Chapter 702: Borsalino is Retiring!
This time, the Commendation and Award Ceremony held by the Supreme Military Command was a success.
Because the impact it had on the World Government Military, and even the entire Sea Star, was not only enormous but also far-reaching.
If the addition of an Army Headquarters Admiral greatly boosted the confidence of countless officers and civilians, and the new Military Rank System and new Medal System raised the morale of millions of Officer and Soldier across the Three Forces.
Then.
Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, at the end of the Conference, announced the official implementation of the 'Twenty-Level Military Merit Peerage System', which caused incredible ecstasy among everyone except a portion of the Royalty and Nobility.
As long as one enlists in the Military and bravely kills enemies on the Battlefield, accumulating Military Merit, they can use it to exchange for various 'Secret Treasure' or 'Peerage'.
The 'Secret Treasure' will not be discussed for now.
The key is that this 'Peerage' is truly full of Temptation.
Who would have thought that the World Government would actually place the Stairs leading to the 'Noble Class' before them?
'Peerage' represents Noble Status and Title, represents the ability to own one's own Territory, and represents the Qualification to prioritize obtaining better Education for one's children.
In the eyes of most Civilian, becoming Nobility is basically synonymous with wealth and prosperity.
For a Time.
In the Major Seas of the Sea Star, in the various Kingdom, and even on the numerous Small Island scattered across The Seas, people everywhere were enthusiastically discussing this Matter.
The Supreme Military Command had long anticipated the development of the current Situation and immediately issued a 'World Military Draft' aimed at the Entire Sea Star.
And in the Announcement, it was directly declared that two million soldiers would be recruited!
This caused countless Able-Bodied Youth to emerge from Various Places across the Sea Star. They traveled on Ships of all sizes, following the Requirement in the Announcement, heading to the designated Marine Branch Base in their respective Sea Area.
It is worth mentioning.
Due to Dragon's leadership and the cooperation of Marine Headquarters over the past few years, most Marine Branch have gradually transitioned into local Police Station.
At the same time, Sengoku established four new Branch in the Four Seas: East Blue, South Blue, West Blue, and North Blue, including G-9, G-10, G-11, and G-12.
Furthermore, four Vice Admiral were appointed as Base Commander, four Rear Admiral as Deputy Base Commander, eighty Marine Headquarters Officer of various Ranks as Core Members, and each Vice Admiral was assigned three Headquarters-Grade Large Warship and three thousand Marine Headquarters Soldier as the basic Military Power.
They first need to absorb the remaining Branch Marine, provide Training according to the Requirement of Marine Headquarters, and then maintain the Maritime Order within their respective Sea Areas.
Simply put.
In the future, there will no longer be a large number of Marine Branch, only these four G-Branch Base, guarding the Central Area of the Four Seas.
Because the Public Order on Land and Islands no longer requires their Management.
The Marines only deal with Matter on the Sea.
Therefore, the destination for the Able-Bodied Youth from the Four Seas who are full of Hot Blood and want to enlist is these four newly established Marine Branch Base.
As for the people in the Grand Line First Half Sea Area and Second Half of the Grand Line.
They can choose based on the Position of their Island.
Choose one from G-1 to G-8 Base as their Registration Point.
Then they will undergo Registration and three months of Basic Training at these G-Branch Base.
After three months.
They will then be sent in batches to Marine Headquarters, Army Headquarters, and Air Force Headquarters for reporting, based on their personal performance, willingness, and the personnel Requirement of each Military.
For a Time, a fervent Enlistment Craze was completely ignited outside the Sea Star.
And within the Military.
The 'Military Merit Statistics Department' newly established by the Staff Department in the Army Headquarters, Marine Headquarters, and Air Force Headquarters respectively.
Was once completely blocked by a large number of Officers, to the point where not even water could pass. Everyone hoped to check their accumulated Military Merit as soon as possible and see what Rank of Peerage they could exchange for.
Finally, Tsuru couldn't stand it anymore and immediately issued an Order for everyone to go back first.
Then she told them that within the next few days, the 'Military Merit Statistics Department' would use Den Den Mushi to prioritize informing those above Commodore of their specific Military Merit Data.
If someone did not receive a notification after a week, they could come back and inquire then.
As for those below Commodore, they would negotiate with the Command Department to issue each person's Military Merit Data sequentially, unit by unit at the company level.
Regarding this.
Although the group of Officers were still somewhat unwilling, facing Tsuru's Prestige and Strength, they could only sigh and leave.
Although the 'Military Merit Peerage System' has various Benefits, it has indeed caused Popular Support within the Military to become restless at the moment.
This phenomenon is normal and will naturally subside once most people have seen their Military Merit and successfully exchanged for the required 'Secret Treasure' or 'Peerage'.
"Puhahaha!"
In the Fleet Admiral's Office at Marine Headquarters, a burst of hearty laughter suddenly rang out, extremely Familiarize to the Officers coming and going nearby.
