Naval Headquarters, Marshal's Office.
"Marshal, everyone is here."
A soft female voice brought Carlos back from his thoughts.
He raised his head and looked forward.
Sitting on the sofa opposite him were the three Marine Admirals: Fujitora, Green Bull, and Akainu.
Ain and Momousagi stood to the left, holding thick stacks of documents. They began their report.
In recent times, the Marines had developed rapidly. The new training facilities were proving highly effective. With features like gravity control, holographic projections, and advanced medical equipment, everyone could focus fully on their training without any worries.
Even Garp had heard about these advancements and had come to check it out himself. After trying it, he was so impressed that he decided to stay in the training room. From the looks of it, he had no intention of leaving any time soon.
The Marines' strength had surged, especially with the open training methods for the Six Powers and Haki, along with guidance from Hawkeye, the former world's greatest swordsman. As a result, their overall power had increased by 30 to 40 percent compared to before.
While the Marines were in full training mode, Vegapunk and his clones were also hard at work. With ample funding, the world's top scientist was firing on all cylinders. Not only had he added 290 new training rooms to address the growing demand, but he also developed cutting-edge technological equipment. Recently, he had begun focusing on pacifist research, and it was said that the first batch of prototypes was nearing completion.
Just yesterday, the selection process for the Marine Inspectorate, led by Momousagi, had successfully concluded. After several rounds of screening, 3,500 elite officers were chosen. They all came from upright families, had strong hearts of justice, and exceptional strength.
The previously captured Devil Fruits, famous swords, and other spoils of war were distributed based on merit. Even the weakest of the selected had the combat power of a Rear Admiral, while the best were nearing the strength of a Marine Admiral.
Most importantly, they were all loyal to Carlos.
Excluding Akainu, Fujitora, Green Bull, and other veteran Admirals and Vice Admirals like Momonga, Carlos was confident that just by deploying this Marine Inspectorate, he could take down the WhiteBeard Pirates.
However, such rapid growth came with its own costs. In just one month, the expenses had been staggering. With the salaries and benefits of 300,000 Marine soldiers to cover, the Naval Headquarters' funds were starting to run dry.
Ain flipped through the documents in her hand, her expression worried.
"In short, the funds available to Naval Headquarters are now less than 10 billion beli. At this rate, we won't be able to sustain this for long. We need to find a solution soon."
"Maybe we should contact the World Government..." she suggested hesitantly.
Before she could finish, Akainu snorted dismissively.
"The World Government? Don't forget, the Five Elders came here with CP0 two weeks ago. That encounter was anything but pleasant. Why would they help us unconditionally now?"
Green Bull leaned back on the sofa, arms spread lazily.
"In that case, why not just head to the New World and deal with things their way? I heard the Dragon Pirates have been getting bold. Not only did they seize control of the world's largest entertainment city, but they also raided the Heavenly Tribute. Defeating them would not only solve our funding issues, but we'd also have something to show the World Government."
Fujitora tapped his cane sword on the floor and said gravely, "No. Neither Kaido nor Bullet will be easy to deal with. Now that they've joined forces, along with the other pirates under their command, it's not a situation we can resolve so easily. If the Whitebeard Pirates also decide to get involved, we could face a catastrophic defeat."
Akainu took a long drag from his cigar, clearly irritated.
"Are you kidding me? With our current strength, you're saying we can't handle the Dragon Pirates? And Whitebeard? He's just a remnant of the old era."
Fujitora's voice was calm but firm. "You're being too arrogant, Sakazuki. Even if we win, it could be a costly victory."
Akainu scoffed. "Heh, it's our duty to destroy pirates. If we're afraid of dying, then we shouldn't be Marines in the first place."
Fujitora replied evenly, "I believe we should be cautious. We don't have a clear picture of the situation in the New World right now. It would be wise to minimize casualties."
The two began to argue, their voices growing louder, but neither could sway the other. The debate dragged on without resolution.
Carlos tapped the table lightly, drawing everyone's attention.
"Marine will enter the New World sooner or later, but not now."
"Before launching a war, we need a solid plan. Fortunately, we have an undercover agent within the Dragon Pirates. The situation is under control."
Akainu nodded slowly, deep in thought.
Carlos smiled and continued, "As for funding, there's no need to worry."
"Now, let me announce the Marine's next action goals."
A sudden silence fell over the room; everyone sat up straight, their expressions serious.
"The Marine Inspectorate will be divided into two teams. Ain, you'll lead one team to inspect each Marine branch. If you find corruption, civilians being disturbed, or collusion with pirates—any violations of law and discipline—there's no need to report it. You are authorized to deal with them on the spot."
His solemn tone chilled the atmosphere in the room.
Ain quickly straightened up, saluted, and promised, "Understood, Marshal."
Carlos picked up a document from the table.
"Gion, you'll lead the other team. Call Yamato, and go to Elegia, Sky Island, and Alabasta, respectively. The specific mission objectives are detailed in these documents."
Momousagi took a thin file and murmured to herself, "Uta, Sky Island, Alabasta..."
She looked up with a puzzled expression. "If I remember correctly, Elegia is the music capital of the world. After it was destroyed by the Red-Haired Pirates, only two people remained in the entire kingdom. Is there something special about this girl named Uta? Why are we sending someone to her?"
Carlos's expression turned serious. Uta is the red-haired orphan adopted by Shanks. This girl possesses extraordinary musical talent and has the unique ability to trap anyone who hears her sing in a spiritual world of her creation. No matter how strong they are, they can't escape once they're drawn in.
In the future, she becomes the world's top singer, attempting to create a utopian world free of conflict. During a concert broadcast live worldwide, she manages to control 70% of the world's population with her voice.
Thanks to the combined efforts of the Marines, CP0, the Straw Hat Crew, the Red-Haired Pirates, and other forces, the crisis was ultimately resolved.
Moreover, there's a terrifying demon imprisoned in this so-called music capital, and Uta is the key to unlocking it.
No matter what, keep her under control before she becomes a significant threat in the future.
He had not forgotten Shanks. Although his clone had defeated the Red-Haired Pirates, Carlos never underestimated this man. If necessary, Uta could become a valuable asset.
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