Chapter 63 The Five Elders Are Furious, And The World Is Recruiting Soldiers

Holy Land Mariejois, Pangaea Castle.

"Another disaster at Impel Down, just like when the Golden Lion escaped."

"This fool Magellan spends more time on the toilet than doing his job!"

"And what about the Marines? We pour resources into them every year, yet they fail us again and again. They're utterly useless!"

The Five Elders fumed as they reviewed the report in front of them. The recent failure had left them in a foul mood.

"As if that wasn't enough, how's the situation in Wano?"

The short, blond-haired Elder sighed, shaking his head.

"Sengoku reported that the Red-Haired Pirates have shown up there as well. Combined with the threat of the Big Mom Pirates, the situation is as dire as it is at Impel Down."

"But we only have Carlos and Momousagi there, with just a few thousand troops. We can't expect much."

The other Elders' faces darkened at the news.

"Damn it! We just resolved Wano's issues and made it a member nation…"

"If it doesn't work out, we might have to abandon the New World and let the pirates fight over it."

"Abandon the New World? Are you out of your mind?"

"Calm down! We need to figure out how to fix this mess."

Saint Satan slammed his fist on the table, his voice filled with anger.

"You all know who's imprisoned on the sixth floor of Impel Down. After this battle, Kaido and Bullet have become infamous. They'll attract countless pirates to their side. If they establish a stronghold in the New World, they'll be nearly impossible to deal with."

The Elders' faces grew tense as they recalled the Rocks Pirates from decades ago. Letting Kaido and Bullet strengthen their positions would be a grave mistake.

The blond-haired Elder shook his head. "But after such a massive defeat, the Marines are in no shape to mount an offensive…"

Saint Satan sneered. "Then we'll spend 10 billion Beli on a global conscription! If 100,000 marines aren't enough, we'll recruit 200,000 more!"

"We'll focus on gathering strength, too. No matter their origin, if someone's strong enough, they'll be given the rank of Vice Admiral. If they're powerful enough, even an Admiral position isn't out of the question."

"Don't forget, the Shichibukai are also a formidable force."

"Vegapunk needs to accelerate his research…"

As they discussed countermeasures, the Elders' expressions gradually eased. The 800-year-old foundation of the World Government wasn't something that could be shaken by one or two strong individuals. Not even by Rocks or Roger in their prime.

Vegapunk was developing humanoid combat weapons. If these "pacifists" and "seraphim" could be mass-produced, the World Government would have the power to dominate the seas without relying on the Marines.

"And we still have the power controlled by Master Imu," the sword-wielding Elder added, now more relaxed. "The Marines are just frogs at the bottom of a well."

The other Elders shared his calm, nodding in agreement. Master Imu's power, which could obliterate entire islands, was unmatched by any living being.

As they spoke, the phone on the table suddenly rang. Saint Satan picked up the receiver, his tone stern.

"Sengoku, what is it?"

"If you're calling to justify your failure, save it. You should focus on training your soldiers instead!"

On the other end, Sengoku sighed and spoke solemnly.

"Saint Satan, I have an update. Carlos and his team have defeated the Big Mom Pirates and captured Charlotte Linlin alive. The crisis in Wano is over."

Saint Satan's hand trembled, nearly dropping the phone. He asked in disbelief, "What did you say? Are you certain this information is accurate?"

"Yes, it's confirmed."

"Good, very good!"

After hanging up, Saint Satan still couldn't fully believe the news. The other Elders exchanged surprised glances, each expressing their approval.

"First Kaido, and now Big Mom…"

"This Carlos has truly exceeded our expectations!"

While the Marines had failed miserably against Whitebeard despite deploying two Admirals, three Vice Admirals, and 100,000 troops, Carlos and Momousagi, with only three warships, had defeated the Big Mom Pirates and captured Big Mom herself.

"What a shame. If the Marines hadn't faltered, we might've been able to conquer the New World completely."

The Elders grew angrier the more they thought about it. The sword-wielding Elder snorted.

"There's nothing more to say. Impel Down needs a complete overhaul. Aokiji has proven unworthy of the Admiral title."

"When Carlos returns, he should be immediately promoted to Marine Admiral."

"Agreed."

"Agreed."

Everyone nodded in unison. Some even entertained the idea of making Carlos the Marine Marshal.

"Even so, we can't be complacent."

"The New World remains a volatile place. Our top priority is ensuring Charlotte Linlin is safely escorted back. There can be no more mishaps!"

"Let's call upon the Shichibukai to assist in the escort."

"Indeed. The two closest to Wano should be enough."

"Issue the summons!"

Meanwhile, in Wano, the banquet had just ended. Early the next morning, the warship set sail, headed back to Marineford.

On the deck, a lounge chair and several small tables were arranged. Carlos reclined on the chair, his upper body bare, showcasing his chiseled muscles. He wore sunglasses and sipped a drink through a straw, thoroughly enjoying the journey.

Yamato, initially excited by her first voyage, had gradually grown accustomed to the open sea and spent her time quietly fishing at the bow.

Ain, when not training, focused on mastering her Devil Fruit powers. As Carlos's deputy, Momousagi was kept busy, overseeing everything on the ship with precision. When she had a moment to herself, she studied charts or practiced her swordsmanship.

Suddenly, a loud shout broke the tranquility.

"Attention! Five pirate ships spotted ahead!"

Momousagi quickly grabbed a telescope and scanned the horizon.

"Pirate flags… They belong to the Vortex Spider Pirates!"

"Everyone, prepare for battle!"

