Chapter 139: Return to the Marine HQ

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Mastering the basics is the most challenging part of Haki training. The height one can reach depends entirely on the strength of the foundation. 

After the Marineford War, Luffy underwent two years of fundamental training under Rayleigh's meticulous guidance. 

Yet upon arriving at Onigashima, he was struck once to unlock Ryuo, a second time to grasp Advanced Conqueror's Haki, and a third time to awaken Nika—practically a model example of rapid mastery. 

However, Luffy's remarkable progress was only possible because of the solid foundation he had built over those two years.

During training, Rayleigh once mentioned that intense battles are the most effective way to improve Haki. 

Only through continuous combat can one make rapid advancements. Real combat is an essential process for every strong warrior.

The special training continued. Nearly every day, Doflamingo and Rosinante endured relentless beatings, their bodies wrapped in thick white bandages. 

Yet, under this extreme pressure, the results were evident. 

After one month, Doflamingo had already learned how to wield Ryuo, and Rosinante refined his Observation Haki mastery. 

At the same time, both had significantly improved their control over Conqueror's Haki. 

While their overall power still had room to grow, they had already gained a basic grasp.

"Not bad! Under my special training, you two have improved rapidly! From here on, your strength will depend on your efforts!"

"The awakening of a Devil Fruit is also a method to enhance power."

Arashi crossed his arms and smiled as he looked at the two. Doflamingo had mixed emotions. 

Over the past month, his strength had grown immensely, and he had even begun to grasp Advanced Armament Haki. 

Meanwhile, Rosinante had also mastered Armament Haki, becoming a user of all three types of Haki.

In some ways, his younger brother possessed talent comparable to his own, which shocked him.

Time passed in the blink of an eye, and three months passed. Doflamingo had seemingly adapted completely to life as a Marine. 

He wore a well-fitted Marine uniform, a Marine cap on his head, and the insignia on his shoulder now read Major. 

He frequently went on missions, capturing numerous pirates, which led to his rapid promotion. On this particular day, Bullet returned.

Inside the office—

"Alabasta has a larger military force, but its elites are not as strong as ours," Bullet reported. 

"So, I focused my training on the captain and vice-captains of the Royal Guard."

"Their strength has improved significantly, though compared to the recruits you've recently gathered, they're still inferior."

After a pause, Bullet continued, "Additionally, I checked in on Crocodile's Baroque Works." 

"He's recruited a decent number of subordinates currently undergoing training. They may be useful in the future."

Listening to his Admiral's report, Arashi nodded slightly. Tapping his index finger against the desk, he suddenly spoke.

"Marine Headquarters has summoned me back to Marineford to participate in Sengoku's promotion to Fleet Admiral."

"To be precise, they want me to support Sengoku's ascension."

"What do you think?"

Bullet was briefly taken aback before responding, "I think you should go."

"Our ultimate plan is centered around Marine Headquarters—the true strength of the entire Marine force!"

"Although we have built a powerful nation here in the West Blue, it is still far from enough."

"Only by gaining real influence within Marine Headquarters can our ultimate goal become a reality."

Arashi's fingers continued tapping against the desk, producing a soft rhythmic sound. 

After a long silence, he finally smiled and said, "Once I leave, everything here will be in your hands."

Bullet nodded firmly. "Rest assured! I will handle everything!"

Arashi gave a slight nod. He had made his decision—he would go to Marine Headquarters.

"If anything happens to me, do not make reckless moves."

"Hold control over the West Blue and wait for my return."

Then, he added something that made Bullet freeze in place.

"What kind of accident?" Bullet asked. "Do you mean the Marines would make a move against you?"

Arashi shook his head. "The Marines won't, but the World Government might."

Then he laughed.

"Of course, this is only a possibility."

"But chances are, nothing will happen at all."

Bullet nodded. He, too, believed that with Arashi's current strength, hardly anything in this world could threaten him. His constitution was simply too monstrous.

That afternoon, Doflamingo sat in the office with a serious expression, gazing at the figure before him. 

He had already received news that Arashi was leaving the West Blue for Marine Headquarters. 

With his keen instincts, he sensed a faint danger in this decision.

"I intend to assign you a mission," Arashi stated.

At the same time, Doflamingo spoke up.

"With your current status in the West Blue, I don't think going to Marine Headquarters is a wise move."

"Oh?" Arashi raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Why is that?"

"You have ruled over the West Blue for eleven years, and the World Government must have thoroughly investigated the forces you control."

"They are also aware of what your subordinates have done."

