Grand Line.
The enormous island ship sailed in an organized way, trailed by the pirate vessels of the Kuja Pirates. The massive dark silhouette passing occasionally served as a reminder to everyone on the warship.
— We're still in the Calm Belt!!
The island ship doesn't rely on traditional sails but instead uses a power system developed by the Marine Science Corps. Atlas isn't certain about the exact principle, but it seems to operate like jet power.
But now, Atlas is directing the actions of Perfume Yuda using the power of the Rooster Talisman. Initially, he aimed to make the ships of the Kuja Pirates float.
However, Hancock firmly turned down the idea.
Despite Atlas having numerous abilities that are challenging for her to grasp, it's common knowledge that she doesn't take control abilities lightly.
She's also aware of the formidable powers possessed by the notorious pirate, Shiki the Golden Lion.
It's quite unsettling to entrust your life to someone else!
On the pirate ship,
Sandersonia and Marigold positioned themselves on Hancock's left and right sides, wearing complex expressions.
"Sister, are you truly going to follow that man's command?"
Sandersonia cast a careful look at the Ryu-Sen in front of her, ensuring that the man hadn't caught wind of their conversation, and then cautiously inquired.
It's not that she has turned timid; it's just that in the palace hall earlier, the menacing gaze in that man's eyes, combined with Conqueror's Haki, nearly cast a psychological shadow over her.
Since Atlas embarked on the sea journey, numerous pirates have met their end. It's not an overstatement to say that the seas are filled with the echoes of their demise.
Despite the considerable abilities of the three Boa sisters, the experiences in Mariejois have left a significant void in their hearts.
If Hancock has adopted an arrogant and paranoid demeanor from this, it's evident that Sandersonia and Marigold are clearly apprehensive.
After all, these two individuals don't possess the qualifications for Conqueror's Haki.
"That man's ambition... is potent enough to overturn the world!"
Hancock's expression stayed constant, and she didn't appear displeased with Atlas' demand.
Even though there isn't a definitive answer...
But she had a gut feeling that this man would undoubtedly bring those Celestial Dragons down from their pedestal in the future!!
The conversation about Atlas is lively here, and on the Ryu-Sen,
Atlas shouted into the Den Den Mushi in his hand:
"What did you say?! Old man Sengoku, you want me to entertain those Shichibukai?"
What a joke!
He, an Candidate Admiral of the Marine Headquarters, what kind of reception is he expected to put on?
He might even contemplate requesting him to take down the Shichibukai.
"Don't think I'm unaware. Aside from Bartholomew Kuma, the other two have some connection with you. They are just associates to amuse. When the time comes, you can bring Boa Hancock directly to the small conference hall in Mariejois."
"And..."
Sengoku paused for a moment, his expression slightly peculiar.
"Dracule Mihawk joined this recruitment and set forth a condition—"
"Then, hope to see you in Mariejois!"
"..."
When Atlas heard this, the corners of his mouth twitched involuntarily.
'I didn't anticipate a betrayal from Hawkeye!'
"Alright, I will oversee this Shichibukai meeting then."
...
Time crept by, and the current Shichibukai arrived at Mariejois as planned.
Red Line, Mariejois.
In a splendid conference hall, a precise line of Marines stood against the wall, holding spears, their gaze fixed, unmoved by the spectacle in the center of the room.
In the heart of the conference hall, three colossal figures dominated the entire table.
There was no motion at all, as if the three sculptures were frozen.
At the forefront was an elderly lady with gray hair and wrinkled skin, accompanied by a formation of fully equipped Marine officers. Based on their epaulettes, they all held at least the rank of major.
The old lady remained composed, scanning the individuals before her who emitted menacing auras.
One fish-man, two humans.
Despite their significant differences in size, their life energies were nearly identical.
The largest human sported a black and white jacket adorned with animal footprints and a felt hat resembling bear ears. His long, curly hair cascaded over his shoulders, and he held a weighty book in his gloved hand. He perused it intermittently, and the scent of ink wafted around him.
——[Tyrant] Bartholomew Kuma!!
The initial bounty was 296 million Berries!
But Vice Admiral Tsuru was well aware that this guy's strength undoubtedly surpassed this bounty.
His background is exceedingly peculiar. He set sail to become a pirate without an apparent reason. His bounty rose steadily, and eventually, he willingly joined the Shichibukai.
The motives are highly compelling!!
"When is Atlas expected to arrive in Mariejois?"
Among the three, Mihawk fixed his keen gaze on Vice Admiral Tsuru, who occupied a seat, and calmly spoke, shattering the quietude of the conference hall.
His voice possessed a deep timbre distinctive to men, resonating with a sharpness akin to his swordsmanship.
"Gulp!!"
Before Vice Admiral Tsuru could react, the Marines behind her swallowed hard.
Even though he remained composed after the Shichibukai arrived, not displaying any aggressive actions towards the Marines, Shichibukai are pirates, and all three are infamous pirates on the seas.
Quieting crying children is a basic skill.
They couldn't help but feel tense!!
Furthermore, the man speaking, with eyes as piercing as an eagle's, was a formidable individual rumored to be qualified to vie for the title of the world's greatest swordsman on the sea.
However, to achieve the status of the world's greatest swordsman, one must first surpass the level of Vice Admiral Hakuryu.
Despite Vice Admiral Hakuryu often stating publicly that he isn't a pure swordsman, many Marines simply interpret this as Vice Admiral Hakuryu's modesty!
"Already en route, should be arriving shortly."
Vice Admiral Tsuru lifted the tea cup before him and took a sip.
It's been over a week since Sengoku communicated with Atlas. Considering that little guy's speed, even without utilizing abilities for a speedy journey, he should be approaching soon, possibly taking the Calm Belt.
"You Marines... are you intending to leave the Whitebeard Pirates at Naval Headquarters this time?"
Following Hawkeye's remark, a blue figure also inquired.
——Jinbei!!
Initially, he resisted joining this summons because Whitebeard had been very kind to them on Fish-Man Island.
However, Brother Tiger's fate still rested in the hands of the Marines.
Moreover, Atlas personally reached out to him and wouldn't make things overly difficult. He wouldn't ask him to partake in the upcoming war.
Just to aid in saving the lives of some Marines, essentially playing the role of a logistics rescue team!
"Of course, this is in the midst of a war, not just a friendly match!!"
Vice Admiral Tsuru's voice remained steady and potent, leaving no room for doubt.
As an old-school Marine who has diligently served in the past, although her sense of justice may not be as extreme as Akainu's, her resolute skills are certainly not lacking.
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Read 35 chapters in advance in Patr*on: patr*on.com/Cosmic_Kaminari