least we know he's on our side."
Hearing this, Claudius almost choked on his laughter. "'Raiden Karmapa?' Really? What, is he some kind of vigilante now?"
The name was a bit over-the-top, but Claudius knew such titles often evolved. Even legends like Silvers Rayleigh and Gol D. Roger hadn't started out with their iconic epithets. Rayleigh had once been known as "Silver Rayleigh," while Roger was simply referred to as "Gold Roger." Compared to those humble beginnings, Enel's title wasn't too bad, though Claudius suspected it would eventually shift to something like "God of Thunder."
***
My book Naruto Reborn As Orochimaru was flagged again after I reuploaded it this morning, meaning that even if I reupload it, the same thing will happen. So, this is sadly the end for it here on WN. I'll still be uploading on SS every day. Or better still, you can check out my Patreon; it's all there. Thanks for your support while it was running. The name "Fish-Man Island" conjured images of a distant paradise located deep beneath the ocean, isolated and serene. But in reality, it wasn't nearly as remote as it seemed.
Geographically, Fish-Man Island was astonishingly close to Mariejois, Sabaody Archipelago, and Marine Headquarters at Marineford. If one was adequately prepared and faced no interruptions, the journey from Sabaody Archipelago to Fish-Man Island could be completed in half a day, a stark contrast to the weeks or even months it took to travel between islands above the sea.
After all, Fish-Man Island was simply located 10,000 meters below the ocean's surface. In practical terms, it was only 10 kilometers straight down, not far at all in the grand scheme of things.
As Claudius was chatting with Sengoku, he barely noticed the passage of time before Lenny, the excitable mermaid, shouted, "Your Highness, we're here! We've reached Fish-Man Island!"
Claudius blinked in mild surprise. "Already? That was quick."
He walked to the edge of the ship and peered out. In the distance, he saw a massive bubble enveloping the island. While the island itself didn't look particularly large at first glance, what stood out most prominently was the enormous tree that seemed to grow straight out of the sea, towering over everything else. It was the largest tree Claudius had ever seen, far more massive than the mangroves of the Sabaody Archipelago.
"What a tree..." Claudius murmured, awestruck.
"Your Highness, that's the Sunlight Tree Eve," Mero said excitedly. "It's the mother tree of our Fish-Man Island. Thanks to it, even though we're 10,000 meters under the sea, we can still see sunlight and blue skies. Without it, this place would be shrouded in darkness."
The enthusiasm in Mero's voice was evident. Both she and Lenny were practically glowing with excitement now that they were so close to their home.
Claudius nodded, but his thoughts briefly wandered. The Sunlight Tree Eve was indeed a marvel, one said to rival the Treasure Tree Adam in legend. Unlike the Eve, however, the Adam had suffered greatly over the years, its wood harvested for shipbuilding after being damaged by war. Claudius' own flagship, the Prometheus, used materials from the Treasure Tree Adam.
Staring at the colossal Eve tree, a peculiar thought crossed Claudius' mind: What kind of battleship could I build if I chopped that tree down?
Of course, he quickly dismissed the idea. Attempting such a thing would undoubtedly turn Fish-Man Island's population against him, and he had no intention of creating such chaos.
As the Prometheus sailed closer to the island, it entered a vast coral forest on the seafloor. The towering coral formations were so massive that they resembled a sprawling jungle.
Among the corals, Claudius noticed countless treasures scattered about, black pearls the size of fists lay strewn like ordinary pebbles. It was a mesmerizing sight, one that spoke to the wealth hidden beneath the waves.
"This place is a treasure trove," Claudius muttered, his voice low and contemplative.
"What are you thinking, Your Highness?" Sengoku asked, noticing Claudius' expression.
"I'm thinking about how much the World Government has overlooked in the past few centuries," Claudius replied with a hint of bitterness. "All this untapped wealth, all these treasures, and we've barely scratched the surface. I feel like I've missed out on hundreds of billions of berries just in my lifetime!"
Sengoku raised an eyebrow, confused by Claudius' lament. As a Marine Admiral, his mind didn't work like a businessman's. While he understood large-scale strategies like the Calm Belt project, the smaller, more practical ideas often eluded him. To him, the pearls and treasures scattered around the coral forest were just part of the local scenery, beautiful but not particularly significant.
Claudius, on the other hand, saw opportunities everywhere. His mind raced with possibilities: establishing trade routes between Fish-Man Island and the surface world could be immensely profitable. Exotic items from the surface could be sold to Fish-Man Island at exorbitant prices, while treasures like pearls and coral from Fish-Man Island could fetch astronomical sums on the surface, especially among the nobles.
And that wasn't all. The untapped wealth of the ocean floor minerals, rare materials, and other resources represented an opportunity so vast it was almost overwhelming.