"The West Blue is your territory. It would be extremely difficult if they wanted to take action against you."

"The resources required to eliminate a powerhouse like you would be unimaginable."

"I heard you previously visited Mary Geoise and even had a dispute with the Five Elders, which led to the intervention of the Holy Knights."

Doflamingo's eyes narrowed slightly. "Do not underestimate them!"

"Of course, I am not referring to their strength, but their determination!"

"If you go to Marine Headquarters, that could be an opportunity. But it could also be their opportunity—a chance to eliminate you once and for all!"

Arashi remained silent, his eyes flickering as he pondered Doflamingo's words. There was no doubt that he had a point. 

They would not hesitate to strike against him if the World Government found an opening.

"I have another crucial reason for going to Headquarters."

Slowly lifting his gaze, Arashi looked at Doflamingo. With Crocodile absent, this young man before him was undoubtedly one of the more intelligent ones around.

"What is it?" Doflamingo asked. What could be important enough for Arashi to take such a risk?

"To assume the position of Admiral!" Arashi said in a firm tone.

Doflamingo's pupils shrank, momentarily stunned.

"Admiral?! You mean… an Admiral position?!"

"This was something Sengoku personally discussed with me."

"And it is precisely because of this offer that I've decided to make the trip to Marineford."

Arashi paused before giving a faint smile. 

"Because this isn't just about becoming an Admiral. It represents the stance of Fleet Admiral Sengoku and the Marines backing him."

Doflamingo's eyes flickered.

"If you truly become an Admiral… then even if the World Government wants to take action against you, they will have to consider the Marines' response."

Arashi nodded. "Exactly."

"Of course, I am not afraid of the World Government's schemes."

"No matter what happens, at the very least—I will not die."

Doflamingo was confused by that last sentence. How could anyone in this world claim they would never die?

"So, what mission do you want to assign me?" he asked, recalling Arashi's earlier words.

"Oh, it's a simple one."

"I want you to go undercover as a pirate."

Arashi smiled.

"What?"

Doflamingo was momentarily stunned, but soon, a grin spread across his face.

Arashi smirked as he looked into Doflamingo's eyes. "For me, it's indeed simple." 

"But as for the reason?" He paused momentarily before adding with a light chuckle, "Just a bit of amusement."

Doflamingo didn't understand, and he didn't want to ask further. Returning to his life as a pirate was far more appealing than staying with the Marines.

The two departed from the West Blue one after the other. Arashi left first, travelling alone on his ship. 

Given the risks of this journey, he was confident in his ability to survive any unforeseen circumstances, but he couldn't guarantee the same for others.

Standing at the ship's bow, his gaze flickered, his expression contemplative.

"Sengoku's stance toward me is crystal clear. But will the World Government make a move against me?"

"It's possible, but not certain."

"Another question is, how much do they truly know about the forces under my command?"

"If they've uncovered more than seventy percent… then I may have a problem."

He knew very well that his forces and many of his actions—actions that directly challenged the World Government's bottom line—must never be exposed. 

If they were, the Celestial Dragons and their ilk would stop at nothing to eliminate him.

-1511, West Blue-

After such a long time, ensuring that no intelligence had leaked out was impossible.

—Meanwhile, in Mary Geoise—

"He's left the West Blue!"

"The Marines' attitude toward him is now completely at odds with ours!"

"Eliminate him! He must be eliminated!"

"This is a rare opportunity. If we find the right moment, no matter the cost, we might just be able to take him down!"

"The Ohara Sky Island incident… and the disappearance of Dr. Vegapunk years ago… both are linked to him."

The five elders sat with cold expressions, their voices seething with rage.

"This man is incredibly difficult to deal with. If we make a move, it must be decisive and swift."

"And we cannot allow him the chance to take his own life."

"If he dies, all his wounds will heal instantly, a terrifying ability."

"Don't worry, I've already devised a specialized strategy. We have a high chance of capturing him."

"If we can't kill him, we can restrain and seal him! There will always be a way to deal with him!"

Finally, a chilling voice concluded,

"This time, we are not in Mary Geoise. Whatever the cost, it will be acceptable."

"He is arrogant. That is his greatest weakness."

"Pride is the greatest obstacle to survival!"

Arashi was indeed growing overconfident and with good reason.

Eleven years ago, he possessed the strength to battle legendary pirates. 

In the years that followed, he openly defied the World Government. 

His overwhelming power had even forced the government into compromises on more than one occasion.

Over the next decade, he recruited numerous powerful individuals, established an experimental base, founded a Marine Academy, and placed three admirals under his command. 