Before Garp, who held Senbei in one hand, a Light Screen projected by a Video Den Den Mushi appeared. The Content on it was precisely the Situation of the Military Merit he had accumulated over the past few decades.
"This Old Man can actually become some First-Class Count, this Sea Star is changing in such an interesting way!"
"Alalala, as expected of Mr. Garp, my accumulated Military Merit seems to only be enough to exchange for a Second-Class Viscount."
Kuzan, sitting on the Sofa opposite Garp, chuckled lightly while resting his Chin on his hand.
"That's because he defeated Rocks back then, saving quite a few Celestial Dragons, plus arresting Roger a few years ago, and then capturing Shiki with me. All these things added up give him the current number one Military Merit in the Whole Army."
Sengoku watched Garp, who was laughing so hard he had tears in his eyes, helplessly.
However, even Garp's Military Merit is only enough for a First-Class Count, which shows how high the Requirement for this set of 'Twenty-Level Military Merit Peerage System' is.
According to the News revealed by Tsuru.
Currently, only a dozen or so Colonel in the Whole Army have Military Merit that barely meets the standard for exchanging for a Fourth-Class Baron.
Besides that, everyone else is above Commodore.
But if they exchange for other 'Secret Treasure', then most people's Military Merit will not be enough to exchange for a Peerage.
This creates a Dilemma for people.
Should they choose to exchange for a 'Secret Treasure' that can quickly improve their Combat Power or Ability, or exchange for a low-Rank Peerage and a not-so-large Territory?
"So, Garp, what do you think? Are you going to exchange for this First-Class Count?"
Sengoku and Kuzan waited curiously for Garp to make his Choice. Garp stopped laughing and said disdainfully, "This Old Man has no interest in being some Noble Lord."
"Garp, the Territory of a First-Class Count is a full thousand square kilometers, which is comparable to the entire Goa Kingdom! You can also enjoy all sorts of Privileged Treatment and receive tens of millions of Berry in Salary every year. Are you sure you're not Temptation?"
Sengoku at this moment was like a villain trying to provoke an old boy, his tone filled with strong suggestive meaning.
Garp retorted, "After getting the Territory, then what? Who's going to manage it? Do you want me to Retirement, back to being a Noble Lord?"
"This..."
Sengoku was taken aback and thought to himself, 'That's right, if Garp becomes a Count and focuses solely on managing his Territory, wouldn't I lose an Admiral Level Combat Power here?'
Of course, he also knew Garp was just joking.
At this moment, Sengoku suddenly thought of something, his Expression changed drastically, and his Right Hand hurriedly reached for a nearby Den Den Mushi, but he didn't expect it to start calling out 'Purururu' by itself.
Instantly, the Fleet Admiral's Pupil suddenly contracted, and a strong sense of Unease arose in his Heart.
"Hello?"
Garp and Kuzan looked over with Doubt.
"Sengoku!"
"That Bastard Borsalino is planning to use all his Military Merit to exchange for a Third-Class Viscount and then Retirement to become a Noble Lord!!"
Zephyr's Roar and Anger were perfectly imitated by the Den Den Mushi.
"..."
Kuzan, Garp, and Sengoku were Petrification on the spot upon hearing this.
What kind of joke is this?
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 703: Let Him Be the Kindergarten Principal!
Crisis!
Big crisis!
Admiral (Air Force Headquarters) 'Kizaru' was actually attracted by the Peerage of Third-Class Viscount, preparing to retire, oh no, it should be to Retire and become a comfortable Noble Lord!
"Are you serious, Borsalino?"
In the Fleet Admiral's Office of Air Force Headquarters: Elbaf, Zephyr looked at the 'Retirement Application' on the table with a Black Line, the Veins on his forehead visibly bulging out.
When he raised his Head to look at Borsalino standing in front of him, his cold Gaze flickered with Flames ignited by Anger.
However.
Borsalino crooked his Corner of Mouth, as if not feeling the Killing Intent on Teacher Zephyr, first chuckled lowly: "Teacher Zephyr, you look so scary right now~"
Then, with Hands in his pockets, he lazily looked up at the ceiling.
"Look, the Treatment for Nobility is so good. Not only are there large Territories, but they also give enough Money every year. So why should I stay here fighting for my Life?"
When he first joined the Marines, he hoped to find a stable Environment and live a relatively superior Life.
As for Danger, with his Talent and Glint-Glint Fruit Ability, even if he encountered an Opponent he couldn't beat, he could definitely run away if he wanted to.
But now, as the Star Gates continue to open, Borsalino realized that the Future Wars would definitely become more and more dangerous, the Opponents would also become more and more terrifying, and he himself would definitely become busier and busier.
Coincidentally, this time's 'Twenty-Level Military Merit Peerage System' made him feel like he had an extra Choice.
With his current Strength, wouldn't it be nice to just stay honestly on the Sea Star Mainland and be a not-too-big, not-too-small Noble Lord?
"..."