"If I manage to secure a monopoly on trade with Fish-Man Island," Claudius thought, his excitement building, "I could become the richest man alive."
His gaze shifted to Lenny and Mero, the two mermaids who had been with him for over a decade. He trusted them completely, knowing they would never betray him, even with the freedom to return to the sea. If he needed reliable agents to manage his business interests on Fish-Man Island, they were the perfect candidates.
"Good deeds really do pay off," Claudius mused, feeling rather pleased with himself. "All these years of treating Lenny and Mero well, turns out I was investing in my future."
Lenny's excited voice broke his train of thought. "Your Highness, this is Coral Hill, the most prosperous port on Fish-Man Island! All major fleets arrive here first. Once we dock at Coral Hill, we can disembark."
Claudius smiled as he took in the sight of the bustling port. Coral Hill was indeed vibrant, its bright coral structures contrasting beautifully against the deep blue of the surrounding ocean.
"This is my hometown," Lenny continued, her voice tinged with both excitement and nostalgia. "Mero and I used to live here before...before we were captured by slavers. It's hard to believe how far we've come since then."
The two sisters glanced at each other, their eyes filled with gratitude. Though their journey had been harrowing, meeting Claudius had changed everything.
Sengoku, observing the port ahead, remarked, "It looks like King Neptune is prepared to welcome us."
Before leaving Sabaody Archipelago, Sengoku had sent word to King Neptune, informing him of Claudius' arrival and emphasizing the importance of the visit. As a ruler, Neptune was obliged to extend the utmost respect to someone of Claudius' status, even if he did so with some trepidation.
At the port, the Fish-Man Island honor guard had cleared the area, forming a grand welcoming procession. Standing at the forefront were King Neptune and his wife, Princess Otohime. As the Prometheus approached, the two exchanged uneasy glances.
Neptune's towering frame seemed tense, his expression filled with uncertainty. Watching the enormous ship draw closer, he couldn't help but wonder: Is the arrival of Saint Donquixote-Claudius a blessing for Fish-Man Island or a curse?
Sensing her husband's anxiety, Otohime placed a gentle hand on Neptune's tail. Her bright, hopeful smile seemed to dispel some of his worries. "Don't fret, my king," she said softly. "Didn't Admiral Sengoku assure us that Saint Claudius comes with goodwill?"
Neptune frowned. "Marine officers like Sengoku may be honorable, but they would never dare speak ill of a Celestial Dragon. How can we trust their words entirely?"
Despite his doubts, Neptune could only hope that this meeting would bring his people closer to a brighter future and not plunge them into deeper despair. The Prometheus docked smoothly at Coral Hill, and the ship's gangway extended automatically, connecting the deck to the stable ground of the port.
Though Fish-Man Island was located 10,000 meters below the surface of the sea, it wasn't entirely submerged in water. Enclosed within a massive protective bubble, much of the island resembled dry land. Of course, places like Ryugu Palace remained underwater, but the water could be drained when necessary to accommodate surface dwellers.
The island had already been prepared for Claudius' arrival, sparing him the indignity of needing to wear cumbersome bubble suits like other visitors.
The first to disembark were Claudius' attendants, who immediately laid out a luxurious gold-threaded red carpet. The carpet stretched from the ship's gangway all the way to where King Neptune and Princess Otohime were waiting. Claudius' honor guard then lined up on either side of the carpet in perfect formation.
Seeing such an extravagant display, both Neptune and Otohime were a bit taken aback. The sheer formality and grandeur were overwhelming, this was the unmistakable presence of a Celestial Dragon.
Sengoku descended the gangway first, seemingly clearing the way for Claudius. Then, slowly, Claudius himself appeared.
With his short, dazzling blond hair, a handsome face, and a tall, athletic build, Claudius cut an impressive figure. His well-toned physique, combined with his naturally commanding presence, made him undeniably charismatic.
He wore a pristine white suit, tailored from fabrics so fine they practically radiated luxury. Draped over his shoulders was a dark brown coat, creating a striking contrast that enhanced his noble aura. Every step he took down the gangway was measured and deliberate, exuding both confidence and control.
As a Celestial Dragon, Claudius knew when to lean into his high-status demeanor. His calm, unhurried steps, paired with the faint smile on his face, gave him an approachable air, but beneath it was a subtle but unmistakable sense of authority, a noble detachment that reminded everyone of his exalted position.
Behind him followed the ever-dutiful Nia, who was dressed in a classic maid's uniform, her hands clasped demurely at her abdomen. Beside her walked Stussy, clad in an elegant white ensemble that perfectly blended business-like refinement with feminine grace. She carried a small, sophisticated handbag and wore a tiny top hat adorned with a single flower. Together, these two women flanked Claudius like delicate yet regal ornaments, further amplifying his commanding presence.
