Fisher Tiger remained silent, listening intently as Claudius spoke.
"Your hatred can't change the past, and perhaps it can't change the future either. But I can," Claudius said with a calm smile. "So, Fisher Tiger, would you be willing to help me?"
Fisher Tiger was quiet for a long moment before finally asking, "Your Highness, are you asking me to help you manage the chaos of Fish-Man Street? To work for you?"
Claudius touched his chin thoughtfully before responding. "Yes, it's for me. But it's also for Fish-Man Island, and for yourself. Honestly, I'm not particularly interested in the people of Fish-Man Street. I don't intend to control you as subordinates in the strict sense. Think of it more as… a labor contract, or employment."
Tiger didn't care much about the terms Claudius used, such as "labor contract" or "employment." What struck a chord with him was the mention of working for Fish-Man Island and for himself.
In the past, Fisher Tiger had been the leader of Fish-Man Street in name, but he hadn't thought much about Fish-Man Island's overall future. His focus had been on his personal journey—he wanted to see the wider world, driven by a desire to explore and perhaps even a faint echo of Fish-Man Island's age-old dream of freedom.
But becoming a slave in Mariejois had changed him. Seeing the cruelty of humans and the suffering of his fellow Fish-Men and Merfolk had sparked a transformation in his soul. For the first time, Tiger truly understood what he wanted, to free his people and make Fish-Man Island a better, safer place, free from oppression.
And yet, for all his resolve, he didn't know where to start. He couldn't even protect himself, let alone others.
"You don't want to see Fish-Man Street continue as the cancer of Fish-Man Island, do you? Watching your fellow Fish-Men harm their own kind and drag the island down with them?" Claudius asked with a knowing smile.
Tiger nodded slowly. "If Fish-Man Island is to change its fate and escape its current humiliation, it must first unite its people and grow stronger. Cleaning up Fish-Man Street wouldn't just restore order to the island, it would also reduce internal conflicts and allow us to focus on external threats. It would be a great benefit to both Fish-Man Island and Fish-Man Street."
Claudius smiled approvingly. "I'm glad you understand that."
Fisher Tiger hesitated before continuing. "Although I hate the World Government, I have to admit objectively speaking that Fish-Man Island has no future without it. At least for now."
"Correct," Claudius replied, nodding.
"Meeting someone like you, a reasonable Celestial Dragon… perhaps this is the best opportunity Fish-Man Island has had in centuries," Tiger said softly.
Claudius raised an eyebrow, sensing there was more Tiger wanted to say.
After a pause, Tiger continued, his voice firm. "But it's not enough, Your Highness. What you've done so far… it's not enough."
Claudius raised his teacup, took a small sip, and asked evenly, "What's missing?"
"Above Mariejois, there are thousands of my people still enslaved. Fish-Men and Merfolk alike are native to Fish-Man Island. If you, Your Highness Claudius, truly wish to unite the power of Fish-Man Street, then you must also extend your protection to them," Tiger said, his gaze locked onto Claudius.
Claudius set his teacup down slowly, meeting Tiger's eyes. "And what is it you want me to do?"
"As you've done before, liberate my people. When there are no more Fish-Man or Merfolk slaves in Mariejois, I, Fisher Tiger, will pledge myself to you—to work for you, for Fish-Man Island, and for our future.
"But if you can't do this, then even if it costs me my life, I will never let go of my hatred for humanity. I can't afford to trust anyone anymore… but this is the only time I'm willing to put my trust in someone. This is your one and only chance," Tiger said, his voice deep with conviction.
Claudius stroked his chin thoughtfully, his expression unreadable as silence filled the room. The atmosphere grew heavier with each passing second.
Just as Tiger began to wonder if he'd pushed too far, Claudius finally spoke. "Are you threatening me?"
Tiger shook his head, his eyes filled with sincerity. "As I said, I am deeply grateful for everything you've done so far. This is not a threat.
"If anything, think of it as a reminder. If you refuse, I'll use my death to make sure you remember this moment. Perhaps one day, in some quiet afternoon, you'll think of me, and that memory might soften your heart enough to act. That's all I can hope for."
Claudius gazed out the window, lost in thought. The sunlight streaming into the room was warm but not harsh, illuminating his contemplative face. He had always understood that Fisher Tiger was a man of integrity and courage, but in this moment, he felt something deeper.
The idea of using one's own death to make a statement was easy to talk about, but how many people could actually do it? Tiger wasn't asking for immediate change; he was gambling on the faint hope that Claudius might one day recall this conversation and honor his wish. The despair and determination behind such a gamble struck a chord in Claudius's heart.
"If you don't understand someone's pain, can you ever truly empathize with them?" Claudius wondered to himself.
Up until now, everything Claudius had done had been driven by practicality by interests and goals. Even his actions on Fish-Man Island were calculated, aimed at building alliances and securing influence. But in this moment, he could feel the weight of Tiger's despair, a despair so profound it had driven the man to risk everything for even a glimmer of hope.
He now understood why Tiger would one day scale the Red Line with his bare hands and burn Mariejois to the ground. It wasn't mere anger; it was a desperate cry for justice.
"I have to admit, I'm impressed, Tiger… Fisher Tiger," Claudius murmured, still staring out the window.
The sound of movement behind him caught his attention. When he turned, he saw Fisher Tiger kneeling on the floor, his forehead pressed to the ground.
"Thank you for your kindness!" Tiger choked out, his voice thick with emotion as he repeatedly bowed his head.
Claudius sighed softly as he watched the man before him. After a moment, he spoke with quiet resolve. "In the name of Donquixote Claudius, I promise you, Fisher Tiger—I will do everything in my power to ensure there are no more Fish-Man slaves in Mariejois."
Tiger's eyes turned red, his restrained emotions bursting forth. His choking sobs became full-blown cries of anguish. Tears and mucus flowed freely as he pressed his head against the floor, repeating over and over, "Thank you, Your Highness. Thank you for your kindness."
Claudius observed Tiger's raw, unfiltered display of emotion and couldn't help but feel a pang in his heart.
"What kind of sorrow and despair must a man endure to reach such a breaking point?" Claudius thought to himself. "To be reduced to this… it only shows how deeply the world is broken. And seeing this… it only strengthens my resolve to change it."
After receiving Claudius's promise, Fisher Tiger accepted his offer. He agreed to work for Claudius, help restore order to Fish-Man Street, and assist in his plans. In essence, he would act as a "labor leader," or more commonly, a contractor.
Following this, Fisher Tiger was escorted by Nya, Claudius's butler, to rest. Once Claudius finished handling affairs in Mariejois, he would return to Fish-Man Island, accompanied by countless freed compatriots of Tiger.
By all rights, Claudius could have taken a darker route. He could have entirely subjugated Fisher Tiger, branded him with the Donquixote family's Celestial Dragon hoof, and ensured his obedience through force.
But Claudius didn't.
"Despicable is the pass of the despicable; noble is the epitaph of the noble," Claudius murmured to himself as he sipped his tea, gazing out the window. A self-deprecating laugh followed.
He never considered himself noble. In truth, "despicable" might have suited him better, and he wasn't ashamed to admit it. But in the presence of someone like Fisher Tiger, a man of unshakable principles and a noble soul, he couldn't help but feel a bit unworthy. Perhaps that was why he held back.
Although Claudius had already planned to liberate the Fish-Man slaves in Mariejois, that had been driven by practical interests. But this time, when he promised Fisher Tiger, there was no ulterior motive. He had been moved, and even if there was no benefit to be gained, he would still honor his word.
For all his pragmatism, Claudius didn't want to appear petty in the presence of someone like Fisher Tiger. In that brief moment of self-reflection, he found himself striving, if only slightly, to rise above his baser instincts.
As he stared out the window, deep in thought, the door to the study opened quietly. Stussy entered, her heels clicking softly on the polished floor. She observed Claudius's back for a moment, noting the unusual stillness in his demeanor.
"Your Highness," Stussy said gently, breaking the silence. "Spandine is here with Rob Lucci. They're waiting in the living room. Do you wish to see them?"
Claudius turned, his usual warm smile back on his face. "Yes, let's go."
He followed Stussy toward the living room, but after taking a few steps, he suddenly paused. Stussy stopped as well, turning to him with a puzzled expression.
"Stussy," Claudius began, his tone lighter than before, "if you had to choose one word to describe me—'vile' or 'noble'—which would it be?"
Stussy blinked in surprise, momentarily caught off guard. After a brief pause, she scratched her head awkwardly. "Your Highness… that's a difficult question."
"Hahahaha! You wound me, Stussy!" Claudius laughed, though his tone carried a teasing edge. "I thought you'd call me noble without a second thought."
Stussy smiled, stepping closer and taking his arm in hers. "Perhaps I can't speak for everyone, Your Highness. But to me, you are noble. And I believe Nia would say the same. Crocodile, Enel, even Doflamingo—they might all agree."
Claudius's expression softened as he listened to her words. "Really?" he murmured.
For a brief moment, he allowed himself to bask in the warmth of her affirmation. This is enough, he thought silently. This is enough.
Claudius had asked the question on a whim, perhaps seeking a small measure of reassurance. But as the thought passed, he pushed the matter aside. Noble or despicable, he was Claudius, and he had no need to justify his actions to anyone. The noble is me, and the despicable is me.
