Justice's Next Step is an article written by Ash9876 and DamonDraco. |
Justice's Next Step is an article written by Dragon Lord Erin and Jakyou. |
Justice's Next Step is an article written by Tabor gorilla. |
Gathering[]
It had been months since the death of former Admiral Alfred Glave, and now even his fellow Admiral Warren D. Ralph had become inactive. The agents of the World Government, the Marines, had lost two of their greatest powers near-consecutively, and yet...nothing was being done about this?
The Marines had to pretend as if there were no disturbance among their ranks. As if their presence compared to the titanic Yonko, or even the fragmented Shichibukai was sufficient. No, it wasn't. They had become weak, crippled even. Their greatest powers were reduced to a mere two, and their operations had been devoted almost entirely to defensive operations. The clash between Yonko had become fiercer by day but the Marines did naught to stop them, it was pitiful.
This had to be rectified, many thought. But none would stand up to confront their superiors. However, there had come a point where enough was enough. Ernest, a Vice Admiral regarded as "Kanto" among the Marines had voiced his distress over the situation. People had flocked towards his cause as he proposed a meeting between those situated at Marineford, to understand the true stakes of the current power void.
"I am glad you all are here." Ernest spoke to the crowd that had made their way into the room. It was a spacious room with a large round table at its center, with several chairs around the table. Of course, this was a rather large meeting, and not everyone had been seated. But it did not matter. The matter was grave, and counsel on this scale would be needed to decide their next actions. "The Marines are undergoing a power void unlike anything we have ever experienced previously. Even the loss of Admiral Akainu and Aokiji 50 years ago was meager compared to our current losses. As fellow Marines, I would like to hear your opinion on how we should move forward from this crisis."
It had become an open floor, as the tension in every individual became almost tangible.
"WE NEED TO CONTINUE MONITORING THEIR ACTIONS!!!" A man wrapped in bandages, mostly on his legs and arms, spoke up. "Back during the Elbaf Incident, I've seen interaction between the Monks and Widows!...Although, I couldn't do much." He bit his lip and sat down, defeated. This was Bigdwun, a Commodore within the Rankings, who is known for his Giant Sword Style. "Payback Parker has sunk dozens of fleets, alone...I don't know how to fix the fact that...we-" Bigdwun looked at Ernest. "-have lost too much." His eyes dropped.
A smaller man, who stood next to Bigdwun, commented and patted the latter's back. "Calm down, bro." This was Lildwun, another Commodore, and brother to Bigdwun. He looked at Ernest "Sir, I'm sure if we discuss all together, we can come up something. I respect you very much...and will help you in regard to this reunion!" His eyes sharpened and Lildwun bowed slightly. This just sparked heavy conversation within the room.
The brothers groaned as voices spoke over one another, sinking a discussion which hadn't even properly begun.
A woman, who stood closer to Ernest than the other two males, often switched one leg over the other, grunting. "I'm tired of this sickness, so I'll fully support your ideas, Kanto-san." This was Naosaki Jun, another Commodore. "To think this Syndrome has spread over...when will those little shits even learn..." The room was quite a commotion, with many people speaking. She looked at Bigdwun and Lildwun, and grunted inaudibly. "Quit whining." Jun looked to Ernest once again and rested her chin on her palm. "Sir, can I clean this mess? This place is sooo uncleaaan!" Rocks appeared on her free hand.
"This place is as noisy as always it seems" mumbled a somewhat lazy male Voice who sat to the far left of Kanto with both feet propped upon the table with his arms crossed behind his head in a relatively laid back pose. This was Ward Daemon, a Commodore known as the World Eater for the use of his Devil Fruit abilities to in a sense "Swallow" things around him. "If we want to minimize our casualties and subdue this Ages Pirates we need to take on a similar approach to that of Former Fleet Admiral Sakazuki, Place strong bases at strategic points". Spoke Daemon with his eyes closed as if not bothered by the situation at all. "We need to remember that this Age is far more wild that the Early New Age and Pirates now a days are more rambunctious while our own Troops have grown lazier and corrupted not to mention our recruitment compared to the increase in Rookie Pirates are sub par at best." Finished Daemon as he opens one eye to look at Kanto.
"Sorry I'm late buddy." A voice rang out from beside Ernest. It was Akaoni himself, though he preferred being referred to as Valentine. The Vice Admiral looked up at Daemon, having caught his last comment. "Hey now our little marines are doing great out there, at least the ones I'm training up." He laughed from the shadows cast by his large brimmed hat. "I will agree with you on the uprising of pirates though. Their morale is off the charts, even with strategic bases it'd be a pain to set them up. All the adrenaline in those young pirates minds would cause em to attack relentlessly. We need to either show em true fear or bring one of their idols to ruin, shake their minds up a bit." The man spoke, pouring himself a glass of wine.
"I operate in paradise quite a lot." Came a voice from across the table, it belonged to Wynn Trevor, a Commodore known for his key based paramecia. "I say we lock it down, prevent any new blood from reaching further and getting stronger, then we can take out the big fish in the sea. Even my bastard brother and his filthy friends." He muttered under his breathe as he placed an elbow on the table, spinning a key around his index finger.
"Thank you all for your suggestions." Ernest responded in kind, noting the determination in each Marine's eyes very clearly, with the sole exception of Daemon, who appeared remarkably calm about the whole situation. He paid it no mind. "We are still waiting on a few people, so I shall bring about a new topic of discussion in the meantime." Ernest paused for a minute, knowing this next topic will cause controversy among his fellow Marines. "This question is for everyone sans the Vice Admirals, sorry Valentine. But I must ask, do you all believe there are any among the current Vice Admirals who possess the necessary qualities to become an Admiral? Or is a World Military Draft our only option?"
"It's quite alright. It's a good question to ask." Valentine replied as he downed his glass of wine and tucked it away once again. "I'm curious as well. Who do you think would be better suited for Admiral? The rock wrecker, the red devil, the orange rabbit, or do you think we all suck?" He asked the room as he put an arm around Ernest and flashed a large grin to the room.
Bigdwun was about to comment, but Jun raised her hand abruptly and said. "About that-"
The doors of the room suddenly bursted open. "HOOOOOOOOY!!! A GOOD QUESTION, INDEED, EH?!" A voice bathed in delight filled the room, pertaining to a rather large man with long, silver hair, dressed in a dark kimono. Most of those present turned to look at him. He flashed them a big grin, closing his eyes. "Oi, wha's wrong? Interrupt'd somethin' or wha'? How's goin' for everyone?" This was Bambina, a Commodore and Instructor within the Ranks, famous for his many contributions to the Marines.
What struck his position of Commodore was how quickly he rose once he entered the ranks. He was also known as the Master of the Great Demon Fist, along with many other martial arts, prominently Rokushiki. Regarded as a formidable fighter, Bambina has trained many recruits in self-defense.
Bambina noticed all the gazes. "Ooooi, I'll apologize...yeah, I'm late, 's 'cause I had to get these fellas back 'nto Impel Down, yaaa' see?" He walked around the room, quickly finding a chair and sitting down, all the while he smiled. "There was, um, about five hundred pirates or somethin', ended up destroying an island, but it was non-inhabited, BAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Bambina rubbed the back of his head. "Also had to help some ladies along the way, 'cause y'know. Weeeell, assumin' we've everyone here, what we talkin' 'bout, Valentine-kun and Ernest-kun?!" He made a pouty face and looked around.
Slightly Startled from the sudden loud noise that was Bambina, Static slight slipped in his seat before regaining his composer giving Bambina a slight glare. "We were discussing the matter of our lack of strength with our Ranks and how we can improve it, Kanto here was just asking who among the active Vice Admirals has the most potential to be our Next Admiral which personally I'd say Funori would be an excellent choice, seeing as not only is he an already established person among the ranks but he's also feared by Pirates for his abilities" spoke Daemon before turning to face Ernest directly. "However my main Reason for choosing him is due to his lineage, just think with placing a Fishman is such a powerful position it shows the rest of his race that we value and hold them in a high regard which could strengthening our fragile relationship with them". said Daemon before returning to his lazy disposition.
Before anyone could utter a single word a brash yet feminine voice rang out. "That's Probably the most I ever heard you say Demon-Chan" Said voice teased as a tall woman walked in smoking a cigarette, This was Commander Hisao a Marine famed for her skills and commanding aura out on the sea. "While I agree with your reasoning I feel that Shark-Chan wouldn't be the best of choice seeing as this world is full of narrow-minded people whom won't look past his relation to Saw-Tooth Arlong just look how long it took them to even give Kuro-Chan the benefit of doubt." Said Hisao before taking a seat in one of the few empty seats and continuing. "Our best bet is to got with Rabbit-Chan, Since currently among all Vice Admirals he has the greatest reputation along with notoriety with the criminals of the world both above and below. Finished Hisao as he takes a puff from her cigarette.
"Oooh, Bambina-san!" Jun beamed and clapped her hands. "It's nice to have you, too. It's just as Daemon has said." She waved her hand towards the aforementioned person, and turned back towards Ernest and Carter. "If my opinion is asked for, then, I would choose Sir Kanto." Jun paused briefly and shifted into a firm position. "He has been extremely competent in the hunting of Devil Fruit users, most of which have been Pirates as of lately. It's bound that the populations would be more wary of Users. While I agree on the inclusion of Fishmen in our society, at the moment, we have bigger walls to face. We won't sidetrack such inclusion, but we can work it out by recruiting more Fishman and integrating them into various Squads." She closed her eyes and sat down. "That's my take on it."
Bigdwun grunted. "...that's a damn good point." He also muttered, closing his eyes and biting his cigarrete. "However!" His voice got louder and his eyes opened. "Sir Valentine there was a disciple of Sir Alfred!!!" Bigdwun furiously waved his broken arm at Carter, grunting during certain intervals. Lildwun closed his eyes and nodded his head in agreement, humming.
"I personally think any one of them would make a good vice admiral." Trevor spoke as he spun his hand to reveal three keys. "Each of them is a key to a different future, each a favorable one for the Marines." He spoke as the keys floated in his palm. "And each of you is a possible solution to getting me closer to that piece or shit brother of mine. I swear I'll gut him." He thought to himself.
Just then the doors to the room opened. They creaked loudly as they slid open. A young women with long, flowing blonde hair walks in. Her wardrobe consisted of a purple top and skirt with the usual cloak of the marine officer which without it no one would even suspect her of being a Marine. This women was none other then Marine Captain Tiger D. Kara also known as The Ship Puller. She looks up at the room fully high ranking marines. Marines who have a higher rank then her. This made her a little unease for having to show up late. "Forgive me for the interruption. I've heard about the topic of discussion and wish to take part." She solutes to the higher ups
"Thank you for your valuable opinions." Ernest had just finished speaking as the door opened, and his eyes shifted towards the new figure that entered the room. He hadn't recognized her, perhaps she was a newer recruit that was not often seen among Marineford. No matter, to make it here, one had to be a sufficiently ranked individual, so no doubt her opinion was valued. "That's not a problem. If you would like to speak your opinion about the current power void in the Marines, feel free to do so." He addressed her, despite being unaware of her name.