Despite the serious tone of the scene, Claudius' lips moved slightly as he whispered to Stussy, "Don't you think I'm missing something? Maybe a low-key yet luxurious cane would really complete the look."
Stussy stifled a laugh, her eyes glinting with amusement as she whispered back, "Your Highness, are you sure you can maintain this demeanor throughout the entire event?"
Claudius smirked but resisted the urge to roll his eyes. "Do you think I enjoy this charade? This level of posturing is more exhausting than fighting the Red Count. I have to maintain appearances for now this is my first time here, after all. I need to establish my authority as a high-ranking Celestial Dragon. Otherwise, I wouldn't bother with any of this nonsense."
Stussy covered her mouth with her hand to hide her grin. "And the cane, Your Highness?"
"I thought it would make me seem more mature and dependable," Claudius replied, his tone mock-serious.
Stussy chuckled. "Mature and dependable? You? Let's not forget your title—'The Demon King of Mariejois.' Mature and dependable people don't earn nicknames like that."
Claudius raised an eyebrow and shot her a sidelong glance. "You're getting bolder, Stussy. Are you mocking me now?"
Her smile widened, her voice teasing. "Will you punish me for it, Your Highness?"
Claudius leaned in slightly, his tone playful yet mischievous. "Once we're done here, I've got a hundred-million-berry deal to discuss with you."
Though her experience as the Queen of Happy Street had left her largely unflappable, Stussy couldn't help but blush faintly at Claudius' words. She averted her gaze with a quiet scoff, choosing not to respond further.
As Claudius continued walking, Neptune and Otohime stepped forward to meet him. They couldn't very well wait for him to come to them, it was only proper to greet a Celestial Dragon halfway.
"Neptune of Fish-Man Island humbly welcomes Saint Claudius," Neptune said as he bowed deeply. Despite his towering stature, he bent his massive frame respectfully, his voice polite but tinged with nervousness.
Claudius smiled warmly, his gaze meeting Neptune's. The contrast between Neptune's imposing height and his deferential posture was almost amusing. "The name of Neptune, the Great Knight of the Sea, is one I've heard often during my time on the surface. It's a pleasure to finally meet you. You truly live up to your reputation."
Neptune felt a small sense of relief at Claudius' words. The Celestial Dragon seemed approachable so far, not as overbearing or arrogant as he'd feared. Perhaps this meeting wouldn't be as difficult as he'd anticipated.
Claudius then turned his attention to Princess Otohime. Compared to Neptune, Otohime was petite, practically doll-like. Claudius couldn't help but marvel internally at how the two could have made their relationship work. The logistics must be something else, he thought, quickly dismissing the curiosity before it showed on his face.
Extending his hand to Otohime, Claudius smiled and said, "You must be Princess Otohime. I've long admired your tireless efforts to bridge the gap between our two races. Your dedication is truly remarkable."
A little flustered, Otohime quickly reached out and took his hand. "Your Highness, the work you've done for Fish-Man Island humbles me. It is I who admires you."
Claudius chuckled lightly. "Well, while it may sound boastful, I assure you, Princess, I am not like the typical Celestial Dragon. I've come here today with genuine sincerity."
He gestured to Nia, who promptly stepped forward with a neatly prepared document. Taking it from her, Claudius handed it directly to Otohime.
"This," he explained, "is the first token of goodwill I bring on behalf of the World Government. It contains the names of merfolk and fishmen who were taken from your island and enslaved. Arrangements have already been made for their safe return. I thought it best to resolve this matter first surely, those who have been separated from their home for so long must be eager to return."
As Otohime flipped through the file, her eyes filled with tears. Each page listed names and photos of Fish-Man Island citizens who had been captured and sold into slavery. For years, Otohime had fought tirelessly to protect her people, and now, at last, there was real progress.
"On behalf of Fish-Man Island, we deeply thank you for your kindness, Your Highness," Neptune said earnestly.
Claudius nodded casually, accepting the gratitude as if it were his due. "Nia," he said, turning to his butler, "work with Lenny and Mero to ensure everyone onboard is handed over to Princess Otohime and her people."
"Yes, Your Highness," Nia responded promptly.
Claudius then turned his attention back to Otohime, a bright smile on his face. He took her hand again, this time with an added touch of excitement. "Princess Otohime, beyond the goodwill and friendship I bring today, I also have a rather...lucrative proposal. I'd like to discuss a business opportunity worth hundreds of millions of berries with you."