When they arrived in the living room, Claudius saw Spandine and a young Rob Lucci seated on the sofa.
The moment Spandine noticed Claudius, he shot up from his seat, his face eager and respectful. "Greetings, Your Highness!" he said, his tone dripping with reverence.
Lucci quickly followed suit, standing and bowing deeply. His eyes gleamed with excitement as he looked at Claudius.
Lucci had been an orphan, recruited into the CP organization by the World Government and trained as a CP-9 operative. While the Marine Corps preached the value of justice, often resulting in ideological divides and factions, the CP organization was different.
The CP operatives were brainwashed from the start to be utterly loyal to the World Government—and, by extension, the Celestial Dragons. For them, obedience wasn't just expected; it was ingrained.
Lucci, however, had been pulled out of CP-9 midway through his training and placed under Spandane's wing in CP-X. There, he'd met Claudius several times, and Spandine had begun grooming him to be loyal to Claudius specifically.
Spandine himself was perhaps the most devoted subordinate Claudius had. His loyalty surpassed even that of Crocodile, whose pride often led him to challenge Claudius in subtle ways. Spandine, on the other hand, had fully committed himself to Claudius, prioritizing him above even the World Government. Under such guidance, it was no surprise that Lucci had been molded into another staunch follower of Claudius.
Claudius smiled as he approached the pair, taking a seat on the sofa. "They didn't give you too much trouble, did they?" he asked casually.
Spandine immediately leapt to pour tea for Claudius, his ingratiating manner almost comical. "Not at all, Your Highness! Just as you predicted, they treated Lucci like royalty once I brought your approval letter. It was like a vacation for him! This is all thanks to your unmatched prestige."
"Really?" Claudius chuckled, turning his attention to Lucci. "Good. I would have been upset if they'd made things difficult."
"Thank you for your concern, Your Highness!" Spandine said, never missing an opportunity to flatter.
Claudius nodded, then leaned back slightly. "It's good that you've returned. I have an important task for you two. It requires absolute loyalty and discretion."
"Your Highness, it's an honor to serve you. Isn't that right, Lucci?" Spandine said, nudging the boy.
Lucci, who looked no older than thirteen or fourteen, nodded earnestly. "Yes, Your Highness. It is our honor to serve you."
Unlike Spandane, Lucci wasn't particularly skilled in flattery. His loyalty was straightforward and unembellished, which Claudius didn't mind. In fact, he found it refreshing.
"Very good," Claudius said with a small smile. "This mission is highly classified. I need you both to handle it with care."
"What would you have us do, Your Highness?" Spandine asked eagerly.
Claudius's smile widened slightly. "We're working in cooperation with Naval Headquarters on this one. The mission will take you to Skypiea."
"Skypiea?" Spandine's eyes widened, and he visibly swallowed. The idea of traveling to the Sky Island clearly unsettled him. "Your Highness… what business could we possibly have up there? It's just a place filled with poor, stubborn people!"
Claudius chuckled. "Enel has found the legendary City of Gold. Your task will be to go there with the Marines, secure the gold, and ensure the operation remains completely confidential." The meeting with Lucci and Spandine didn't last long. Claudius outlined the mission to Sky Island, explained their cooperation with the Marines, and provided clear instructions. After that, there was little else to discuss.
Before they left, Claudius encouraged Lucci, telling the boy to work hard, keep honing his skills, and never settle for mediocrity. As motivation, he handed them rewards—not ordinary Berries, but treasures collected from other Celestial Dragons' homes.
These treasures, though once simply decorative items in his residence, were now repurposed by Claudius. He had kept a few pieces he fancied for his personal collection and intended to use the rest as rewards for his subordinates. After all, handing out treasures like these carried far more prestige than simply giving money.
Overjoyed with the gifts, Spandine left with Lucci to begin preparations for the Sky Island mission. As for the dangers of heading to such an unpredictable place, Spandine didn't dare complain. With Claudius backing the operation and Marine forces leading the charge, all he could do was grit his teeth and rise to the occasion.
Sitting by the pool in his courtyard, Claudius found himself staring into the still water, his thoughts drifting. The absence of the mermaid sisters, who had once graced this pool, left a subtle pang of loneliness in his heart. He used to chat with them here, but now, all that remained was the empty water.
"Cousin? Cousin? Why aren't you saying anything?" Doflamingo's voice cut through his thoughts, snapping Claudius back to the present.
Claudius chuckled softly, feeling a bit embarrassed. "Ah, sorry about that. I got lost in thought for a moment. You know, age catches up to all of us."
"Furufurufuru, age? Cousin, you're what—still in your twenties?" Doflamingo teased with a laugh.
"Barely holding onto my twenties," Claudius replied with a grin. "I'm almost hitting my thirties. Unlike you young people, I'm getting up there."
After exchanging some lighthearted banter, Claudius returned to the matter at hand. "By the way, what were you saying earlier?"
"Figures you weren't listening. Furufuru," Doflamingo said, his tone amused. "I was saying I planted a 'nail' in the Marines. Since they're not exactly friendly toward us, I thought it was only fair to play a little dirty in return."
"Oh? And what's the situation?" Claudius asked with genuine curiosity.
"Vergo," Doflamingo answered, his tone smug. "I placed him in the Marines as an undercover agent. If something happens with Rosinante or if the Marines try anything funny, Vergo will keep me informed. It's always good to have a backup plan."
Claudius chuckled. "You've got things well thought out, I see. But speaking of the Marines, I've managed to make some pretty big gains with them myself this time."
He proceeded to explain the details of his recent cooperation with the Marines. Doflamingo, quick-witted as always, immediately grasped the significance.
"Furufurufuru! You're on a whole different level, cousin. I was over here patting myself on the back for planting a spy, and you've gone and shaken down the Marines for funding. Impressive!"
"Well, it's not every day the opportunity presents itself," Claudius said, smiling. "Speaking of which, I need your help with something connected to all this."
"Let me guess," Doflamingo interrupted with a smirk. "Sky Island. The golden land."
Claudius raised an eyebrow, impressed. "That's exactly it. Your abilities will be invaluable for the Sky Island mission. With you there, it'll be much safer, and we'll avoid unnecessary losses."
Doflamingo's Devil Fruit powers, particularly his ability to manipulate strings, made him an ideal candidate for the perilous journey to Sky Island. He had no objections, as his own curiosity about the legendary land of gold piqued his interest.
"According to my intel, there's a Poneglyph and a golden bell up there. Leave those to me," Claudius added.
Doflamingo chuckled awkwardly. "What's that supposed to mean? Like I'd try to pocket the gold?"
"Hahahaha! Wouldn't you?" Claudius teased.
"Yes," Doflamingo replied without hesitation, prompting both men to burst into laughter.
Claudius didn't mind. He trusted Doflamingo enough to let him take a cut of the loot, it was only fair to compensate him for his efforts. "Just don't touch the Marines' 50%, alright?"
"Of course, cousin. I wouldn't do anything to ruin your plans. You can count on me," Doflamingo said, nodding.
Satisfied, Claudius continued, "You'll rendezvous with Spandine and the Marines at the top of the West Sky Peak. It's important that we use people we can trust for this mission."
After wrapping up the details of the Sky Island operation, Doflamingo brought up another matter. "Cousin, any updates on the Seven Warlords of the Sea? I've been waiting impatiently."
Claudius sighed, rubbing his temples. "I'm swamped right now. With the World Summit just around the corner, Mariejois is in chaos. But don't worry; we'll create the perfect opportunity when the time comes."
The year was 1508 of the Sea Circle Calendar, and the World Summit—a gathering of the world's leaders held every four years was fast approaching. This event was one of the reasons the World Government was so eager to resolve issues with Whitebeard and Fish-Man Island. It was also why Sengoku was currently overburdened, as the Marines had to escort royalty from various nations to the summit.
"When's the timing?" Doflamingo asked, his voice laced with impatience.
"Right before the World Summit begins," Claudius explained. "When this year's Heavenly Tribute is being delivered, I'll tip you off. You'll rob the shipment, and we'll use the incident as leverage to get you into the Seven Warlords of the Sea. The World Government won't be able to refuse, and it'll all look perfectly natural."
Doflamingo grinned. "Heh, robbing the Heavenly Tribute? That's a pretty bold move, cousin. It'll definitely make waves."
"Exactly. The bolder the move, the less anyone will suspect it was orchestrated. The Five Elders are already on board, so there's nothing to worry about," Claudius assured him.
"Since you've given the green light, I'll handle it," Doflamingo replied confidently.
The two exchanged a few more words before ending the call.
"World Summit…" Claudius murmured, leaning back in his chair.
This year's summit was significant for Claudius. For the first time, he would participate, as Fish-Man Island was expected to send representatives. While he wasn't overly concerned about the event itself, he recognized the importance of being prepared.
"There are some key points I'll need to raise carefully," Claudius thought to himself, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. "I may not have the luxury of acting recklessly."
After ending his call with Doflamingo, Claudius picked up his phone snail again, this time dialing a line to Water 7.
Water 7 had flourished in recent years, thanks in no small part to the dominance of Tom's Shipbuilding Company. Without any anti-monopoly laws in this world, Tom's company had effectively monopolized the city's shipbuilding industry. Backed by Claudius, a Celestial Dragon, Tom's company grew wealthy and powerful.
