From one piece to the Maltiverse.

Chapter 614: Staff of Asclepius!

Imperial Territory.

Located in the Forest on the Southeast Sea side of Mount Famu, about thirty kilometers away.

Most of The Empire's Routed Soldiers who were lucky enough to survive the Battlefield were gathered here, temporarily under the command of Air Force General Bud, numbering around a hundred thousand.

However, this didn't mean only these people survived; there were certainly others who had scattered and fled to other places.

Alas!

A Great Army of six hundred thousand, including various Danger Beasts like Flame Rabbit and Giant Crab, totaling nearly seven hundred thousand Living Beings, were actually beaten into such a state. One can imagine how shocked and Angry the Imperial Capital would be upon receiving the News.

It's worth mentioning.

The place where Bud and the others were currently located was precisely the site of Night Raid's first Secret Base in the Canon.

Therefore.

There was a River winding along the edge of the Forest and a pool of clear, boundless Lake water, with many large and small Fish within.

This solved their Water Source and Food problems.

However.

What was more important at this moment was to quickly provide treatment for the Injured Officer and Soldier.

Almost every day, hundreds of people died from severe Injuries, causing the temporary crematorium built in the distance to emit Thick Smoke day and night.

For this reason, at the strong Requirement of General Bols, the Emperor in the Imperial Capital still Dispatch two Imperial Arms User who possessed Strategic Class Imperial Arm.

Now that The Empire's Army Unit had suffered heavy losses, if they didn't try their best to save these remaining hundred thousand people, they would truly have no Troops left to use.

At this moment.

As a Large Ship pulled by four Giant Eagles flying down with Rope landed on the Open Ground in the Forest that Bud had specifically ordered cleared.

First, a group of Armored Guards disembarked and set up a perimeter.

Then a young man and woman slowly walked down from the Ship and came before Bud, who looked somewhat dejected.

"Hello, Admiral Bud."

"I am Yin of the Imperial Guard, an Imperial Arms User of 'Asklepios', responsible for treating the Injured here."

"I am Natala, an Imperial Arms User of 'Dimensional Array'. Following His Majesty's Order, I am responsible for sending everyone back to the Imperial Capital Military Camp for recuperation."

The Girl who called herself Yin had her light yellow hair tied in a single ponytail, her blue Eyes were bright like Hoshi, and she held a Wooden Coiled Snake Staff with a distinct ancient Characteristic.

Overall, she looked like a Magical Girl with a slender and graceful Posture and fair, delicate skin.

The other person, a male who introduced himself as Natala, also had medium-length yellow hair, though the color was brighter than the Girl's. His Pupil was a deep lake blue, giving off a very clean Feeling.

"Are you siblings?"

Bud looked at their appearances and asked with Doubt.

He had met the previous generation of Strategic Class Imperial Arms User, but this was his first time meeting the new generation.

Even when they rushed to the Mount Famu Battlefield using 'Dimensional Array' before, they didn't see the Imperial Arms User themselves appear.

Because they only needed to stand on the designated Array, and as soon as the Radiance lit up, they were Teleported to the location in the blink of an Eye.

As for why these two didn't use 'Dimensional Array' but instead traveled by the more primitive 'Airship'.

That requires explaining the Teleportation Principle of the former.

'Dimensional Array: Shangri-La', according to The Empire's official records, is a space-movement type Imperial Arms.

Its Ability is to Teleport the selected people and objects within the 'Eight Trigrams Array' to a Position designated by the Imperial Arms User, but this consumes a large amount of the Imperial Arms User's Stamina, so it cannot be activated continuously.

The key lies in the Condition of the 'designated Position'.

To put it simply, accurate designated Teleportation can only be performed to a place the Imperial Arms User has personally been to and marked with 'The Coordinate'.

Note that 'The Coordinate' can be placed in Mid-air where there are no objects.

In addition, there is also Random Teleportation.

As the name suggests, it Teleports the Target to a place even the Imperial Arms User doesn't know.

However, the Imperial Arms User can activate the Array again within twelve hours, and as long as the Target at the other end is still within the Array's Validity Period, they can be Teleported back the same way.

Finally, it also has a Profound Secret Technique, which is to send the Target to the so-called 'World's End', which is actually somewhere in Outer Space.

As for whether it's the 'End', that is not Understand.

Therefore.

Since Natala had not been here before, if he wanted to quickly Teleport these hundred thousand Troops back near the Imperial Capital, he had to come in person.

"Uh, no, no."

Upon hearing General Bols' words, Yin waved her hands repeatedly, then looped her arm through Natala's, showing a bright Smile, and said openly, "Natala is my boyfriend. I just confessed to him last month!"

"Hehehe."

Natala, on the other hand, blushed slightly out of embarrassment.

"Alright, then please treat my Subordinate as soon as possible. Even now, some might not have held on."

Bud, who was not in a good Mood, didn't pay attention to this and directly stated his Requirement.

"Okay!"

Yin released Natala's arm and became serious in her Attitude: "Please lead the way."

