Chapter 206: Escanor’s Mission!

Chapter 206: Escanor's Mission!

By the time Ryuunosuke returned to the port, Najenda had already completed the occupation and baptism of the territory.

A chime echoed in his mind.

System Notification: One new territory acquired.

"Captain," Najenda said, handing over a neatly compiled report. "The occupation of Wallowells Island is complete. Should we move on to the G5 branch next?"

Ryuunosuke skimmed through the document, nodding in satisfaction.

Najenda's administrative abilities were second to none.

"No need for all of us to go," he said with a grin. "I've already sent Escanor ahead."

"Escanor?" Najenda blinked. "Alone?"

She was still uncertain about the newly-formed Fourth Division.

Chrollo and Yahiko had already established themselves as leaders with powerful organizations under their command. Even if they acted alone, their strength was comparable to the Shichibukai.

But Escanor?

He mostly kept to himself—rarely joined training sessions and often played the role of a humble shipwright.

Najenda had heard rumors of his earlier feat: destroying two Navy warships with a single strike.

But honestly?

She thought the crew might've exaggerated.

"Sending him in alone still feels... risky," she murmured. "Especially with only a few support crew members and no dedicated combatants."

Ryuunosuke smiled knowingly.

"You're doubting Escanor's power?" he teased. "Don't worry. He'll be fine."

"By the time we get there, I'm sure he'll have finished the job."

He casually tossed a massive Sea King over to Susanoo, now serving double duty as both Najenda guardian and the ship's cook.

---

— G5 Naval Branch —

"Lord Escanor, shall we launch a head-on assault or go with a sneak attack?"

"I say we go in quietly. Hit 'em before they even know we're here."

"But when have we ever sneaked into anything?"

"We're the Dragon Hunter Pirates!"

"What do you think, Lord Escanor?"

Several crew members glanced at Escanor, who was polishing a wine glass like a bartender on break.

Despite the casual atmosphere, there was no trace of disrespect.

They had seen what Escanor could do. And after witnessing him evaporate two Navy ships in an instant, they felt no fear—only pride.

Escanor didn't stop wiping.

"The captain said this mission must leave no room for doubt."

"Everyone needs to know it was the Dragon Hunter Pirates who did this."

"Our banner is flying. This is our honor."

"No sneak attacks."

"Just give the Navy a warning… and make sure the civilians have a chance to leave."

His voice was calm, but the quiet weight behind it made the others straighten up immediately.

"Yes, Lord Escanor!"

With excitement and reverence, the crew quickly sprang into action.

---

Soon, they reached the harbor of the G5 branch.

It was heavily fortified, with a large number of warships docked along its piers—a reminder that this was no ordinary Navy base.

Still, the Dragon Hunter Pirates had no intention of holding back.

Standing tall on the mast, a crewman shouted:

"Attention, G5 Branch!"

"We are the Fourth Division of the Dragon Hunter Pirates!"

"Lord Escanor will now begin the cleansing of your base!"

"From this moment forward, this territory will belong to the Dragon Hunter Pirates!"

"Civilians and those who value their lives—leave now!"

---

Inside the G5 headquarters…

"Vice Admiral Vergo! Bad news!"

"The Dragon Hunter Pirates are here! They said—"

"I heard them," Vergo interrupted, standing calmly from his chair.

Even before the report, he had already sensed their presence with his Observation Haki.

But as he stepped forward, he furrowed his brows slightly.

The pirate leading the group… he didn't recognize him.

Was this a new recruit?

Only seven people had arrived.

Two helmsmen, two gunners, a lookout, a navigator, and one supposed combatant.

That one—Escanor—looked more like a janitor than a warrior.

"A single handyman dares to bark at my gates?"

Vergo's face twisted with arrogance.

"This Dragon Hunter crew… is getting too cocky."

---

"Vice Admiral Vergo, orders?"

"Do we engage them? Or evacuate?"

The soldier looked nervous. Despite their usual bravado, the name "Dragon Hunter Pirates" sent chills down their spines.

Even the Navy trembled at their rising power.

Vergo didn't hesitate.

"Kill them. Then evacuate."

"Even if we have to abandon G5, we won't let those pirates tarnish the Navy's dignity."

Vergo straightened his coat, unaware that a sandwich was still stuck to his cheek.

Moments later, he and his men arrived at the port.

Rows of Marines followed him, weapons drawn.

But nearby, the civilians didn't cheer.

Instead, they quietly backed away.

They had no love for these so-called protectors.

These Navy men had abused their power for years. They didn't protect civilians—they ruled over them.

Now that a powerful pirate crew was knocking on their door?

The people were praying the Dragon Hunter Pirates would win.

---

On the ship, Escanor set down his polished wine glass.

He looked ahead as if sensing the hopes of the people.

"I've heard your wishes," he said softly.

"To bring the captain and the others here without delay… I'll make this quick."

He stepped onto the bow. The ship pulled into the dock.

Escanor jumped down with a light step—graceful, yet powerful.

Behind him, his division followed, steady and composed.

Moments later, they came face-to-face with Vergo and the massed Navy troops.

Escanor walked forward slowly, radiating heat with every step.

"I am Escanor, Fourth Division Member of the Dragon Hunter Pirates."

He stopped, his voice rising like the sun itself.

"Vice Admiral Vergo."

"Cadre of the Donquixote Family."

"Today, I have come to this branch… to end you."