"Sir! I have sworn my loyalty ever since i joined the marines. So seeing us in such a desperate situation trifles me. It is my life's goal to arrest every pirate scum out there in order to make this world safer for my little brother to grow up in. If we don't do something about it soon, not only will the pirates be victorious but the citizens we are sworn to protect will live in constant fear, not being able to count on us for protection." She states while in her solute position. "If i can make a suggestion we should have strong holds at every know point throughout the Grand Line, so that even with our minimal forces we can still take them out before they gather the power to progress even further. I'm talking about reinforcing platoons at the base of Reverse Mountain, Sabaody Archipelago and more, then we will take them down and arrest them on the spot. Showing no ounce of sympathy to those heartless pirates, and it will be my honor to be one of those officers to meet them at the beginning of Grand Line where i will capture any pirate i come across." She informs, her voice seems a bit angry during her speech as she seems to have gotten a bit carried away.
"Instead of trying to wall off the pirates, maybe try to use them instead?" came from a much smaller voice in the back of the room. A young woman with a large Spear slung over her shoulder had been the one to speak. Her name was Jehng Sih, a Lieutenant from North Blue who had recently transferred to the line. "In my homeland we had a saying, if you have a problem, then you have a problem. But if you have many problems, sometimes they can solve each other. Attempt to put agents inside rookie crews with some promise. If they prove to be too destructive, then you can work to crush them quickly, if not they could prove to be a useful weapon against the Yonko. If they die, they weren't a problem to begin with. If they join up with the Yonko, well your agent in the crew is now an agent in the Yonko's crew, and if they defeat one, well shortly after their victory is when most let their guard down. It is the perfect time to crush the them before the crew can establish itself. Not an easy answer by any means, but an elegant one." She concluded, having floated her proposal. It was probably immoral, but she figured if a meeting like this had happened, the Marines may be desperate enough to consider it.
"Purupurupuru... Purupurupuru..."
Though a subtle sound, one that most would regularly ignore, even without such a heated back-and-forth occurring between the marines that had gathered there, it was powerful enough to resonate throughout the entire room. Not because it was loud, but because each and every marine knew the significance of that particular den den mushi going off. It had a specific pitch to it, designated specifically to make it clear who was responsible for the call; the Fleet Admiral himself.
"Purupurupuru... Purupurupuru... Purupurupuru..."
Most seemed to remain in their seats from the looks of it. They knew what this call signified, and given the situation, some most likely dreaded to hear what the person on the other end had to say. The Fleet Admiral was normally understanding of such circumstances, but even so, he never tolerated the loss of his people. People are a resource. Both marines and pirates. Though he preached such things, when those lost were men under his command, he took it as a personal attack. A personal war to be waged.
"Purupurupuru..."
Finally, one of the seated marines stood up, making his way to the den den mushi as he hesitatingly clicked on the receiver.
"...Katchaku..."
"Greetings to all the marines that have gathered to discuss the recent... mishaps in recent days."
Though it carried a different infliction than his usual voice, this was without a doubt the Fleet Admiral... Byakko. Yet the strength projected even by this disembodied voice was unmistakable, this man truly was the leader of the marines.
"Suffice to say, it's very disappointing. Two men. Two. I don't need to explain why this is a piss-poor situation, do I? After all, who are we?"
That simple question of position rung in the ears of all present for the call. Some were probably looking at one another in bewilderment while others looked down, disgusted with the current state of affairs, and others most likely had similar looks etched on their faces as they listened to the call.
"We provide peace and security. We bring civilization to an unbalanced world. Dare I say it, we're the big swinging dick of the world. We're the ones who make the rules, we're the ones who give strength to the weak, and we're the ones who hold all the power. But it seems people are forgetting that."
The Fleet Admiral, far from the location where the meeting took place, smirked silently as he spoke into the intercom that connected him to the other marines. The smooth yet aggressive tone slowly had softened up before he continued to speak.
"So, these uppity fucks need to be taught exactly who they're dealing with. All those responsible, we will take them alive, and after that? Make them dead in a very... very public and instructive way. And when it's over, we go back to what we've been doing since the beginning. Saving people. We are the marines." the Fleet Admiral concluded, letting his words sink in to all those present before he continued on.
"I'll be holding a meeting one week from today. At Marineford, of course, for the Vice Admirals to attend. Myself and Admiral Fuyuki will be present. We will discuss our plans moving forward together. And while that happens, I expect all marines to ready themselves for what may come. After all, this is... all for the sake of peace." his words added. "Be seein' you all there."
And with that, the den den mushi clicked, silence once more returning to the room.
"..." At a loss for words, Ernest sat still as the rest of the Marines before him took in the eccentric Fleet Admiral's words. But his words rung true in the heart of all the Marines here. "I...was unaware that the Fleet Admiral had been tuning into this conversation." Ernest began to say, trying to retain his composure. "As it stands, he appears to have his own plan of attack. Therefore, I suppose we shall disband this meeting here. Thanks for coming the long distances here, especially you "Grandmaster" Bambina, considering your age."
Ernest bowed to everyone present, knowing that it was his invitation that led everyone here in the first place.
"THE BOY REALLY SAID T'ALL LOUD!" Bambina clapped his hands as his eyes widened. He turned to Ernest who had begun to speak after some silence, preparing himself to make a joke about Kurama's sudden appearance, but then... "KAAAANTO! Don't feel bad 'bout 'dis, y'got attitude boy!!!" Bambina shook his right fist around, smiling at Ernest. "I'm sure-" His face expanded as he stared intensely at the rest "-Everyone here came willingly!" It went back to normal.
Only after Bambina finished, did Ernest's last words truly sink in. "OLD AGE?!" He rose both his arms, flexing his muscles with such intensity that the upper kimono got ripped apart. "OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOH!" A shockwave resonated within the room, openning all of its windows as Bambina yelled. However, soon enough, a faint cracking sound present itself, making Bambina gasp internally.
Before anyone normal could notice it at all, Bambina used a combination of Geppo and Soru, ricocheting around the room. Admist the movements, there was a point where he had been turned upside-down, allowing for a bottle of milk to fall out of his pants. A second later, he had been back in his chair, with the recipient in his mouth as he drank it all, somehow making him feel better.
Bambina grabbed the bottle and put it on the table. "59's just a number!!! BAHAHAHAHA, but thanks for considerin' it." He smiled again. "We're only discussin' this then? Check who needs wha', at the moment! Check any new Piratey!"
"As eccentric as ever, old man." Valentine chuckled. Bambina had been the one to give him pointers when he was first starting out as an instructor, effective teaching methods and how to relate to your subordinates. He was a great help to Valentine in his younger days. "So Ernest I suppose we should get ready to meet with Kurama huh." He spoke as he stood from his chair. "Fuyuki too, this is gonna be on hell of a meeting." Nudging Ernest with his elbow.
The Tiger Marks His Prey[]
One week had passed since the gathering of opinions by Ernest for the sake of moving the Marines forward. Unexpectedly, their Fleet Admiral had begun his own preparations, and here he was, with the currently available Vice Admirals and the only two Admirals left in the Marines. Truly, with these thin numbers...it would be difficult to maintain any manner of order across the Blue Sea.
He was seated in a large oblong table with a Vice Admiral on either end. At the forefront of the table were Fleet Admiral Byakko and Admiral Fuyuki, their presence overwhelming and tense, even more so than normal.
"So how's everyone feeling today?" Valentine hummed as he made himself comfortable in the lush chairs that surrounded the table. He was quite excited for today and the possibilities it held. There could be promotions, new rear admirals, vice admirals, maybe even a new admiral to fill the void left by Glaive. "We'll come back from this fall Galive, I know we can." He thought to himself as he awaited Kurama's decree.
Admiral Fuyuki was not pleased with the current state of the Marines. Far from it, it was a disgrace, a complete farce of titanic proportions. To think that the world government had allowed this to transpire. It seemed like the amount of new recruits had vanished to the point of hardly existing, if he didn't know any better, he'd say that the gods. If there were indeed such a thing, simply had taken an unhealthy amount of interest in the cause of the pirates, versus their own more righteous cause. Sometimes, Fuyuki admitted, he felt like a pawn in a much greater game.
It had been months since he'd last heard of someone rising to the position of Vice-Admiral, and despite Glaive's demise quite some time ago, there had been little if any movement to elect another Admiral. Ravinger's conclusion was that someone with an absurd amount of power had seen fit to tear away at the very foundations of the marines, and had the world government in the pocket. Far be it for him to assume who such an individual might be, and farther still to share his suspicions with this council.
With these things weighing heavily on his mind, Fuyuki rose from his high-backed chair and made a single gesture with his hands. A rush of chilling air was felt as he covered the top of the table in several centimeters of snow. Even as he walked around to the other end of the table the snow shifted and churned until it became a perfectly detailed three-dimensional model of the New World. With immaculately delicate chunks of snow forming into islands and large cities, and flattened snow forming into the vast ocean between. Then, upon a platteau stood an eerily lifelike miniature statue of a woman, in plain sight of the entire table.
His voice was serene when he spoke next: "This is the woman known as Kogane Read. As I assume most of you know, she has managed to single-handedly carve a tunnel through the Red Line, which is both safer and more convenient than the route through Mariejois. In the process she has stripped our coffers of a large amount of revenue and has been a consistent thorn in the side of the World Government ever since."
He allowed the gathered officers a moment to let his words sink in, before he continued. "Since then she has expertly fended off numerous attempts at retaking this tunnel from the marines, and maintained a flourishing business operation. Her ability to do this is in large part due to her Devil Fruit, the mighty Kane Kane no Mi. Which is a fruit of the Logia classification, with the sub-categorization of Scope. It allows her to turn into, generate and manipulate the element of Metal. Ensuring that she is virtually untouchable within her environment." Fuyuki walked around the table slowly, hands behind his back as he made a brief pause before he spoke up again.
"Kogane is a master at using her Devil Fruit, and shrewd enough to realize that we couldn't make a direct move against her without severely damaging our reputation. For to truly dislodge her from her nest, we'd most likely require the combined forces of two admirals, given the immense advantage she has in her own element. Something which would be disastrous for our public image, and strategically unwise to the extreme. "
With a severe expression that revealed that he personally found the thought of what he was about to suggest next decidedly unpleasant. Fuyuki continued "Given our less than ideal circumstances, and growing power of the Yonko, I see no other recourse but to begin conscripting powerful individuals. In regards to Kogane Read, I would personally nominate her to the position of Admiral and in order to placate her interests and ensure her committment to the world government. I would have us publically acknowledge her claim on her territory, and have her formally granted rulership and queendom. Ultimately offering her the kind of security that only agreements made through the rule of law can provide, and giving her personal investment in seeing our goal come to fruition."
Though his presence was one of sheer imposing stature, projecting a forceful authority simply by being there, Kurama remained relatively silent throughout the discussion taking place. He was generally respectful of the Admirals, believing them to be far more than capable of attending to matters without direction from him. When Fuyuki took center-stage in opening the discussion, he simply sat there at his chair; attentive, yet his stance was the usual casual demeanor the higher-ranked men expected of him; back pressed up against his chair, a bent leg up against the edge of the conference table, unfettered by the snow that overtook its surface. He listened close to the information presented and even closer to his fellow Admiral's suggestion. But once Fuyuki concluded his statements, Kurama did not miss a beat in responding.
"Kogane Read. She has resources, the people follow her, and a significant handle on the economy in that region. She is also a pirate." Kurama softly spoke, yet with a sufficient gravity to his voice that commanded the attention of every soul in the room. "Now... How does that look? A pirate that stole the money being made by the world government, literally right under their noses, being offered the rank of Admiral. Beyond the fact that she has little to gain from it, other than superfluous 'security', and more to risk by pledging herself to the world government and becoming a lap dog, the news of a pirate being granted a position of absolute power within the government is only going to cause unrest among the people. But don't get me wrong..."