During the economic downturn that had gripped Water 7, Tom aggressively acquired smaller shipbuilding firms on the island. With Marine and CP-X providing a steady stream of orders, business was booming. The city itself had become practically synonymous with Tom's Shipbuilding Company.
When Tom answered the call, his voice was brimming with gratitude. He first thanked Claudius sincerely for everything he had done for Fish-Man Island and for liberating the Fish-Man slaves in Mariejois.
Claudius accepted the thanks without reservation, then listened as Tom reported the company's latest financial figures. The company was raking in massive profits, and Tom detailed every aspect of their growth.
Claudius listened politely, though not too attentively. Once Tom had finished his report, Claudius offered a few words of praise before cutting to the main topic.
"Tom, the World Summit is just a few months away," Claudius began.
Tom, momentarily puzzled, asked, "Your Highness, what does that have to do with us? Is Water 7 expected to participate? As you know, while our city is under the banner of the World Government, we're not part of the system of franchise countries. We're classified as a municipality and don't meet the qualifications to attend, right?"
Tom was correct. Water 7 was under the World Government's protection but was not considered a franchise country. Unlike the 170 franchise nations, municipalities like Water 7 operated independently, electing their own leaders and governing themselves. Currently, Tom was the de facto leader of the city, as the shipbuilding industry was its lifeblood.
Claudius chuckled. "You're right, Master Tom. Under normal circumstances, Water 7 wouldn't qualify to attend the World Summit. However, you're one of my people now, and CP-X does have the authority to participate."
Tom's shipbuilding company had been fully acquired by Claudius and integrated into CP-X's operations. While Tom himself hadn't officially joined CP-X, he was essentially an employee of Claudius, serving as his chief shipwright.
Tom didn't argue, though he remained curious. "So, what does Your Highness need from us? Is there something specific you'd like us to do at the summit?"
"Exactly," Claudius replied with a nod. "We're going to make some money and expand our business. I've heard the sea train technology has been successfully tested?"
Tom's eyes lit up at the mention of the sea train. "Yes, it's in the trial stage. There are still some minor details that need adjustment, but overall, it's functioning well."
"In terms of safety and speed, the technology is reliable?" Claudius asked.
"Absolutely," Tom said confidently. "The system is both fast and safe. Just a few tweaks, and it'll be perfect."
"Good. In that case, I'm placing an order on behalf of the World Government," Claudius declared. "I want you to use the sea train technology to connect Water 7 to Enies Lobby as quickly as possible. From there, the tracks should extend to Marine Headquarters at Marinford, with the final stop being Mariejois. Can you handle this?"
As Claudius spoke, his tone was decisive. He didn't hesitate to exercise CP-X's authority, which allowed him to act on behalf of the World Government without seeking further approval.
Tom was stunned for a moment before replying enthusiastically. "Of course, Your Highness! We've already built the first-generation trains. All that remains is to lay the tracks. Construction should move quickly, I guarantee everything will be ready before the World Summit begins!"
"Excellent," Claudius said. "Once the tracks are finished, we'll present sea train technology at the World Summit and sell it to other countries. I have no doubt it'll bring us a lot of business."
This project served multiple purposes for Claudius. On one hand, it was a lucrative opportunity. On the other, it was a practical advancement that could change the world's infrastructure. And finally, it gave him a chance to showcase his achievements at the World Summit, proving to the Five Elders that he was a capable and effective leader.
---
Meanwhile, at Marine Headquarters in Marinford, a private meeting was underway in the office of Fleet Admiral Kong. The room was filled with Marine top brass, all gathered to discuss upcoming operations.
"The World Summit is fast approaching. The escort list for this year's attendees will be finalized in a few days," Kong said, addressing the group. "Sengoku, I trust you'll handle the arrangements?"
Sengoku, who was busy scribbling in a notebook, replied without looking up, "Understood."
Kong glanced curiously at Sengoku, wondering what had him so absorbed, but decided to let it go for the moment. He continued assigning tasks to the other officers in the room.
Turning to Zephyr, Kong asked, "What's the status of the Smoke-Smoke Fruit?"
Zephyr smiled. "The candidate hasn't been finalized yet, but I expect it'll go to the top recruit from this year's training camp. There's a young Marine named Smoker who shows a lot of promise. I'm keeping an eye on him."
"Good," Kong replied. "If he can develop into someone like Sakazuki or Kuzan, it'll be a great addition to our ranks."
The conversation continued for a while, with Kong delegating responsibilities and finalizing plans. However, his curiosity eventually got the better of him. He turned back to Sengoku and asked, "Sengoku, what are you working on so seriously?"
Without looking up, Sengoku replied, "I'm drafting plans to add 200 new warships to the fleet over the next three years. I also want to establish seven new Marine branches and repair sixteen existing ones. I'm just finalizing the numbers."
The room fell silent.
Kong nearly spat out the tea he'd been drinking. "Two hundred warships!?"
Marine warships weren't just ordinary ships. They were massive, heavily fortified vessels equipped with advanced weaponry and coated with seastone. Each ship cost approximately 200 million Berries, according to the current rates from Water 7.
Sengoku's request for 200 new warships alone amounted to 40 billion Berries. Adding seven new Marine branches and repairing sixteen others would push the total cost well past 100 billion Berries. Combined, Sengoku was effectively proposing nearly 200 billion Berries in additional expenses.
Even Kong, a seasoned leader, was left speechless. Around the room, the other officers were equally stunned. Garp, always one to break the tension, burst into laughter.
"Pfft! Sengoku, have you lost your mind? Do you think we've got a mountain of gold lying around? Where are we supposed to find that kind of money? Did someone promise you a massive budget increase or something?" Garp teased, slapping the table as he laughed.
Sakazuki, Kuzan, Borsalino, and even Gion were visibly shocked. Only Tsuru remained calm, clearly aware of the underlying details.
Sengoku paused and continued, his tone growing more serious. "We all know that the World Government cannot allocate more financial resources to support Marine Headquarters. It's not that they don't want to—it's that they can't."
Fleet Admiral Kong nodded in agreement. "Exactly, Sengoku. Since you know that the World Government is stretched thin, and our military budget is far from sufficient, then what's with these grand plans of yours?"
Sengoku met Kong's gaze and replied confidently, "The World Government can't provide the funding—but someone else can."
The room fell silent. Every Marine officer present, from Garp to Sakazuki, stared at Sengoku with puzzled and wary expressions. Only Tsuru, ever composed, calmly took a sip of tea, clearly already aware of where this was going.
The idea of anyone else funding the Marines was unheard of. While some of the World Government's franchise countries might occasionally offer additional resources for their protection, the Marines had never formally accepted such contributions. Opening this door was unprecedented.
"Sengoku!" Kong's voice boomed with uncharacteristic sharpness.
But then, softening slightly, he added, "I understand the urgency. We're all struggling in this chaotic era, but we can't cross certain lines. The Marines stand for justice—how can we accept what is essentially black money?"
Hearing this, Sengoku sighed in exasperation. "Black money? Do you really think I'd suggest something that undermines our integrity? I've walked the path of justice my entire career. Don't insult me, Kong."
Before Sengoku could continue, Garp picked at his nose and chimed in, "Black money or not, as long as it's used to build warships and bases, what's the big deal? If it were up to me, I'd have taken it already and spared us the debate."
Kuzan glanced at Garp, clearly conflicted. He wanted to argue but found himself reluctantly agreeing with Garp's pragmatism.
On the other hand, Sakazuki spoke without hesitation. "I fully agree with Garp. If it's for the sake of justice and to strengthen our power, we should do whatever it takes. Justice must prevail at all costs."
Sakazuki's view of justice was uncompromising, even extreme. He didn't care about optics or reputation; as long as the results aligned with his vision of justice, the methods were irrelevant. His unwavering belief in his cause often set him apart from more conflicted figures like Kuzan.
Borsalino, as usual, shrugged indifferently. "Well, if it means my paycheck gets a little fatter or my pension gets a boost, I won't complain. You big shots can figure out the rest."
Gion, meanwhile, glanced at her mentor, Tsuru. Seeing Tsuru's calm demeanor, she decided it was best to stay silent and let the senior officers hash things out.
Kong frowned deeply, clearly torn. While he wanted to see the Marines grow stronger, he also understood the potential risks of stepping into such murky territory.
After a long silence, he finally spoke. "No. This crosses a line. If the World Government finds out, there will be consequences. You know how strict they are when it comes to the Marines' autonomy. And if the CP agencies catch wind of this, we'll be the ones in hot water."
Sengoku, unfazed, smiled faintly and said, "Kong, let me ask you something. CP-X's administrative level—it's technically higher than Marine Headquarters, correct?"
Kong looked at Sengoku, puzzled by the sudden change in topic. "In theory, yes. CP-X operates directly under the Five Elders and doesn't answer to the Commander of the Army. So their administrative rank is, in a way, above ours. Why do you ask?"
Sengoku nodded, his smile widening. "And the Marines? We're tasked with protecting the Celestial Dragons and ensuring their security, correct?"
Kong's confusion deepened, but he nodded again. "That's correct. We're bound to protect the Celestial Dragons as part of our duties."
