Everything Will Come to an End

Marine Headquarters, Marineford.

"Hey, it's the shift change. Go grab something to eat," a Marine called out as he approached his comrade standing on guard.

"Ah, you're just in time," the relieved guard replied, lowering the rifle he had been holding.

"Anything to report?" the incoming Marine asked routinely.

"Nothing unusual. It's as peaceful as ever." The departing guard shrugged, the phrase an all-too-familiar mantra for those stationed in the heart of Marine authority.

"Of course. No sane pirate would dare set foot here," the new guard replied confidently. "Unless they've completely lost their minds."

The two exchanged nods as the first Marine departed. The new sentinel took up his post, his stance firm as he overlooked the towering fortress walls of Marineford. This was no ordinary base; it was a symbol of the World Government's absolute authority, the pinnacle of Marine power, and a deterrent to piracy across the seas.

The golden light of the setting sun bathed the massive stronghold, its walls gleaming with a sacred, almost otherworldly brilliance.

Further back, another Marine, weary after his shift, cast one last look at the tranquil sea beyond the fortress. He had developed a habit of greeting and bidding farewell to the ocean.

In the morning, he would silently say: "Good morning, ocean. I'll keep you company again today."

In the evening, he'd think: "Goodnight. I'll see you tomorrow."

But today, as he turned to leave, something on the horizon caught his eye. Two black specks appeared far out at sea, moving toward the fortress at an alarming speed.

"Huh? What's that?" he muttered, squinting.

The figures grew larger, and soon he could make out two individuals running across the water at incredible speed.

"No way..." His words caught in his throat. Before he could react, the two figures landed in front of him.

"Oi! Little Marine-kun, this is Marineford, yeah?"

The voice belonged to none other than Golden Lion Shiki.

The Marine froze. Shiki's wild mane of golden hair, his fierce eyes, and the aura of overwhelming power radiating from him were unmistakable. Fear coursed through the Marine's body, but his sense of duty kept him standing.

"E-Enemy attack!" he shouted with all his strength, his voice echoing across the courtyard.

The alarm drew several patrolling Marines to the scene. Armed with rifles and swords, they surrounded Shiki, but their confidence faltered when faced with the legendary pirate.

"Golden Lion Shiki! What are you doing here?" one Marine demanded, attempting to maintain his composure. "This is Marineford! The Fleet Admiral and the Admirals are stationed here. This is not a place for you to run wild!"

Shiki crossed his arms and gave the Marines an arrogant smirk.

"Do you understand the consequences of pointing a gun at me?" he asked coldly.

The question sent chills through the soldiers, their weapons shaking in their hands.

"Golden Lion Shiki, remember your place! You're a pirate, and we're Marines! Justice will always prevail!" one Marine shouted, though his trembling voice betrayed his fear.

Shiki chuckled darkly, the killing intent in his eyes growing more intense.

"You think you lot represent justice?" he sneered, his tone dripping with disdain.

Just as the situation teetered on the edge of violence, Kaizen, who had been standing silently beside Shiki, finally spoke.

"Enough," Kaizen said firmly.

The single word cut through the tension like a blade. The Marines around them collapsed unconscious, their bodies hitting the ground in unison.

"What was that for?" Shiki asked, glancing at Kaizen in surprise.

"Don't waste your time on small fry. You've got bigger fish to fry," Kaizen replied impatiently.

Shiki smirked. "Heh, you're more impatient than I thought."

Kaizen shrugged. "You call yourself the Golden Lion, yet here you are, playing games with foot soldiers. Let's move."

"Fair enough," Shiki said, lighting a cigar. He exhaled a puff of smoke before turning to Kaizen. "You've done your part. You can leave now."

Kaizen looked up at the towering walls of Marineford, a faint smile tugging at his lips. "Leave? Not yet. I came all this way. I might as well see how this plays out."

Shiki raised an eyebrow. "That doesn't sound like the guy who was whining about coming here earlier. What changed your mind?"

Kaizen smirked. "Let's just say I'm curious. Besides, this is your mess. Don't expect me to bail you out."

Shiki laughed. "Fair enough. I've got business with the Marines, and it's personal. I'm here to make them pay for what they did to Roger. I'll take on the best they've got and show them what the Golden Lion can do."

Kaizen crossed his arms, his tone light but mocking. "When they knock you down, I'll be sure to cheer you on."

Shiki grinned, his bloodthirsty aura returning. "Heh, don't hold your breath. I don't lose."

With that, Shiki leapt into the air, heading straight for the heart of Marineford. His figure disappeared beyond the fortress walls, leaving Kaizen behind.

Kaizen walked over to a nearby cannon, running his fingers along the cold steel. He could still smell the faint traces of gunpowder lingering in the air.

"The sun's setting," he murmured. "This won't last long."

As the last rays of light dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows over the fortress, Kaizen couldn't help but feel a sense of finality.

Everything will come to an end.

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TO BE CONTINUED...