Don't be fooled by Beast Kaido's fearsome reputation—famous for his brutality and unpredictability.
But despite his explosive temper, Kaido often retains a terrifying sense of rationality.
Especially when it comes to his subordinates.
He deeply values strength and cherishes talented individuals.
Even if his underlings occasionally oppose him, he rarely sweats the small stuff.
This makes one thing clear—Kaido protects his own.
If one of his officers is defeated, let alone killed—
Kaido will come to collect the debt.
And now, Bai Yu had killed Sasaki, one of the Six Flying Fighters under Kaido's command.
Knowing Kaido's personality, he would never let this slide.
That's why Garp and the others showed clear discontent.
"In my opinion, Bai Yu, you should remain stationed at headquarters,"
Garp said gravely, turning toward him.
"With us here, even Kaido wouldn't dare barge in."
The Marine Headquarters houses the Navy's most elite forces.
Even Kaido, one of the Four Emperors, wouldn't be reckless enough to storm it alone.
But once Bai Yu left this fortress, Kaido's far-reaching influence could easily set a dozen traps in the dark.
Hearing this, Bai Yu went quiet.
A few seconds passed in silence—then a faint smile curled on his lips. A fearless smile, full of conviction.
"Garp," Bai Yu asked calmly, "do you remember what you promised me?"
The tone shifted—less casual, more respectful and serious.
Garp furrowed his brows slightly at the question.
Of course he remembered.
Back when he made Bai Yu his nominal disciple, Garp had pledged to grant him maximum freedom.
But now that Bai Yu was rising through the Navy's ranks, coming to headquarters would naturally restrict that freedom.
Garp's concern was plain: he feared for Bai Yu's future safety.
"I have a suggestion."
Just as the tension hung in the air, Aokiji—silent until now—spoke up.
Everyone turned toward him, curious.
"Branch 188, where Bai Yu is stationed, is too far from headquarters."
"If Bai Yu doesn't want to relocate here, why not meet halfway?"
"Let him take over the G5 branch instead."
"Take over G5?"
Everyone froze, lost in thought for a brief moment.
But then Sengoku's eyes lit up.
"That's a brilliant proposal," Sengoku declared.
"Since Virgo defected, G5 has been without a leader."
"We were considering shutting it down entirely."
"But if Bai Yu takes command, not only will the branch remain, it may thrive."
"Plus, G5 is close to headquarters. If trouble arises, we can send reinforcements immediately."
Sengoku laid out the logic with clarity and confidence.
As the idea took root, the others began to nod in agreement.
After all, establishing a new base required massive resources. Without a strong reason, the Navy rarely disbands branches.
But giving G5 to Bai Yu changed everything.
His reputation within the Navy was soaring.
Especially in G5—after defeating the traitor Virgo, Bai Yu had become a hero to many stationed there.
All in all, the fit couldn't be more perfect.
"Bai Yu, what do you think?"
Garp turned to him again, this time with genuine curiosity.
"No problem. I'm willing to take over G5."
Bai Yu agreed without hesitation.
One of the main reasons he visited the higher-ups in the first place was to preserve G5.
Now that the Navy not only intended to keep it, but offer it to him directly—he had no reason to say no.
"Excellent. Then it's decided,"
Sengoku nodded in approval.
"I'll have the official orders drawn up immediately. You can assume command at your discretion."
"Also, in light of your exceptional performance, we've discussed matters with the World Government."
"Your rank will be promoted again."
Just like that, Bai Yu's next destination was sealed—with only a few words.
He would take over G5.
What no one realized then was this: under Bai Yu's command, the G5 branch would evolve into a legendary force—one that struck fear into pirates across the seas.
After the meeting ended, Bai Yu returned to rejoin Maya and the others.
He shared the results of the discussion with the team.
Among them, Smoker was the most thrilled.
He even went so far as to thank Bai Yu personally.
Time slipped by. Soon, night had fallen.
"Major General Bai Yu, Vice Admiral Garp requests your presence."
A Marine soldier appeared as Bai Yu was resting, delivering the summons.
"Lead the way."
Bai Yu didn't hesitate. Rising to his feet, he followed the soldier out of the rest area and toward the location Garp had indicated.
A short while later—
Bai Yu arrived at the Marine Headquarters' central training grounds.
A vast, open square.
By day, elite Marine soldiers drilled here under the blazing sun.
But tonight, the space was mostly deserted, with only the occasional patrol passing through.
"Bai Yu."
Garp appeared soon after, accompanied by Admiral Aokiji.
"You can leave us."
Garp nodded to the messenger, who saluted and took his leave.
Now, only three remained: Bai Yu, Garp, and Aokiji.
"Aokiji."
Garp threw a subtle glance at the admiral beside him.
Aokiji caught the cue instantly.
He knelt, pressing both palms against the cold ground.
"Ice Age."
Hooo—!
Crack crack crack!
A wave of sub-zero air blasted from his hands.
In moments, thick frost spread across the stone tiles, locking them under shimmering ice.
Then, massive walls of ice erupted upward, forming a circular arena around the three.
An impromptu ring. No onlookers. No interruptions.
Rising to his feet again, Aokiji backed away without a word.
"Come,"
Garp grinned as he rolled up his sleeves, clenching a massive fist.
"Let this old man see how strong you've gotten!"
A midnight spar—the kind only a true warrior would propose.
"As you wish."
Bai Yu looked unsurprised, almost as if he'd expected this moment.
His right hand reached for the sakura wood hilt at his waist.
In one fluid motion, he drew his sword.
"Old man, don't hold back. I won't."
A grin tugged at Bai Yu's lips—eager, resolute.
"Heh. Save your warnings for when you actually land a hit."
"Now come at me! Full force!"
Garp's laughter boomed across the icy arena.
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