The Marine soldiers sprang into action, but before they could engage, an overwhelming force erupted from the distance.

A brilliant, blinding slash of light shot across the sea, splitting the five pirate ships into countless pieces in an instant. The sea itself seemed to part as the attack continued its path.

Yamato stared in awe, completely forgetting the fishing rod slipping from her hand.

Everyone looked towards the source of the attack. A small, coffin-shaped boat, with candles burning at each corner, drifted slowly towards them. Seated in the boat was a tall man in a top hat, calmly sheathing his black blade.

He crossed his legs, hands resting on his knees, utterly unfazed by the destruction he had caused with a single strike.

After getting a clear look at the visitor, Momousagi tensed up and instinctively drew her Kinpira sword from her waist.

"Damn it, why is Hawkeye here..."

As the distance between them closed, a heavy aura of oppression filled the air.

The sailors raised their muskets, preparing for what seemed like an imminent confrontation.

"Stop! What's your purpose here?" Momousagi demanded.

Ignoring Momousagi's challenge, Hawkeye leaped onto the deck.

"Step aside. My subordinates will handle this."

"You—!"

Momousagi's fists clenched, her eyes blazing with fury.

But she knew better than to underestimate the man before her. Hawkeye, known by many titles such as the Seven Warlords of the Sea, Marine Hunter, and the World's Greatest Swordsman, was a formidable opponent.

Since his debut, he had hunted both pirates and Marines, establishing his reputation as the strongest swordsman in the world through countless battles.

Momousagi had faced him before and suffered a crushing defeat. The World Government had no choice but to invite him to join the Shichibukai.

Hawkeye was known for his solitary nature; he had no companions or subordinates. His strength was evident, and only someone of Admiral-level prowess could challenge him.

Hawkeye's gaze swept over the entire deck before settling on Carlos.

"If I'm not mistaken, you must be Carlos, right?"

"As a great swordsman, let's have a duel!"

With that, Hawkeye swiftly drew his black blade, Yoru, pointing it directly at Carlos. His intense fighting spirit filled the deck with an overwhelming pressure.

The sailors' expressions changed as they took several steps back. The atmosphere felt like a sharp blade cutting through the air, making everyone uneasy.

Momousagi didn't hesitate. She drew her Kinpira and positioned herself in front of Carlos.

"Don't you see we have a mission? What if we damage the warship?"

Hawkeye glanced at her with a hint of disdain.

"Damage the ship? That just shows you lack the skill to control your sword properly."

"It's been ages, and you've made no progress."

"Move aside. You're not worthy of fighting me."

The mere mention of "Hawkeye" was enough to instill fear and prevent anyone from making a move.

Seagulls flew against the backdrop of a clear blue sky. A gentle sea breeze caused the waves to ripple.

What should have been a tranquil scene now felt tense and suffocating.

The crew exchanged nervous glances, watching Carlos, who remained relaxed on his beach chair.

Confronted by the world's greatest swordsman, Carlos was unfazed. He rested his hands behind his head and continued sunbathing.

"A duel between swordsmen?" Carlos said, his tone casual.

"I decline."

Hawkeye looked taken aback and frowned slightly.

"Defeating me would make you the world's greatest swordsman."

Carlos waved his hand dismissively.

"Sorry, I'm not interested."

Hawkeye's dissatisfaction was evident.

"True warriors aren't afraid of battles; they grow stronger through life-and-death struggles. You…"

Before Hawkeye could finish, Carlos interrupted impatiently.

"I admit defeat. I surrender. Is that enough?"

"If there's nothing else, please leave. I'm busy with a mission and don't have time for this."

Carlos had no interest in titles or proving himself as the greatest swordsman. He preferred to relax rather than fight for a hollow reputation.

"You… do you think someone like you deserves to be called strong?"

Carlos shrugged, his expression indifferent.

"Think what you like."

"I recently fought a fierce battle and am seriously injured. I can't even hold a sword right now."

"If you're still intent on fighting, there's nothing I can do about it."

Seeing Carlos lounging on his chair, sipping juice, Hawkeye frowned. "Injured? Are you serious?"

Momousagi chimed in at the right moment. "Carlos defeated Charlotte Linlin not long ago in Wano."

"Hawkeye, are you looking to take advantage of someone in such a state?"

"If you don't believe it, you can check the cabin."

Hawkeye's eyes widened as his expression grew serious.

"I see. After Kaido, another sea emperor has been defeated by you…"

The World Government had recruited him to escort the warship. He wasn't eager to agree but was tempted by the chance to duel a powerful swordsman.

Hawkeye considered for a moment before speaking slowly.

"A few days ago, Impel Down experienced a riot, and numerous prisoners escaped. Kaido and Bullet are searching for you."

"Additionally, the Whitebeard Pirates seem to be looking for you as well."

"Your situation is very dangerous. The World Government has enlisted the Shichibukai to ensure your safe return to Marineford."

"I can help you deal with them until you recover your strength."

"But in return, you must accept my challenge to a duel."

Yamato, Momousagi, Ain, and the others looked alarmed and exchanged worried glances.

Carlos was also surprised by the turn of events.

He hadn't expected such significant developments in just a few days.

Although the reasons for Bullet and Whitebeard's interest in him were unclear, Kaido alone was a significant concern.

"This is really troublesome…" Carlos sighed.

"Alright, I accept your offer. I'll rely on you for now, but are you the only Shichibukai available?"

"Don't get me wrong; I'm not questioning your strength."

Hawkeye remained calm.

"In addition to me, the World Government has also enlisted Doflamingo, the Heavenly Yaksha, this time."

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