The Marine warship glided slowly into the expansive harbor of Marineford. From afar, the colossal Marine Headquarters rose like a fortress, its central towering wall stretching skyward, the enormous characters for "Marine" carved solemnly into its surface. Atop the wall, ancient buildings layered upon one another, presenting an imposing, majestic sight. Four tall watchtowers flanked the complex, each bearing a fluttering military flag, standing vigilant. Beyond the headquarters, a cluster of town buildings spread out, modest yet alive, softening the stark grandeur of the fortress.
"Is this Marineford?!" murmured several Marines from the Four Seas, awe-struck by the sprawling panorama. Compared to Marineford, their home branches seemed mere courtyards. Rear Admiral Wells smiled faintly, recalling his own first encounter with the headquarters.
As the warship docked, Wells called out, "Everyone, gather your belongings and prepare to disembark."
Sakazuki moved among the group, his presence commanding as always. Marines on the docks and in the harbor moved with precision, the large square before them accommodating tens of thousands for drills, divided into designated areas. Many soldiers trained relentlessly, their movements disciplined and sharp.
Sakazuki and his group were led to a designated section already filled with recruits. Most wore standard Marine uniforms; some adorned their Justice coats according to rank. Sakazuki, now a Lieutenant Colonel, habitually wore his uniform, never altering it. The gathering included the most outstanding soldiers from across the world.
Nearby, Wells conversed with several Rear Admirals. "Wells, you're slow; we've been waiting," one remarked with a grin, clad in a Justice coat.
On the opposite side, another group of high-ranking Officers approached. Two men led them, tall and robust, dressed in white suits and Justice coats. One bore purple hair, the other black, both laughing heartily.
"Vice Admiral Zephyr, Vice Admiral Garp," Wells and the surrounding Officers called respectfully.
Sakazuki's pupils narrowed. Even with preparation, the direct comparison revealed an immense gap. These were peak combatants of the world, the embodiment of justice, though in differing philosophies. Zephyr represented idealistic justice, shaped by personal loss to hate pirates. Garp, though revered, acted with a free spirit, at times bordering on aiding chaos. Sakazuki, however, remained unmoved by their conduct, his path carved by obsession, discipline, and lethal efficiency.
Stepping forward, Zephyr addressed the assembled cadets. "For the next week, Garp and I will conduct guidance and assessment. Afterward, the most outstanding among you will be selected for a three-year advanced training program. Your performance will be recorded daily. Only those with the best overall qualities will remain. You are the future of the Marine. Understood?"
"Understood!" the cadets shouted in unison, their disciplined response reflecting the essence of Marine obedience.
Zephyr continued, his tone measured, "No matter your past talents or achievements, once you enter here, you have one identity: Marine Recruit. Garp, I, and the Officers behind me are your instructors. You start from scratch, obey absolutely. Understood?"
"Understood!" the cadets responded, their voices unwavering.
"Very well. Today's first lesson: Justice. Two words, yet the foundation of every Marine's belief. Many join with personal ideals, but before acting, ask yourselves: Is this the justice I uphold? Understood?"
"Understood!"
Satisfied, Zephyr nodded, then introduced the testing officers. "The Colonels behind me will now assess you: Foss?"
"Present," came the reply.
"Feimansen?"
"Present."
The first ten stepped forward. Instantly, the square erupted in a flurry of clashing fists and flashing blades. One by one, cadets demonstrated their skill.
Finally, it was Sakazuki's turn.
"Sakazuki."
"Present," he replied, his voice calm yet commanding. Even disregarding his Magma-Magma Fruit powers, his formidable physique radiated oppressive presence.
Facing Colonel Phil, Sakazuki's stance exuded lethal poise. "Colonel, be careful."
Phil laughed, undaunted. "Hah, it's fine. Come at me."
Sakazuki activated his Devil Fruit ability. His body glowed crimson, magma coursing beneath his skin while he retained human form, steam rising from his figure.
"Guren," he breathed, exhaling a surge of volcanic heat.
Soru!
"Volcanic Burst!"
In a blur, Sakazuki closed the distance. Phil, caught off guard, could only brace himself.
"Iron Body — Steel!" he shouted, yet Sakazuki's fist collided with his stomach, sinking deep.
"Pfft! Urgh! Ah!"
The sound of impact echoed across the training square. Sakazuki stood firm, molten energy radiating off him, his cold, stoic expression unyielding — a testament to the North Blue Fiend's relentless discipline and terrifying power.