"Then, if we receive resources from a Celestial Dragon as part of a collaborative effort with CP-X, it's perfectly legitimate, isn't it?" Sengoku asked casually, his tone almost innocent. "After all, we're just following orders from a higher authority. It's not black money, it's funding for research, development, and justice itself."
Kong blinked, struggling to follow Sengoku's logic. "What are you trying to say?"
Instead of answering directly, Sengoku closed his notebook and pulled out a stack of documents. He handed copies to everyone in the room.
"Take a look," Sengoku said simply.
The room fell silent as the officers read through the documents. Kong's expression shifted from confusion to shock, while Garp—normally carefree—frowned deeply, as if trying to process what he was seeing. Even the usually unflappable Borsalino raised an eyebrow.
When the room finally settled, Kong placed the documents back on the table and looked at Sengoku. "So… you've been working with Saint Claudius on this all along?"
Sengoku nodded. "Yes. And in my opinion, this initiative is far more important than the World Summit or even dealing with Whitebeard. Don't you agree?"
The room remained quiet for a moment before Zephyr broke the silence. "Compared to this, everything else feels trivial," he said with a smile.
Kong stroked his chin thoughtfully, replaying Sengoku's earlier words in his mind. It was true—the Marines would merely be cooperating with a higher authority, fully within their jurisdiction. From a procedural standpoint, everything was airtight.
Finally, Kong asked, "What do the rest of you think? Is this feasible?"
Sakazuki was the first to respond, his voice firm. "Absolutely. I support it 100%."
Garp leaned back with a grin. "For once, I agree with Sakazuki. Count me in."
Zephyr chuckled. "As long as His Highness has our backs, I see no reason not to move forward."
Sengoku's smile widened. "Trust me. Saint Claudius will make sure we're covered."
Seeing the growing consensus, Kong couldn't help but feel tempted. The proposal promised hundreds of billions of Berries—a sum that could transform the Marines.
After a long pause, Kong finally relented. "Alright. If this funding is coming from a higher-level agency and is in line with our duties, there's no reason to object. However, there will be no written records of this arrangement. Keep everything discreet. Understand?"
Sengoku nodded confidently. "Of course. I'll handle everything personally. You can count on me."
With that, the Marine leadership reached a unanimous decision, they would proceed with the plan in collaboration with Claudius.
After the senior officers of Marine Headquarters approved Sengoku's proposal and decided to collaborate with Claudius, Tsuru quickly mobilized a fleet of retired warships and set sail for the West Blue.
According to the plan, the Marine fleet would rendezvous with Claudius and his CP-X team in the West Blue before traveling together to the summit. From there, they would ascend to Sky Island, meet with Enel, and transport the treasures of the Golden Land back to Mariejois.
With the World Summit fast approaching, the World Government's various branches were operating at full capacity. Mariejois, in particular, was abuzz with activity. Once again, Claudius spearheaded a slave liberation movement, directing CP-X to free Fish-Man slaves from households across the Holy Land. Fisher Tiger personally oversaw these efforts and witnessed Claudius keeping his promise.
In Claudius's palace, he sat in his study holding a document while speaking to one of his subordinates through a phone snail.
"The first phase isn't enough. After this, we'll move into the second and third phases. Before the World Summit begins, all the Fish-Man slaves in Mariejois must be freed. This summit is the first time Fish-Man Island will participate officially. We need to make a good impression, understood?" Claudius said, his tone firm.
"Yes, Your Highness!" came the prompt reply through the Den Den Mushi.
From his position within the World Government, Claudius could see that the advent of the Great Pirate Era had forced even the most rigid institutions to adapt. Slowly but surely, changes were being made to counter the escalating chaos of the times.
For Claudius, the liberation of the Fish-Man slaves was just the beginning. He could already foresee more significant reforms coming in the future.
After ending the call, Claudius leaned back, but Nia immediately approached, handing him a new document.
"Your Highness, Stussy sent over some information regarding the CP agency," Nia said.
Claudius smiled wryly as he accepted the document. "It feels like I've been busier than ever lately."
Opening the file, Claudius scanned through its contents, his lips curling into a smirk. "Oh, this isn't good news for them."
"A colossal failure, it seems," Nia said with a slight chuckle.
According to the report, the CP agency had initiated a large-scale operation in the New World, aiming to crush the Revolutionary Army in a decisive blow. However, the plan had somehow been leaked or derailed, resulting in the Revolutionary Army setting a trap. The CP agency suffered significant losses, both in manpower and elite operatives.
Claudius couldn't help but laugh. "I'd bet anything that it was Dragon who orchestrated this. That guy has a knack for turning the tables."
Of course, there was no concrete evidence to back this up, and Claudius didn't particularly care to verify it.
"It seems the World Government was hoping to deliver a major blow to the Revolutionary Army before the summit, maybe even as a show of strength. Instead, it's backfired spectacularly. What a mess," Claudius said, shaking his head.
Nia chuckled lightly. "Your Highness, perhaps you shouldn't enjoy their misfortune too much."
Claudius raised an eyebrow. "What's that supposed to mean? Are you suggesting this mess will somehow involve us? Don't worry. Even if someone tries to pin it on me, I've been kept completely out of the loop on this one."
"That's not what I meant," Nia said, her smile widening. "But isn't CP-X often called in to clean up after the CP agency's failures? If the higher-ups decide the CP agency isn't up to the task, they might hand the Revolutionary Army situation over to you. How would you handle it then?"
Claudius paused, momentarily caught off guard. Then he laughed. "Do they think CP-X is some kind of glorified janitorial service? Relax. Dismantling the Revolutionary Army is a long-term mission for the CP agency. They might stumble now and then, but they've also caused Dragon plenty of headaches. As long as they don't completely lose the trust of the Five Elders, we won't have to step in."
"And if they do lose that trust?" Nia asked curiously.
Claudius's grin turned mischievous. "Haven't you ever heard the saying, 'The thief cries thief'?"
Before Nia could respond, Claudius leaned back in his chair, his tone playful yet calculating. "If it ever comes to that, I might just masquerade as the Revolutionary Army myself. Imagine it—me taking down their organization under the guise of being one of them. Wouldn't that be poetic justice?"
Though Claudius was clearly joking, the glint in his eyes suggested he wasn't entirely dismissing the idea. Still, he doubted such a scenario would arise anytime soon.
After a few more lighthearted exchanges, Claudius shifted the topic. "By the way, where's Ace? What's he up to?"
"He's training in the Six Styles with Koala," Nia replied. "The young master has a remarkable aptitude for it, but surprisingly, Koala's performance isn't far behind."
Claudius burst into laughter. "Is that so?"
He wasn't entirely surprised. Claudius had suspected for some time that Koala was an exceptional talent. The fact that she could master Fish-Man Karate as a human had already proven her potential.
"Speaking of which, I asked you to find out if they were interested in eating Devil Fruits. What did they say?" Claudius asked.
Nia chuckled. "Koala declined. She didn't like the idea of losing the ability to swim. But the young master? He's very interested—on one condition. He wants a Logia-type Devil Fruit, just like yours."
Claudius nodded thoughtfully. "I see… looks like I'll have to keep an eye out for something suitable."
Of course, there were several powerful Logia fruits that Claudius could pursue, but when it came to Ace, one fruit immediately came to mind: the Mera-Mera no Mi.
In Claudius's opinion, Ace was practically born to wield the Mera-Mera Fruit. Though all Devil Fruits had their strengths and weaknesses, the flame-based Mera-Mera Fruit was undeniably formidable. While it was theoretically countered by Sakazuki's Magma-Magma Fruit, Claudius wasn't particularly worried.
After all, if Ace was under his protection, not even someone as ruthless as Sakazuki would dare harm him. Furthermore, as long as Ace wasn't a pirate or in direct conflict with the Marines, there would be no reason for confrontation.
Beyond its theoretical weaknesses, the Mera-Mera Fruit was immensely powerful. In terms of destructive capability, it could rival even Kuzan's Ice-Ice Fruit.
The key, of course, was matching the fruit's potential with the user's own strength and creativity. As Claudius thought about it, he grew increasingly convinced that finding the Mera-Mera Fruit for Ace wasn't just a good idea—it was the right idea.
"Alright then," Claudius said, his voice resolute. "It's settled. I'll start looking for the Mera-Mera Fruit. It's time to set Ace on the path he was meant for."
Finding a Devil Fruit, especially targeting a specific one, is not an easy task. While the World Government has vast resources and a large inventory of Devil Fruits, it is still a challenging endeavor. For example, CP9 in the future can provide several Devil Fruits to its agents, and even the Marines have their stockpile. However, when it comes to the coveted Logia Devil Fruits, they remain highly sought after.
But having an inventory is one thing; finding the right fruit is another challenge entirely. First, you need access to a Devil Fruit Encyclopedia.
The Devil Fruit Encyclopedia is an incredibly rare and valuable resource. Only a handful of long-standing and powerful organizations across the seas possess it. This alone rules out most individuals and groups.
In this regard, Claudius holds a natural advantage. Not only does he possess a Devil Fruit Encyclopedia, but it's also the most comprehensive one available.
On top of this, he has another edge—he has professionals working for him. One such person is his cousin, Doflamingo.