Soon.

Led by Bud, Yin and Natala, accompanied by a group of Military Officers, arrived at the Zone specifically arranged for the Injured.

As soon as they approached this place, the Air was first filled with a strong Smell of Blood, but what was most unbearable were the continuous Scream, wails, and dying groans of Suffering.

Every corner of this place presented a horrific Screen Feed.

Some, as Bud had mentioned earlier, had even lost their Vitality, staring blankly with lifeless Eyes at the Branches and Leaves above and the Sunlight filtering through the gaps.

Yin's Expression turned pale with fright at the Situation here.

As someone who wielded a healing-type Imperial Arms, she had definitely received training in Medicine and had seen her fair share of dead people.

However, the Aura of Despair in this place was simply too thick, and she was still somewhat affected by the Impact on her Spirit.

"I'm counting on you."

At this moment, General Bols said with a calm Expression.

"Okay, luckily there are many Plants here, which saves a lot of trouble."

Yin took a Deep Breathing, then exchanged a Gaze with Natala, which helped her Mindset recover. At the same time, she activated the Imperial Arms in her hand, 'Asclepius'.

[Buzz----]

In an instant, a greenish-blue Radiance bloomed from the Serpent Staff, attracting the surprised Gaze of many Injured nearby.

"Great God of Medicine, please soothe these poor Injured, let their Suffering be relieved and healed..."

Yin was seen slightly closing her Eyes, softly murmuring words similar to a Prayer.

At the same time.

Centered on the Ground beneath her feet, a large amount of crystal-clear Herbaceous Plant quickly grew, flowing with a faint Green Light. Even the surrounding Trees trembled without Wind, scattering Tree Leaves emitting Green Light.

The subsequent changes were even more magical.

With the appearance of the Lawn, the surface of the Injured's skin was also tinged with a shallow Green Light, causing them to instinctively let out comfortable moans, as if their entire Body was soaking in a Hot Spring.

Some people with lighter Injuries could already see their Wound slowly healing, and their Expression was gradually becoming rosy.

As for those with more severe Injuries, they were wrapped by the Trees with Tree Branch, then 'sent' into their Tree Trunk, their entire Body being 'swallowed' inside.

"General Bols, please have people collect those Tree Leaves and give them to the Injured who are further away from here. They can quickly replenish the Human Body's Life Force and help stabilize Injuries!"

Yin said softly to General Bols: "Be sure to pay Attention, these Tree Leaves have a Validity Period of six hours, so the Speed must be fast!"

"Okay!"

Bud responded in a deep voice, while inwardly praising greatly. As expected of a Strategic Class Imperial Arm, this Ability was truly extraordinary. One person was enough to save tens of thousands of Injured.

However, he also knew that Strategic Class Imperial Arm consumed a great deal of Stamina.

Using it on such a large scale, one could at most activate it once or twice a day, so he could Understand Yin's thoughts.

However.

Those with light Injuries could lie on the Lawn for a while and then be replaced by another batch.

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 615: Mingo Returns to Noah's Ark!

The first direct war between the Imperial Army and the World Government Army in the North.

Following Douglas Bullet's use of the 'Ultimate Giant Cannon'.

It ended with the latter undoubtedly achieving a Great Victory, temporarily ended the Prelude.

However, the World Government's losses were also considerable.

The Auxiliary Legion suffered nearly ten thousand casualties, close to a thousand tanks were scrapped, and over two hundred Fighter Aircraft crashed.

Four Flying Warships that had been Renovation into 'Motherships' were also burned by the Fire Dragons using Dragon Breath.

The Air Force Headquarters suffered over three thousand casualties.

Most of these were rank-and-file Soldiers who had not mastered Moonwalk or other Flying Ability and were buried in the Sea of Fire along with the Flying Warships.

The Main Battle Legion of the Army Headquarters.

This time, they also experienced their first significant Combat Loss of over a thousand, even close to two thousand casualties.

This shows that the Imperial Army's Military Advantage and Artillery Advantage should not be underestimated.

Coupled with various High-Grade Danger Beast Troops, Imperial Fist Temple Disciples skilled in Extraordinary Martial Arts, and Beastman Squads comparable to Zoan Ability Users.

These were entirely sufficient to contend with the middle and lower-level Officer and Soldier of the Main Battle Legion.

Among them.

The Fire Wave Sweep created by the previous Imperial Air Force Unit, which were the 'Purgatory Knights' riding Fire Dragons, was the main cause of the greatest casualties.

Personnel below the Officer (Field Grade) rank in the Main Battle Legion found it difficult to survive such a large-scale Flame Attack.

However.

The combined importance of all this was still less significant to the World Government's Command Department than Kaido, who was severely injured.

Kaido had been urgently sent back to the Canberra Continent (Australia) in the Titan World.

Because there was the World Hospital, which hadn't been built long ago.

It was permanently staffed by a Physician Team from the Sea Star Local Medical Academy.

They could provide comprehensive Medical to Officer and Soldier injured in the War at any time.