Kurama's voice at that last moment started to deepen, becoming noticeably more gruff and serious, as he continued. "People are a resource. The foundation of what we are building here. Even if eradicating her was a simple task, there are a lot of people that depend on her, follow her, and respect her. We want those people working for us, not with us. Pirates are to do what we say, not have a say in what we do. Kogane Read has to need us, not the other way around. We don't need that." Kurama added, turning his head slightly and slowly at that, his piercing eyes having Fuyuki in his line of sight; a menacing glare of intertwining subtlety and ferocity that a weaker person would have probably piss themselves in fear from a sheer moment receiving it.
"Have you forgotten who we are, Admiral Fuyuki?" the Fleet Admiral turned his head forward once more, his voice fiercely quiet almost like a gruff whisper, before speaking at normal volume and tone. In doing so, his stoic expression turned into a faint smile. "We need to win it all." he stated with a firm voice. "Kogane Read's power, her resources, her people; all of it. It's all connected by a series of very flimsy threads, tying it all together, and by pulling just one of those threads...?" Kurama's hands came together, the fingers locking together, before pulling them away. "Everything falls apart. It all unravels."
"We'll present a simple offer to Kogane Read. Under the charge of a couple hand-picked Vice Admirals, several ships will head to the island and present her with the offer: she will pay the amount lost in revenue as a result of her little excavation, weekly. If that's too much, she can just raise her prices for passing through the tunnel, but that's how it's gonna be. In exchange for her cooperation, we'll provide her the protection of a Shichibukai. In effect, her island appears to have become a world government protectorate, despite remaining in name under her control. We do that, and everybody's happy, right?"
Leaning against his seat a bit more, looking out toward the other marines, Kurama continued to voice his thoughts. "If she refuses, well, then we make it clear how things will proceed from there. Forced escorts. Any ship seen heading in the direction of that tunnel will be redirected, forcefully if necessary, under threat of their supplies being taken and everybody on board killed. Of course, it won't be by the act of marines, but by pirates; a coordinated effort led by a Shichibukai of our choosing. On both sides of the tunnel. Before long, no supplies will get through, and the economy will suffer. They won't be able to survive. She could try to fight the pirates doing that, but the moment she takes any action against those pirates, we make it clear to her what will happen: when she has abandoned the safety of that island she built, we kill every last person there, and tear it all down."
"Of course..." Kurama added as he looked out toward the others. "The floor is open for the rest of you, suggestions and whatnot."
Fuyuki listened closely to the words spoken by the Fleet Admiral. He admired his strategic brilliance if little else about the man. Were the situation any different, he would certainly agree with the man. But what Kurama was suggesting was to make a show of power and dominance that they no longer could afford to make. He would have them take her resources, but earn her emnity in return.
"Your reasoning under most any other circumstances might be prudent. Fleet Admiral Kurama. Unfortunately, this is not such an occassion, what you are suggesting is to put it mildly, not only highly unfeasible but also by no means an actual solution. We don't require resources, we don't need pawns, we need ALLIES." Fuyuki slammed his hands down onto the table in emphasis for what he just said. The Admiral ignoring everyone else present, except for the Fleet Admiral.
"I find it a tad amusing that you would decry her for being a pirate while simultaneously sending a Shichibukai to keep her in check. But that is of little relevance. The Shichibukai have a long record of turning against the World Government and the Marines whenever it suited them, or need I remind you of the likes of Crocodile, Doflamingo and Marshall D. Teach?" Ravinger quickened his uneasy pacing around the room, pausing briefly before turning to Kurama yet again. "Let us be transparent with one another, Fleet Admiral. The people do not care about the World Governments money, they only worry about a single thing: our ability to protect them from pirates like Daddy L. Legs. Vile monsters without a shred of conscience, they worry about being raped, tortured and brutalized by men like Veno. If you were to ask a regular citizen who Kogane Read is, they would reply that they don't know."
In that moment a courier arrived, running up to Fuyuki and handing him a sealed envelope before departing. Fuyuki unsealed it tidily and revealed its contents to everyone present at the table. "This is all that exists of Kogane Read's criminal record, a single raid upon a small and inconsequential marine base that has since been disbanded. Her old crew is dead, and the loss of revenue caused by her, has never been made public. As it would cause our leaders embarassment. Therefore, in regards to the masses at large, Kogane Read is not a pirate. Making her an Admiral would therefore only empower us, not weaken us."
Fuyuki directed his last words to everyone present, before he addressed the Fleet Admiral directly. Eyes meeting his, an almost palpable tension in the air between them. "Your suggestion ultimately doesn't empower our unity, it doesn't strengthen our forces. It only provides a temporary advantage, at best. While turning an otherwise neutral party into a powerful enemy that would turn against us the moment the opportunity presented itself, we cannot afford to keep a coiled serpent in our midst, its fangs only waiting to deliver a lethal strike. No, we need to tame that serpent through compassion and small concessions. I realize both concepts might be foreign to you, Fleet Admiral Kurama. But we don't require empty shows of strength, but genuine steps towards attaining greater cohesion and unity."
Most leaders would find themselves frustrated at being challenged by someone of a lower rank than them, in front of all their men no less, and for a moment, it seemed to be the case here as well. Kurama's face remained stern, a quiet ferocity, as he stared up at the standing Admiral who opposed Kurama's words. But he was no such man. In truth, that severe expression soon turned into a closed grin. Kurama was a man that believed in strength of character. He did not want his people to be mindless sheep, but those capable of taking action and making decisions; even more important among those that served a role as significant as Admiral. And among them that have served during Kurama's command, Fuyuki lived up to the Fleet Admiral's expectations and even beyond them. But even so, Kurama had more to say on the subject.
"It's all about coming together. That's what it's all about, Admiral Fuyuki. I'm glad you share my belief on that. But I find myself surprised that you miss the bigger picture. It's very unlike you. Or rather... You're looking only at the immediate effect of what you propose. The surface of the matter, as it were." Kurama spoke up, tapping his fingers gently on the icy table as he looked at them for a moment, his smile ever strong. As he did, a strange thing happened. Tapping his index finger, and then his middle, his ring finger, and back to the first one, the ice within the immediate vicinity of his hand started to waver. It shifted a bit, following the motion of his fingers like the rise and fall of the ocean waves, before he tapped all three fingers down at once, causing three tiny pillars of ice to rise upwards; roughly five or six inches each, standing parallel to one another.
"One. This has nothing to do with money. But the money revolving around this situation is a symbol of power. That's what it's about. The world government controlled that pathway. And now we don't. How we respond to this situation shows something very important about us as a whole to the entire world: who holds the power. Taking it and making it ours again is more than just tidying up our bottom line. By offering that deal, or something similar to it, we in effect subsume her control under our own."
Flicking his index finger at the first of the pillars, it broke apart and crumbled all over the table.
"Two. You of all people know my feelings toward pirates. This has nothing to do with disdain or anything of the sort. But there is something important about that status." Raising his other hand, he made a slow widespread motion across the table, gesturing to all the people present at the meeting. "A nobody — worse, an outsider — being given the rank of Admiral. A position denoting wisdom, leadership, and authority. I can only think the Vice Admirals here would feel insulted, don't you think? Men that have devoted their lives to our cause, to the world, spent years climbing up the ranks bit by bit. And now they watch the prestige of the Admiral rank being given away for political reasons. How very insulting. I sure wouldn't wanna give up my life for a group that treats me like that. I wonder what sort of discord... and treachery that might inspire. Is that the sort of unity you seek, Admiral Fuyuki?" It wasn't that Kurama was the type of leader to worry about dissension in the ranks. Nor did he try to appease his people because he was frightened they would revolt. He was a manipulator by his base nature, and if anything, his words were meant to incite rage and irritation in the hearts of the Vice Admirals who were present.
Once more, he flicked at one of the ice pillars, leaving only the one on the far right left.
"And three. An Admiral is a heavy position. Not just in terms of responsible, but they carry a lot of sway. Giving power like that to an outsider, all for the sake of shoring up our strength and establishing unity, it's very superficial; fragile. It might make the marines look like they are trying to bring things together, but all it does is inspire confusion and distrust in the people we're supposed to be saving. "Have the marines been corrupted?" "Have they fallen to the pirates?" Whatever unity we might be gaining through this will just end up destroying the existing unity."
With that, he broke the third and final one, his fingers gently brushed by the debris of the ice he had cracked to pieces.
Kurama turned his attention entirely upon the Admiral now. "I hope you see, Admiral Fuyuki, why I'm not exactly jumping for joy at your suggestion. We're not that desperate. We haven't fallen quite so low. And I will expect you to remember that. If the Admiral starts to falter in the confidence of his status, how can the people under him expect to believe in themselves? We will win it all." Kurama affirmed, turning toward the Vice Admirals and to Fuyuki as well. "That being said. We do find ourselves in a position where having Kogane Read allied with us is rather necessary. Beneficial, indeed. But I will make one thing very clear to all of you." he voiced, returning to a stern tone. "We will not compromise ourselves. We run this shit, we do not go running to others to handle our shit. We are the marines, the strength of the world government. First and foremost, that can never change. It can't change." he added, as his voice started to soften up a bit.
"...Is that to be understood?" the Fleet Admiral stated.
Valentine sat as Fuyuki and Kurama went back and forth about Kogane Read, bickering about making her a Shichibukai or an Admiral. He admired the shimmering replica that sat upon the table. As Kurama put his foot down Valentine smirked and finally spoke. "Crystal sir." He stood from his chair and added his own word. "I'm inclined to agree with Kurama here. As an instructor of many of the marines in our force I can tell you they try their damnedest to reach higher, at least those I've trained. I only feel partially insulted by Admiral Fuyuki's statement though." The Vice Admiral shrugged as he began walking towards the two. "If anyone is to be worthy of a position as Admiral, Vice Admiral, or any other position where trust is put into them, They should be someone within the Marines who has dedicated themselves to our cause. On the other hand, if Admiral Fuyuki thinks none of us Vice Admirals deserve the spot at the moment. That I could understand." He finished as he reached their end of the table. His grinning face then peered down to the sculpture of Mariejois on the table.
He peered at it for some time before finally speaking again. "I personally don't think this Kogane Read needs to be recruited at all. We can use her while keeping the public in our favor." His head whipped back up to address the two. "She's made her little tunnel through government land, land that belongs to us. Why offer her anything when we legally hold the upper hand. We can propose that she stop pirating and run the tunnel under the name of the government, becoming more of a toll booth operator than anything. Then it looks like we hold massive power, turning a pirate into a simple worker without throwing one punch. If she refuses our offer then we simply shut her tunnel down as it is on OUR land. The people won't hate us for doing it and we can simply use the already existing canvas to craft a new tunnel that we own outright." The demon finished his proposition, awaiting the response of his superiors.
"I have to agree with Valentine here." Ernest spoke up, holding back his obvious contempt for Fuyuki's statements. Despite the validity in acknowledging Kogane Read's powers, it only made them look weak in front of the public. "Even if nobody in the Marines at present possesses the necessary power to hold the Admiral position — a statement I'd have to disagree with — there are ways to increase the power of those with the talent." Ernest's gaze traveled to Kurama, locking eyes with him for a moment.
"We should look into a method for encouraging further participation in the Marines. Likewise, it would be paramount to advance the rankings of those whom have contributed to the Marines significantly. Of particular note are Captain Myōbu and Commodore Bambina, both of whom are veterans to our cause. Before looking outwards for power, let us use what is available in front of us. After all, the resolve of Pirates is purely motivated by self-interest."