Hearing this, Stussy nearly stumbled, her face turning red as her mind jumped to the wrong conclusion. Even Sengoku looked momentarily stunned. Was Claudius really that shameless? Was he flirting with Princess Otohime right in front of Neptune?
Thankfully, neither Neptune nor Otohime seemed to share their thoughts. As pure-hearted individuals, they took Claudius' words at face value.
Otohime's eyes sparkled with hope. "Your Highness, we on Fish-Man Island will respond to your sincerity with our own. We are eager to hear your proposal." The Ryugu Palace on Fish-Man Island was vast and magnificent, rivaling even the opulence of Claudius' own palace.
Although Fish-Man Island was somewhat isolated from the rest of the world, it was clear they were far from destitute. In fact, the grandeur of the palace showcased the island's wealth and affluence.
Claudius, alongside his entourage, followed King Neptune into the palace. Walking behind Neptune was a burly blue-skinned man who caught Claudius' attention. The man's presence felt familiar, and after a moment of recognition, Claudius realized who he was looking at none other than the future Warlord of the Sea, Jinbei.
Jinbei, still relatively young at this time, carried himself with a calm dignity and exuded strength. Yet, there was something faintly endearing about him, a certain unpolished charm that seemed out of place given his imposing stature.
Noticing Claudius' lingering gaze, Neptune smiled and introduced him. "This is my most trusted subordinate, Jinbei, the captain of the Ryugu Palace Guard."
"So it really is him," Claudius thought to himself. Then, with a polite smile, he said aloud, "You certainly look the part, impressive and commanding."
"Thank you for your kind words, Saint Claudius," Jinbei replied, his deep voice resonating through the hall.
Claudius returned the smile but didn't continue to focus on Jinbei. While Jinbei was undoubtedly strong and loyal to Fish-Man Island, Claudius had no particular ambitions concerning him at the moment. For now, Claudius had no intention of trying to sway Jinbei's allegiance. After all, his heart belonged to Fish-Man Island, and while the Celestial Dragons held no ill will toward him, earning his loyalty would be no simple feat.
Still, Claudius mused that in the future, as he built stronger ties with Fish-Man Island, perhaps their relationship might evolve. But that was a matter for another time.
For now, Claudius followed Neptune and his party into the Ryugu Palace. The palace's interior was just as impressive as its exterior, a masterpiece of underwater architecture. Neptune had prepared a grand banquet in honor of Claudius' visit, and Claudius graciously accepted the hospitality.
The banquet was lavish and enjoyable, a display of Fish-Man Island's rich culture and culinary delights. After the feast concluded, the room was cleared, leaving only a small group: Sengoku, Stussy, Neptune, Princess Otohime, and Claudius himself. It was time to get down to business.
Seated with a glass of deep-sea wine in hand, Claudius took a sip and marveled at its unique flavor. "This wine is remarkable. The taste is unlike anything on the surface. I wonder what ingredients were used to make it."
Neptune chuckled at Claudius' praise, and Claudius turned his attention back to him with a smile. "Fish-Man Island truly is a remarkable place. Lenny and Mero weren't lying to me about how beautiful it is."
At the mention of the two names, Neptune raised an eyebrow. "Lenny? Mero? I believe I heard those names at the harbor earlier. Are they part of your esteemed entourage, Your Highness?"
Claudius paused, his expression briefly thoughtful. "You could say that, though it's a bit complicated. Lenny and Mero are mermaid girls from Fish-Man Island. They were... previously slaves in Mariejois, and by law, they belonged to me."
At these words, Neptune and Otohime's expressions darkened. Despite Claudius' otherwise cordial demeanor, hearing him speak of their people as slaves was a painful reminder of the injustices Fish-Man Island had endured for centuries.
Noticing the shift in the atmosphere, Sengoku quickly intervened. "There's been a misunderstanding! Please don't take this the wrong way."
"Yes, exactly," Stussy added, her tone calm and reassuring. "His Highness Claudius is not like the other Celestial Dragons. Over the years, he has done nothing but protect Lenny and Mero. They are not merely his subordinates, they are his friends. His Highness has never restricted their freedom."
Claudius nodded, his expression softening. "That's true. Lenny and Mero are my dear friends. Their return to Fish-Man Island is something I struggle with, as I'll certainly miss them. But at least we're not far apart. Mariejois and Fish-Man Island aren't so distant, we'll always be able to see each other again."
Hearing this, Neptune and Otohime visibly relaxed. It was unlikely Claudius would lie so openly about such matters, especially when the truth could be easily uncovered.
"I see. It seems we misunderstood you, Your Highness. Please forgive us," Neptune said, bowing slightly.
Claudius waved it off with a smile. "No offense taken. Let's move on to the reason for my visit."