However, the person serving as the Dean was none other than 'Phoenix' Marco!

This was very interesting.

Although Marco had previously served concurrently as an Intermediate Physician at the Medical Academy, his primary role was still a Vice Admiral at the Air Force Headquarters.

But now, the Primary and Secondary roles in his Identity had reversed.

Although he was still an Air Force Vice Admiral, his main job had become the Dean of the 'Canberra World Hospital'.

At the same time, his Physician Rank had been raised to High Rank.

The reason for this was mainly Marco's own application.

He really didn't seem to like the Life of Conquest in Otherworld.

The World Government initially disagreed.

After all, if Marco was properly cultivated, it wouldn't take much Time and Resources for him to reach Admiral Level Combat Power.

But a certain High and Mighty Existence, after careful Thought, still granted Marco's wish.

Firstly, they felt that the World Government did not currently lack High-End Combatant.

If necessary.

They could completely bring in Edward Newgate and Charlotte Linlin, these two Honorary Admirals.

Secondly.

He had always believed that being good at employing people meant considering a person's Ability and Personality, and then placing them in the appropriate Position.

Therefore, considering Marco's not-so-warlike Personality, his 'Phoenix Blue Flames' Healing Ability, and his Knowledge level in Medicine.

He was indeed the best Choice as a Doctor.

At the same time.

As mentioned before, the Canberra Continent (Australia) in the Titan World is the World Government's Frontline Base Camp for Conquest in Otherworld, so there should indeed be a reliable Medical Expert here.

Marco himself possesses extremely strong Combat Ability, and no matter what Situation arises, there can be no Accident.

So, no matter how you looked at it, there was no more suitable Candidate for Dean than him.

Yes.

Kaido was currently lying on a Hospital Bed receiving Marco's Blue Flame Treatment. Combined with his Monster-like powerful Physique, his Injuries were recovering rapidly every day.

Meanwhile, on the other side of this Titan World.

On Noah's Ark, which was slowly cruising around the World within the Door-Door Fruit's Green Space.

After a few days of Life, Esdeath had basically adapted to the Environment here and her new Identity.

It was just a bit tiring to be severely tormented every few days.

However, she had to admit that Im was indeed very good to her. Every morning at six o'clock, he would teach her Swordsmanship on the Lawn outside.

If she had questions about Martial Arts or Haki, he would also patiently explain.

Even in the Development of the Kirin Fruit, he would provide some very interesting and highly possible ideas.

Esdeath could clearly feel her Strength improving a little almost every day.

Of course.

This should also have a significant relationship with the Injection of the 'Perfect Type-II Cell Strengthening Serum' earlier.

At this moment.

Esdeath and Historia were engaged in a fierce match like a Heavy Rainstorm on a super large Tennis Court that was 47.54 meters long, 21.94 meters wide, with a main Court area reaching 521.5 square meters.

With a series of banging sounds.

The two pushed their respective Speed to the extreme, turning into blurry Afterimages flashing back and forth, while hitting the Tennis Ball, which had long turned into a Golden Beam, back.

The most peculiar thing was that the Court on both sides was filled with various broken Fragments of Frost or White Substance.

Outside the Court.

The Ubuyashiki Four Sisters, Mikasa, Levi, and others were also silently watching.

Meanwhile, Stussy had already gone to the Canberra Continent to help the World Government Transport various large objects such as Warship, Airship, and Fighter Aircraft.

Im sat on a chair, watching the Tennis Duel between the two Heavenly Empresses with great interest.

To be honest.

He had been looking forward to this Scene for a long time.

He had thought before that when he had more Women, for the sake of Safety, he would let them resolve Conflicts through Supernatural Tennis.

After all, mutually killing each other with Real Sword and Gun was indeed not very appropriate.

"Historia's Strength is improving very quickly. Esdeath is clearly not her Opponent now~"

Im evaluated in his Heart.

Since Historia discovered she had no Talent in Swordsmanship, she focused her main energy on the Training/Exercise of Martial Arts and Haki.

Because she herself was Royalty of the Eldians.

So even without transforming into a Giant, she could use some of the Ability of the 'Nine Titans'.

For example, the War Hammer Titan's Hardening Constructs, Body Protection Crystal, the Beast Titan's various Animal Abilities, the Armored Titan's Defensive Armor, the Colossal Titan's Steam Release, etc.

Although the performance in all aspects was not as good as after Titanization, it was generally sufficient.

In addition, Historia had undergone Enhancement of her Total Cell Count very early on.

So her Physical Ability was excellent, even comparable to those Zoan Ability Users.

At the same time.

She was already able to skillfully use various Technique of the Six Powers.

Although she had not reached the level of mastering the 'Six King Gun', she was already comparable to those CIPHER POL Members.

As for Haki, it couldn't be called very Strong, but it was definitely much Stronger than Esdeath, who had only recently learned it.

This directly resulted in Esdeath not scoring a single point so far, being completely suppressed by Historia, even in just a game of Supernatural Tennis.