Doflamingo has deep connections within the dark underworld and an uncanny talent for acquiring rare and powerful Devil Fruits.
His track record speaks for itself. His subordinates, whom he trained personally, are all exceptional in their abilities, with not a single one being considered weak.
Doflamingo's skills in locating Devil Fruits are well-proven. For instance, he was responsible for finding the Gold Gold Fruit, though it was later stolen by Tesoro. In the original story, he also managed to acquire the Mera-Mera Fruit following Ace's death, even though it was eventually lost again.
By that point, Doflamingo had gone beyond merely finding Devil Fruits, he had begun "creating" them, elevating himself to another level altogether.
With the most complete Devil Fruit Encyclopedia in hand, a resourceful ally like Doflamingo, and plenty of manpower at his disposal, Claudius was confident it wouldn't be too difficult to locate the Mera-Mera Fruit for Ace ahead of time.
"Once the World Summit is over, I'll start making arrangements for this," Claudius murmured, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.
Before he could discuss the matter further with Nia, the phone snail in Claudius's hand rang again.
Seeing the caller, Claudius smiled. "It's Sengoku."
Understanding the need for privacy, Nia tactfully stepped aside and quietly poured tea for Claudius while he answered the call.
"Sengoku, how's our little project coming along?" Claudius asked casually, his tone carrying a hint of humor.
"Hahaha, don't worry, Your Highness," Sengoku replied with a laugh. "The Marine fleet has already set sail. Tsuru is leading the operation with fifty warships. That should be sufficient, right?"
Fifty warships sounded like a lot, but Claudius wasn't entirely sure. After all, he had no idea just how much gold was hidden in the Golden Land. Still, it seemed sufficient, especially considering that warships were quite large, even the older ones in the fleet could carry a significant load.
"It should be enough," Claudius replied with a smile. "And if it's not, that's good news for us—it means there's even more gold than we expected."
"Exactly! If needed, we Marines don't mind making a second trip," Sengoku said, chuckling.
"So, I take it you managed to convince everyone?" Claudius asked, his tone turning curious.
"Of course. Who would say no to such a lucrative opportunity?" Sengoku replied confidently.
After exchanging a few more words, Sengoku changed the topic. "The list of participating nations for the World Summit has been finalized. As usual, fifty countries will be attending. Your Highness, are you interested in participating? Think of it as a publicly funded vacation."
Although the World Government has over 170 allied nations, not all of them attend the World Summit. Each summit rotates the participating nations. For example, during the last summit, Alabasta was among the attendees, and they had proposed reducing the Heavenly Tribute—a motion that was swiftly rejected.
This time, however, Alabasta wouldn't be attending. From the remaining nations, fifty new representatives had been selected to participate.
Claudius stroked his chin thoughtfully but eventually smiled. "I'll pass on this so-called vacation. I've got too much on my plate. You enjoy it on my behalf, Sengoku."
Sengoku laughed on the other end of the line. "Sounds like you're quite busy over there."
"Of course I am," Claudius replied with a grin.
"That's a shame. I was thinking of visiting Dressrosa afterward. It's your family's ancestral homeland, after all. If you're interested, you should come with me," Sengoku said, sounding a bit regretful.
These days, Sengoku found himself enjoying Claudius's company more and more. Claudius had a way of noticing opportunities others overlooked, and these insights often led to significant gains. Even though the Marines were already benefiting from their ventures into the Golden Land and the Calm Belt, Sengoku believed there was always room for more.
Claudius chuckled. "So Dressrosa is one of the representative nations this year?"
"That's right," Sengoku confirmed.
"I'm curious about the place, but I'll have to pass this time," Claudius said.
Dressrosa, the birthplace of the Donquixote family, certainly piqued Claudius's interest. However, he decided to let it go for now. After the World Summit, Doflamingo was set to officially become one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, a plan Claudius had orchestrated.
Doflamingo was eager to secure his position among the Warlords, as he lacked a proper base of operations in the New World. His eyes were set on Dressrosa, the family's ancestral land. Once established there, Doflamingo's influence and power would grow exponentially.
With this in mind, Claudius suspected that this summit would likely be the last one attended by the Riku royal family of Dressrosa. He had no intention of letting his cousin's plans fall apart, it simply wouldn't benefit him.
Pushing these thoughts aside, Claudius turned his attention back to Sengoku. "By the way, Sengoku, there's a small favor I'd like to ask of the Marines."
"A favor? What do you need, Your Highness?" Sengoku asked without hesitation.
"I need you to help me locate a Logia-type Devil Fruit—the Mera-Mera Fruit," Claudius said with a smile.
At this request, Sengoku groaned in mock exasperation. "Your Highness, you really know how to assign difficult tasks. Are you doing this on purpose?"
The Marines had been obsessively searching for powerful Logia-type Devil Fruits for years. Now Claudius was asking them to help him find one, it felt like he was rubbing salt in the wound.
"Hahaha, what can I say? My adopted son Ace has his heart set on the Mera-Mera Fruit. How can I refuse him? I'm counting on you," Claudius said, casually shifting the blame onto Ace.
Sengoku laughed as well. To outsiders, Ace's existence remained a mystery, with only Garp knowing the full story. Rumors abounded, the most popular being that Ace was Claudius's illegitimate child.
Sengoku didn't know if this was true, but Claudius had never denied the rumors, so perhaps there was some truth to them.
"Your Highness has made a request, so how can we refuse? Alright, we'll keep an eye out for the Mera-Mera Fruit," Sengoku finally agreed, albeit reluctantly.
"Hahaha, I'll leave it to you then," Claudius said with a laugh. A few months passed quickly, and Mariejois, the Holy Land, became bustling with activity. Royal families from all over the world had begun arriving, gathering for the imminent World Summit.
At the port below Mariejois, luxurious fleets frequently docked. While some royals preferred to travel aboard Marine warships for safety, most arrived with their own grand fleets, escorted by their warships. For many, the World Summit wasn't just about diplomacy, it was also a stage to display their nation's strength and wealth. Their fleets reflected this, showcasing the most high-end ships to signify their power and prestige.
The Social Square in Pangaea Castle was already teeming with royals, mingling and chatting with one another. The Summit had essentially turned into a massive open-air aristocratic banquet. Even those nations with deep rivalries had representatives present, attempting to maintain decorum.
As the gathering continued, the doors of the House of God swung open, and Claudius emerged with his entourage.
Claudius was dressed impeccably, wearing an expensive white suit paired with a dark brown coat. His short blond hair was neatly styled, and perched on the bridge of his nose were a pair of refined black-framed glasses. A pen clipped to his chest pocket added to his noble appearance, lending him an air of elegance that far exceeded the average Celestial Dragon.
What drew even more attention, however, was the ornate cane he carried in his hand. While it wasn't necessary, the cane somehow enhanced his already sophisticated demeanor, making him appear even more dignified.
By his side was Stussy, equally dressed to impress. She wore a white hat adorned with a blooming flower, a delicate white waistcoat draped over her shoulders, and a delicate orange dress that accentuated her figure. A string of green jade beads adorned her wrist, and she carried a small handbag in her hand. Her slender waist, complemented by her full curves and red high heels, radiated charm and elegance.
Behind them was Nia, the ever-stoic butler, dressed in her usual maid outfit. Her cold expression showed no sign of emotion as she quietly followed Claudius. A group of guards and attendants dressed in black suits and sunglasses trailed behind them, completing the entourage.
The Social Square, located within Pangaea Castle and directly opposite the House of God, buzzed with activity as Claudius and his party appeared. Claudius was headed toward the port, responding to a call from Vice Admiral Garp. Garp had informed him that he was escorting the royal family of Fish-Man Island and asked if Claudius had any plans regarding their arrival.
After some thought, Claudius decided it was an opportunity to make a statement. The World Summit was a critical platform for Fish-Man Island to assert its standing among the nations. Claudius intended to publicly demonstrate his support for the island by personally welcoming King Neptune and his delegation. It was a calculated move to bolster their confidence and send a clear message to the other royal families: Fish-Man Island was under Claudius's protection.
As Claudius entered the Social Square, the gathered royals fell silent.
Claudius's presence carried an air of mystery. Few had ever seen him before, as no official portraits existed. Yet, his striking appearance and the sheer confidence of his entourage left no doubt that he was someone of extraordinary status.
Before anyone could question his identity, one of the black-suited attendants stepped forward and loudly declared, "Presenting Saint Donquixote-Claudius!"
The name sent ripples of shock through the crowd. In an instant, the square fell into complete silence as the royals parted to make way for Claudius, forming a clear path. Heads bowed, and no one dared to meet his gaze or look directly at him.
As Claudius walked through the square, the royals on either side knelt in deference.
Technically, during the World Summit, royal families weren't required to bow to the Celestial Dragons. However, the weight of Claudius's reputation was enough to make them cast aside protocol. Stories of the upheaval in Mariejois, during which Claudius had forced the Celestial Dragons to temporarily flee, had left a lasting impression. None of the royals were willing to take the risk of provoking him.
Claudius adjusted his glasses with a calm motion and said softly, "There's no need for this. Please, rise."
