Returning Home

July.

This was probably the hottest season in the pirate world.

An ancient new decree was issued on the first day of the month, ordering the Three Admirals to accompany them on a secret trip.

Officially, it was meant to temper the Admirals' spirits. In reality, they were being used as bodyguards and thugs.

Yet Sengoku unusually refused for once. The reason was simple: the number of pirates had multiplied again.

Marine Headquarters kept travel records. Every trip made by a Vice Admiral or above was registered.

By the end of last month alone, the three Admirals had each gone out on missions as many as twenty times.

On average, they had to head out on a mission almost every day and a half.

In the original storyline, Admirals were basically like ceremonial ornaments. It was rare to see them make a move.

But after Swain issued his "Call for Talent," the number of pirates changed dramatically. The benefits and pay he offered were nearly three to four times better than the Marines'.

And just like mercenaries, as long as they were given money and food, they obeyed orders. Only Swain's Gran Tesoro could support the recruitment of such a war machine.

In this world, where the strong preyed on the weak and war was constant, such treatment had inspired countless people to pursue it with fervor.

Most of them were dissatisfied with their lives and resentful of the government's rule.

Just like Kaido and Whitebeard in the past, they had originally lived good lives. Yet because they could not pay the Heavenly Tribute, their countries had completely fallen into playgrounds of war.

After all.

The conflicts between every social class in this world were extremely sharp. All that was lacking was someone who dared to raise this banner.

Red-Haired