"Very well. I may have been hasty in my judgement, but nevertheless, subjugating Read with raw force and shows of bravado will not strengthen our forces in the long run. A concession of some sort needs to be made. Make no mistake about this, our forces may be strong, but the balance of power is in utter shambles. We have only four Shichibukai and you and I are all that remains of the Navy Admirals. In our current position, the pirates do in fact hold the upper hand. That must be corrected quickly.
Fuyuki pinched the bridge of of his nose in contemplation. He found himself impressed with Kurama's tactical acumen and insight, and he supposed his position as Fleet Admiral was well earned. He understood how Valentine and the other officers present might be insulted. But it didn't matter, the rank of Admiral was an outlier to most rules of advancement.
"To be an Admiral means more than to have attained the second highest rank in our order, it means more than just to lead. We are the very face of the World Governments power, and our own abilities must likewise be extraordinary, I see before me today many exemplary heroes and soldiers. But who among you think you could fight alongside me or Fleet Admiral Kurama as an equal, who among you is prepared to fight and defeat a Yonko on your lonesome if the opportunity presents itself? Do any of the ones present harbor such abilities, if so, share them now. "
The Admiral let his steely eyes scan the ranks of those assembled. Judging them on their merits and mentally making a list of all of their achievements and comparing them to those of other Admirals. "The Death of Alfred Glave was a tragedy that shook the entirety of our order, but it was also a cautionary tale. Glave was not strong enough, his might was insufficient to the task, even if his sense of justice and list of achievements were among the greatest in this age. Such a thing is idealism, to hope that your pedigree and record will make up for the very neccessary thing that you might lack. They won't, and each time an Admiral dies, our populace trembles in fear and terror. Because we are supposed to be UNTOUCHABLE. This is why in the past both Fujitora and Ryokugyu were conscripted into the marines, because the World Government realized that although a proper marine was naturally ideal. The Balance of Powers were of ultimately greater importance."
With that, Ravinger levelled his gaze onto Ernest. "Are those your suggestions? I have heard nothing suggesting that they're up to the task, although they are both powerful men in their own right. However, advancing them to a higher position in general I am in favor of."
"Although knowledge of Myōbu's feats have not reached my ears, there is no doubt that Bambina is worthy of a Rear Admiral or Vice Admiral position in some capacity. He has mentored numerous current Admiral-ranking individuals, including myself and Valentine, and possesses exemplary mastery over both forms of Haki and Rokushiki. At the very least, he has all the necessary qualifications to be promoted from Commodore." Ernest responded to Fuyuki's query, his intention was made very clear. He was dissatisfied with the lack of acknowledgement Marines had received as-of-late. Though he could not blame them, with the void filled by the Admirals' passing, the Marines have had no time to rest. Nonetheless, a firm expression had sat on his face.
"Regarding the replacement of Admirals. My only suggestion would be, perhaps, a test of power. Considering that, as you have rightfully mentioned, raw power is what truly defines an Admiral, a test that verifies said strength will clarify far more than any achievement we have gained on our missions, don't you agree?" Ernest knew that his suggestion was controversial. What sort of test would be able to verify the strength of an Admiral? He looked upon both Admirals with a stern face that demanded answers, and yet his eyebrow was raised, and curiosity piqued.
Kurama attentively heard the suggestions and thoughts of the other Vice Admirals, as well as those of Fuyuki, before once more speaking up again. He was impressed by the intuitiveness of his men, it only made him bear a confident smile as he listened closely, his hand resting against his cheek as he done so. Hearing the idea for a context of strength, an interesting and... perhaps even entertaining thought arose in his head.
"A test of power? Yes... I like the sound of that! But let's up the ante." the Fleet Admiral stated, knocking on the icy table as if he formulated a magnificent plan of action. "A festival. We put on an entire party, a grand festival for all the marines. Invite VIPs, commoners, the whole shabang. We affirm our status as the strongest authority in all the world. To the public, it will be a celebration of the work we have done, and the peace we have delivered, as well as a promise to continue our strides in spreading peace throughout the entire world. At the same time, it will be a promotion tournament. A chance for every marine to strut their stuff, show off their power, and among the vast pool, we will find our new staff. Perhaps even our new Admirals."
Spreading that smile into a wide grin, Kurama continued. "The festival can serve as an invitation to pirates too. A chance at sanctuary. Any pirate willing to set aside their past, regardless of bounty or crimes, will be accepted to attend and fight for a chance to be admitted to a rank within the marines. If we do so, we are presented with a chance to admit powerful pirates into our ranks while saving face with the rest of the world. How good would that look? The world government, the marines... So forgiving and just, giving criminals the chance to make up for their wrongdoings, to prove in front of everybody that they will swear themselves to the world government; reconciliation." the Fleet Admiral stated, bringing his fingers together as he looked out at the Vice Admirals present. "It gives us the excuse to admit pirates into our ranks, perhaps even finding an Admiral among them. But with the added benefit..." he mused, gesturing to the Vice Admirals. "...of giving everybody the chance to fight for the position. I think the Vice Admirals would be fine accepting a pirate as their Admiral under those circumstances, wouldn't you all be?"
Ravinger's eyes froze on Kurama as he spoke. His suggestion was nothing less than absurd, and most likely a result of his violent tendencies and martial background. Still, there might be something to it. "I am speechless, Fleet Admiral-sama. You would decry my suggestion and then turn around and offer pardons to those pirates who're willing to engage in your bloodsport? We are the Marines, not the Royal Family of Dressrosa. We do not engage in gladiatorial matches. I'm starting to think that you rejected my nomination of Kogane Read because she wasn't pirate enough." Fuyuki's words were spoken calmly, his rage finely withheld and kept in check behind an impassive mask.
"Wasn't there a pirate named Salazar that you failed to kill, or more likely given what I know of your abilities. Let go? The same Salazar that now apparently serves the Black Widows? What was your ingenius plan behind that, I wonder, whatever it is it certainly fell flat now that there's an infamous pirate out there who faced the Fleet Admiral of the marines and lived to tell the tale. To make matters worse, Salazar is a man of inconsequential abilities. A small field mouse bit the lions paw, and the lion let it go, the Fleet Admiral of our noble order, unable to turn in even such a mediocre pirate. I dread to think what the people say of us now that his survival is known."
Fuyuki paused then, before he moved on to discuss the matter at hand. "I am not against offering pardons to Pirates in exchange for them becoming part of our fold. As a society, we are only as good as how we treat our very worst, they will answer for their crimes, but they'll do so by serving the Marines and work on repaying that debt, by turning their lives to justice. While I worry about your motivations and personal intent, Fleet Admiral. I see the merits, however unsavory such games might be, I will support it, but with a few caveats."
Fuyuki raised a single finger to emphasize his next point. "Firstly. There must be no killing, crippling or permanent damage allowed. We are not a fighting club, we are the very cornerstone of civilisation.
He raised a second finger. "Secondly. Kogane Read will receive a formal invitation to this event, with proof that if she wins, she'll receive all of the benefits I mentioned earlier and become an Admiral of the Marines, and the ruler of her own country."
"Yes. I would."
Kurama answered, almost with an as-a-matter-of-fact derision with his tone of voice, leaning back against his chair as all he did was tilt his head to the side to look at Fuyuki.
"Since the beginning of history, those 'bloodmatches' as you call them, were badges of honor and nobility. But more importantly, they were proof of strength; a reassurance to the people that their military was powerful and absolute, one they could put their faith in, that no threat dare tread the waters they safeguarded." Kurama spoke with a solid tone, eyeing Fuyuki directly as he did so. "Let's not pussyfoot around here, Admiral Fuyuki. The marines are a system of war; of soldiers. We have no need for weakness among our ranks, political or otherwise, and the most sensible method of judging for proper promotion as well as new candidates to admit is for such a test of strength." Raising his arm up, he made a gesture out to all the Vice Admirals, though did not appear to actively address them as he continued. "They will be put to trial in front of the entire world. Weakness will be expunged. Strength will be honored." he remarked, his lips softly curling into a rather malicious smile. "Pirates who don't perform, well... They'll still be pirates, won't they? On world government ground. Either they perform well enough that we want them, or well... they'll be executed." the Fleet Admiral explained, his voice getting softer but darker as he went on. "They'll either live as marines or die as pirates. That's the name of the game we're going to be playing."
But as he concluded that thought, Kurama softened up a bit as Fuyuki spoke of Salazar, yet his smile and expression remained unchanged; one of confidence. Undeterred, as one would say. "Salazar..." The Fleet Admiral brushed his hand along his chin, in an act of contemplation, before nodding a bit to the Admiral's words. "A worthy adversary, he most certainly was. He was also a Shichibukai. Now let me remind all you good folks..." Kurama mused, now reeling in the Vice Admirals into the discussion. "Our dear warlords are also suffering a severe loss of strength. They had low numbers to begin with, and now with Salazar, they might as well be at half. But let me also remind all of you, especially you as well..." Kurama stuck out his right hand's index finger, pointing directly at the Admiral.
"...that the Shichibukai have always been a group of radical pirates. Pirates who... may have pretended to work alongside the government for one reason or another, but what did that ever get us? How many of them throughout our proud history have abused their title to do as they please, and eventually, even muddy the waters for us? I can name a few right off the top of my head, as it were." As Kurama spoke, his raised hand struck the table, swiftly yet with sufficient force behind the blow. "Edward Teach. Trafalgar Law. Bartholomew Kuma. Donquixote Doflamingo. Boa Hancock." With every name he rattled off, he struck the table once more, each successive strike seemed to crack at the foundation of the surface more and more, before finally a portion had shattered entirely, falling to the ground in pieces. Kurama started to muffle a snicker. "List goes on and on. Damn near all of them, wasn't that the case, Admiral Fuyuki? If you ask me, our predecessors went about it the wrong way. The Shichibukai system is an old and failed relic, something that needed replacing a long time ago. But unfortunately, for the time being, it exists. An ally of the world government."
The Fleet Admiral focused his glare on his sole Admiral. "Salazar was still a Shichibukai at the time I encountered him. An ally of the world government, and with it, all the perks one gains with such a title. Most in the past chose to secretly abuse that power, right under our noses, but he openly defected. And sided with a Yonko. It's curious, isn't it?" Kurama remarked, resting his head against his left palm. "Now, Salazar is a criminal in the eyes of the entire world. A coward that sided with the Yonko. And I wonder how the world would view such an act. Cowards only flee when they believe the side they're on is the losing side. Cowards flock to the winning side. And in the eyes of the world, now, that would be the Yonko. I find that very disturbing, Admiral Fuyuki. Very, very disturbing. But what disturbs me even more, Fuyuki..." Kurama's tone deepened, dropping the title as he addressed the Admiral. "...is the thought that you think I'd sully my name with such an act. The Shichibukai are a separate arm of militant power to the world government, they do not answer directly to the marines. How would that make me look? "The Fleet Admiral offing the Shichibukai in an effort to grab power from the world government." "Does Fleet Admiral Kurama seek to conquer the entire government and turn the world into a police state?" I shudder to think how that would be received. Even though, admittedly..."
Kurama offhandedly remarked, coupled with light laughter. "...I do think there are a couple changes that need to be made with those old fools. But..." The Fleet Admiral rose his finger up to his smiling lips. "Loose lips sink ships."