He leaned forward slightly, his tone turning more serious. "As you both may know, I'm not just a Celestial Dragon. I also oversee CP-X, an organization under the World Government. Our goal is to improve the world, to address its flaws and weaknesses. And, as you are undoubtedly aware, one of the most glaring issues within the World Government is its treatment of Fish-Man Island."
As Claudius finished, Sengoku chimed in, his voice steady. "Exactly. We won't deny the faults within the World Government. That's why we're here today, to address these issues and work toward a solution that benefits both sides."
Neptune's expression grew heavy, his tone laced with doubt. "I'm grateful that Your Highness is willing to acknowledge these problems, but... I must be honest. We of Fish-Man Island have little faith in humans from the surface."
Otohime looked at her husband with concern, but she remained silent, letting him speak.
Claudius nodded thoughtfully. "I understand completely. Centuries of mistreatment and oppression cannot be undone with words alone. Trust must be earned through actions, not promises."
After a brief pause, Claudius continued. "That's why I've come here with sincerity. I'm sure you've already heard about what transpired in Mariejois and Sabaody Archipelago. I imagine news travels quickly to Fish-Man Island."
Otohime glanced at Neptune before nodding. "Yes, we've heard of it. Despite our isolation, Fish-Man Island often receives visitors from the surface. We are not entirely disconnected, and we know of your efforts on behalf of our people."
Claudius smiled. "Good. Then you understand that the measures I've taken are only the beginning. The World Government is determined to demonstrate its commitment to Fish-Man Island, and I'm here to make that clear. However, there is one matter we must address directly."
Neptune's expression tightened, a hint of apprehension crossing his face.
Claudius leaned back slightly, his tone measured. "It's no secret that Fish-Man Island has sought protection under the flag of Edward Newgate—Whitebeard. The Pirate Flag is a public declaration, one that cannot be ignored. Am I correct in saying this?"
Neptune hesitated, unsure how to respond. Before Claudius and Sengoku's arrival, the island had temporarily removed Whitebeard's flag, but the implications of Claudius' words left him uneasy.
Claudius smiled, waving a hand dismissively. "Don't worry. I'm not here to reprimand you. I see that the flags have already been removed, which demonstrates your understanding of the matter. That's all that needs to be said."
Neptune nodded reluctantly. "Yes, we... we took them down."
"Good," Claudius said with a nod. "Recognizing and correcting a mistake is the mark of a wise leader. With this step, we can move forward without issue." Seeing Neptune's bewildered expression, Claudius smirked internally. Without giving the king a chance to interject, he continued, "Of course, the safety of Fish-Man Island is a top priority for the World Government. This is something we must address with utmost seriousness. A place as vital as Fish-Man Island should never have to rely on a pirate's flag for protection. Such a thing would be unacceptable."
Sengoku couldn't help but admire Claudius in this moment. His Highness was truly a masterful speaker. Without needing prior discussion or preparation, Claudius had subtly reframed the narrative. Neptune's removal of Whitebeard's flag, even if temporary, was now being portrayed as a conscientious act of cooperation.
Sengoku couldn't help but think, your Highness, you're incredible. Without breaking a sweat, you've turned the tables and forced Neptune's hand.
Claudius, seemingly oblivious to Sengoku's thoughts, turned to him and said, "Sengoku, this situation does point to some serious negligence on Marine's part, doesn't it? Isn't it Marine's duty to ensure the safety of World Government territories? Shouldn't we protect member nations from pirates without forcing them to rely on paying tribute to lawless criminals? Isn't this your failure as Admiral?"
Sengoku nodded solemnly, playing along perfectly. "You are absolutely correct, Your Highness. This is our failing, and it's a point of deep shame for me."
Claudius nodded approvingly, as if Sengoku's admission of guilt had satisfied him. "Good. At least you understand the weight of your shortcomings. Recognizing your mistakes is the first step toward improvement. Just like King Neptune here, he has seen the error of his ways and acted promptly to address it. That's something to be commended."
Turning back to Sengoku, Claudius added, "Well then, let's rectify this situation immediately. I want you to make a public commitment to the safety of Fish-Man Island right now. What's your plan, Admiral Sengoku? How do you intend to make up for this gross oversight?"
Sengoku's eyes gleamed with understanding. He knew exactly where Claudius was steering this conversation. "Your Highness, we in Marine fully acknowledge our failings. I propose that we establish a Marine base directly on Fish-Man Island. This base will be staffed with capable personnel, dedicated solely to protecting the island from any external threats. What do you think?"
Claudius clapped his hands together, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "Now that is a solid plan. Fish-Man Island pays taxes to the World Government every year, not to mention the heavenly tribute paid to the Celestial Dragons. They deserve proper protection in return. I'll approve this initiative. In fact..."