Thus, he effectively controlled the entire West Blue Marine force.

Though he had yet to involve himself in politics, it was only a matter of time. Eventually, the West Blue would become his empire.

Who in the world had ever achieved such a feat?

Gol D. Roger? He was merely an adventurer with a talent for navigation, someone who reached a hidden island.

Shiki the Golden Lion? A man with ambition but neither the wisdom nor the strength to see it through, a brute who relied solely on destruction.

Edward Newgate, Whitebeard? At his core, he is a gentle father protecting his so-called "sons" clinging to an idealized family.

Even in the Marineford War, after being stabbed, he still embraced his traitorous son, hoping to move him with kindness—reminiscent of those idealistic organizations that reward betrayal with wealth.

Arashi stood atop a golden ssceptreat the ship's bow, watching as the Gates of Justice drew closer.

He reflected on the past decade, on everything he had built. Without even realizing it, he had risen to such heights of power.

Unfortunately, Ifiya wasn't with him this time. Before leaving, he had sent her to the East Blue on a secret mission. 

He had no one to share this moment of realization with.

Sengoku spoke to him a few days earlier and confirmed his role in the upcoming transition. The Fleet Admiral position was practically guaranteed to be his.

The only issue now was the World Government's interference.

Recently, a group of veteran vice admirals suddenly emerged to oppose Sengoku's promotion, stalling the process.

Among those close to Sengoku, Garp remained indifferent, Zephyr stayed silent, and only Tsuru reached out to contact Arashi.

Though more than a decade had passed since Roger's execution, Arashi still held immense prestige among some of the older Marines.

Among the newer generation, his reputation was even greater.

Ten years had passed. The young officers who had once admired him had now risen through the ranks, securing important positions across the Marine forces.

Unlike the ageing veterans, the younger generation was the true backbone of the Marines—Sengoku's key supporters.

"When I take over, there will be a major reshuffling within the Marines."

Even through the Den Den Mushi, Arashi could hear the cold anger in Sengoku's voice.

"This generation will be the strongest yet."

"Borsalino, codenamed Kizaru."

"Kuzan, codenamed Aokiji."

"Sakazuki, codenamed Akainu."

"And you. There will be four admirals!"

Sengoku's voice carried excitement.

Four admiral-level forces would be enough to suppress the escalating chaos of the era.

The latter half of the Grand Line had been informally called the "New World," and powerful figures were beginning to rise.

This era was growing far more chaotic than Roger's time. At the very least, the number of pirates had increased dramatically.

After the brief conversation, Arashi narrowed his eyes. He hadn't expected Sengoku to be so bold as to include him as a candidate for admiral.

While he undoubtedly had the strength and prestige for the position, the pressure from the World Government would be immense.

Of course, the finer details would be discussed at Marineford. As the warship slowly passed through the Gates of Justice—

"Who's that vice admiral?"

On the fortress walls, a Marine major peered through a telescope at Arashi'sepaulettess and asked in confusion.

"Who knows?"

"With the Fleet Admiral transition coming up, officers from all over the world have been gathering at headquarters lately."

"This is a monumental event for the Marines! The outcome will shake the entire world!"

"Indeed, it's an unprecedented occasion!"

A group of young Marine officers, unfamiliar with Arashi, spoke in awe as they watched the warship approaching. 

The ship's bow was adorned with a golden sceptre, a striking sight.

Ten years was a long time—especially in the ever-changing ranks of the Marines. Many of the younger generation had already forgotten Arashi.

"A place both familiar and unfamiliar…"

Gazing at the shimmering inner bay ahead, Arashi murmured to himself. 

He had overheard the conversations of the Marines on the fortress walls, but he paid them little mind.

Moments later, the warship docked at the port. The once-familiar Shinbu was no longer stationed there. 

Instead, welcoming him was a tall, slender Marine captain with long golden hair and purple-tinted sunglasses.

"May I ask for your name, Vice Admiral?" the blond captain inquired politely.

"Arashi." Arashi smiled.

"Vice Admiral Arashi, please proceed to the headquarters building for the meeting."

"You've arrived just in time—it only started a short while ago." The blond captain chuckled.

Even after hearing his name, it was clear that the captain didn't recognize him.

Arashi nodded without saying much and headed directly toward the headquarters building.

The walk was quiet. No one greeted him personally—most Marines simply noticed the epaulettes on his shoulders and offered a respectful salute.

"Times have changed."

A fleeting sense of nostalgia passed through Arashi's mind.

He recalled how, over a decade ago, young Marines looked at him with admiration and excitement every time he returned to headquarters. 

