Chapter 37: Justice in the Balance.
The Magnificence of Navy Headquarters_______________________________
The Navy Headquarters was a fortress of justice, standing tall against the chaotic seas of the Grand Line. Its massive structure loomed like an unshakable beacon of order, with pristine white walls that reflected the sunlight, symbolizing the Navy's authority. The main building, with its towering spires and intricate designs, was surrounded by layers of heavily fortified walls and defensive turrets. Cannons lined the outer walls, capable of repelling even the mightiest pirate fleets.
Within the sprawling grounds were training arenas, strategic command centers, and armories filled with cutting-edge weapons. The sound of disciplined drills and the clanging of swords echoed throughout the campus. Marines of all ranks moved with purpose, their uniforms spotless and their expressions resolute.
The Grand Plaza, a vast open space at the heart of the headquarters, was where ceremonies and major announcements were held. A towering statue of the Navy emblem stood in the center, a reminder of the ideals they fought to uphold.
Marine Ranks and Combat Power___________________________________
The Navy was structured into a strict hierarchy, with each rank representing a combination of authority, combat ability, and experience:
Seaman Recruit and Apprentice: The entry-level ranks for new recruits. Their combat skills were basic, but they trained rigorously to master hand-to-hand combat and basic weaponry.Seaman First Class to Chief Petty Officer: These officers handled most operational duties. Their combat abilities varied, but promotions were based on performance and completion of advanced training.Lieutenant to Captain: Mid-level officers who commanded ships or oversaw specific operations. They were skilled fighters, often proficient in Haki, and had the authority to make critical decisions during missions.Commodore to Vice Admiral: High-ranking officers with immense combat power. Most at this level had mastered advanced Haki techniques, and many were renowned warriors in their own right. Promotions required exceptional leadership, successful campaigns, and endorsements from higher-ups.Admirals: The Navy's strongest combatants, their power rivaled that of the Four Emperors. Admirals were chosen from among the Vice Admirals based on their combat prowess and unwavering loyalty to the Navy's ideals.Fleet Admiral: The highest rank, held by the leader of the Navy. This position was reserved for a figure with unparalleled strategic brilliance and authority.
Combat ability was not the sole criterion for promotion. Marines needed to demonstrate exceptional leadership, uphold the Navy's ideals, and complete challenging missions successfully.
The Meeting Begins__________________________________
In the Fleet Admiral's chamber, Commodore Raiden Yamazaki stood surrounded by some of the Navy's most influential figures.
The room exuded an air of authority, its walls adorned with maps of the Grand Line and portraits of legendary Marines. The table at the center was carved from solid oak, polished to a gleaming finish, and strewn with reports and dossiers.
Vice Admiral Gion, known as Momousagi (Pink Rabbit), sat elegantly, her piercing gaze fixed on Raiden. Her beauty was undeniable—long, silky pink hair framed her flawless face, and her uniform accentuated her slender, athletic figure. Despite her graceful appearance, her aura was sharp and dangerous, like the blade she carried.
Beside her was Vice Admiral Tsuru, the Navy's famed tactician. Her calm demeanor contrasted sharply with the intensity in her eyes.
Fleet Admiral Sengoku sat at the head of the table, his presence commanding the room. Next to him, the legendary Monkey D. Garp leaned back casually, though his sharp eyes betrayed his focus.
"Report," Sengoku said, his voice firm.
A Shocking Revelation_________________________________________
Commodore Raiden recounted the events of Cocoyasi Village. As he described the Marine corruption and their alliance with Arlong, Gion's hand clenched her sword hilt, her knuckles white with anger.
Tsuru's voice was calm but sharp. "This isn't negligence. This is betrayal. Those Marines didn't just fail to protect—they ensured the villagers were subjugated. If this reaches the public, it will shatter our credibility."
Sengoku slammed his fist on the table. "This is unacceptable! The East Blue is supposed to be the safest sea. If we can't uphold justice there, what message are we sending to the rest of the world?"
Raiden then described the lion- and cat-masked figures who defeated Arlong. "They've appeared in multiple incidents," he said, presenting dossiers. "They neutralized pirates and left them for us to capture, but their motives remain unclear."
Gion and Tsuru's Analysis________________________________
Tsuru's sharp mind dissected the information. "Their methods suggest they prioritize justice but operate independently. If they remain unchecked, their actions could become a liability or an advantage, depending on their true intentions."
Gion spoke, her voice steady but intense. "Whoever they are, their combat abilities are remarkable. If they choose to oppose us, they could pose a significant threat."
Sengoku sighed heavily. "We can't let this escalate. If the corruption becomes public knowledge, it will undermine everything we've built. And if these masked figures turn against us..."
He turned to Garp. "I think you need to make a trip to the East Blue."
Garp raised an eyebrow, his tone light. "They're just rookies. You don't need me for this."
Sengoku's stern expression silenced him. Tsuru nodded in agreement, her gaze serious.
Then Gion spoke, surprising everyone. "Fleet Admiral, I request to join this mission."
Tsuru looked at her sharply. "Why? This isn't your jurisdiction."
Gion's gaze didn't waver. "I have a feeling... This mission is more significant than it seems."
Sengoku studied her for a moment before nodding. "Very well. Prepare to depart."
To Be Continued...