"But back to the matter at hand..." the Fleet Admiral calmly continued, his tone of voice returning to that coldly gruff demeanor. "I'm not sure about you, Admiral Fuyuki, but I have more important worries than killing a coward or two. Would you suggest I have killed the small field mouse, if it meant ruining the chance to draw out the filthy rats treading our waters? It was thanks to Salazar's actions that we were able to grasp a better understanding of the Black Widow Pirates' movements. I'm sure you were familiar with the report that went out regarding their recent actions, allying together with the other Yonko to take out a fellow Yonko? Information that could not have been validated without the trail left behind by the fleeing coward known as Salazar, the same one..." Kurama added, gesturing toward the Admiral with a faint grin. "That you're berating me for letting go. I'm shocked, Admiral Fuyuki. It almost sounds like you have very little faith in your own Fleet Admiral. And here I thought you were boasting unity, but with the same breath, you cast doubt on your own comrades. Makes me wonder if you have an agenda all your own." Kurama began to ponder, as if throwing the Admiral's own trustworthiness into question in front of all the Vice Admirals, but not even seconds after, the Fleet Admiral started to chuckle. "Of course not. I would never openly question your wisdom, Admiral Fuyuki. I believe in my men, no matter what accusations they throw my way. Someone has to. It's how we keep it all together." Kurama concluded.
"Nevertheless..." the Fleet Admiral spoke up once again. "I made myself clear in regards to those conditions already, Admiral Fuyuki. It's a festival. A celebration. There's no need for killing. A simple tournament of strength. But..." Kurama's voice softened as he displayed a relatively warped smile. "As I said, pirates will be guaranteed safe passage there because they seek rehabilitation. If we want them. If not, if their performance disappoints us, well... You know very well what we do with criminals, Admiral Fuyuki." Nodding a bit before facing the others once again, Kurama added his final bit. "Kogane Read will be among those invited, you can be sure of that."
"A celebration, is it?" Ernest noted, taking in the discussion between the two Admirals quite seriously. In the face of these incredible people, Ernest's own worth seemed mediocre by comparison. But he maintained his composure, because he would not let his opinion be wasted by rank. "If we are going so far as to invite Pirates into this celebration...then what about those who are in Impel Down? Shall they be given a new lease on life? There are plenty who possess the qualifications for an Admiral, if we look upon those inhabiting Level 6, that is."
It was a bold suggestion. These were Pirates who had been captured by the Marines already for their crimes and sentenced as a result. But, there was no doubt that powerful individuals among them existed. And should their will have broken sufficiently in the confines of Impel Down, they would no doubt make useful tools for the Marines to empower their status.
Valentine sat in awe of what was happening. Yonko, pirates, and now prisoners all in one place. "Kurama, Fuyuki, Ernest. This idea seems absurd to me. Yeah it could be great by some long shot but I doubt that. You're telling me you want to gather all four Yonko in one place, that's like asking for a war. Sure they might dislike each other but I think they hate us more. With the Marines out of the way the world government is all the stands between them and total control of all seas. Sure they may fight after all this is said and done. But we're crippled right now, we have one Admiral. If all the Yonko were to all to wipe us out at our weakest I simply don't think we would stand a chance. If we plan to gather all the Yonko we want to be at our strongest." Valentine continued. "If anything hold this tournament separately and then gather the Yonko in a different place. "If not I'm going to suggest you at least call every ally to the marines to our aid at this tournament." He finished.
Tapping his index finger against the icy table, Kurama shook his head. "No no. Valentine, was it? Consider what you've suggested." the Fleet Admiral responded, glaring directly at the Vice Admiral. "The marines, as it stands, are disgustingly weakened as a unit. At least... when compared to the Yonko. I hate admitting it. But it's true. Gathering up the entire marine force in one place so the Yonko can share a drink as they wipe us all out, that's something I'd expect a lesser-ranked soldier to suggest. Not a Vice Admiral." Kurama reprimanded, looking off to the side. "No. It'll just be us. Admiral Fuyuki and myself. Maybe one or two Vice Admirals, for show. The rest of you, the rear admirals, the commodores. Et cetera. We'll be scattering you all. Positioning you at key points in the event the Yonko try something dumb. Admiral Fuyuki and myself can handle things enough to at least escape with our lives against all four of them, but they won't." he mused, knocking on the table as he flashed a smirk. "They'd have too much to lose in trying something. Sacrificing the men they brought with them. Chancing the possibility of the marines attacking their controlled lands while they're away. Way too many unknown factors, my dear Vice Admirals. But even so..."
For the first time in the meeting, Kurama stood up from his seat, turning his back to the table as he stepped out toward the wall behind his seat; there, adorned on the wall alongside two standing world government flags, was a large map detailing the entire world. "The Yonko are notably more friendly with one another than those of the past. As our information even details, some of them are considering an alliance to wipe out the fourth one. But they're all in the dark. All of them. The marines might be supporting one of them, maybe more. Maybe they have an interest in helping to wipe out a particular Yonko. I imagine, with this invite we'll send them, they will start to question this. Question... where their loyalties lie with one another. Even among this... alliance, what if one of the Yonko plans to double-cross them as soon as their mutual enemy is destroyed? Intending to work with the marines to wipe them out in the process. The Yonko are at a disadvantage. While all of them see us as an enemy, they see each other as an enemy too. Meanwhile, each and every one of the Yonko is our enemy, but they will not know if the possibility of a hidden... alliance between us and one of them exists or not. There's just too many unknowns." Kurama explained, holding his hands behind his back as he spoke.
"Furthermore... the Yonko would be foolish not to show up, all four of them. All it would take is one of them. The fear of knowing that, while they're gone, another Yonko will attack their lands. But more importantly, we will establish to them individually that there does, in fact, exist an alliance between us and certain Yonko. We will incite the possibility of rebellion among them, and in turn, we will use that darkness to enact our hold on them. They'll obey the ceasefire we'll put into place for when they arrive. After all..." It was then that the Fleet Admiral turned to face the others, a wickedly malicious smile on his face. "I have no problem turning certain territories against them. The murder of a princess, the kidnapping of a noble, the execution of a royal family... If the Yonko want to try acting tough, they can have fun dealing with the shitstorm we'll drop on them."
Walking back toward the table, he pressed his palms against the surface and leaned forward, looking out at all of the Vice Admirals. "If the Yonko try something, anything, they're gonna feel pretty stupid when they find out... that they're fucking with the wrong people." he sternly declared. Loosening himself a bit, he leaned back and plopped back onto his seat, his eyes still facing out toward the attendees. "I hope that makes the my intentions clear, Vice Admirals. Because I have something of equal importance to also discuss."
Clearing his throat, Kurama looked over at Admiral Fuyuki, before facing back out toward the Vice Admirals. "There's the matter of a particular Yonko, this... Legs. And I'm not talking about those legs that go on for days." Kurama mused, chuckling a bit to himself before returning to a serious tone. "The way I see it, she's the most dangerous of the four. And I feel as though some... renewed focus needs to be placed on some of her commanders." the Fleet Admiral suggested, before placing his hand to his chin in contemplation.
"You, there." Kurama gestured to one of the Vice Admirals sitting on his left-hand side, noticing that the male had some paper there in front of him, as if to jot down notes on the meeting. "Take this down for me, would you? 'Black Panther'... Aoshin. One billion berries. 'Izanami'... Kosaka Isshin. Nine hundred and eighty-seven million berries. 'Maneater'... Wolfgang. Nine hundred and twelve million berries. 'Warrior'... Gozen Tomoe. Eight hundred and thirty-six million berries. And, if I'm not mistaken... Son Wukong... Let's round it at a nice seven hundred and ninety million berries." the Fleet Admiral concluded. "My good man, I'd like you to keep those on record for right now. Submit them to the office for final inspection, though..." Kurama lightly smirked in thought. "If anything, it will spark a fire under the asses of the other marines. It's been a long time since bounties of that stature have ever left this office. I do believe these commanders deserve such bounties, for one reason or another, but the importance is the meaning behind issuing them, not if they actually get officially issued. The Fleet Admiral himself issuing bounties like this, would not every marine find themselves rallying to earn favor with their superiors, if even only for a chance to be promoted? I'm interested to find out." Kurama mused.
Valentine nodded to his superior. "I suppose it's better than leaving them to their own devices. Spreading seeds of treachery and uncertainty is much better than letting them grow stronger together." Valentine replied, sitting back in his seat. "Crystal Sir." He listened as the Fleet Admiral went on to discuss the Black Widow Pirates, a dangerous and very active group belonging to the Yonko Legs. He'd met a couple of them in his younger days, but never the head honcho herself. He didn't like the feeling of even her crew approaching marine territory but he trusted that in the end Kurama's plan would hold, he was Fleet Admiral after all. His plan to raise their bounties to promote grow was questionable but Valentine didn't object to it this time. It just meant that his students would come with even more passion, which is exactly what he wanted.
"Indeed...this talk of the Yonko allying proves concerning." Ernest spoke, after having listened to Kurama in full. "Although that is a risk-filled plan, unfortunately, dealing with the Yonko requires every moment to be in risk of losing your life." Ernest mentioned, his voice turning grim. "That being said, Fleet Admiral...What exactly is your plan with regards to dealing with the territorial void left by the coming Yonko conflict?" Ernest questioned, his gaze becoming serious. "If we don't take any action, as I'm sure you are all aware...our reputation will go into the dust."
Ravinger had remained silent for a while, mostly because he found that he agreed with much of what the Fleet Admiral proposed. Heightening the bounties of important members of the Black Widows would provide added incentive to powerful bounty hunters, who might apply greater pressure on the Yonko and her crew. Perhaps leading to the unlikely miracle of a high-ranking official meeting their end by the hand of a Bounty Hunter, it wasn't something that would swing the war in their favor on its own, but it was a gesture that cost them nothing but had the possibility of paying of immensely.
Upon Ernest's question, Fuyuki directed his attention to the man for a moment before he spoke. "Correct. Losing Glave was a heavy blow, then there is the matter of the Queen of Elbaf choosing to add her giants to the cause of the Yonko." with a single thought. Ravinger made perfect visual replicabes of an army of miniature giants towering over an army of humans. "By ensuring their cooperation, she now commands the strongest army in the world and I believe that army needs to be cut down to a more manageable number. Many of them will undoubtedly die in the future war to come.. however I believe we should help that process along. Perhaps I'll deal a grievious blow to her forces personally when the moment is ripe."
With a wave of his hand, Fuyuki had roughtly a third of the assembled miniatures evaporate into specks of snow before the eyes of the marine officers, as if to demonstrate his point. "A long distance attack, made from hundreds of kilometers away at the proper moment should see their forces reduced significantly, and weaken their ability to hold large parts of their territory. It is easy to forget that the pawns make up the backbone of every game of chess, without her rank and file soldiers, the infrastructure of the Black Widows will begin to unravel and crumble, hopefully enough that the other Yonko decide to do away with her in the same way that they seem to plan to do away with Sengoku."
Folding his hands together, Terell addressed Kurama directly. "Naturally. That is just one piece of a larger puzzle, I am eager to hear your suggestion, Fleet Admiral."
