In the heart of Mariejois, the tension within the grandiose Council Chamber was tangible. The Five Elders sat, fuming as they received the grim news of their agents' defeat at the hands of William in Ohara. An agent nervously delivered the final report, confirming that the three dispatched CP0 agents had gone silent, their fates sealed by the hands of William in Ohara.
Saint Topman Warcury, clenched his fist, striking it down on the table's polished marble surface. "One man—taking down three elite agents and escaping our grasp once again! And that girl, Nico Robin, has managed to slip through our fingers once more alongside him!"
Saint Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro, the most composed of the group. "That boy has evolved into a far greater threat than we anticipated, especially with the mythical dragon fruit in his possession. It was foolish to underestimate him."
"More than that," Saint Marcus Mars added, his voice dripping with disdain as he gestured to the report, "we neglected the danger of that girl. Nico Robin can read the Poneglyphs. She alone holds the key to the truths we've worked centuries to conceal. Allowing her freedom is reckless."
Saint Shepherd Ju Peter gave a solemn nod, his expression grave. "They're a dangerous combination. Her knowledge, coupled with William's strength… this needs to be addressed with all seriousness. The entire world should understand what happens to those who stand against us."
Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, met each elder's gaze before speaking. "Call Sengoku. That girl's bounty needs to reflect the gravity of her ability. Make sure the world knows that anyone aiding this boy will face the harshest of consequences."
In Marineford, Sengoku's Den Den Mushi rang ominously. Bracing himself, he picked up, preparing for the inevitable scolding. The authoritative voice of Saint Marcus Mars was unmistakable, seething with anger.
"Sengoku, we have new orders," Mars growled, frustration clear in his tone. "Raise Nico Robin's bounty. Set it at 200 million berries."
"200 million?!" Sengoku exclaimed, caught off guard. Clenching his jaw, he carefully masked his thoughts on the harsh escalation. Questioning the Five Elders' commands was futile.
"Yes, 200 million," Mars repeated, his tone edged with reproach. "If your marines had been more vigilant, Sengoku, we wouldn't be wasting our time on calls like this."
The call cut off abruptly, and Sengoku let out a sigh, trying to suppress his own irritation. The Elders were impatient, dangerously so. He closed his eyes for a moment, the tension ebbing slightly as he heard a low chuckle from behind him.
"Let me guess, the mighty Five Elders aren't happy?" Garp's deep laughter filled the room as he folded his arms, grinning.
Sengoku's eyes narrowed, though there was no anger in his expression. "They think increasing Nico Robin's bounty is going to make a difference," he muttered.
Garp let out another chuckle, giving Sengoku a knowing look. "You and I both know these fools think fear is enough to control everyone," he said, picking his nose. "They think throwing money on a bounty poster will make Nico Robin and William cower in their boots."
"Garp, that's enough," Sengoku said, his voice calm but stern. "Don't criticize those in charge so openly."
Garp shrugged, still grinning. "Just calling it like I see it. It doesn't take much to see that they've underestimated that kid, William. The Celestial Dragons learned it the hard way, and now these old geezers are on their way there too."
Sengoku's brows furrowed, though his voice softened slightly. "You're not wrong. But watch your words, Garp. Walls have ears, and I don't want a foolish slip-up leading to unnecessary trouble."
Garp gave a light scoff, offering a mock salute. "Aye aye, Fleet Admiral," he said with a smirk. Then he turned, leaving Sengoku shaking his head with a reluctant smile.
---
Meanwhile, at Baltigo, the mysterious and isolated headquarters of the Revolutionary Army, Monkey D. Dragon sat, surrounded by key members of his inner circle. The low hum of quiet chatter silenced as the latest report from the West Blue crossed his desk.
One of his commanders, reported, "William's actions against the slave traders have gained traction. Not only did he destroy a trafficking network, but he also took down three elite CP0 agents."
A smirk crossed Dragon's face, and his eyes narrowed with intrigue. "Three CP0 agents? This boy's influence grows by the day."
"Apparently, the Five Elders are fuming," One of his commanders continued, a hint of amusement in his tone. "They've raised Nico Robin's bounty significantly."
"That's to be expected," Dragon replied, his voice smooth yet dangerous. "But William and Nico Robin's actions tell me more than their bounties ever could." He paused, folding his hands as he looked out at his commanders, determination hardening his gaze. "Keep close watch on his movements. And if he is open to it… we may consider an alliance."
"Should I send a team to contact him, Dragon?" asked Ivankov, leaning forward with interest.
"No, not yet," Dragon replied thoughtfully. "For now, let him move as he sees fit. We don't need to rush—let him come to us when he's ready. But we'll be there when the time is right."
---
After a long and silent voyage, William and Robin finally set foot on the rugged, untamed shores of Rusukaina Island. The dense, ancient jungle stretched out before them, and the air felt thick with challenge and opportunity. William took in the wild landscape, his eyes gleaming with a renewed sense of purpose.
"Rusukaina... not a bad place to grow stronger," he mused, a grin spreading across his face.
Robin nodded thoughtfully, her expression calm but determined. She glanced at William, curiosity flashing in her eyes. "So, what's next for us? I know you're not one to linger."
William looked at her, a fire of conviction sparking in his eyes. "First, we train here. We've got potential, but we're going to need a lot more than that if we're serious about taking on the World Government. I'll master every skill Rayleigh and this place can throw at me."
"And then?" Robin asked, tilting her head as she listened.
"After that, we're going to build up our forces," William said with a decisive nod. "Find those who share our vision. It'll take time, but there are plenty out there who've been hurt or betrayed by the World Government."
Robin smiled, a hint of admiration glinting in her eyes. "You've really thought this through, haven't you?"
William grinned, nudging her lightly. "What can I say? I've had a lot of time to think in those slave chains. If we do this, we'll do it with a plan."
Robin's face softened. "I'll help too. I've always wanted a way to protect Ohara's legacy."
William nodded firmly, his hand resting on her shoulder. "Then we'll do it together. First, we survive this island, then we build, and one day... we'll bring the fight to them."
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