He paused for a moment, as if struck by a sudden idea, and then continued, "I'll personally allocate two billion berries to assist Marine in constructing this branch. Once you return to Naval Headquarters, Admiral Sengoku, visit CP-X to collect the funds. I'll have the authorization papers ready for you."
Sengoku bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for your support, Your Highness. We are deeply grateful."
While Sengoku played his role perfectly, Neptune was silently fuming. He felt completely sidelined. Claudius and Sengoku were casually discussing the establishment of a Marine base on his island as if it were already decided, without even consulting him properly.
What's worse, Neptune knew Whitebeard's protection had cost him nothing, he and the pirate shared a personal friendship. Building a Marine base here wasn't just unnecessary; it felt invasive.
Summoning his courage, Neptune cleared his throat, ready to voice his objections. But before he could get a word out, Claudius waved him off dismissively. "No need to thank me, King Neptune. This is simply the duty of the World Government. It's our responsibility to care for our member nations. Any negligence in the past will be corrected starting now."
Before Neptune could protest further, Claudius pressed on. "I understand that placing a Marine base here might not be enough to ease all your concerns. After all, this era of piracy is more chaotic than ever, and Fish-Man Island sits on a crucial route to the New World. That's why I propose we go one step further. CP-X will also establish a station here to assist Marine in ensuring the island's safety. With the combined forces of Marine and CP-X, you can rest easy knowing that Fish-Man Island will be thoroughly protected."
At this point, Neptune felt completely helpless. His thoughts were in turmoil. Marine and CP-X? What is this? Are they planning to turn Fish-Man Island into some kind of military outpost?
Claudius wasn't done. He smiled reassuringly at Neptune and said, "You don't need to worry about the financial burden either. I know building such a base usually involves contributions from the host nation, but given the unique circumstances here, I promise not a single berry will come from the Dragon Palace treasury. Everything will be funded by Marine and CP-X."
Neptune felt like crying. He didn't need their money. He didn't even want the base in the first place! But how could he say that aloud without offending Claudius?
While Neptune struggled to find the right words, Claudius leaned forward slightly, his tone becoming more commanding. "So, King Neptune, what do you think of the World Government's sincerity? Everything I've proposed here is not mere talk, it will be done. And I assure you, I never go back on my word."
The weight of Claudius' words, combined with the intensity of his gaze, left Neptune speechless. The king felt trapped. On the surface, Claudius' proposals sounded reasonable, even beneficial. But beneath that polished veneer, there was an undeniable sense of pressure, an unspoken threat that rejecting these plans might have dire consequences.
Is this what they call "sincerity"? Neptune thought bitterly. It feels more like an ultimatum.
At that moment, Claudius' expression softened, and he smiled as if to dispel the oppressive atmosphere. "After all, King Neptune, isn't it better for Fish-Man Island to stand under the protection of the World Government rather than a pirate's flag? Surely you see the wisdom in that."
He raised his wine glass, taking a leisurely sip, as if he had already secured Neptune's agreement. For Neptune, the message was clear: whether he liked it or not, change was coming to Fish-Man Island. In the end, Neptune finally "succumbed." He didn't dare to confront Claudius head-on. After all, the imposing demeanor of the Celestial Dragon left him little room for argument.
Neptune nodded and said, "Your Highness' kindness is something we, the Fish-Man Island, will remember in our hearts. We will rely on you and Admiral Sengoku moving forward."
Claudius withdrew his gaze from the scenery outside, placing his wine glass on the table with a smile. "There's no need to thank me. In truth, it is the World Government and I who owe your people an apology. This is simply us trying to correct a mistake."
Standing to the side, Sengoku adjusted his glasses, a glint of admiration in his eyes. Claudius' ability to lead conversations and create resolutions without causing conflict was nothing short of extraordinary. His methods were subtle yet forceful, making it hard for others to resist or refute.
Before they had arrived at Fish-Man Island, Sengoku had prepared himself for lengthy discussions and possible pushbacks. He imagined days of back-and-forth negotiations, or worse, weeks of tension and mistrust before reaching any agreement. But in the span of a single conversation, Claudius had neatly wrapped up the matter of Whitebeard's flag without even directly demanding its removal. Instead, he'd framed it as if King Neptune himself had "eagerly" removed it for the sake of diplomacy.
From a World Government standpoint, this was a masterstroke. It not only reclaimed their authority but also made Fish-Man Island appear cooperative an invaluable gesture of respect that Claudius had cleverly maneuvered them into.
Sengoku couldn't help but feel a little giddy. I thought this mission would drag on for days, maybe even weeks, and now I might be able to head back to Marineford tomorrow? Truly a miracle!
But before Sengoku could fully indulge in his relief, Claudius' voice rang out again.