Zephyr was completely speechless. Although his Hands were clenched tightly into Fists, he opened his Mouth and found he couldn't say anything.
What Reason did he have to Require the other party to stay?
There was no Method.
He chose to ignore Borsalino for now, picked up the Den Den Mushi directly and called Marine Headquarters. Then, in front of the latter, he Roared into the Handset.
"Sengoku!"
"That Bastard Borsalino is preparing to exchange all his Military Merit for a Third-Class Viscount Peerage, and then Retire to become a Noble Lord!!"
Borsalino was also stunned when he saw Zephyr's actions.
He applied for Retirement, so why are you calling Fleet Admiral Sengoku?
"What!!!"
As expected, that Den Den Mushi immediately turned into Sengoku's Rampage appearance: "Borsalino, what the hell are you thinking in your Head?"
"One of the World Government's Highest Combat Power, actually captivated by a mere Third-Class Viscount?"
"Immediately dismiss that Idea now!"
"Otherwise, This Old Man will go with Garp to have a chat with you!"
Borsalino's Expression froze there. It was his turn to look at the Den Den Mushi constantly Roaring with a Black Line. He had thought before that doing this would cause a certain Ripple.
He just really didn't expect Fleet Admiral Sengoku to actually plan to come find him with Admiral Garp...
What did they want to do?
To prevent him from Retiring, would they beat him to Death on the spot?
[Click!]
At this moment, the Den Den Mushi hung up by itself. It was clearly Sengoku who hung up actively. So why did he hang up? What was he preparing to do next?
Borsalino felt that the Matter was developing in a Direction he didn't quite Hope for.
But unexpectedly, Zephyr turned the dial on the Den Den Mushi a few more times, which immediately made cold sweat break out on his forehead. He quickly spoke, wanting to stop him.
"Uh, Teacher Zephyr..."
But Zephyr ignored him. After the call connected, he Roared loudly again: "Hey! Sakazuki?! That Bastard Borsalino is preparing to Retire and become a Viscount Lord!"
The other side paused for a few breaths, seemingly digesting the News.
"I'll be right there. Please tell Borsalino to wait for me."
After speaking, Sakazuki hung up the Den Den Mushi directly. Borsalino's Corner of Mouth twitched. After thinking for a moment, he turned around and was about to leave this terrifying Office.
"Where are you going?"
Zephyr raised an eyebrow and said: "You should know that This Old Man does not have the Qualification to approve an Admiral's Retirement Application. This needs to be reported to the Five Elders."
"Of course, This Old Man will not let this Application be sent out!"
"Cough cough, it's a bit stifling in here. I'm going out for some fresh air..."
"Absolutely not!"
Zephyr coldly snorted: "You know the Rules that Headquarters must have an Admiral on duty. Stay put honestly and have a good chat with them later!"
Borsalino regretted it. His face, which looked somewhat shifty, was filled with Fear. He realized that his momentary Idea seemed to have stirred up a big mess...
Evening.
Inside Noah's Ark, Im finished reading the Report on the 'Borsalino Retirement Application Incident' with a Black Line.
Fortunately.
Borsalino finally, after being patiently persuaded for over five hours by Sengoku, Garp, Sakazuki, and Enel (who was somehow involved), was convinced and gave up his immature Idea of Retiring.
It's just unknown why.
A certain Nameless Small Sky Island near Air Force Headquarters suddenly disappeared, leaving the Cipher Pol who went to Investigate completely baffled...
"This Kizaru is quite amusing. But if he really needs to Retire someday, I'll let him be the Kindergarten Principal at Academy City~"
Im chuckled lightly.
Immediately, he started picking up other Report Documents to read. As for Stussy, she had already gone to the Imperial Arms World to help Kaido's Air Fleet bring back those Aerospace Carriers and various Flying Warships.
There was no Method.
Although Capone Bege's Castle-Castle Fruit is extremely Efficient in transporting Army Units, it cannot load things like Warships inside the body.
"Has Shiki's Head finally been cured at the Medical Academy?"
Im looked at the Content on this Document, and his mood improved slightly, because this meant he had another Admiral Level Combat Power among his subordinates.
Actually, he had considered before having someone bring Shiki here, and then using his Op-Op Fruit Ability to quickly pull out the Ship Rudder in his Head.
But in the end, he didn't do that.
He Hoped that through a relatively long treatment process, Shiki would deeply remember the Things the World Government had done for him.
Some Things, if too easy, make people not care much.
Of course.
A Pirate like Shiki, down to his bones, is unlikely to be someone who repays kindness. However, if it can make him slightly more well-behaved, it's worth it.
Looking again at Shiki's Choice of Opponent for the 'Summit War' he was preparing to Challenge in February.
Garp!
This Choice isn't necessarily wrong. After all, the Feeling 'Whitebeard' Edward Newgate gives off is indeed a bit Stronger than Garp.
"But the current Garp has also become Stronger..."
After finishing, Im put the Document aside. For him, it made no difference whether Shiki could beat Garp or not.
