Chapter 20: The First High-Level Meeting in the South Blue

The moment Renji received his rewards, he felt his perception sharpen.

He could now easily sense every movement of the people in the square.

"It seems you've awakened a new ability," Garp remarked, clearly impressed. For someone in their early twenties to reach this level was nothing short of extraordinary. The future looked bright for this young man.

After resting for a while, Renji felt the pain in his abdomen lessen slightly and attempted to stand up.

Seeing that he was alright, Garp also stood and extended a hand to Renji.

Without hesitation, Renji took it, and with Garp's help, he got back on his feet.

Renji looked at Garp and smiled. "Next time, I'll challenge you again."

Through this spar, Renji realized the vast gap between himself and the world's top fighters.

Battling strong opponents was one of the best ways to improve.

Another, even faster method was life-and-death combat. The terror of such situations could propel one to new heights if they survived.

"Keep working hard, Renji," Garp said. "You already have the strength to roam the seas, but remember, there's always someone stronger."

"You've just awakened Haki, right?"

"When you go to Marineford, look for Zephyr. He has unique insights into Haki."

"Train hard with this power. It will take you even further, and one day, you'll truly step onto the world stage."

As for the elusive Conqueror's Haki, only Sengoku in the entire navy had awakened it.

But Garp's eyes held a glimmer of hope. Perhaps this young man could achieve it too.

Renji felt encouraged by Garp's words, though he couldn't help but think that a girl's concern would have made him feel even better...

Nearby, Garp sneezed.

"Is Sengoku thinking about me again?" He scratched his head and dismissed the thought.

"Captain Renji, you're amazing!"

As Renji walked to the edge of the training ground, Yama laughed and gave him a thumbs-up.

Everyone in the navy knew Garp's strength, so they naturally praised Renji for being able to spar with him.

"Thanks..." Renji rubbed his stomach and rolled his eyes, sighing at Yama's overly enthusiastic praise.

He had arrived in this world too early. Many events were still unclear to him, and most of the people he considered "familiar" hadn't even been born yet.

It was frustrating...

"Kid, are you still planning to set up your base in Sorbet Kingdom?" Garp asked after some thought.

Renji nodded without hesitation. "Of course. It's the place I'm most familiar with."

Plus, most of his assets were there.

Garp reminded him, "But the naval base in Sorbet Kingdom isn't as large as this one."

"That's fine. I'll expand it if needed, but I think the current size is sufficient," Renji replied, unconcerned. He didn't see the need to put too much effort into a workplace.

Garp didn't press further. "Rest up. I'll arrange for the prisoners to be transported."

With that, he walked away to the cheers of the crowd.

Renji looked at the devastated training ground. "Repairing this is going to cost a fortune, isn't it?"

"Report, Captain. It should cost around a few hundred thousand Berries to fix," a naval officer answered.

Since the damage was caused by him and Garp, would they have to pay for it?

Renji glanced in the direction Garp had left. Was that why he had left so quickly...?

Naval Base Meeting Room

The meeting room was one of the most frequently used spaces in the navy. Major decisions were made here, making it a crucial location that was off-limits to ordinary personnel.

In the grand hall, a group of naval officers sat around a table.

At the head of the table was Renji, who had recently been promoted to captain. Seated beside him were influential figures from the South Blue.

The atmosphere in the room was tense. Several officers in coats glared at Renji, while others who couldn't sit at the table chose to stand quietly, observing the uneasy mood.

"Since when has the South Blue become a place where a young upstart can boss us around?" one captain sneered, provoking angry glares from others.

Renji raised a hand to calm his subordinates. "Whether someone bosses you around depends on you, doesn't it?"

His words only fueled their anger, but they had no retort.

"I'm sitting here because I have the ability and strength to do so," Renji said, scanning the room. "If anyone disagrees, feel free to stand up and speak."

Everyone present knew about Renji's spar with Garp, so no one dared to challenge him.

"What about the one who spoke earlier? Why aren't you standing?" Renji asked calmly.

"Captain Renji, I acted impulsively," the captain who had mocked him earlier said, lowering his head. He had spoken without thinking and had been made an example of. Though he still harbored resentment, he had no choice but to submit.

In a world where strength was everything, those who couldn't win had to swallow their pride—better than losing their lives.

"We were a bit impulsive," another officer stepped in to mediate.

We made mistakes, but aren't you at fault too? It takes two to tango. You're just a bit stronger than us, that's all.

Of course, such thoughts were only voiced in their minds.

"Let me ask again. Do you agree with the proposals I've put forward?" Renji asked, his gaze steady.

"We have no objections to establishing schools and businesses in the South Blue," the officers said in unison after exchanging glances.

"But we need more time to consider the proposal for an inspection bureau."

The idea of an inspection bureau was unfavorable to these local powerholders. If such a department were established, their every move would be monitored, making it difficult for them to continue their usual activities—and profits.

"Strictly speaking, we're under the jurisdiction of the World Government. Shouldn't such a significant change be approved by higher authorities?"

They had a point. Even if the matter were brought to the Holy Land, the higher-ups would likely side with them.

"That's not your concern. This bureau will be under my direct supervision, and I'll cover the expenses. Your only job is to follow orders."

"And let me be clear—this is a notification, not a discussion!"

Renji slammed the table, stood up, and threw on his coat, unwilling to waste more time on these people.