"With the security issue resolved for now, and with any future adjustments to be addressed as needed, I believe it's time we move on to a different topic. Let's discuss the development of Fish-Man Island," Claudius said with a smile.
Sengoku's fleeting happiness disappeared as quickly as it had arrived. He groaned internally. Development? Wasn't our job here just to deal with the pirate flag issue?
But as the thought settled, Sengoku reconsidered. Perhaps Claudius had been tasked with broader responsibilities by the Five Elders. CP-X, after all, was a jack-of-all-trades department, capable of meddling in everything from politics to economics.
Neptune was visibly stunned, unsure how to respond. He had assumed Claudius' only purpose here was to address the presence of Whitebeard's flag, but now the discussion had shifted into unfamiliar territory.
"The development of Fish-Man Island?" Neptune repeated, his tone uncertain.
Princess Otohime, however, looked intrigued. She remembered how Claudius had mentioned "a business worth hundreds of millions" when they first met at the port. Unlike Neptune, who had grown resigned to the island's isolation, Otohime had always dreamed of bridging the gap between their people and the surface world.
"Your Highness, what exactly do you mean?" Otohime asked eagerly. "We of Fish-Man Island have long yearned to integrate with the sea above us. It's been eight hundred years since that promise was first made."
Claudius nodded knowingly. He had done his homework. Eight centuries ago, Joy Boy had made an unfulfilled promise to bring the people of Fish-Man Island to the surface. Though that promise had been broken, the longing for coexistence with the surface world had been deeply ingrained in the hearts of Fish-Man Island's residents ever since.
However, Claudius knew that such a monumental goal couldn't be achieved overnight. For now, building trust and fostering cooperation between the two sides would be crucial steps. Fear and misunderstanding had created an invisible wall between the Fish-Man Island and the rest of the world, and tearing it down would require time and effort.
"I understand this dream of yours, Princess Otohime," Claudius said sincerely. "I've taken it into consideration, but we must take this process one step at a time. Trust must first be built between our peoples before we can make any large strides."
He glanced at Neptune, then back at Otohime, and continued, "The best way to eliminate fear is through understanding, and understanding comes through interaction. Both sides need to face their fears and work to dissolve them."
Claudius paused for a moment, then smiled. "This is why I believe that trade and cooperation should be the foundation of our efforts. It will allow both sides to engage with one another gradually and in a controlled manner. For that to happen, Marine and CP-X are more than willing to serve as the bridge that connects Fish-Man Island to the surface world."
Princess Otohime nodded thoughtfully, feeling that Claudius' words carried merit. She admired his logical approach, even if the path forward wouldn't be easy.
Sengoku, on the other hand, had no idea what Claudius was doing. He glanced at him out of the corner of his eye, his mind racing. Marine as the bridge? Couldn't you have at least briefed me on this plan, Your Highness?
Despite his confusion, Sengoku trusted Claudius' judgment. If this was the plan, he would support it fully. Without missing a beat, he nodded firmly and said, "Yes, we in Marine are ready and willing to shoulder this responsibility."
Princess Otohime smiled, clearly reassured by the Admiral's support. "Then, Your Highness, what specifically do you have in mind?"
Claudius leaned back slightly in his seat, the picture of ease. "The first step is employment," he said.
"Employment?" Otohime asked, tilting her head in curiosity.
"Exactly. I've learned that one of the root causes of the unrest on Fish-Man Island stems from poverty. Many of your residents, especially those from Fish-Man Street, lack stable opportunities. This has led to desperation and, in turn, crime. The solution, then, lies in providing them with dignified work," Claudius explained.
Otohime looked thoughtful, nodding as Claudius spoke. "Yes, that's something we've always believed, but we've struggled to find the right avenues."
Claudius smiled. "Then allow me to propose one. As I understand it, the Fish-Men are naturally gifted in shipbuilding, and their strength and skills make them ideal for heavy labor. As it happens, both Marine and CP-X are in dire need of skilled workers and laborers. Why not employ them? With fair wages and proper training, this could be a win-win situation for everyone involved."
Hearing this, Sengoku's eyes lit up as if a lightbulb had gone off in his head. He hadn't considered this before, but it made perfect sense. The mermen and Fish-Men could be invaluable assets, especially in Marine's current efforts to expand and develop. Their expertise in shipbuilding alone could help bolster Marine's fleet.
"Brilliant! Your Highness, this is an excellent idea," Sengoku said with enthusiasm. "If we can hire Fish-Men to assist with projects like constructing ships or developing routes in the Calm Belt, it would benefit everyone. Why didn't I think of this sooner?" The meeting with Otohime didn't last long. After all, this was a monumental undertaking, so massive that even Claudius himself couldn't estimate how much profit or benefit could be drawn from it.