Though his tone was composed, it carried an undeniable authority. The royals obeyed, standing cautiously but avoiding any movement that might seem disrespectful. They didn't even dare brush the dust from their knees, afraid that even the slightest disturbance might offend the infamous "Demon King of Mariejois."
"Welcome to Mariejois," Claudius said casually. "I hope this World Summit yields results that satisfy you all."
His words were polite enough, but the tense atmosphere persisted. None of the royals dared to respond, so Claudius, finding it dull, decided to leave it at that. Holding his cane, he strolled through the square with a composed demeanor, exiting Pangaea Castle and heading for the port.
Only after Claudius and his entourage had completely left their sight did the gathered royals relax. The square, once tense and silent, slowly returned to its former liveliness.
"That was Saint Claudius. He looks nothing like the other Celestial Dragons."
"Did you feel that aura? I could barely stand when he passed by. His presence is overwhelming."
"Such a high-ranking Celestial Dragon… his demeanor is extraordinary. I thought I was impressive, but standing near him made me feel insignificant."
"I heard he might participate in this year's World Summit as well."
"Of course, he's the leader of the legendary CP-X. I've never seen him before today, but I've heard plenty of stories."
"What kind of person is he?"
"From what I've heard, his temper is… not the best. Otherwise, why would he have such a fearsome reputation?"
"In that case, we should tread carefully and make sure not to offend him."
"Exactly. Rumor has it that when he's angry, even other Celestial Dragons fear him. If we offend him, we might not even leave Mariejois alive."
Claudius, of course, was unaware of how intimidating his reputation was to the gathered royals. In his mind, he considered himself approachable—reasonable, even.
Meanwhile, as Claudius headed to the port to personally welcome the delegation from Fish-Man Island, another scene unfolded elsewhere in Mariejois. Deep within the "Holy Land," atop the Void Throne—a symbol of supposed equality among nations—a figure sat in silence.
This figure, their face obscured, radiated an air of mystery and authority.
Beneath the Void Throne knelt the Five Elders, the highest-ranking members of the World Government. Despite their immense power and influence, they bowed low in submission, greeting the figure with the utmost reverence.
"Lord Imu," they said in unison.
Atop the throne, Imu rested languidly, a butterfly perched delicately on their fingertips. They appeared indifferent to the Five Elders, their attention fixed entirely on the tiny creature.
The Five Elders, despite their usual air of authority, dared not speak further. They remained prostrate, silent and unmoving, as though any disturbance might incur Imu's wrath.
After what seemed like an eternity, the butterfly fluttered its wings and flew away. Only then did Imu withdraw their gaze and glance down at the Five Elders.
"Has anything significant happened in the seas over the past few years?" Imu asked, their tone calm and devoid of emotion, making it impossible to discern their thoughts.
One of the Five Elders immediately responded, "Nothing major, my lord. Only minor disturbances. The seas grow more restless by the day."
"I see," Imu replied indifferently, as though the chaos of the outside world held little interest for them.
"Yes, my lord," the Five Elders said in unison, keeping their heads bowed.
Rising from the Void Throne, Imu took a step forward, their movements deliberate. The Five Elders remained kneeling, not daring to lift their heads or move until their lord had fully departed.
But after taking only a few steps, Imu paused and looked back at them.
"How is Mariejois?" Three days after the Neptune family from Fish-Man Island arrived in Mariejois, Master Tom also made his appearance.
The first generation of sea trains had already been completed, with a route that connected Mariejois to several key locations. Starting from Water 7, the train traveled to Enies Lobby, then to Marine Headquarters in Marineford, and finally reached the Holy Land of Mariejois.
Though the route itself wasn't overly complex, its significance was immense.
The sea train symbolized a new era for the World Government, representing another major step toward dominating the seas.
Previously, a journey from Water 7 to Mariejois by ship could take up to two months of nonstop sailing at full speed. With the sea train, that same journey could now be completed in just three to five days.
The implications were extraordinary. The transportation of goods, resources, and even troops would become far more efficient. Should this technology become widely adopted, it was clear it would drastically reshape the world.
In the grand conference hall, the fifty kings of the participating nations were seated, alongside representatives from the World Government and Marine Headquarters. Five seats at the front of the room remained empty—reserved for the Five Elders, who had yet to arrive.
Claudius sat comfortably in his chair, leaning back lazily and yawning every now and then. Unlike the other royals, who appeared stiff and on edge, Claudius showed no concern for decorum. After all, until the Five Elders arrived, he held the highest rank in the room. Even if he had fallen asleep, no one would have dared to say anything.
Beside him was Stussy, her posture poised and elegant. Nearby sat the representatives of Fish-Man Island, including King Neptune and his family. Tom representing Water 7, technically didn't qualify for a seat at the table, but his association with Claudius and his ties to Fish-Man Island earned him a spot alongside Neptune.
On Claudius's other side sat Sengoku, the Marine representative. With Fleet Admiral Kong nearing retirement, Sengoku had already begun taking over most of the responsibilities of the position. It was clear he would officially assume the role of Fleet Admiral soon.
Claudius stretched lazily, smacked his lips, and muttered, "Why are those five old men taking so long to get here?"
Sengoku chuckled at the question. "Your Highness, it's your first time participating in the World Summit, so you might not be familiar with the process. Before the meeting begins, each participating nation submits its intentions in written form. The Five Elders review these documents beforehand, which is why they're usually late."
Claudius blinked in surprise and asked, "Wait, do I need to submit one of those too?"
"Of course," Sengoku replied matter-of-factly.
"Seriously? No one told me about this! I didn't submit anything!" Claudius exclaimed, clearly caught off guard.
Sengoku froze for a moment, then asked, "Your Highness… you actually have something to propose?"
Claudius shot Sengoku a sharp look and said, "Why else would I bother attending this dull meeting? You think I'm here for fun?"
In truth, the Five Elders hadn't expected Claudius to participate seriously. Most of CP-X's affairs were reported directly to them, making the World Summit largely irrelevant to Claudius's work. They had assumed he was attending merely for appearances, so no one had thought to inform him about the submission process. Claudius, however, had a specific agenda: he intended to pitch the sea train technology.
Now, faced with the unexpected oversight, Claudius felt mildly annoyed.
Sengoku, for his part, couldn't help but feel exasperated. For such a critical event, Claudius's lack of preparation was baffling. Surely, a few questions in advance could have avoided this.
"Does this mean I've missed my chance to speak?" Claudius asked, scratching his head.
Sengoku smiled wryly and replied, "Your Highness, if you want to speak, who's going to stop you?"
"Fair point," Claudius said, laughing as his irritation faded. Waving it off, he added, "Forget it, then. It's no big deal."
After a brief pause, Sengoku leaned in closer and lowered his voice. "By the way, Your Highness, we've had a very successful haul from Sky Island."
Claudius raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "I heard the news. A whole city's worth of gold—impressive."
"The loading process is still underway," Sengoku said. "I'm not sure if fifty warships will be enough. Do you think we should send more?"
"Relax, there's no rush. Take your time," Claudius replied. He then added, "Oh, by the way, the Poneglyphs and the Golden Bell, leave those to me."
Sengoku looked puzzled. "I understand the Poneglyphs since you already have a collection, but what do you want the Golden Bell for?"
Claudius cleared his throat and replied nonchalantly, "Prometheus is missing something—namely, a clock. I figured I'd take care of it in style."
Sengoku wanted to laugh at the absurdity of using a historic artifact as a clock, but he wisely held his tongue. Instead, he said with a smile, "Your Highness is certainly… thorough."
Claudius glanced at Sengoku and smirked. "You've changed, Sengoku. You're not the simple Marine Admiral you used to be, you've learned how to flatter me."
"If I can earn this much gold by flattering you, I'll head back to Marineford and establish a dedicated 'flattery unit' to follow you around," Sengoku joked, laughing.
"If it were that profitable, do you think I'd let anyone else take the job? I'd be doing it myself," Claudius quipped, grinning.
Their lighthearted exchange continued until Sengoku shifted the conversation. "By the way, Your Highness, what about our Calm Belt project?"
"Don't worry," Claudius assured him. "I've already handled everything. As of this World Summit, I can say confidently that there are no more Fish-Man slaves in Mariejois."
He added, "I discussed it with King Neptune and Queen Otohime a couple of days ago. We've assigned someone to oversee the cleanup of Fish-Man Street. Once the summit ends, we should be ready to move forward. When the time comes, we'll begin the experiments in the Calm Belt."
"Good. We'll do the experiments!" Sengoku said with visible excitement.
As their conversation wrapped up, the Five Elders finally entered the conference hall.
The sight of the Five Elders immediately silenced the room. Claudius and Sengoku ended their discussion, and the other royals quickly ceased their chatter. The grand hall became utterly still.
In Claudius's memory, the World Summit wasn't usually presided over by the Five Elders. Typically, the host duties rotated among the fifty participating nations. However, Claudius wasn't entirely sure of the details nor did he particularly care.
As the Five Elders took their seats, one of them glanced in Claudius's direction and offered him a slight smile.
Claudius nodded politely in return but couldn't help feeling that there was something oddly meaningful about the gesture.
What Claudius didn't know was that, just a few days earlier, the Five Elders had met with Imu. During that meeting, Imu had inquired about Mariejois, and Claudius had been mentioned.