Suddenly.

Seemingly unwilling to lose the match without scoring a single point.

Esdeath, maintaining her Human-Beast Form, couldn't help but grit her teeth and roar in Anger.

"Maha Padoma!"

Immediately, a pale blue Aura rapidly spread out from her center.

Most things within this range were instantly subjected to Freeze.

Including Historia, who was in motion, and Mikasa and others on the side of the Court.

Clearly, her Armament Haki was not enough to resist this Profound Secret Technique of Esdeath.

"How interesting~"

Im's Corner of Mouth curled up, and he chuckled lightly. Obviously, this Technique had no effect on him whatsoever.

[Bang!]

But Esdeath didn't care. She directly seized this opportunity, hit the Tennis Ball back, and successfully scored her first point.

As for why the Tennis Ball could move in this Environment...

Who knew?

In short, when the Tennis Ball turned into a Golden Flash and flew behind Historia, everything that had been Frozen quickly returned to normal.

This left Historia, holding the Racket wrapped in White Substance, standing frozen in place with a face full of Doubt.

She still didn't Understand what had just happened.

"Lord Im, Commander Clement reports that the Celestial Dragons Donquixote Doflamingo, Lord, has arrived on the Ark's Deck."

At this moment, Ubuyashiki Hinaki walked up to Im and reported softly.

"Then let him come over."

"Yes!"

**Chapter 616: Doflamingo's Challenge Mission!**

"Shichibukai, Donquixote Doflamingo, pays respects to Lord Im!"

Inside the cold and clear Empty Hall.

Im sat upon the Empty Throne on the three-tiered high platform, looking down at Doflamingo kneeling below with his head bowed.

Although there was no mountain-like heavy, invisible Aura this time.

But under the gaze of those Golden Ripple Eyes, the latter still felt a Sense of Urgency like thorns on his back.

However, Doflamingo had long since accepted Im's existence, so he didn't feel any resentment or dissatisfaction.

Instead, he held feelings of gratitude and worship, more or less.

Gratitude was because Lord Im had restored his Celestial Dragon Identity and recognized his Ability, entrusting him with the important task of managing the Maritime Domain.

Doflamingo wasn't interested in making money, but he greatly enjoyed the feeling of controlling thousands of people.

To put it bluntly.

His Control desire was extremely strong, far exceeding that of most people.

Perhaps this was also the reason why he was so compatible with the String-String Fruit.

Of course, it was also possible that the String-String Fruit had a certain influence on him.

As for why he felt worship.

One reason was Im's absolute Strength, and the second was Im's Identity.

These two combined became the most reassuring Support for all Celestial Dragons.

This gave Doflamingo the confidence to face anyone, no matter how powerful.

Finally, there was the existence of the Star Gate.

Doflamingo had already learned from the Five Elders.

The Star Gate was a unique Ability that Im had developed over eight hundred years, by perceiving the Aura of the Cosmic Star Sea.

To be honest, when he first heard this explanation, he was completely stunned.

It took him several minutes to finally digest this information.

Although it was incredible, thinking about the various Abilities of Haki, it didn't seem so strange after all.

One could only say that Lord Im's Haki Realm had reached a level they couldn't possibly imagine.

So, when he was suddenly summoned to Noah's Ark this time, Doflamingo was actually excited in his Heart.

He thought he was finally going to receive a Secret Mission as a Shichibukai.

But Im's very first sentence that followed was like a bucket of cold water poured over his head, making his Heart feel completely cold.

"You are too weak."

"As my Shichibukai, your current Strength and the Speed of your improvement are unsatisfactory."

Im was blunt, pointing out the problems with the other party.

This caused Doflamingo, who was kneeling on the Red Carpet, to flush red with some shame and Anger, but he only dared to press his forehead tightly against the ground.

By nature, a surge of viciousness rose in his Heart, but his strong Rationality suppressed it tightly.

"The Shichibukai are my direct Subordinates. In the Future, you will inevitably face powerful Opponents from the Myriad Worlds. If you are easily defeated because you are too weak, that will be very troublesome for me."

Hearing this, Doflamingo suppressed his shameful and anxious mood.

He gritted his teeth and asked in a low voice, "Then, Lord Im's meaning is...?"

He thought Im wanted to remove him from the Shichibukai.

This was something he couldn't accept, and it was an extremely humiliating Matter.

"Since you are weak, then make yourself Strong. Isn't that a matter of course?"

In Im's view, Doflamingo had Potential.

His Control over Conqueror's Haki and his Development of the String-String Fruit Ability were excellent, but his shortcomings lay in his Martial Arts and Two Colors of Haki levels.

Since the problem was known, the solution was to strengthen those areas specifically.

"So that's it, phew—"

Doflamingo understood Im's meaning, and his Heart immediately relaxed. His shame and anger also returned to calmness.

"For now, ignore external matters. You will stay here and improve your Strength."

As soon as Im finished speaking.

The Main Gate of the Empty Hall was seen being slowly pushed open by the two 'Giant God Soldiers' guarding outside, Oimo and Kashi.