A few basic agreements were tentatively reached, such as hiring the tens of thousands of idle fish-men from Fish-Man Street to work as laborers, addressing issues with merchant fleets, and ironing out smaller details. However, the full scope of their discussions was left for future talks.
After concluding the meeting, Claudius decided to take some time to explore Fish-Man Island.
King Neptune and Princess Otohime graciously invited Claudius to stay in Ryugu Palace, and after giving it some thought, he accepted. He had heard that not too long ago, Princess Otohime had given birth to a little princess named Shirahoshi. Naturally, Claudius was curious about her.
But, of course, not in the way one might assume. Claudius had no inappropriate thoughts about Shirahoshi; rather, his interest lay in her unique status. After all, Shirahoshi wasn't just any princess, she was the legendary Ancient Weapon, Poseidon, a living entity said to possess world-shattering power.
That being said, Claudius couldn't help but feel a little perplexed about one thing: how had Princess Otohime, with her petite frame, managed to give birth to someone as massive as Shirahoshi?
He had done some research before arriving on the island and knew that the inhabitants of Fish-Man Island reproduced as mammals do, through pregnancy and live birth. But no matter how much he thought about it, the logistics of Shirahoshi's birth baffled him. Naturally, Claudius wasn't about to ask Princess Otohime directly. Some curiosities were best left unspoken.
Shirahoshi's special status as Poseidon tied into the legend of the Ancient Weapons, three legendary powers that could change the course of history. The first of these was Pluton, said to be a massive warship with firepower capable of obliterating entire islands with a single strike.
Claudius already had some knowledge about Pluton. For one, he knew that Master Tom, the legendary shipwright, had inherited the blueprints for building it. Those blueprints had been passed down through the generations in the shipbuilding hub of Water 7.
However, Claudius wasn't particularly interested in Pluton at the moment. Even if he were to acquire it, it wasn't something he could use freely. In all likelihood, it would have to be handed over to the World Government anyway.
In addition to Tom, there were rumors that the actual Pluton warship itself was hidden somewhere in the vast deserts of Alabasta. The Nefertari royal family, who ruled the kingdom, were said to possess records of its location in the form of an ancient Poneglyph.
Claudius believed this was likely true. After all, why else would Alabasta frequently find itself at odds with the World Government? It couldn't merely be because they had declined to ascend to the Celestial Dragon class 800 years ago. There had to be more to the story.
Claudius suspected that the World Government's lingering concerns about Alabasta stemmed from their supposed ownership of Pluton. While the Nefertari family might never use such a weapon recklessly certainly not against their own people during a civil conflict like Crocodile's coup, Claudius reasoned that in a dire enough situation, they might unveil it as a trump card in a war against an external threat.
Moreover, Claudius had always wondered why the Nefertari family had refused to join the other 19 royal families in moving to Mariejois and becoming Celestial Dragons. Was it simply a matter of pride, or did it have something to do with safeguarding Pluton?
Whatever the case, Claudius was certain that there was a deeper story hidden in Alabasta's history.
The second Ancient Weapon, Poseidon, was much simpler in nature compared to Pluton. It wasn't a man-made object but rather an ability passed down through the royal bloodline of Fish-Man Island. Every few generations, a member of the royal family would awaken the power to communicate with and command Sea Kings, the massive creatures that ruled the ocean depths. These Sea Kings were capable of immense destruction, earning the title of "kings" of the sea.
This generation's Poseidon was none other than Shirahoshi.
Claudius mused on how easily people underestimated the power of Sea Kings. While ordinary Sea Kings were formidable, the true leviathans of the deep, those colossal creatures larger than entire islands were an entirely different matter. Their numbers were unknown, but their presence was enough to strike fear into the hearts of even the bravest sailors.
He chuckled at the thought. "The people of Fish-Man Island really don't know the cards they're holding, do they? With a power like Poseidon, they could dominate the seas, yet they've allowed themselves to be bullied and oppressed for centuries. Truly baffling," Claudius muttered to himself.
But his train of thought didn't stop there. The final Ancient Weapon, Uranus, was arguably the most mysterious of the three. Unlike Pluton and Poseidon, which had clear origins and functions, Uranus was shrouded in secrecy.
Claudius had managed to piece together some details about Uranus during his years in Mariejois. According to his research, Uranus was in the hands of the World Government. In fact, it was one of the primary reasons they had been able to maintain control over the world for 800 years.
From what Claudius had gathered, Uranus was not a ship in the traditional sense but rather a massive aerial weapon a sort of flying fortress. It was said to have the ability to unleash devastating attacks from the sky, living up to its name as the "King of the Heavens."