Although Claudius was nothing more than a "small figure" in Imu's eyes, the praise he received for his actions had pleased the Five Elders, as they had been responsible for cultivating his talents. This approval from Imu left them viewing Claudius in a more favorable light.
As Claudius pondered the smile, the Five Elders began speaking. Their opening remarks were the usual pleasantries, welcoming the royal families and expressing hope for a productive summit.
With the formalities complete, the World Summit officially began. The World Summit continued for several days, and for Claudius, most of it was mind-numbingly dull.
Nothing significant had happened during the sessions. It was mostly a group of kings pushing their own agendas, occasionally descending into arguments and petty disputes. The World Government, with its vast system of more than a hundred member nations, naturally harbored old grudges among its ranks.
That being said, a few noteworthy events managed to catch Claudius's attention.
For example, North Blue had sent representatives from four newly crowned kings this year. The reason? The Kingdom of Germa had stirred up a storm.
Listening to the details nearly made Claudius laugh out loud.
It seemed that Vinsmoke Judge, leader of Germa 66, had finally snapped. After years of feeling slighted by the World Government, whose demands he felt were never met, Judge went on a rampage in North Blue. With Germa 66's floating kingdom, which wasn't even tied to land, Judge had attacked four neighboring kingdoms, killed their kings, and sent their decapitated heads as a gruesome message ahead of the World Summit.
The incident was a clear embarrassment for the World Government, as these four countries were allied nations. Complaints from the newly crowned rulers of these kingdoms had been presented at the Summit. The Five Elders issued a statement promising "strict measures" to reprimand the Kingdom of Germa, as well as assurances that such acts would not happen again.
However, anyone who looked closely could tell that the World Government itself had mistreated Germa for years. While all member nations were theoretically equals, Germa had long been treated as an outlier, excluded from many benefits granted to others. Judge's actions, while brutal, stemmed from years of frustration.
This wasn't news to Claudius, who could see why Judge would grow disillusioned. Even so, turning to pirates for support—as Judge eventually did with the Big Mom Pirates, was sheer lunacy.
While the World Government might be corrupt, they still maintained some level of accountability. Pirates, on the other hand, operated purely on treachery and greed. In aligning with Big Mom, Judge had effectively placed Germa 66 at her mercy. Unsurprisingly, Judge's gamble ended in disaster. Not only did Big Mom betray him, but his alliance with pirates also resulted in Germa losing its status as a member nation of the World Government.
In the end, Judge was left without support, hounded by the World Government and betrayed by the pirates. A classic case of "losing the rice while trying to steal the chicken."
Meanwhile, Dressrosa had stepped forward with its own set of grievances, taking up the mantle once held by Alabasta. King Riku Dold III openly criticized the World Government for failing to maintain order in the New World, citing Dressrosa's declining economy as evidence. He proposed a reduction in the Heavenly Tribute and other taxes imposed by the World Government.
From Dressrosa's perspective, the request was entirely reasonable. King Riku was a benevolent ruler, prioritizing his people's welfare. However, from the World Government's point of view, the proposal was entirely unacceptable.
If taxes were reduced for Dressrosa, other member nations would undoubtedly demand the same treatment. With declining revenue, the World Government would be forced to cut expenditures, including funding for the Marines. This would weaken Marine influence and further destabilize the New World, creating a vicious cycle.
It was a classic example of clashing priorities. From King Riku's perspective, the World Government was exploiting Dressrosa. From the Five Elders' perspective, Dressrosa was acting irresponsibly by prioritizing its own needs at the expense of global stability.
Claudius, observing the dispute, couldn't help but think of Doflamingo. During Doflamingo's rule, Dressrosa's economy had flourished, albeit through morally questionable means. War profiteering and underground dealings had funded Dressrosa's prosperity. Regardless of the methods, the results couldn't be denied.
Now that King Riku's family had regained control, they seemed determined to uphold their moral values, even at the expense of the kingdom's economy. And now they were begging the World Government for relief.
Claudius could understand why the World Government had been willing to install Doflamingo as Dressrosa's ruler. While his status as a former Celestial Dragon may have been a factor, it was clear that the Riku family's inability to govern effectively also played a role.
As these petty issues dragged on, the final days of the World Summit shifted focus to a more serious matter: the Revolutionary Army.
Many member nations expressed their frustration with Monkey D. Dragon, accusing him of inciting rebellions and destabilizing their governments. Dragon's revolutionary efforts had left these nations in turmoil, and his movement had become a constant thorn in the side of the World Government.
That being said, Dragon's revolutions were far from universally successful. While he had successfully overthrown several regimes, many of his attempts ended in failure. With over 170 member nations in the World Government, even a lifetime wouldn't be enough for Dragon to dismantle the entire system.
Additionally, the number of member nations fluctuated each year, as new nations joined and others were expelled. On average, the total hovered between 170 and 200, with minor variations.
As discussions about the Revolutionary Army heated up, the atmosphere in the room grew tense. The Five Elders, in particular, looked displeased, though they refrained from speaking much.
Then, just as the tension reached its peak, Claudius suddenly slammed his hand on the table with a resounding bang!
The entire room fell silent. Even the Five Elders flinched in surprise, startled by the unexpected outburst.
All eyes turned to Claudius, who leaned back in his chair, exuding his usual calm yet commanding presence. His gaze swept across the room before he took a sip from his teacup and spoke.
"I have a proposal regarding the Revolutionary Army," Claudius announced. "Something that might actually mitigate their impact."
The Five Elders exchanged glances, their expressions subtly shifting. They hadn't expected Claudius to contribute to this discussion, but now their interest was piqued.
No one interrupted, so Claudius continued. "Stussy," he said, addressing the queen seated beside him. "Distribute the documents we prepared to everyone present."
For the past few days, Stussy had remained quiet and seemingly ornamental. Now, with a graceful smile, she rose from her seat. "Of course, Your Highness," she replied.
She began handing out stacks of documents to each attendee, including the Five Elders, as well as King Neptune of Fish-Man Island. While Neptune barely glanced at the papers, finding the subject irrelevant to his kingdom, the other royals read them carefully, though many seemed confused.
The Five Elders, too, examined the documents with curiosity. While the materials outlined advanced technological concepts, it wasn't immediately clear how they connected to the Revolutionary Army.
After a moment, one of the Five Elders, the bald one, spoke up. "Claudius, this is intriguing, but the connection isn't obvious. Care to explain how this technology addresses the Revolutionary Army problem?"
Claudius smiled faintly, as if he had been waiting for this question. "On the surface," he said, "it may seem unrelated. But in reality, the connection runs deep." The sea train technology is now fully operational on its first track," Claudius began, his voice calm but commanding. "Starting from Water 7, it connects to Enies Lobby, continues to Naval Headquarters in Marineford, and ends here in Mariejois. Now, I want to ask all of you: how long do you think it takes for this train to complete its route?"
Claudius's question sparked murmurs among the gathered royals and even piqued the curiosity of the Five Elders.
One thoughtful king from a member nation ventured an answer: "Saint Claudius, based on traditional sea routes, this journey would normally take about two months. Could the sea train technology cut this time in half?"
Another king chimed in, "A month would already be incredibly fast if that were the case. Achieving such speeds would be remarkable."
The discussion grew louder as more royals shared their opinions, their interest clearly growing.
Claudius smiled, letting them speculate for a moment before continuing. "I'm not the best person to answer this question, as I'm not the expert. So let me invite the designer of the sea train, Tom from Water 7, to explain the advantages of this technology."
Tom, who had been seated quietly, stood up nervously. Although he had experience dealing with important figures, standing before kings, Celestial Dragons, and even the Five Elders was a daunting prospect.
Sensing his unease, Claudius gave him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Tom. I'll back you up."
Encouraged, Tom took a deep breath, calmed his nerves, and began his presentation. "Thank you, Your Highness. Let me introduce you all to the advantages of the sea train. I truly believe this is a groundbreaking, era-defining invention."
Despite his initial nervousness, Tom managed to deliver a clear explanation. He highlighted the sea train's enormous cargo capacity, which could far exceed that of conventional ships—up to ten times more, depending on the number of train cars and power adjustments.
More importantly, Tom emphasized the train's speed. Many in the audience had assumed it would merely cut travel time in half, but they were shocked to learn the train could complete the entire route in just three to five days.
"This isn't just a modest improvement," Tom explained, his voice growing steadier. "This is a leap forward in transportation technology. It has the potential to reshape economies, nations, and even the world."
As Tom spoke, one of the kings suddenly realized the implications. "If that's the case," he murmured, "our country's fruit exports could reach markets far beyond our usual trade zones. Right now, we're limited to selling to nearby islands because anything farther would spoil. But with the sea train…"
The realization rippled through the room. Several other leaders began to imagine how their own economies could thrive with such a transportation network.
Even the Five Elders, who had remained silent thus far, were visibly intrigued. To them, the sea train represented more than just economic potential. It could significantly enhance the World Government's control over its member nations, allowing for faster deployment of resources, troops, and intelligence.
Claudius tapped the table lightly, drawing everyone's attention back to him. "As I mentioned earlier, the first track is already operational. For those interested, you're welcome to inspect it yourselves. This isn't just theoretical, it's already a reality."