Doflamingo, who had already gotten up, turned his head to look.

He saw four more 'Giant God Soldiers' wearing Golden Blood-Patterned Armor walking in, two by two in a row.

They were Surtr, the Fire Giant, a Logia System Flame-Flame Fruit User.

Utgard, the Frost Giant, a Logia System Snow-Snow Fruit User.

Brogy, the Disaster Giant, a Zoan Snake-Snake Fruit, Mythical Type: Yamata no Orochi Form User.

And Dorry, the Thunder Giant, who had just eaten the Logia System Plasma-Plasma Fruit a few days ago.

This Plasma-Plasma Fruit was a Devil Fruit that Red Count Redfield had accidentally found in the North Blue.

After Im heard about it, he directly ordered the Five Elders to send it to the Ark, and then gave it to Dorry.

Actually, he had initially considered giving the Mythical Zoan Kirin Fruit to Dorry, just to pair him up with his Partner Brogy.

But later, after hearing about Esdeath, he directly dismissed this idea and kept the Kirin Fruit for her.

Because according to the records in the Devil Fruit Encyclopedia, the Ability of the Kirin Fruit was to Control Ice and Snow, fly by stepping on clouds, and also provide a high increase in Speed.

Once the Ability Awakening occurred, it would gain an additional Ability to Control Lightning.

Im felt that these Abilities had a high match with Esdeath.

Moreover, there was already a Frost Giant among the 'Giant God Soldiers', so there was really no need for a second Ice/Snow Type Ability User.

As for Dorry's Plasma-Plasma Fruit, it was a lower-tier Fruit compared to the Rumble-Rumble Fruit.

Although it didn't have the lightning-fast Speed and deafening Thunder of the latter, it could transform the Body into a dangerous High Temperature plasma mass.

Coupled with the Giant Tribe's massive Body Size, once Element Transformation was used, its Power would be extraordinary.

"They are your Challenge Opponents from now on. When you defeat these four 'Giant God Soldiers', you will leave the Ark to carry out new Missions for me!"

Looking up at these four 'Golden Giants' with formidable Aura, Doflamingo's Corner of Mouth twitched, and a strong feeling of foreboding began to rise in his Heart.

"Lord Im, when you say 'defeat', do you mean I should defeat them one by one, or defeat them when they team up?"

"As you like, just defeat them."

Im showed a playful Expression, raised his Right Hand, and rested his Chin on the Throne, saying, "However, if you can defeat them when they team up, I will be happier~"

"..."

Doflamingo was speechless, a string of Black Line appeared on his head. These words directly left him with no room for Choice.

Defeating four 'Giant God Soldiers' who were clearly Stronger than Giant Vice Admirals by himself.

If he could do that, his Strength would probably have reached Admiral Level Combat Power, right?

He suddenly felt that he would be staying here for a very long Time.

"Oh, right, let's add a Time Limit."

But then Im spoke again, saying words that made Doflamingo's mood even heavier.

"You are twenty years old this year, so complete this Challenge before you turn twenty-five."

"If you fail by then, your Shichibukai Identity will be revoked, and you will spend your entire life managing the Maritime Industry on the World."

Doflamingo's face stiffened, and he clenched his fists tightly.

He knew this was equivalent to deciding his Future. No matter what, at most, he would just be a Sea Transport King on the Sea Star Mainland.

As for higher Status, greater Power and Influence, and a more exciting stage, none of that would have anything to do with him.

"I respectfully obey... Lord Im's Divine Oracle..."

# Chapter 617: Encounter of Two Protagonists!

Imperial Arms World, The Empire's Imperial Capital.

As the news of the great defeat in the Mount Fam Battle spread, the entire Imperial Capital Area fell into a state of panic.

No one expected The Empire's Great Army, which had gathered over 600,000 Military Strength, to be wiped out so quickly.

Because of this, the public opinion that the World Government was invincible and that the entire World was about to be conquered by Otherworlders grew increasingly fervent.

At this moment.

Within the Imperial Palace, which existed in the Eight Gates Golden Lock space.

The current Emperor was solemnly reviewing the Battle Situation Intelligence on the table in Xuanshi Hall.

With each page he finished reading, the worry in his Gaze deepened, and his brows furrowed further.

This made the Atmosphere in the room extremely heavy and serious.

It wasn't until he let out a long sigh that the gazes of The Empire's Higher-ups, such as Najenda, Saul, and Gozuchi, were raised again.

"General Bulat died in battle, his Remains are missing, and General Esdeath is missing, her fate unknown. Fortunately, we still have General Bols who can hold up the Military's banner, otherwise, I truly wouldn't know what to do."

The Emperor, who was nearing middle age, put down the Document in his hand and sighed, rubbing his temples with a slightly weary look.

"Your Majesty, we previously attempted to use the Divination Ability of the Divination Tortoise Shell to ascertain General Esdeath's whereabouts and situation, but the result was failure."