"A void? Hardly." Kurama responded rather subtly, resting his cheek against his closed hand's knuckles, as he relayed a soft smile. "Pirates are hungry beings, after all. You think they'd stop at simply vanquishing the Yonko they despise? Nonsense. They're no freedom fighters. Once they take out the power ruling that territory, it's only natural that they'll move in to take it for themselves. But it is in their lust for territory that presents us with a window of opportunity." With a snap, moments after he concluded that initial thought, he extended his finger toward Fuyuki, as if in agreement with what he was saying. "That's the idea. They'll be spread out in trying to claim that territory. Beyond that, they'll be committing their strongest soldiers to the battle to destroy their mutual Yonko enemy. If their other territories were to be flanked by our forces during this time, it's silly to think they'd be able to fight us off while simultaneously dealing with their target. A two-front war. In securing their new territories, they put their old territories at risk. And in doing so... We'll have managed to corner them in a tighter spot. They might be working together now, but it's out of a mutual goal, not true camaraderie. Little by little, their little alliance will crumble apart. We'll use that chance to push the other two Yonko into joining hands with us in vanquishing the Black Widow Pirates, and after that, the rest should be simple enough. But that comes later..."
The Fleet Admiral knocked on the table, in a gesture indicating the shift in discussion. "For now, we make preparations for our little party."
Ernest closely listened to the plan Fuyuki and Kurama thought of, his eyebrows raising. Although a bold plan, it was certainly the only available option to them at the present. They had to build up their reputation again, even if it was through a flank attack of this nature. "Well, in regards to parties, I'm not the type of person you should be dealing with...But perhaps Vice Admiral Kitori could help? Though, that's assuming you find someone to replace her duties over at G-1."
Cackling Ghosts[]
"I could help all of you, my dear Marines friends. Believe me, there is so much power and vitality in this humble spirit..."
Hyoshimaru Imagawa was cracking with joy, so much that a ghastly glimmer pulsed in the eye of the unlucky Vice Admiral he was possessing. The host tilted his head: he felt a sudden ache, coupled with a chill creeping through his skin, unnatural for the warm climate of the meeting room; the pen he had just used to scribble the newly issued bounties fell on the ground, rolling under his chair. Hyoshimaru lowered his hand to a minimum: Heaven forbid his kind courier had discovered his innocent peeking. The Phantom Shogun had not the stomach to face all the honorable men present there: they were the greatest bastion of Justice still standing, the hand of the World Government, which all rules and governs for the benefits of everyone. Simply bursting out of his hideout of flesh and blood would have been massively disrespectful, a spit in the face on the galvanizing purpose of the very meeting. Rude, dishonorable, and foolish to a suicidal degree.
Hyoshimaru knew too well the extraordinary power of most of the present gentlemen. What he really surprised him, was the tactical acumen and level of mind games played between this allies. The moniker Byakko was feared and revered in equal measure throughout the Blue Seas: but what the ghost shogun was feeling for the Fleet Admiral was genuine respect. He had just opened the Marine's door to potentially many of the most odious criminals of the planet, using his own subordinates pride as key. A masterstroke of manipulation, he had to concede. Much like the suggestion of Fuyuki to cripple the bulk of Legs with a winter storm like few others. Something he, had he not feared an exorcism from the Spider Whore, would have loved doing on his own. Seeing the banner of Spider shrouded in ice; thousands of people withering like crops in a torment, their cheeks scorching for the frostbite, their heat dwindling down. The terror painted on their faces, knowing that forces beyond nature had come to reap them and haul their souls in the hell they deserve... Truly kindred spirits, he and the Marines. That made everything so much interesting, almost exhilarating.
And the most kindred of all was Vice Admiral Valentine. Hyoshimaru had little to fear from the Haki of the presents, sans maybe that of Kurama: too faint glimmered his presence, carefully clouded by the much stronger signature of his host. But he was not the only being living in-between the world of living and that of the soul: the glimmer of Valentine's eye seared the ether, dazzling of the color of blood just spilled. That was the eye of a demon: and was peeking on the Shogun all the time, waiting for a weakness on his part; or maybe, to know a reason for such intrusion. Doubts that deserved to be cleared: thus, Hyoshimaru spoke with the Vice Admiral with a language of soul and spirit, inaudible for mortal ears:
"Please, Valentine-dono. Two of the noblest appetites that move mankind have brought me there to assist this celebration of justice: to acquire more knowledge, and to offer my sincere help to your valiant cause. I've no intention to soil such occasion with a untimely and bombastic step out in the stage, nor to lurk back to my nest like some lowly, cowardly snake. On the contrary, I desire nothing but the mutual benefit of both parties. My little borrowing of this Vice Admiral was only done to preserve my discretion and your reputation".
Valentine noticed the man, two souls now within him. His eyes narrowed as he looked towards him. A voice filled his head, speaking in the tongue of spirits. Valentine responded in the same tongue. "Very well if you wish to make use of yourself then by all means make your point. However if you wish to simply listen in on plans without revealing yourself or giving any benefit to us I see no reason not to out you." He continued while looking to the room once again, his eyes moving between Kurama, Fuyuki and Ernest. "Just please hurry it up."
“Well, first, there is an invaluable benefit in the scope of my powers, Valentine-dono. I command over a Legion of vengeful spirits. An army of incorporeal, untouchable, eldritch being. An army that can’t be vanquished with anything of this world. An army, which as I have just proven to you, operates in the world of the invisible.” Hyoshimaru trace fluttered in amusement; almost as if, in the incorporeal state of his being, he was licking his own lips. “I can send spies and saboteur agents in every Yonko crew. In fact, I am already monitoring the moves of most of their subordinates. The only creature I dare not to get closer to is Legs herself. Too great is the risk. However, smaller pieces of the puzzle cobbled together may form the most important picture.
To look at the extent of my power, just focus your otherworldly sight outside this noble mansion, if you can. Faint as glimmers of candle, thousands upon thousands of Hitodama lights- will-o'-the-wisp, that is the translation in the common tongue- are burning, shrouded by the souls of thousands and thousands of civilians in the nearby suburbs. Dormant, almost powerless: yet in each of them rests an angry spirit, lusting for blood and vengeance. In the less time than a breath or the beating of a heart, I could transform this innocuous spectacle of light in a bloody, a macabre dance of howling ghosts murdering everything they can find”. That was both an explanation and not so veiled threat. Had Valentine or Kurama or everybody else tried to act against Hyoshimaru, the Phantom Shogun was ready to make them pay with the death of thousands of civilians and marines, as well as another grievous stain on their reputation.
“My command over ghosts is a wonderful tool for warfare, Valentine-dono. I can be your hidden eyes, your hidden dagger. I shall be your secret police, unbounded by the frivolous political games that make the Cipher Pols all so unreliable. Their battle plans shall fall in your hands: their double agents shall be gutted like fishes”.
Valentine looked out to see the lights that surrounded the building, thousands of lost souls floating aimlessly. They awaited the commands of their master. As Valentine peered closer at the soul that sat within the Vice Admiral he could see it's shape clearly. "Imagawa Hyoshimaru." He spoke in the language of the soul. "The Phantom Shogun of the underworld. This makes much more sense." He continued as a small grin crept to his face. "I don't doubt you power but If I might say you're sitting in a room with the two people that you really wouldn't want to threaten. You offer sounds nice but I don't make the rules, Kurama does. So I suggest you reveal yourself and pitch your plan to him. If you truly believe in helping us I don't think you'd mind it. I'm sure Kurama might have some form of praise for you, getting into this sanctum and all."
"Of course, Valentine-dono". Hyoshimaru continued with his polite speech, so much so it almost sounded like a mockery. "My suggestions and humble proposals have been addressed to you and Kurama in equal measure. A man of such power and windsom would certainly recognize good advice when delivered, and ponder them in the proper measure". Much like Valentine, Hyoshimaru could mistake an high level of sovereignity of the Fleet Admiral in the realms of souls. In black canvas that was the souls-cape, a plane invisible to mere mortal, Kurama presence was towering and brimming like a mountain of light. A colossal Kitsune, stretching his shining tails of unknown miles, standing above every other candle, every other soul in the island.
Such power could have never been the product of mere training, and Hyshomaru doubted even pure enlightenment could have provided Kurama which such portentous reserves of spiritual power. The answer was crystal clear: the Nine Tailed Fox had feasted on the power of hundreds and hundreds of fallen warriors, hundreds of stepping stone the Fleet Admiral had trampled on with no mercy. A fearsome master, a beast hungering for human spirits: surely Kurama would have noticed a Mythical Zoan user standing his equal. Surely he would have caught this conversation between minds and souls.
"We seem to be having a grave misunderstanding here."
Kurama spoke. Though, it was not through words, but the transmittance of his Haki. Once he had understood what was transpiring, some sort of spiritual conversation in a language he could understand through sense but not himself speak, it became clear dialogue would have to be carried out by using his Haki as a medium. It was a subtle skill, one the Fleet Admiral had little use for outside of situations like this, though he often used it for sending messages in a manner similar to telekinesis.
"Are you confused about who is in charge here, Vice Admiral?" Kurama continued, his voice deeply resonating through his Haki. "You have an idea, a suggestion, you talk to me. Not Vice-Admiral Valentine. And you sure as hell don't make decisions on your own." the Fleet Admiral stated, leaning a bit closer against the table as his powerful glare was centered on Hyoshimaru. Nary an action, not even an indication of awakening or releasing, yet... as they spoke, a tremendous power enveloped the room. In many ways, it was warm and inviting, like the inviting bosom of a loved one beckoning you to slumber in their arms, as you fade away onto a peaceful... eternal sleep, yet for others, it was as though horror incarnate had itself entered the room, wrapping them in the chills of hell; a cold that could only be death's own. This sensation of force being brought down upon this gathering possessed was of boundless nature, but one thing was crystal clear to all sitting there: the center of this storm was Kurama himself. It was suffocating, to many, enough that many individuals present would find their observational Haki instinctively activated, like a child desperately crying out in a world of darkness for even the smallest glare of light's embrace, and yet, the height of terror was awaiting their senses. Their Kenbunshoku Haki would enable the personnel present to finally witness the true form of their trepidation, yet it was not with them in the room. On the contrary. They were inside it.
A massive aura shaped like that of a fox with nine flowing tails had seemed to now co-exist in the same place as the building where the meeting had been taking place; almost as if that supernatural creature born of life energy had swallowed the building whole. The initial purpose behind this was obvious: all those concealed within the translucent kitsune aura were protected by the Fleet Admiral's own overwhelming spirit manifest, especially from this possessive entity's phantoms. But the true meaning was a simple show of dominance. With its appearance, the fox roared, a colossal emission of sheer force scorched the skies. Without a doubt, some of those ghosts that had appeared through the efforts of this "Phantom Shogun" entity would probably find their bodies vibrating like the surface of water as it is disturbed, their presences snuffed out like the weak embers of a candelabra, and their existences themselves shattered under the weight of true power. Others would possibly even find themselves charmed or broken by the Fleet Admiral's willpower, resulting in their subservience. But there was no actual effort in carrying that action out; it was a momentary kiai. Kurama had made his point.
"It's not that I don't like the suggestion. I love it, in fact. But I find myself having doubts." Kurama added after a brief moment of silence, though his eye contact never strayed, not even once. "Doubts that you really want to do what we want. What I want." Placing his hand on the table's surface, he leaned in closer, his stern expression embodying ferocity performed in a show of composure. "You wanna know what I think? I think you're on nobody's side. Playing for your own team. And this is just a way to get everybody in just the right way, in just the right place, for your own little goals. So I have to wonder, as the man in charge that I am. Is listening to you the right way to go, or is it the right place and time for something else?" the Fleet Admiral addressed the entity, yet his chilling expression slowly faded into a soft smile. "Not that I'm worried, mind you. You sure set up a cute light show outside, but let's make something clear; as long as I'm here, who lives and who dies...? That shit is in nobody's hands but mine."
