New World, New Marineford.
Three months after the battle of ice and fire on Punk Hazard ended, Marine Headquarters officially relocated from Marineford to the New World waters on the other side of the Red Line. Its new headquarters stood directly beneath Mary Geoise, binding the Marines' core interests firmly to those of the World Government.
Inside the Fleet Admiral's Office, Akainu Sakazuki sat behind a broad desk. His crisp red Fleet Admiral's uniform made his face look even colder and harder. Even though he deliberately restrained the surging magma aura around him, the surrounding air remained scorching and distorted.
Before him stood the two newly appointed Marine Admirals-Kane Yandun, code-named Black Tortoise, and Aramaki, code-named Ryokugyu.
Both were powerful fighters promoted outside the usual ranks through the World Military Draft, possessing genuine Admiral-level combat strength. Their appointment was also Akainu's most crucial move since taking command of the Marines to fill the gap in fighting strength left by Aokiji's departure. Black Tortoise, in particular, had single-handedly stopped Hua Country's vanguard fleet three times during the campaign in which the Four Blues fell, holding the Grand Line's forward positions. With the defensive power of his Black Tortoise Fruit, he was known as the "Marines' Unbreakable Shield" and enjoyed immense prestige among the rank and file.
"Black Tortoise, Ryokugyu."
Akainu's voice rumbled like rolling magma, carrying absolute, unquestionable authority as his gaze swept over them. "From this day forward, you two are Marine Headquarters' greatest fighting force. Together with Kizaru, you will hold its defensive lines. You have only one duty-uphold absolute justice on the seas, eradicate all pirates, and... keep a close watch on Hua Country's every move."
Black Tortoise was nearly sixty, with an iron-hard face and white hair and beard. His deep black Admiral's uniform lent his figure