Sea Circle Calendar 1530, January 15
New World, Thunder Kingdom
This was an island covered in countless mines, its abundant rare mineral resources the foundation of its prosperity.
Yet today, the usual clamor and bustle had been replaced by a cold, murderous stillness. Viewed from above, the entire island was surrounded by countless Marine warships layered into an impenetrable encirclement, three rings deep inside and out. Even a seabird would have struggled to break in.
The decks were packed with Marines armed with Flintlocks and long swords at their waists, their gazes sharp and the atmosphere grim. On the fleet's flagship, Fleet Admiral Kong oversaw the operation from the rear, while command of the front line had been entrusted to Marine Headquarters Admiral Sengoku. With his arms folded, he stood at the bow, calm-faced and imposing without anger.
Closest to the shoreline were ten especially massive World Government ships. The flags flying from their masts bore the Celestial Dragon's Hoof, symbolizing the supreme authority of the World Nobles.
On the southern coast, Chaton and Tokikake were leading their troops on patrol in utter boredom when he could not help muttering:
"With this kind of setup... do we really still need to patrol? What idiot would come charging in to die?"
Beside him, Gion furrowed her elegant brows slightly, her cool voice carrying a note of rebuke.
"Focus, Tokikake! Before the mission is over, anything can happen. Don't forget, this mission is tied to the Marine succession process. There can be no mistakes!"
Tokikake curled his lips and said no more, though his gaze remained somewhat unfocused.
On the northern coast, Sakazuki stood like a volcano on the verge of eruption, his body ramrod straight and his arms folded over his chest. With his eyes tightly shut, his powerful Observation Haki