At most, if Shiki's Challenge fails, it will keep him in the Admiral Position for a while. With the Strength of this 'Golden Lion', he will eventually become an Admiral at Air Force Headquarters.
"Hmm?!"
"Kuzan can use Esdeath's 'Maha Padoma' even before drinking the 'Crimson Lotus Blood'?"
Im raised an eyebrow.
This is equivalent to directly raising the Upper Limit of Devil Fruits.
Then can his own Ability also imitate Abilities of the same Attribute from Other Worlds?
"It's just unknown if he must have been in contact with it first, or if it can be achieved through Imagination and practice. And if so, Other Devil Fruit Abilities of the same Attribute should also be able to be Developed."
Im gazed at the rotating Air Current that had appeared on his palm at some point and softly murmured a word.
"Domain..."
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 704: Busy, Everyone's Busy, It's Good to Be Busy!
For the World Government, it wasn't just the Military that needed reform during this period.
Their own Administrative System and the Division of Authority within Cipher Pol also required changes.
Let's talk about the former first.
Previously, in order to keep up with the pace of developing one Otherworld per year and various Major Projects, the World Government's major Departments had to desperately recruit various types of Talent from various Kingdoms and Schools.
While this allowed them to barely manage the Four Worlds.
It also made every Department extremely bloated.
At the same time, it essentially exhausted the Administrative Talent reserves in the Sea Star World.
Think about it: based on the current Education System of the Sea Star World, what are called Colleges only exist in one or two institutions on a few Islands with relatively developed Civilization Levels.
In fact, most Kingdoms and Islands, except for the Noble Living Area, don't even have a Primary School.
Children of Civilians who want to learn to read and write usually learn from their parents or grandparents. If there is a place similar to a Kendo Dojo on the Island, it will also undertake some of the Education Duty.
However, this method is clearly only enough for children to recognize basic Writing.
For slightly more advanced Knowledge, it truly depends on an individual's Opportunity.
This is also why the 'Public Four-Piece Set Popularization' Policy promoted by the World Government is so welcomed and praised by Citizens everywhere.
Public School, Police Station, World Hospital, Government Compound.
These four can be said to guarantee the Basic Living Needs of the Citizens in various aspects, and even, on a certain level, make the local Nobility dare not oppress them too wantonly.
With the Five-Circle Cross Flag flying in the sky, who would dare to be presumptuous?!
Popular Support was thus slowly regained by the World Government, little by little. Several years have passed, and now when many Citizens mention the World Government, it is no longer with Fear, but gradually with a bit more Respect.
Regarding the Attitude towards the Celestial Dragons, except for those who have personally suffered abuse and still harbor Hatred.
Most Citizens who haven't personally experienced it tacitly chose to ignore them, simply not mentioning them.
In short.
It is already difficult for the World Government to recruit Administrative Talent from various places, unless they seize all the Officials from various countries.
Setting aside the fact that they cannot do this, even if they could, they actually wouldn't.
Because it's too bloated.
Therefore, the World Government's next reform direction is to 'slim down', stopping the recruitment of Personnel while transferring the excess Personnel to Other Worlds.
They hope that most of the administrative work for the Otherworlds will be handled by the World Government Branches located in the Homeland, while the World Government Headquarters here on Sea Star will be responsible for overall supervision and Control.
Although this will lead to the Branch Ministers of the Government Branches in various worlds having excessive Authority, this is the only way for now.
If any problems arise in the Future, they can be dealt with then.
Besides.
No matter what problems arise, as long as the Strength here on Sea Star is strong enough, they won't be considered major problems, not to mention that the Control of the Star Gate is still here on Sea Star.
However, while 'slimming down', they must also ensure that work proceeds smoothly. The executives of the Political Affairs Department will have to figure out the balance themselves.
But there is a very serious problem facing the World Government.
What happens if they open another Star Gate and conquer another Otherworld?
Currently, their Administrative Management Capability, relying solely on Manpower, has reached its Maximum Level.
Therefore, there must be a Method that can significantly improve Administrative Efficiency to solve the World Government's difficulties. Only then can the Military confidently capture cities and seize territory, Conquering Ten Thousand Worlds!
On the other side.
Regarding Cipher Pol, since the appearance of the Star Gate Otherworlds, the Functional Division of their various Departments has become in a state of Chaos.
The main reason is the insufficient Personnel. The Personnel of a single Department are simply not enough to handle various Missions across multiple Worlds.
In the end, they could only deploy Personnel from whichever Department had people available.
After several years.
Although they are still divided into nine Departments, such as CP-1 to CP-9, their actual Work Scope has long been mixed together.
Therefore, Saint Shepherd Ju Peter decided to take advantage of these six months to reorganize the Division of Authority within Cipher Pol and simultaneously absorb Talent from the conquered Otherworlds.
This is also why the World Government brought over all of Oarberg from the Imperial Arms World's The Empire.