Turning his head to look at Fuyuki, Kurama's eye contact with the Vice Admiral had concluded as he addressed his fellow Admiral. "I'm sure you were listening to all that spirit gobbledygook, so what are your thoughts, Admiral Fuyuki?"
What a monumental man he was, the Admiral Kurama! Certainly worthy of his name, rank and reputation. The measly troops Hyoshimaru had sent to siege the meeting were truly nothing compared to the flash of the Kitsune, scattering them in the wind like a bunch of fireflies in a storm. Hyoshimaru could not remember witnessing a spiritual powers of that vastness since the few times he managed to peek in the soul of the Spider-Whore. Nevertheless, their use of soul power, while unnaturally powerful, was so limited and narrow-minded. The two world leader merely fed their bellies with souls, ripping them away from their broken subjects as they chomping mere pieces of steaks. Hyoshimaru alone had the power and intellect to cultivate soul power, to breed it from milk from the anger of the dead, a pool which, like the Onryo rage, was truly without limits. It was said that even the mighty sun itself may run of its flames; in eons of time, every light fades, every star dies. If Kurama was a ocean of light, Hyoshimaru commanded the key for the endless abyss of light.
But that was not the time to brag, nor this boast. Fittingly for his position, Kurama was not the man accepting to be a second lead. Hyoshimaru own presence reeled back from the onslaught of Haki, the signature of cold of his trace tempering the majesty of ki and light. But there was intent to overwhelm, nor pressure, as it felt crystalline, even pure to an extent. The purity of an all consuming void, desiring nothing but expand and devour.
"Kurama-sama. You have all the reasons in the world to not trust my benevolence. Because there is none to speak of. Every man ultimately follows his own self-interest: whether is power, money, glory, love, or, most foolishly of all, peace of their conscience". Hyoshiramu's presence, turned a candle of an unholy blue hue, writhed its crests. Behind it, the lamp of his eyes winked at Admiral Fuyuki. They could perceive his utter disgust for the man... but also the lingers of regret buried underground, the shame and fear of what the Admiral had become, never leaving it for a moment of his life.
"What you should trust about me, Kurama-sma, is that my desires are simple and honest as I am. Souls to enslave, carnage to cause and witness; and, above all, the death of Legs, the destruction of everything she holds dear. In the eyes of the world, that makes look like a monster. But is being a monster enough of a reason to be deemed untrustworthy? Whatever scheme I'll be concocting, you can trust me I'll be doing everything in my power to gather more of this things I just enumerated. Ghosts are the simplest and most predictable beings that exist, after all: their lives beyond death hinge on purity of feelings and intents.
You may not be so lucky with your next chosen allies in the Marine, Kurama-sama. Unless your are adamantly sure that your Marines are going to dominate on every turn, who is guaranteeing you that the next Admiral may hold a speck of loyalty to your vision? They might be just as duplicitous and double faced as I am. Or perhaps, gods forbid, they might be covert idealists. Serving of course, causes far different than your own: otherwise, they would have already joined the Marine without the need of a competition on the first place. Allying with me may seem like a gamble, or a deal with the devil. But I see no difference between the gambling on me or on this party of yours. A few stripes donned over a pompous uniform will not suffice in winning anybody's heart, Fleet Admiral Kurama.
In both cases, you are doing the same thing: making a leap in the void, compromising your morals to gain more weapons, more soldiers. Preparing for a colossal war while keeping your reputation as spotless as possible. If anything, you should thank me for having made my proposal in a semi-private location, instead of participating on the tournament: just imagine if I had actually won, or humiliated many of your soldiers in the rounds. Could the Marines have ever borne the shame? The shining beacon of justice having at its top a man with a reputation of ripping unborn babies from their mothers wombs and throwing them into fire! My new subordinates would be trying to murder me at every occasion, in fear of being slaughtered and resurrected as Onryo first". The blue flame shrouding Hyoshimaru cracked again, reflecting his amusement for such silly thoughts. Which, he had no doubt, his participation on the competition held by the Admiral would make reality.
"Monsters like me make for terrible friends in times of peace, but invaluable assets when you need to wage war. We can destroy everyone that opposes you in ways so despicable your most violent and sickening Marine wouldn't even fathom. Sinking to deepest depths, in the lowest of the low, while you may claim purity. Accept an alliance, and you shall gain a precious Admiral in addition to a Legion of friends. You have so much to win if you accept, and so much to lose if you don't".
Fuyuki was silent, ever since Hyoshimaru had appeared he'd used his Kenbunshoku Haki to reveal the location of every ghost in the immediate vicinity, they were as clear to his inner eyes as a sea of black spots upon a white sheet of paper. It was a massive army, but numbers were inconsequential and he knew that he could prevent any and all casualties, for so massive was the scope of his Logia that he could manifest and manipulate its power anywhere within the entire region, and in any capacity and quantity that he liked. Their esteemed guest had not the faintest idea of who it was that he challenged in this, he was like a child playing at being an adult.
When Ravinger spoke he did so softly and with certainty, every word humming with barely restrained rage at Hyoushimaru. "It is almost comedic how little understanding you possess, you think your army actually matters, that it will allow you to bargain with us like an equal?" Fuyuki rose to his full height as he circled the table and walked towards Hyoushimaru. There was no hesitation, no fear of repercussions.
"Threatening civilians in my presence, using my subordinate as a shield and a puppet? You are a fool to think that any of this would give you the slightest traction among us, had you the faintest notion of proper negotation you would've ensured not to leave a negative first impression, kept the civilians out of this and understood that any and all threats you make in my presence is empty for that very reason alone!"
His eyes gleamed like shards of ice, sharp and as cold as they could possibly be. His arms were held behind his back, creating the illusion of nonchalance and lowered defenses.
"Even if you weren't such a rephrensible individual, the sheer extent to which you've underestimated us would naturally exclude you on its own merits. If I am to forsake the trust of the people in pursuit of the greater good and cooperate with a no name outsider, I would at the very least expect them to be competent, but in doing this you have shown yourself ignorant of who exactly you'd be dealing with, and therefore not dependable. However, since the Fleet Admiral appears to have decided to grace you with an audience, definitely against his better judgement, I'll let you remain for exactly..."
A small hourglass of intricate patterns with a base of crystalized and intersecting snowflakes appeared on the table. Grains of snow trickled down into the lower base of the object even as Fuyuki spoke.. "One and a half minute.."
Incompetent? Hyoshimaru could have easily disproved all the non-sense spewed by Admiral with thousands of possession-induced suicides before the Logia wielder had got a clue on how to stop his army of ghosts. If numbers were useless against the raw, unbridled forces nature, than nature alone was even more impotent against threats that transcend flesh itself. Fuyuki was truly a fool if he thought that mere sheer power and a strong Kenbunshoku would suffice in checkmating the Phantom Shogun.
But he refrained at doing so, for, instead, Kurama truly had the means to thwart his massive assault. His authority was the one standing supreme in the moment, his liking the one Hyoshimaru had to please: Hyoshimaru doubted that engage in brags and bickers with Fuyuki would be of any use for his cause, sans eliciting some form of twisted amusement in the Fleet Admiral. Hyoshimaru would have had all time in the world to humiliate the Admiral, but only after the deal was sealed. Still, the Phantom Shogun was an aristocrat through and through: he could not bear to let any insult on his person slide like he were a commoner begging for the scrapes left on his master's dinner table. Thus, he gave his succinct quip:
"Only one minute and a half? Then, what if time expires when Kurama is still laying down conditions and terms of our alliance? Freeze him and me in the middle of our discourse? That would be of an unparalleled rudeness on your part, Fuyuki-dono".
Fuyuki simply sighed. "You fail to grasp your place, I am under no obligation to treat a hostage-taking hoodlum fairly. Your opinion of me matters less than dirt, you are permitted to speak only at the behest of the Fleet Admiral. Now, make your case and stop wasting our time with trivial matters. You have precisely one minute and fifthteen seconds left following your pointless statement."'
He spoke no more words than that, even with Hyoshimaru's threat looming overhead, Fuyuki radiated an aura of overwhelming confidence, nay, of certainty even. Fuyuki was not a man given to arrogance, he was a scientist given to facts and truth, whatever his intentions might be, he was certain he could prevent it.
"Oh, Fuyuki-dono, I've already finished". Hyshomaru retorded. "The reasons of the convenience of our alliance have just been exposed. Now I shall wait Kurama-sama's answer, and say no more until the Fleet Admiral himself grants me the permission to speak". The voice of the Phantom Shogun was calm, soothing even- yet it reverberated signal through the ether, which bounced in every corner and ravine of the city. Each of the ghosts entered in fibrillation: at the slightest sign of danger, they would responded with haste, precision and mercilessness, for Hyoshimaru conducted his army as a iai master flows and directs his sword.
"I can't have it."
Kurama's voice pierced through the tension like the elegant slash of a swordsman's blade through frozen ice, that mere string of words carrying enough weight through his own Haki to force his way between the Admiral and Vice Admiral's brief argument, metaphorically speaking. There, a solid closed grin yet coupled with a fierce expression, the Fleet Admiral glared at the both of them. His right hand rested along the table, giving it tap or two once he had garnered their attention, his eyes focused on the two while paying a more composed hostility toward the possessed Vice Admiral.
"I can't..." Kurama repeated himself with emphasis, tapping the surface of the table with his index finger. "...have it. You need to remember your place here. Vice Admirals don't speak back to Admirals, that's the way this works." he continued, standing up himself as he made his way slowly, as if on a leisurely stroll, toward where Fuyuki stood. "I can't have it, disrespecting Admiral Fuyuki like that, especially right in front of me." One could argue that Kurama made such a statement to defend his fellow Admiral, and though Fuyuki did not need support in making his superiority clear, it was the principle of the matter to the Fleet Admiral. Who would be listened to, who would be respected, who holds power over who, that was something Kurama made sure happened on his terms, not somebody else's.
Placing his hand on the Admiral's shoulder, only briefly at that, he passed him and closed the distance between himself and Hyoshimaru. Looking down at the man, he leaned forward as if to meet the Vice Admiral at eye level. "I get it. Having that sort of power over so many souls, having them follow your every word, do your bidding without missin' a beat! I can get how fun that'd be. Hell, you must've thought you were 'King Shit'. Probably even got addicted to it. But that's over now." Reaching out for the Vice Admiral, he patted the male's shoulder with a friendly smile. It was different than with Fuyuki; with the Admiral, it was a sign of respect and camaraderie, perhaps even some semblance of friendship, but this was nothing of the sort. Leaning over like this, the way Kurama's tone and voice all came across, it was the very depiction of a parent berating and lecturing a child for their mistakes, and then forgiving them for their naivety. "There's no need to fret though. You can still play the role of 'King Shit', just as long as you do so while working for me. No alliance. No partnership. Just... results. Obeying orders, and results. That's all I want to see from you. Because, and I really don't want to have to repeat myself here..." Kurama continued, maintaining his bright smile as he faced Hyoshimaru. "You are mine. Those ghosts out there? They are mine. And because they are mine, I don't need any formal procedure in making use of them. I just say what I want, and it'll be done. I'm sure you're capable of that much, right, 'King Shit'?" the Fleet Admiral added before backing away, standing upright as he looked down at Hyoshimaru.