Najenda said softly, "There are two possibilities for this. One is that she is already dead, and the Divination Tortoise Shell is ineffective on her. The second is that she may have gone to Other Worlds, so..."

"Died in battle or captured?"

Gozuchi shook his Head and said coldly, "Neither is a good Matter, especially the latter. General Esdeath knows quite a few of The Empire's Confidential matters."

"Since the Matter has already happened, there's no point in discussing it further."

Regent Saul stepped forward and Respectfully said to the Emperor, "Your subject believes the top priority now is to consider how The Empire should respond to the threat from the North."

"Now the Fact has proven that our High-End Combatants are far inferior to the enemy. General Bols and the others can at most contend with a Vice Admiral of that World Government. In that case, what we can rely on now seems to be only the remaining three Five Paths Revolving Furnaces."

How could the few people present not understand this Principle?

But even if they knew, what could they do?

"Then your meaning is..."

The Emperor looked at him calmly, while also considering whether to tell them about the Supreme Imperial Arm.

Or perhaps directly bring out the Supreme Imperial Arm and then spread the Legend of the Supreme Imperial Arm outside.

This would at least significantly restore the Morale of everyone in The Empire.

However, doing so would mean revealing all the Trump Cards in his hand.

"Your subject suggests that while the deterrence of the two rapidly fired Five Paths Revolving Furnaces has not yet dissipated, we dispatch the Diplomatic Corps to communicate with the other side and see if the problem can be resolved through Negotiation."

Regent Saul's words were actually quite tactful.

The Empire's Strength was clearly inferior to the World Government's now. Continuing to fight offered no Hope of Victory.

It would be better to talk with the other side while they still had some Trump Cards.

Even paying a Price would be acceptable, or choosing to surrender or something, as long as The Empire's National Structure could be preserved.

"Indeed, this is not a bad Method..." Minister of Finance Ezra nodded in agreement.

"Sigh, alright, let's do that. Have the Ministry of Foreign Affairs dispatch a Delegation. Since the other side's organization name is 'World Government', they likely won't refuse such Communication."

The Emperor considered for a moment and agreed, but Najenda raised an objection.

"But won't the Alchemy Kingdom and the Shenhe Island Nation view our actions as betrayal? Shouldn't we discuss it with them first?"

"This..."

Regent Saul and Minister of Finance Ezra looked at each other.

"Right, we should inform them. I will personally write the letter!"

The Emperor stood Up and looked at the golden Sky outside the window, thinking to himself.

"If I activate the Supreme Imperial Arm and join forces with the Stigma Alchemists in the West and the Divine Harmony Sword Saint in the East, and coordinate with those few Five Paths Revolving Furnaces, perhaps it can make that World Government feel apprehension and restrain their posture somewhat during Negotiation..."

At the same time, he really wanted to know, between the Supreme Imperial Arm and the other side's Admirals, who was Stronger and who was weaker?

[Thump thump thump!]

Suddenly, the Door, which logically shouldn't have been disturbed, was knocked upon. Even if someone were to come, they should have been announced by a Eunuch first, unless it was the Imperial Guard...

When the person walked in, as expected, it was the Imperial Guard Commander, Kurome.

"Your Majesty, the Du Gate has suffered a strong Attack from the enemy and is currently engaged in battle with our Imperial Guard!"

As soon as she entered, she delivered news that shocked everyone.

Gozuchi was furious: "How audacious! They actually dare to directly attack our doorstep?"

"However, since the other side chose to attack the Du Gate, it means they still don't know the location of the Life Gate. This is quite reassuring..."

Najenda keenly noticed this Detail.

Indeed, finding the correct Entrance/Exit among the eight gates was quite difficult.

"What is the Situation now?" the Emperor asked in a deep voice.

"It's severe. According to the Intelligence from the front, the Attacker can release purple-white poison gas. As soon as it's inhaled into the body, one quickly falls into a Coma. It should be the same person who assassinated Governor Numa!"

Hearing Kurome's words, Gozuchi raised an eyebrow.

"That Logia-type Devil Fruit User? In that case, our subordinates won't be able to deal with him at all."

After speaking, he asked the Emperor for permission: "Your subject requests to go into battle and capture this audacious Assassin!"

Yes.

After so many days of unremitting effort, Gozuchi, Commander of 'Oarberg', had finally mastered Armament Haki.

This gave him great confidence.

Mainly, these people still didn't know that Haki also had strengths and weaknesses.

Although there were those with Exceptional Talent who could defeat more experienced Haki Experts.

But generally speaking, people who had mastered Haki for longer definitely had a stronger total amount and quality of Haki than beginners.

But Kurome said, "No need. Our Imperial Guard has already sent people over. Calculating the Time, they should already be engaged in battle now."

"Oh?"

"Besides you in your Imperial Guard, are there others who have mastered the power of Haki?"

Gozuchi looked at her in surprise.

"Hmph, although I really don't want to admit it, that guy's Strength is indeed a bit stronger than me. If even he is not an Opponent, then there's no point in you going!"