Later, they might also consider absorbing the Secret Police Force led by Najenda, the Ninja Units from Shenhe Island Nation, and the top-tier Agents from the Special Affairs Departments of various countries in the Demon Slayer World.
In Saint Shepherd Ju Peter's view.
All Otherworld nations, including those in the Imperial Arms World, simply do not need Agent-related Departments and Personnel. It would be better to train them and have them serve the World Government.
However, these Personnel from Otherworlds will find it difficult to access highly Confidential Missions in the short term.
Their Value lies in helping with lower-level but more numerous regular Missions.
For example, Surveillance of the Higher-ups in various Otherworld nations, Detection and Elimination of illegally formed Tissue or Influence/Power within the Titan World, and in the Future, serving as Cannon Fodder to detect Intelligence in unknown Otherworlds, and so on.
Regarding Jurisdiction Planning.
Saint Shepherd Ju Peter convened a Meeting with Belters, the Dean of CIPHER POL Headquarters, Bowen Knohen, the Officer of Cipher Pol Aigis 0, and Redfield, the Deputy Officer.
Also present were Lucci, the Captain of CIPHER POL-No.9, Steve Gus, the Captain of Cipher Pol-Nue, and the Captains of CP-1 to CP-8.
At the Meeting.
They first re-clarified the Scope of Authority for each Department, in order to facilitate the subsequent Handover of their respective related Missions.
Specifically.
CIPHER POL-No.1 is responsible for the overt Protection and covert Surveillance of mid-to-high level Officials in the World Government Headquarters and Branches, as well as the Security of important Facilities and Zones, such as the Academy of Science, Medical Academy, Agricultural College, etc.
CIPHER POL-No.2 is responsible for cultivating, recruiting, and Training Agent Personnel in Sea Star and Otherworlds, allowed to apply for Funding, and independently construct Secret Bases in Various Places. Kona Island is also within their Jurisdiction.
CIPHER POL-No.3 is responsible for Monitoring and Intelligence Gathering in the East Blue and South Blue of the Sea Star Mainland, various countries, and Various Islands.
CIPHER POL-No.4 is responsible for Monitoring and Intelligence Gathering in the West Blue and North Blue of the Sea Star Mainland, various countries, and Various Islands.
CIPHER POL-No.5 is responsible for Monitoring and Intelligence Gathering in the Grand Line and Red Line of the Sea Star Mainland, various countries, and various Zones.
The reason for including the Red Line is that the World Government will subsequently attract Citizens to construct Cities and reside there.
Currently, the Construction Department has begun constructing Infrastructure in the first batch of designated 'Nine Great Special Zones', such as Houses, Paths, railways, etc.
At the same time.
Some of the Territory granted by the 'Twenty-Level Military Merit Peerage System' will also come from these Zones on the Red Line, so the Red Line will definitely become very lively in the Future.
CIPHER POL-No.6 is responsible for Monitoring the Military. This mainly relies on Undercover Activity, as overt Surveillance would certainly make people uncomfortable.
CIPHER POL-No.7 is responsible for Monitoring and Intelligence Gathering in the conquered Otherworld Member Nations.
CIPHER POL-No.8 is responsible for covert Infiltration and Intelligence Gathering in unconquered Otherworlds, and also responsible for the Jurisdiction of Sea Ninja Village.
CIPHER POL-No.9 is responsible for carrying out Assassination or Elimination of important Targets with confirmed Intelligence from other Departments.
Finally.
Cipher Pol Aigis 0 will continue to serve as the Holy Shield of the Celestial Dragons, primarily responsible for the Protection of Holy Land Mary Geoise and the Security during the Celestial Dragons' Travel.
Of course, when necessary, they will also act as the Highest Combat Power Department for the Celestial Dragons, handling certain Matters that are not suitable for the Military to intervene in.
These mentioned above are just the confirmed Plans.
Next, they need to handle the work at hand while adjusting the Arrangement of Personnel, and simultaneously, the various Departments will Handover Missions that are not within their Scope of Authority to each other.
In conclusion.
Busy, everyone is busy, but it's good to be busy.
After the adjustments are made, although they will still be busy, it will definitely be a bit easier, as the Work Scope and Content have become clearer.
Thank you very much to the reader who tipped 10,000 Qidian Coins for this book! Bow! Thank you for your Support and Encouragement!
Thank you very much to the College-level Conan scholar reader who tipped 100 Qidian Coins! Bow! Thank you for your Support and Encouragement!
(End of this chapter)
Chapter 705: Kaido Playing by Peeing and Mixing with Mud?
In a normal world, the Reform of Government Departments would naturally be a top priority.
But in a world capable of gathering Extraordinary Power, these can only be considered background elements for the Peak Experts.
People prefer to focus their attention on these Powerhouses.
Driven by the Propaganda Department.
The former Regimental Commander of the Flying Pirates, the former Admiral of the Golden Lion Great Pirate Fleet, 'Flying Pirate' Shiki, received a special pardon from the World Government.