"This is definitely something we'll be pursuing. Though we'll need to iron out the details, and properly plot when to employ them as necessary, so in the process of doing so, I do hope you'll be polite and courteous as you work with Admiral Fuyuki and the others." Turning his back to the Vice Admiral, Kurama made his way back to his seat, strolling along the path drawn by the table's edge, as he looked out toward the others present.
"That'll be done".
As quick as redrawing his own katana in the sheat, the Phantom Shogum commanded his spirits to flee from their post. The presences faded quickly from the spiritual landscape, retriting to the Hashima Arcipelago where Hyoshimaru had its stronghold. One cold flame remained: that of Hyoshimaru, its crests humbly bowing down to the Fleet Admiral. Not of true, heartfelt humility, of course: more of the recognition of a power currently far greater than his own. And of contentment for this new alliance, whatever statement of superiority Kurama had uttered to satisfy his ego and to keep the image of the Marines strong in the face of his subordinates.
"This ronin shall serve you with the best of his abilities, Kurama-sama. Tell me if you need my counseling right now; otherwise, I shall depart, and we shall discuss everything we need later".
Our Next Step[]
The cackling ghosts had soon faded off into obscurity, leaving only the silence of the Admirals in its wake. The experience that had just occurred, being visualized through his Kenbunshoku Haki, only left him speechless. He had never experienced a supernatural experience such as this, especially considering the communication between souls. His skill in Kenbunshoku, and his limited experience with the supernatural, made it difficult for him to interpret the entirety of the exchange. "Do we...have a new henchman on our side?" Ernest thought to himself, although by blurting out his thoughts, his hesitation became apparent to his Haki-wielding comrades in the room, causing him to flush in embarrassment.
"I-I apologize, Admiral Kurama, Admiral Fuyuki and Valentine. Unfortunately...I am not too sure what transpired just now. My modifications as a Cyborg have left my Haki mostly unable to follow such intricate communication..." Ernest bowed his head in shame, noting that he had much to improve upon as a Vice Admiral.
As he strolled back to his seat, sitting himself down and once more looking out toward the others, Kurama's expression has softened a bit; his demeanor itself has relaxed after settling that annoyance of an outburst. In taking his seat, he looked out toward the Vice Admiral who had just spoken. "Not to worry, Ernie boy. Nothing important was discussed, just takin' care of some irritable business is all." the Fleet Admiral mused in his usual jolly tone, waving off Ernest's concerns in not following that peculiar dialogue of souls. Yet, what had transpired had made some very important insights very apparent to the Fleet Admiral, and with them, came some ideas he wanted to propose to the people attending the meeting.
"At the end of all this shit..." Kurama spoke, now addressing the entire group. "What we've come here to deal with is the declining state of the marines. See, pirates are criminals, they're always going to do whatever kinda shit they want. We all know that. But the problem arises when the pirates no longer view us as a force to be concerned about. Then..." The Fleet Admiral's tone started to darken, deepen a tad. "We have pirates acting like... land holders. Businessmen. Authority figures. Everything, and anything, but what they really are." Kurama continued with his dialogue, referencing with his words the land holdings of Kogane Read, and of course, the Yonko themselves. "And what we are we doing? Debating. Arguing. Everything, and anything, but what we... really... are. The marines."
Kurama's eyes shone with the intensity they came to expect from their Fleet Admiral. "What makes us the marines — what makes us different from them — is that we are about gathering and organizing strength. A force that should be recognized by everyone as a dangerously organized body of authority. Our power comes from our structure; from our synthesis as a single unified force of individuals all working for the sake of a single ambition. A single path. The path that leads us to peace and prosperity." the Fleet Admiral took a soft breath in and out, letting those words sink into those present before continuing his thoughts.
"We need to keep this in mind as we correct the many... many problems that have now arisen. So here's what I'm proposing."
Holding his fist upwards, he extended his index finger upwards. "Number one. We need to shore up our numbers. Particularly, numbers of high ranking soldiers. This has never been more apparent to me than right now, after watching that little ghostly outburst, that if our Vice Admirals are getting pigheaded and full of themselves, putting themselves ahead of the collective, we have no tomorrow as an organized body of authority. As things stand, our numbers are not only low, but some of them have shown themselves to be not entirely reliable. And we can't have it. I won't have it. So we'll need to hold a little promotion event of our own, behind closed doors, prior to our big festival plan. Get some blood pumpin' to this limp dick already." Kurama explained, adding a faint laugh at the end of his last couple words.
With his middle finger now also raised, along with the index finger, he continued on. "Number two. We need to reassess our organization. We have a virile lack of authority in the New World, and the first step toward making those Yonko remember who it is they're dealing with, is to reaffirm our presence there. We need to strategically conquer small territories scattered around the New World; even ones we can tear away from the Yonko themselves. And position outposts there, each with a Vice Admiral assigned there as its leader."
Now he outstretched his ring finger, his thumb holding down his pinkie, as Kurama presented his final thought. "And number three. I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Our strength is our organization. It is our... unification. We are the embodiment of authority itself. There isn't a "World Government" and a "Marines", we're one entity; or rather, we should be seen as such. And as such, I think it's time we discussed bringing in strength from the affiliated countries; the other kingdoms. They each have their own military powers, but even they will recognize the rising threat displayed by the pirates, and the need for... re-purposing those powers such a threat demands. A unified coalition that draws in strength from those kingdoms." the Fleet Admiral proposed, awaiting to hear the responses from those who heard him.
"It shall be done~! For we are bar none~! Let our wings soar~! And our hearts roar~! WE ARE...THE MARINES~!" A powerful voice penetrated through the tense atmosphere following the ghosts' departure and the declarations of the Fleet Admiral. The entire audience, in shock, turned to face the room's entrance, where they would find a blonde-haired woman, coated in proper Marine attire, spreading her arms outwards, much like a bird's wings, and her face pointed towards the sky.
For a brief moment, it appeared as if she were looking down upon her acquaintances, but that was simply not the case. She was simply so excited in her own song, she forgot to face her audience! "Oh dear, excuse me~!" The woman faced towards her audience, her face washed with a tomato-like red. "I hope you did not take that rudely! I simply had to sing in agreement with Fleet Admiral Kurama's declarations!" The woman bowed for her rudeness, before standing back up. "Vice Admiral Kitori, Archibald Minerva, reporting! I apologize for my lateness, for I was just returning from another tour across the Twenty Kingdoms! Of course, G-1 is still doing perfectly well!"
She took the empty seat for herself without delay, completely unfazed by her stupendous entrance. Though, the other Marines had recognized her somewhat oblivious nature and forgave her for it, as her results were among the greatest.
"M-Minerva..." Ernest sighed, before getting back to the topic at hand. Although Minerva was a friend who had always allowed him to stay positive during his younger years, there was no doubting she was an oddball. "I agree with all of your points, Fleet Admiral Kurama. In particular with the promotion of lower-ranked individuals and delegation of more bases in the New World. Although this might interrupt our first step a little...could we not begin to take over some of these territories during the war between the Yonko to come?"
"What the shit?" That statement spoken by Kurama upon Minerva's arrival was sufficient in describing his reception of this entrance. As Minerva continued her little display, the Fleet Admiral had briefly turned to face the Vice Admiral sitting closest to him, and once more spoke, "No, seriously, what the shit?"
Kurama's eyes once more focused on her, and once she took her seat, he rattled off a brief chortle; though he felt a bit taken aback by the strange entrance, he was known to indulge in the theatrics based on the way he carried himself among others. He respected that in others, if nothing else. When Ernest then spoke up, the Fleet Admiral turned his attention toward him, hearing what he had to say before responding. "I find it's better to take an approach before they shore up their forces and get all their ducks in a row. Pirates can become an organized nuisance in their own right if given the time, but only when they're given the chance. We won't wait for that. Now, we won't take any major areas that are frequently utilized by the Yonko and their people, we'll be aiming for outer territories, ones that they have the weakest grips on. Ones they won't be able to actively defend without mobilizing their forces. Considering that they're allocating their efforts toward this coalition against one of the Yonko, they won't waste their resources on small skirmishes with us right now. Especially if we keep our distance." Kurama explained, before forming a rather malicious grin. "For now, anyways."
Continuing his dialogue, Kurama turned his attention out toward the majority of Vice Admirals present, before focusing once more on Ernest. "Here's some homework for all of you. In no later than a week, I'll want at least one name from each and every one of you; someone you want to recommend for this closed promotion exam. We'll put together a little somethin' somethin' to test their spirits, and see if we can't get some more Vice Admirals in rank so we can move ahead with our outpost plans."
As Minerva's show came to a close a man entered the room behind her, holding a hand over his face. "Can you cut off that racket, you've been singing the whole damn walk." He snapped at her. He was easily the tallest one in the room, dwarfing even Valentine. He nodded to Kurama before taking his seat. "Vice Admrial Kurorou, Wynn Godukera, reporting in. I stopped to cleanse an island of pirates on my way here and it took longer than I would have liked, my apologies."
Valentine sat back in his chair as he watched the theatrics of the room. "Next time you want to do that let me know so I can prep my fiddle," He called to Minerva and then looked to Godukera. "You know I'd have burn them in half the time." Earning him an glare from the monstrous man. "Going to what you said though Fleet Admrial, I think i've already got a couple prospects in mind for your promotion, and I'd be happy to torch a couple islands." His face then became a bit conflicted, the thought of working with the kingdoms was seriously something he didn't want to deal with. He went on however, despite his own quarrels with it he needed to bring it up. "I can also assure you that I can get the Bourgeois Kingdom and their allies to fall into line with us. I'm sure they may even have some potential recruits for us, I can already think of one." White he didn't like the idea of involving them, the Bourgeois Kingdom would be a good ally to have in these times.
"If the Twenty Kingdoms are to be our allies, then let me sing for them! I am certain my song will reach their hearts~!" Minerva exclaimed in her naturally opera-like tone. Although she knew her peers didn't particularly like her singing voice, it was unfortunate, because she would sing regardless. "Likewise! As the commanding officer of G-1, there are plenty under my wing that possess phenomenal talent! I shall showcase their skills on our grand stage whenever you desire, Fleet Admiral!" Minerva, as per usual, outstretched her arms during her declaration, although in the process, accidentally hit Ernest's shoulder, who was sitting next to her.
"Minerva...does your hand hurt?" Ernest asked, briefly concerned before reporting back to the situation at hand. "Yes, Fleet Admiral Kurama." He responded to the Fleet Admiral's suggestions positively, finding himself agreeing with his methods of conquering outer islands as well. "I will bring forth to you candidates as soon as possible." Ernest bowed his head, although there was something else on the tip of his tongue.
"Something else, Fleet Admiral." Ernest began to speak, although his voice was soaked in hesitation. "T-thank you for responding to my initiative to wanting to better the Marines. I understand it was always in your best intentions to, but that seemed to have never come through in such dire times. I am glad we have you as our Fleet Admiral." Ernest spoke his sincere feelings, especially since his prior gathering of Marines may have seemed insolent to the authority of the Admirals.
Receiving the Vice Admiral's words of appreciation, Kurama could not help but crack a grin as he leaned forward on the table, resting with his elbow to the surface and his chin resting atop his knuckles. "I'm glad to be here. Nothing pleases me more than seeing all of you here, prepared to get shit done and get things back on track. Be sure to work hard, everybody." the Fleet Admiral encouraged, before leaning back against his seat.
"With that said, we're adjourned. After receiving all recommendations, our office will notify all of you in regards to the promotion exam." Kurama added before standing himself up, preparing to take his own leave from the meeting hall. "Any other business before we're done here?"