Kurome's blunt words made Gozuchi's Expression turn ashen.

At the same time.

The location of the Du Gate on the outer perimeter of the Imperial Palace was indeed in Chaos at this moment. However, what was most eye-catching was still the thick Purple-White Mist filling the Air.

As mentioned before, the Imperial Capital had built City Walls and City Gates around each of the 'Eight Gates' and arranged heavy troops to guard them.

But now, within this small fortress-like Barbican, lay all sorts of Personnel.

There were Imperial Guard armored soldiers holding spears, Imperial Fist Temple Disciples in yellow clothes and black belts, and even 'Beastman Warriors' like Humanoid Monsters, as well as black Giant Eagles.

This caused the troops outside the Fortress to hesitate to rush in, even though the City Gate was wide open.

They could only watch helplessly as the two figures inside flashed rapidly in the environment shrouded in purple smoke, and amidst their crossing and Collision, the clanging sounds of intense battle rang out.

[Clang!]

The two sides collided heavily once again. At the moment their Blades met, bright Sparks burst forth, illuminating two very young faces.

"I really didn't expect to actually encounter an Imperial Expert who can use Armament Haki and Observation Haki."

Mima Amatori said, while using his Long Sword to block the opponent's Blade, looking in surprise at the Opponent close at hand. Then he revealed a handsome Smile.

"Even if I ask you, you wouldn't tell me how you learned Haki, right? Then, may I know your name? My name is Mima Amatori, from the 'Kabaneri World'. And you?"

He saw the Opponent squinting his crimson eyes, revealing a pair of sharp canine teeth in his mouth, and replied calmly.

"Tatsumi, Imperial Guard of The Empire."

As soon as he finished speaking, the 'Water Dragon Sword' in his hand knocked away Mima Amatori's Long Saber, which was covered in glowing blood patterns because a layer of 'Kabaneri Heart Membrane' was attached to it.

In an instant, he once again swung out layers of Sword Light and attacked...

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 618: Biba Amatori VS Tatsumi!

This encounter was highly dramatic.

Tatsumi, who was the Protagonist in the 'Canon', was indeed affected by the overall environment of the Imperial Arms World, and his Fate underwent a huge change.

From a Member of the Revolutionary Army's 'Night Raid' Team aiming to overthrow The Empire, he became a Member of the 'Imperial Guard Unit' whose Duty was to protect the Emperor.

But what was his Imperial Arms?

The Sword in his hand wasn't strange; it was the sword-type Ministerial Arms, 'Water Dragon Sword'.

Its Function was to activate and grant the User a significant Enhancement in overall Combat Power, meaning all aspects of Physical Ability, for three minutes.

However, after three minutes, the Body would become abnormally fatigued, making it a decisive move for Victory or Defeat.

Of course, because this Sword was a Ministerial Arms, its material itself was very outstanding. Ordinary Blades would break after only a few Collision with it.

Coupled with his astonishing Talent in Swordsmanship and Combat.

Although he didn't have 'Demon Armor Transformation', the Imperial Arms most compatible with him, his current Strength had already reached the Peak Level of this World.

However, Tatsumi's Opponent was no ordinary person.

Biba Amatori.

The current Cipher Pol 9 Member of the World Government, the first Otherworlder to join the World Government and step onto the World. In the 'Kabaneri World', he was equivalent to the villain Big Boss who almost destroyed 'Hinamoto'.

More than three years have passed since the World Government's Conquest of the 'Kabaneri World', and he is no longer the same as he was then.

That year, he resolutely abandoned the Virus Power of the 'Kabaneri World', spending a large amount of Merit to exchange for the 'Perfect Type-I Cell Reinforcement Serum'.

Afterward, he diligently underwent Training for his Physical Ability, practiced Martial Arts and Swordsmanship, and finally, relying on his firm Will and Desire for Strength, successfully mastered the Extraordinary Martial Arts 'Six Powers' and 'Serpent Breathing'.

He was also the first Otherworlder to learn 'Six Powers' and the first to learn 'Armament Haki' and 'Observation Haki'.

Since then.

He also achieved an excellent result of sixth place in the 'First Myriad Worlds Top 100 Combat Power Tournament' previously held by the World Government.

Not only did he obtain a Bounty as high as six hundred million Berry, but he also successfully obtained the Logia-type Devil Fruit he had always dreamed of, becoming a Logia User in his Heart, comparable to a Deity!

And the Weapon in Biba Amatori's hand was the Long Saber his Father, Koukyuu Amatori, personally gave him when he was fourteen and about to lead a Great Army of 400,000 to Kyushu Island to clear out the Kabaneri World.

Only later did he wrap a layer of 'Kabaneri Heart Membrane' around the Blade.

In recent years, neither the Meito of the World, the Nichirin Blade of the 'Demon Slayer World', nor the Half-Blade Sword of the 'Titan World' had made him consider changing his Weapon.

Unless this Long Saber, which he named 'Amatori', breaks one day...

"Serpent Breathing, Poison Serpent Nest Constriction!"