The news that he was about to join the Air Force Headquarters caused widespread discussion and much attention across the Major Seas of the World.
Some people were happy.
They believed that the Strength of the World Government Military had been further enhanced, which would definitely be of great help for future Otherworld Conquest.
But others questioned it.
They felt that the World Government Military had absorbed too many Pirate Figures. Putting aside whether their presence was a Hidden Danger, how should the Sins they committed before be handled?
A few days ago, when Douglas Bullet was promoted to Army Headquarters Admiral, this voice grew much louder.
This was because that guy had gone on a rampage in the Grand Line First Half Sea Area for a period of time before.
At that time, countless Ships and Humans were slaughtered by him.
Finally, it attracted the attention of Marine Headquarters, and Garp personally went to defeat and Arrest him. But now, several years later, he has actually become an Admiral in the Military?
Is this fair to the innocent people who died tragically before?
As for this voice, those who supported the World Government absorbing Pirate Powerhouses believed that the Otherworld War was related to the Fate of the Entire Sea Star.
On such Major Issues, one should not dwell on those small Personal Grudges.
These Powerhouses Originating from Pirates, as long as they contribute to the World Government and the Interests of the World, can actually be seen as Atonement by Good Deeds and Achieve Merit While Bearing Guilt.
Such a view was naturally met with fierce condemnation from the Dissenters.
They believed that what was said was too simplistic, casually asking others to be magnanimous and not dwell on Personal Grudges when they had not personally Experienced the Suffering of others losing Relatives and Friends.
But the former were also unyielding.
They retorted, what else could be done?
Should Edward Newgate, Charlotte Linlin, Douglas Bullet, Kaido, these Powerhouses Originating from Pirates, be removed from the Team?
What difference would that make to the World Government and the World, currently engaged in External Conquest, compared to Stab Oneself Multiple Times (Idiom)?
If they were defeated because of this one day, or even invaded by the Otherworld, causing the entire World to be Slaughtered and invaded, could you guys who dwell on Personal Grudges take responsibility?
Do you understand what the Overall Situation is?!
However, the World Government, as the Center of Public Opinion, remained silent, disdaining to respond to such a boring Matter.
This could be seen as tacitly supporting one side's viewpoint.
This was the Style of the World Government.
Haki.
It was in such a lively Atmosphere that Shiki, whose Head had recovered and whose legs were completely healed, walked out of the Main Gate of the World Hospital, dancing strangely and humming an accompaniment, swaying as he went, under the surprised Gaze of many Doctors, Nurses, Patients, and Family Members.
"Ahahahahaha! The Great Sea! The Sky! Your 'Flying Lion' is back!!"
Shiki let the cold Wind and Snow of Drum Kingdom blow onto his face, roaring loudly towards the Dark Clouds and Snowflakes in the High Altitude with a face full of Excitement, fully venting the pent-up frustration he had suppressed for several years.
Only those who have lost Freedom can truly understand how precious Freedom is.
For someone like him, Freedom, in a sense, was actually more important than Reputation or Dignity.
Initially.
Shiki had not Experienced the Feeling of losing Freedom, so he naturally refused the World Government's invitation twice for the sake of his Dignity.
But now he had Experienced the taste of being a 'Prisoner' for several years, and even having Control over his Body taken away. That was truly a more painful Experience than death.
Compared to that.
Serving as an Admiral (Air Force Headquarters) and leading an Air Fleet to engage in Otherworld Conquest, no matter how you looked at it, couldn't be more appealing.
It was just a pity that the World Government clearly wasn't willing to give him the Position of Air Force Headquarters Marshal.
Although he could understand the reason, he was still a bit unhappy.
On the Drum Peak Summit where heavy snow was falling, Shiki let his robe flutter loudly in the wind, gazing intently in the Direction of Marine Headquarters and muttering softly.
"Garp, just a mere Veteran. You're not qualified enough to block my path!"
In the blink of an eye, Time finally arrived at February 1st, silently, under the Watch by All.
At this moment.
On a certain Uninhabited Desolate Island in the First Half of the Grand Line, the surrounding Sea Area had been blockaded by the Marine Headquarters Fleet, and Flying Warships belonging to the Air Force Headquarters were slowly floating in the air.
Among them were several 'News-Specific Flying Ships' recently allocated for the Propaganda Department's use.
After all.
They couldn't always have a group of Propaganda Department Officials occupying Warships every time a Live Broadcast or Relay Broadcast was needed, so they simply got them a few Airships directly.
And now, a new 'Summit War' was about to begin.
'Golden Lion' Shiki VS Garp 'The Fist'!
People already knew that if Shiki could defeat Garp or last five days without being defeated, it would be considered a successful Challenge and he would be directly promoted to Admiral (Air Force Headquarters).
But if he failed, he would 'only' Obtain the Military Rank of Air Force Headquarters Admiral.
Which is below Kaido.
For Shiki, this could be considered a disgrace. After all, when he was a 'High Cadre' in the Rocks Pirates back then, Kaido was just a Trainee.