Heads nodded across the room. Claudius's confidence in the technology was evident, and the existence of a functional prototype only reinforced its credibility.
"Now," Claudius continued, "let's tie this back to the issue of the Revolutionary Army."
The room grew quiet again, and all eyes focused on him.
"As we all know," Claudius began, "one of the key factors fueling the Revolutionary Army's influence is the economic decline brought about by the Great Pirate Era. Countries grow poorer, standards of living fall, and their citizens become easy targets for revolutionary propaganda. Am I wrong?"
Many kings nodded solemnly, though a few wore guilty expressions, knowing their own neglect and corruption had contributed to their people's dissatisfaction. Claudius, however, paid them no mind.
"Here's my proposal," Claudius continued. "By leveraging sea train technology, we can stimulate economic growth, improve national prosperity, and raise the standard of living for ordinary citizens. When people have enough to eat, stable incomes, and hope for the future, they won't be as easily swayed by revolutionary rhetoric. In essence, we eliminate the Revolutionary Army's breeding ground. That's the first point."
Although Claudius had some connections with Dragon and the Revolutionary Army, he had no qualms about making this proposal. His goals aligned with neither the revolutionaries nor the World Government entirely; he simply sought to maintain control and balance.
Claudius thought to himself, Dragon won't have any grounds to oppose me here. After all, if I'm proposing measures to improve the lives of people, then opposing me would make him a hypocrite unworthy of being a revolutionary leader.
And as an added bonus, Claudius knew that even the Revolutionary Army itself would likely benefit from the sea train system. While his main goal was to strengthen the World Government's position, the technology's global reach meant that even pirates and revolutionaries might indirectly gain advantages.
"But that's just one aspect," Claudius continued, giving his audience a moment to process. "Now, let's talk about the strategic potential of the sea train."
He leaned forward slightly, his tone growing more serious. "We all know the Revolutionary Army thrives on timing. They strike fast, and by the time help arrives, the damage is already done. How many times has a rebellion succeeded simply because Marine or CP reinforcements couldn't arrive in time?"
Several heads nodded in agreement.
"With sea train technology," Claudius said, "we can cut response times drastically. Instead of waiting ten or twenty days for reinforcements to arrive, we're talking about three to five days. This could completely change the game when dealing with rebellions or uprisings."
Of course, Claudius was aware of potential risks. The Revolutionary Army could attempt to sabotage the train routes, rendering them useless in a crisis. But he chose not to dwell on such scenarios during his presentation—his goal was to sell the technology's potential benefits.
He spent the next few minutes extolling the train's virtues, emphasizing how it could revolutionize both economic development and military logistics. By the time he finished, it was clear that the room had been swayed.
"As I said," Claudius concluded with a smile, "this technology isn't a quick fix. It's a massive project that will take decades to fully implement—perhaps ten, twenty, or even thirty years. However, today you all have a unique opportunity."
He gestured around the room. "This summit marks the first step. Those of you here today have the chance to become the first beneficiaries of this groundbreaking technology. If you're interested, come see me after the meeting to reserve your place in history."
Claudius leaned back in his chair, his smile calm but self-assured. By the time he finished speaking, nearly everyone in the room was already considering how to secure their piece of this new future. In the headquarters of the World Government, the Five Elders were gathered around a table in their office, laughing and discussing the events of the World Summit.
The nearly week-long summit had taken its toll, even on these experienced statesmen. As the discussions drew to a close, the elders allowed themselves a rare moment of relaxation, reflecting on the overall success of the conference.
The myriad issues presented by the various nations, both large and small, hardly merited further mention. But the summit had undeniably produced some positive outcomes.
For example, the problem of the Revolutionary Army, a persistent thorn in the side of the World Government, had no clear resolution at the outset. However, Claudius had unexpectedly intervened with an intriguing suggestion. Whether or not his proposed solution would effectively weaken the Revolutionary Army was uncertain, but at least it provided the affected nations with a measure of hope, a far better outcome than simply admitting helplessness.
Then there was the matter of Fish-Man Island. Claudius had addressed this issue in detail during the summit, laying the groundwork for the island to be fully integrated into the World Government as a member nation. As a result, Fish-Man Island would begin to enjoy the full benefits afforded to member states. Claudius's CP-X unit would spearhead collaborations with the island, and even the Marines had pledged support, promising further cooperation in the near future.
The Five Elders weren't particularly concerned with the details. Claudius had been granted full authority over matters related to Fish-Man Island from the outset, and they trusted him to handle the situation.
"Hahaha, sea train technology," the bald elder chuckled. "What started as a World Summit turned into a trade fair, thanks to that kid Claudius."
The elder with blonde hair nodded, a wry smile on his face. "Still, you have to admit, he has a knack for delivering surprises when it matters most. His idea about the sea train technology actually makes sense. It might even help curb the Revolutionary Army's influence to some extent."
They weren't deluded enough to think the sea train would destroy the Revolutionary Army outright, it wasn't realistic. But even reducing their momentum and putting pressure on their activities would be a significant step forward.
"If the sea train network can be expanded quickly," the bald elder added, "the World Government's finances might stabilize over the next few years. We wouldn't have to stretch ourselves so thin."
The elder with a beard stroked his chin thoughtfully. "True. When you think about it, most of these struggles, whether with pirates or the Revolutionary Army—boil down to economic issues. As long as we maintain financial strength, we can bolster our forces and remain in control. Without that, everything crumbles."
"That settles it," the bald elder said. "This technology is worth fully supporting. Production might be limited right now, but if it proves effective, we'll push Claudius to ramp up investment in this area."
The elder with curly hair interjected, "Should we report this matter to Lord Imu?"
At this, the room fell silent. The Five Elders exchanged glances, weighing their options.
Finally, the bearded elder spoke, "Not yet. Let's wait until we have tangible results. Once we do, we'll bring it to Lord Imu and present it as a polished achievement."
Despite their outward authority, the Five Elders held a deep-seated fear and reverence for Imu. They avoided contact unless absolutely necessary, preferring to stay out of his gaze. The thought of someone being above them, someone who wielded true control was an unspoken tension among the Five.
Back at Claudius's palace, the man in question was sitting comfortably, speaking with someone over the phone snail. He was in high spirits, having secured significant progress during the summit.
Tom had been busy organizing everything, ensuring the kings of the fifty participating nations were properly attended to. None of them seemed eager to leave, whether out of genuine interest in the sea train technology or a desire to curry favor with Claudius. Their motivations didn't matter, what mattered was their willingness to invest.
For Claudius, this wasn't just a business venture. It was part of his larger plan to consolidate power within the World Government. If he intended to take control one day, the organization couldn't be in ruins. It needed to retain enough value to be worth governing, and the sea train project was a step in that direction.
As Nia, his ever-efficient butler, placed a glass of juice on the table beside him, she couldn't help but smile at the voice emanating from the Den Den Mushi.
The caller was none other than Monkey D. Dragon, leader of the Revolutionary Army. Having read the recent news, Dragon had wasted no time in reaching out.
"My situation is already difficult enough," Dragon complained. "And now you're making it worse for me, Claudius. By the way, those books you sent me last time were useless. Don't you have anything better? Aren't we supposed to be allies? Why are you sabotaging me like this?"
Claudius leaned back with a grin. "Oh, come on, Dragon. Didn't you just mess with one of the CP agencies recently? What's wrong with me having a little fun too? Besides, once the sea train system is up and running, your Revolutionary Army will benefit from it as much as anyone else. Surely you'll make good use of it."
"Benefit?" Dragon shot back, exasperated. "This project of yours is going to make my life infinitely harder! You call that a benefit?!"
Claudius chuckled. "What can I say? I'm doing this for the greater good. There are so many people suffering on the seas, struggling to survive. If I have a way to improve their lives, are you really going to stand in my way? That wouldn't look good for a revolutionary, would it?"
Dragon fell silent, knowing Claudius had a point. Their revolution was supposed to be about creating a better future, not hindering progress. Opposing the sea train system would not only contradict their principles but also risk alienating their supporters.
Still, the practical difficulties this project would create for the Revolutionary Army couldn't be ignored. Dragon felt as if Claudius was deliberately making his life harder.
"As for the Poneglyphs," Claudius added with a smirk, "why not stage a daring rescue? I hear Nico Olvia is still locked up in Impel Down."
"You'll be the death of me, Claudius," Dragon muttered, exasperated.
After a pause, Dragon shifted the topic. "Let's set that aside for now. What about the Seven Warlords of the Sea? Are you making any progress there?"
"Why are you in such a rush?" Claudius replied, feigning helplessness.
"Because I don't have the luxury of lounging around like you do! Do you have any idea how hard it is to build a movement from scratch?!" Dragon's frustration poured out in a flurry of words.
"Yes, yes, I hear you," Claudius said dismissively, his tone deliberately nonchalant.
"You're insufferable," Dragon grumbled. "And don't think I didn't notice, you're setting something up, aren't you? Some grand plan?"
Claudius chuckled again. "Let's just say I have a few moves in mind. Don't worry, Dragon. When I finalize the next batch of the Seven Warlords, you'll get three spots. Consider it a gift."
"Three spots?" Dragon repeated, surprised. "You're making big moves, aren't you?"
"Of course," Claudius said smoothly. "Trust me, it'll all come together. Just be patient."