Some female officers were even overwhelmed by his presence—a single smile or a few words from him would nearly make them faint with joy.

And yet, in just ten short years, everything had changed. The new generation of Marines no longer recognized him.

He stepped onto the familiar stone stairs as he approached the headquarters building. 

On either side of him stood elite Marines, their expressions stern and focused straight ahead.

Arashi walked alone, his thoughts settling into a quiet calm. Upon entering the building, a middle-aged female officer stepped forward.

"Vice Admiral, are you here to attend the headquarters meeting?"

Her words and smile were spoken out of habit, yet they were polite nonetheless.

Arashi nodded.

"May I have your name?" she asked respectfully.

Of course, it was part of her job—every officer attending the meeting had to register their name.

"Arashi."

"Arashi?!"

The female officer repeated the name, and the next moment, it was as if she had been struck by lightning. 

Her entire body stiffened, her steps halted abruptly, and she whipped around to look at the tall figure behind her.

She couldn't stop trembling when she saw the short black hair and the powerful, broad-shouldered frame.

"V-Vice Admiral Arashi!"

"It's really you!"

Her voice suddenly rose in pitch, sharp enough to catch the attention of the surrounding officers, who lifted their heads to see what was happening.

"You know me?" Arashi asked with a smile.

"O-Of course!"

"I was the one who handled your graduation paperwork back then!"

As she spoke, a faint blush appeared on her face.

"You?"

Arashi remembered now. He quickly linked the middle-aged woman before him to the young female officer who had once slipped him notes all those years ago.

A decade had passed. She had aged and gained weight.

"I never imagined you'd actually attend this meeting!" the female officer said excitedly, thrilled to see the man she had admired for so long.

"With a new Fleet Admiral taking office, it's only natural that I come," Arashi smiled.

"So many years have passed, yet you haven't changed a bit! Still so handsome and imposing!"

"Even your abs—"

As she spoke, she absentmindedly reached out toward Arashi's abdomen, her expression utterly captivated.

Arashi took a step back, dodging the touch.

"Ah! My apologies! That was inappropriate of me!"

"I'm married now, with a son and a daughter, so you don't have to worry, Vice Admiral Arashi," she added with a hint of disappointment.

Arashi maintained his polite smile.

"Let me guide you," she said, letting out a small chuckle before turning to lead the way.

"Who do you think will be chosen as the new Fleet Admiral?" she asked.

"Fleet Admiral Sengoku has strong support, but Vice Admiral Jabal is also a contender."

Arashi narrowed his eyes slightly.

"Jabal?"

The name was unfamiliar to him.

"Yes, Vice Admiral Jabal was transferred from the Army a few years ago. I heard he has strong connections within the World Government," she explained.

"No wonder I haven't heard of him," Arashi nodded.

"Even though Vice Admiral Jabal has gained popularity recently, I still support Admiral Sengoku!" she declared.

Arashi remained silent, merely listening as she rambled on, but he gathered some valuable intel about Marine Headquarters.

The struggle for the Fleet Admiral position between Sengoku and Jabal had caused quite a stir. It was clear that Jabal's candidacy was an anomaly—someone the World Government had likely thrown in as a pawn.

And yet, despite that, his backers were strong enough to create a power balance against Sengoku, preventing the renowned Marine Admiral from officially assuming the position.

"Heh…"

"This is getting interesting."

Arashi extended his observation field with a mere thought, instantly sensing the meeting room nearby.

Inside, the atmosphere was tense.

Kong furrowed his brows as he looked at the vice admirals on either side of the long table.

On the left, Sengoku sat at the head of his faction.

On the right, leading the opposition, was Jabal—a sixty-two-year-old man with a square face and an unkempt beard.

"Jabal is the most qualified candidate for Fleet Admiral!"

"That's right! I support Vice Admiral Jabal!"

"He has the strength of an admiral and is far more loyal to the Marines!"

The arguments erupted instantly.

"Admiral Sengoku is the rightful choice! You outsiders who were transferred in—what right do you have to dictate our affairs?!"

"Go back to your Army! This is the Marines—you have no place here!"

"Don't think we don't see through your disgusting schemes!"

The tension in the room escalated, and it seemed like a brawl could break out at any moment.

Kong's frown deepened.

Just then—

BANG!

The doors to the conference room swung open violently. A towering figure appeared at the entrance.

"Jabal? Get the hell out. There's only one rightful Fleet Admiral, and that's Admiral Sengoku."

The cold voice echoed through the room, instantly silencing the heated debate.

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