In the small city filled with Purple Qi, Biba Amatori's Figure rapidly circled around Tatsumi.

At the same time, a large purple-white Orochi formed out of thin Air following the trajectory of his Blade, wrapping the latter in the center and launching a fierce Nest Constriction.

Upon closer inspection.

This large Orochi was not just a Phantom Image created by the 'Breathing Style', but a 'Poisonous Snake' with a true Physical Entity, centered around Gas.

Biba Amatori had long discovered that the Gas from the Gas-Gas Fruit, although it appeared to be a mass of Gas, could also possess Substance if he willed it, turning into various 'Objects' like Rope and Shield Wall.

It was incredible, but it was also a Fact, so he could only attribute it to the Extraordinary Power of the Devil Fruit.

Therefore, he combined the Gas he manufactured with the Serpent Breathing Sword Technique, forming his own unique set of 'Poison Serpent Series' Sword Technique, and no longer referred to them by Form numbers.

Tatsumi felt the Strength squeezing from all sides, but no anxious emotions arose in his Heart. His mind remained with exceptional Calmness.

While calculating the remaining Oxygen content in his Body, his Figure moved like lightning, continuously dodging the 'Orochi Head's' bites.

At the same time, he rapidly swung the 'Water Dragon Sword', which was Coated with a layer of Armament Haki. In an instant, Vacuum Blade cut the surrounding 'Orochi Body' into several pieces.

Simultaneously, the Energy Blade whipped up a fierce Gale, blowing away the nearby Gas.

Tatsumi seized this opportunity, transforming into an Afterimage and leaping backward. In the process, he quickly breathed to gain a large amount of Oxygen for himself.

Although the Gas from the Gas-Gas Fruit was terrifying in all aspects, its overly distinct color made it easy to distinguish whether there was Gas in the Air.

Tatsumi keenly noticed this point and utilized it.

"Shave!"

However, Biba Amatori wouldn't give him much time to relax. In the blink of an Eye, he crossed dozens of meters and appeared behind Tatsumi.

"Serpent Breathing, Poison Fang!"

As the Blade swung out, another thick, long purple 'Poisonous Snake' coiled its winding Serpent Body and bit towards Tatsumi's back neck.

But this had little Effect on Tatsumi, who also possessed Observation Haki. His Figure suddenly lowered by a section, causing the 'Poisonous Snake's' bite to fly over his head.

Immediately after, he twisted his waist and kicked fiercely backward with a Sweeping Leg.

At the same time, the 'Water Dragon Sword' in his hand also moved with the action, horizontally slashing out circles of Scythe-like Vacuum Blade. His entire being transformed into a dangerous 'Whirlwind'.

Biba Amatori facing a Counterattack of such Power, had to actively use Element Transformation, quickly turning into purple Gas and retreating backward.

"Explode!"

But how could someone with such deep schemes retreat so easily? As he moved, he simultaneously spat out purple Gas pillars from his mouth and pulled out a Lighter, throwing it towards Tatsumi.

When the two met in Mid-air, *Boom boom boom boom!*

Instantly.

Intense Hikari and continuous Explosion turned into a surging Sea of Fire, engulfing Tatsumi. This earth-shattering huge sound caused the Imperial Army outside to change Expression drastically.

"Eh, we clearly agreed to just infiltrate and perform Investigation, yet they caused such a big Commotion..."

One kilometer away, on the Rooftop of a three-story residential building within the Imperial Capital Area, Yasopp watched the Ball of Fire rising in the distance through his Sniper Rifle and complained helplessly.

He had actually noticed that Biba Amatori was somewhat arrogant, especially proud of his Identity as a Logia User.

Not only did he often spout the word 'Deity', but he also treated those without Armament Haki with a condescending Attitude and tone.

However, he also possessed a noble demeanor, and his superficial politeness was done very well, so it wasn't difficult for people to accept.

Meanwhile.

In the small city where the 'Du The Gate' was located, when all the Explosion and Flame dissipated, the Gas in the Air was actually almost consumed, replaced by wisps of Thick Smoke.

"Hmm?"

Biba Amatori narrowed his Eyes, looking in surprise at Tatsumi gradually appearing from the Thick Smoke.

"You are..."

At this moment, Tatsumi was half-kneeling on the Ground, his clothes tattered, and his skin covered in bright red Scar.

But these Injuries were rapidly recovering at a visible Speed as he gnawed on the neck of an Imperial Fist Temple Disciple in his arms, and his entire Body was also visibly becoming stronger.

When the Body of that Imperial Fist Temple Disciple turned gray and thin, Tatsumi retracted his two blood-stained sharp canine teeth, then placed the person back on the Ground and slowly stood up.

Biba Amatori immediately sensed that Tatsumi's Aura had become even more powerful than before.

This caused him to blurt out the term that surfaced in his mind...

"Vampire?"

Thank you very much to the reader who tipped 549 Qidian Coin! *Bow!* Thank you for your Support and Encouragement!

(End of this chapter)