In the Center of the Island.
Shiki gripped his Meito 'Sakura Jū' and 'Kogarashi' with both hands, looking at Garp opposite him and laughing wildly without restraint.
"Jie hahahaha!"
"Garp, be careful! I'm serious this time! I advise you to take it easy, otherwise, if you get injured, don't blame me for being too heavy-handed on you, my Colleague~"
Although he had been captured by Garp and sent to Impel Down before, he felt that was because Sengoku was also there.
In that Situation, even if Rocks were resurrected, he would have been defeated.
But now was different.
In a One-on-One Battle, Shiki didn't believe Garp could defeat his fully recovered self!
"Puhahahaha!"
Upon hearing this, Garp immediately returned a burst of laughter. This could be considered a way for Powerhouses in this World to greet each other.
"Shiki, don't even think about Air Force Admiral! That Position is too early for you!"
"You should first serve under that Kid Kaido for a few years and get some Training!"
In the Zou Base belonging to the Air Force Headquarters in the New World, Kaido, who was also Watching Live Broadcast, paused the action of raising his Wine Gourd to his mouth when he heard Garp's words. Then, he threw his Head back and laughed wildly.
"Worororo~~"
"'Golden Lion' serving under me? That's actually a pretty good idea! I'll apply to have him be my Adjutant then!"
However, Kaido seemed to have forgotten that besides himself, there was another person in this Office.
King asked faintly, "Big Brother (Term of Address), what about me?"
"Pfft----"
The Drink he had just poured into his mouth was completely sprayed out by Kaido's sudden question. He awkwardly rubbed his Head and explained, "I was just joking, of course. I can't keep Shiki under control..."
King pursued faintly, "So the problem is whether you can keep him under control? If you could, Big Brother, were you planning to abandon me?"
"This."
Kaido opened his mouth, unsure what to say. Fortunately, at this moment, Shiki's Roar on the Screen Feed saved him from the awkwardness, but hearing it made the Atmosphere even more awkward.
"Kaido?"
"When I was dominating the Great Sea, that Kid was still Playing by Peeing and Mixing with Mud (Idiom) in Hachinosu!"
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 706: Shiki VS Garp!
"Mamamama————"
"Mama, I can prove it, Kaido really did pee and play with mud back then!"
In the Castle on Whole Cake Island, the Center of the Totto Land Kingdom, 'Big Mom' Charlotte Linlin sat on the giant Throne, holding her belly that had started accumulating fat and laughing non-stop.
Perospero and the other Children who remained in the Kingdom responsible for Management also wore expressions of suppressed laughter.
After all, Kaido was now an Admiral of the Air Force, and could be considered a Big Shot with high status and authority.
On the other side.
Inside Tougen Island, where the newly established Whitebeard Kingdom had been located for only a few years, Edward Newgate was also amused by Shiki's words, immediately letting out a hearty 'Gurararara' laugh.
He then said to his Sons who were also laughing around him: "That's right, Kaido back then, he really liked playing with Mud. As for whether he peed, This Old Man doesn't Understand!"
"Ohh~~~"
Thatch, Izo, and others responded in unison, making the Atmosphere in the Palace Hall very humorous and lively.
However, among the crowd, there seemed to be a few Familiarize figures 'hidden'.
Denjiro, Kawamatsu, Ashura Doji, and others who had disappeared from Wano Island had somehow secretly joined the Whitebeard Kingdom.
It wasn't surprising.
At present, only Whitebeard could offer them a certain degree of protection.
But this was on the premise that they completely let go of the Obsession and Hatred in their Hearts and honestly stayed put and minded their own business.
Then the World Government wouldn't be bothered to offend the people of the Whitebeard Kingdom for the sake of these 'Wano Country Remnants'.
Amidst the laughter and joy.
Edward Newgate, sitting on the Throne, had his thoughts drift to 'Hachinosu Island', a place that occupied a long period of his life, and he silently thought to himself.
"That place, I heard someone is still guarding it..."
At the same time.
In the New World.
On a Barren Island with a Skeleton-shaped Mountain Peak towering in the Center, surrounded by layers of Stone Buildings and Stone Houses, somewhere near the coast.
A relatively new-looking Poneglyph suddenly appeared.
On it were carved several large Chinese Characters with a strong calligraphic feel, facing the Great Sea and the wind and waves.
'Place Where Kaido Peed and Played with Mud'
"Nonsense!!!"
On the back of Zou, a roar of Anger from Kaido startled the people inside and outside the Base. Even Hozumi, who was watching the Live Broadcast at home, looked out the window in surprise.
What's the Situation?
Speaking of which, she was already seventeen years old. Both her Height and figure were no longer as childish as before, and she had grown out her beautiful long, straight black hair.
Perhaps it was because she had stayed away from Combat for the past few years, causing her temperament to gradually change towards that of Yotsugawa Ayame.
Also.
She was pregnant, the Child was naturally Ikoma's, so she had gained a few touches of gentle maternal temperament.
