Golden Lion's expression twisted in disbelief as Aizen outlined his vision for the Hunter's Guild. A third force, capable of challenging both pirates and the World Government, was a concept so audacious that even someone like Golden Lion, who had dreamed of dominating the seas, found it difficult to comprehend.
Aizen's calm, calculating gaze remained fixed on him, as though daring him to question the plan further.
"You want to declare war on both factions... to overthrow the balance of the world?" Golden Lion muttered, his tone carrying a mixture of confusion and intrigue.
Aizen gave a faint smirk, his fingers idly brushing over Kyōka Suigetsu's hilt. "Balance? That's a convenient lie sold to the masses to maintain their complacency. What I seek is order. A world shaped by my design—one where no one can oppose my will."
Golden Lion clenched his fists, sensing the sheer ambition behind Aizen's words. "And you think this 'Hunter's Guild' can achieve that? Pirates and Marines will never bow to a third party. You're talking about creating something impossible."
Aizen's smirk deepened. "Impossible? Golden Lion, you underestimate the power of fear... and desire. A third force unbound by labels like pirate or Marine will attract those who crave true freedom. A force where strength dictates survival. Your task is to build this foundation and integrate the bounty hunters who lurk in the shadows, longing for a chance to rise above the chaos."
Golden Lion hesitated. While his pride resisted the idea of serving bounty hunters, Aizen's logic was unassailable. He had experienced firsthand the overwhelming power of the man before him. Even now, his instincts screamed that rebellion would mean certain death.
"Why me?" Golden Lion asked bitterly, his voice barely masking his resentment. "Why not someone else?"
"You're a legend," Aizen replied smoothly. "Even stripped of your name, your strength and reputation remain unmatched. And now, with the power of Hollow coursing through you, you've become something far greater. Use that strength to dominate and command. Establish the Guild and watch as the world begins to bend under its weight."
Golden Lion glanced down at his hands, feeling the new, otherworldly power surging through his veins. He hated to admit it, but Aizen was right. With this newfound strength, rebuilding an empire, even under the guise of a 'Guild,' was within his grasp.
"And what happens when your so-called Guild becomes stronger than you anticipated?" Golden Lion asked, his tone sharp with suspicion. "What stops us from turning against you?"
Aizen chuckled softly, his voice dripping with amusement. "Do you think I would allow something I created to grow beyond my control? You are still bound to me, Golden Lion. Kyōka Suigetsu ensures that you remain under my influence, whether you realize it or not. And if you ever forget your place..." He gestured subtly, the fragment of Hōgyoku in his possession glowing faintly. "This little device ensures your existence remains in my hands. A single thought is all it would take to unmake you."
Golden Lion fell silent, his mind racing. Aizen had left no openings, no opportunities for rebellion. For now, submission was his only option.
"So, what exactly do you want from this... Guild?" Golden Lion finally asked, forcing himself to sound compliant.
Aizen's eyes gleamed with calculated intent. "It will be more than a haven for bounty hunters. It will be a neutral force—one that declares war on anyone, be it pirates or the World Government, for the right price. It will hold the power to shape economies, to manipulate conflicts, and to destroy alliances. In time, it will become a global power capable of rivaling even the World Government."
Golden Lion gritted his teeth, a spark of rebellion still lingering in his heart. "And what if I fail?"
"You won't," Aizen replied coldly. "Your strength is undeniable, and your ambition will drive you to succeed. But let me remind you, failure is not an option. You exist to serve my vision. Remember that."
Golden Lion lowered his head, his pride battered but not entirely broken. Deep down, he vowed to one day escape Aizen's control, but for now, he had no choice but to play the role assigned to him.
Aizen turned away, his voice calm yet commanding. "Go to the Sabaody Archipelago. Begin building the Hunter's Guild. I will provide reinforcements in time—others who will share your strength and vision. For now, you are the first among the Espada. Do not disappoint me, Golden Lion."
Golden Lion nodded reluctantly, his fists clenched in silent frustration. As he departed to begin his mission, Aizen stood alone, a faint smirk playing on his lips.
"The pieces are falling into place," Aizen murmured to himself. "Soon, this world will see that its so-called balance is nothing more than an illusion. And when the time comes, they will have no choice but to kneel before me."