(T/N: There is now a p.atreon for this work, and any new work I add will be dropped there first. check it out for an early release of up to 30 chapters edited smoothly. https://www.p.atreon.com/INeedRest)
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The Flying Feather emerged from the depths of the sea, and the coating protecting its hull shattered with a resounding "pop."
After spending more than a year on the seas and having so many adventures, Colt finally arrived at the New World.
"Ah! Is this the air of the New World? It feels so different!"
Nami opened her arms, took a deep breath, and let out a hearty exclamation.
While there was air in the Fish-Man Island, it lacked the freedom and openness of the surface, carrying a lingering sense of confinement.
"It's no different from Paradise. Just as calm," Perona remarked as she flew to the highest point, scanning the surroundings.
Suddenly, she exclaimed, "Colt! There are several warships approaching in the distance!"
"Could it be that they are here for us?" she panicked at the thought.
Colt, who had already sensed their presence using his Observation Haki, nodded calmly.
"Most likely. Killing the Celestial Dragons isn't something they'll easily let go."
Senju Tobirama had warned him about such consequences, though Colt hadn't expected to encounter them so soon.
In a good mood and unwilling to let these Marines spoil his day, Colt made seals with his hands, then slapped the deck.
"Summoning Technique!"
The once-calm sea suddenly rippled as enormous figures appeared in the depths, racing towards the approaching warships.
These were the massive Sea Kings Colt had gathered during his time at Fish-Man Island.
These creatures served as the Summoning beasts of the Animal Path.
With Shirahoshi's help, he easily attracted these rare Sea Kings and signed a Summoning contract with the strongest among them, planting Chakra seeds to ensure their loyalty.
On one of the warships, Vice Admiral Momousagi noticed the ship in the distance and quickly issued orders for all ships to advance at full speed.
Before long, however, the massive Sea Kings attacked the Marine fleet.
While Momousagi was a skilled swordsman capable of easily dispatching these sea kings on land, the sea was their domain.
Protecting her ships was a struggle, let alone pursuing Colt.
Taking advantage of the chaos, Nami activated the explosive acceleration mechanism on the ship, allowing them to slip through the encirclement in a flash.
The Sea Kings, following Colt's instructions, disappeared into the depths after creating sufficient havoc, leaving the Marines both confused and enraged.
"Phew, that was close," Nami said, wiping sweat from her brow. She turned to Colt and asked, "By the way, where are we headed?"
Colt stroked his chin, studying the chart obtained at Fish-Man Island.
"Not Dressrosa, but somewhere nearby," he said, a thoughtful look on his face.
"Nearby? What do you mean?" Nami asked, puzzled.
"It's not exactly an island—it's more like a gigantic creature."
Nami's curiosity was piqued.
"What are you talking about? How can you confuse a creature with an island?"
Colt explained the unique nature of Zou, leaving Nami dumbfounded.
"Are you serious? An elephant the size of an island? You've got to be kidding me!"
Colt shrugged with a grin. "You'll see it for yourself soon enough."
"Why are we going there, anyway?"
"Nothing much—just looking for a pet," Colt replied casually.
****
Meanwhile, word of Whitebeard's recent movements had spread, causing waves throughout the New World.
The transfer of dozens of ships stirred panic, with many speculating a clash between two Yonko crews.
However, Colt's attack on the Celestial Dragons overshadowed Whitebeard's actions, sparing them from undue attention.
At Marineford, the tension was palpable as high-ranking officers gathered once again.
Even Admiral Akainu, stationed in the New World, had been recalled for this critical meeting.
Akainu sat silently, observing his fellow Admirals, Kizaru and Aokiji, who appeared unusually chummy.
"It's such a nice day today," Kizaru said casually.
"Indeed. A perfect day," Aokiji replied.
"Found a great fishing spot the other day," Kizaru continued. "I'll show you sometime."
"Sounds good. A new hobby could be fun," Aokiji responded.
Akainu frowned, listening to their idle chatter.
While their conversation seemed meaningless, he couldn't shake the feeling that something had shifted between the two.
In the past, Aokiji and Akainu's ideological differences often put them at odds, with Kizaru acting as the neutral party.
Recently, however, Kizaru and Aokiji had grown unexpectedly close.
Rumors from headquarters suggested the two Admirals frequently went out drinking and even visited hot springs together after returning from Sabaody.
Before Akainu could dwell further, Kizaru turned to him with a grin.
"Yo, Sakazuki! Wanna come fishing with us?"
Caught eavesdropping, Akainu remained unfazed, exhaling a cloud of smoke.
"Pfft... do you can I'm so free that I have time for such leisure? The seas are teeming with evil once more. Someone must take that seriously…"
"That's a shame," Kizaru replied nonchalantly, raising his hands in mock regret.
Suddenly, the doors to the conference room burst open.
Sengoku entered, his expression grim as he stood at the head of the table.
"Time is of the essence. Let's get straight to the point," he announced, silencing the room.