In the Admiral's Office.
"Shiki!"
"This Old Man isn't finished with you!!"
Kaido was furious to the extreme, his Aura mixed with streaks of purple Electro overflowing.
He hadn't expected Shiki to say such slanderous words about him during a World Public Broadcast. What was most infuriating was that he couldn't explain or refute it publicly right now.
"..."
King, sitting on the Sofa nearby, watched speechlessly as Kaido angrily smashed the Office Desk in front of him with a palm.
At the same time, he couldn't help but start imagining the scene of Brother Kaido peeing and playing with Mud back then. Instantly, uncontrollable laughter welled up from his Heart.
This made him quickly Stand Up and prepare to leave, but he didn't expect Brother Kaido's stern question to come from behind him: "Where are you going?"
"Cough cough, I'm going to the restroom..."
After speaking, King quickly pushed open the Door and went out, but Kaido inside the room seemed to hear faint laughter from outside.
[Bang————]
"Arbel! Before we encounter Strong enemies from the Otherworld, we must improve our Strength as much as possible!"
"Come!"
"Let's have a hearty Special Training!"
Kaido's Roar turned into surging Sound Waves, instantly smashing that poor Door, causing the Air Force Officers throughout the entire building to tremble.
And King had already transformed into a giant Pterodactyl burning in Flame and soared towards the sky.
In the Grand Line First Half Sea Area, on the Deserted Island chosen for the 'Summit War'.
As Shiki's Black Blade, Coatinged with streaks of red Lightning, collided with Garp's Black Fist, which shimmered with red Flowing Light on its surface.
The Air felt as if it had been subjected to a Nuclear Bomb Bombardment, unleashing fierce Strong Wind and bright Radiance.
The Earth beneath their feet.
First, it pressed downwards, then cracked open into long, twisted fissures, finally forming wave-like Earth Waves that swept out in all directions.
At the same time.
A surging Storm quickly formed around them, forming a visible Tornado Air Layer, forcing the Flying Warships and News Ships in the nearby Airspace to hastily retreat under the threat of the chaotic Air Current.
But the next second.
Two figures were seen shooting out backwards from the newly formed storm, one to the left and one to the right. Behind each person, Accompanied By bursts of Sound Burst Roar, the Air was compressed into a layer of white Conical Air Shield.
This scene left many Audience members in front of their Virtual Screens dumbfounded.
"It's started!"
Sengoku, Zephyr, Kong, Sakazuki, Bullet, and other Military Brass located in Various Places, who were also paying attention to this Combat.
All had their arms crossed over their Chests or were smoking burning Cigars, silently gazing at the ongoing Combat.
They were very expectant.
Because no one could say for sure who would win this 'Summit War' between Garp and Shiki. If one of them were replaced by Newgate, it would be a bit clearer.
"Lion Might: Earth Scroll!"
As the Force generated by the collision was mostly dissipated into the Ground, Shiki quickly floated up to High Altitude. Letting out a loud shout, he simultaneously raised his Right Hand and clenched his fist tightly.
The next moment.
Accompanied By a 'rumble rumble rumble' Commotion, half of the Ground and mountain body of the Island below instantly turned into a monstrous Earth and stone Tsunami, and then quickly formed eight 'Earth Lions' as tall as Mountain Peaks.
"Roar!"
"Roar!!"
Facing the Roars and attacks of these exaggerated 'Earth Lions' of the Earth.
Garp kicked off the soft Ground, causing it to explode, sending the large cloud of Smoke and Dust kicked up behind him. Using extreme Strength to easily surpass the Limit of the Speed of Sound.
"Puhahahaha!"
"You're playing with these circus tricks again, Performances! You know, I've always thought it was really boring..."
As soon as he finished speaking, a punch casually thrown tore apart the surging Air, forming a tangible Fist Wind, instantly blowing up one of the 'Earth Lions'.
The next second.
Garp completely disappeared from his original spot. When he reappeared, the remaining seven 'Earth Lions' behind him had also exploded into masses of Mud and Gravel.
A moment later, the surging Roar and Gale Wind caught up from behind him, causing the Coat of Justice on his body to flap loudly.
"Hmph~"
Shiki in the Air Tsundere-ly raised his Chin, sneering, "It's just foreplay to add some Atmosphere to the Combat. Does that make you serious?"
After speaking, the 'Sakura Jū' in his Right Hand turned into a streak of Blade Light and slashed vertically.
"Wave Cut!"
An arc of Golden Light, as if connecting heaven and earth, bloomed on the Island.
In an instant, a giant Flying Slash Attack quickly formed in the Air, with a terrifying Aura that seemed capable of splitting the entire Island in two.
"Puhahahaha————"
Looking at the descending golden blade light, Garp immediately let out a hearty laugh filled with extreme Delight.
"That's more like it! Devil Fruit Abilityes and such, just throw them aside for This Old Man!"
"Shiki!"
(End of this chapter)