One Piece: Wielder of the Void

Chapter 220: 220. CP



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Several CP officers wandered the streets of the Tru Empire, quietly observing the nation. Yet, aside from the numerous factories dotting the landscape, they found nothing particularly unusual. Everything seemed routine, even mundane.

"There's no need to investigate further. Let's move. Their representatives are already waiting for us," said a tall, thin man in a pristine white mask. His tone was serious, leaving no room for discussion.

"But boss, we haven't completed the mission assigned by HQ. What are we supposed to report when we return?" asked a man wearing a smiling mask.

"Do you really think they'd let us uncover all their secrets?" the tall man replied sharply. "The Tru Empire's boldness in resisting speaks volumes about their capabilities. There's no point in further probing. Our priority now is to head to the palace and state our intentions."

"And if they refuse to cooperate?" asked another masked man, his face adorned with intricate patterns.

"We'll deal with that when the time comes," the leader said coldly. "For now, our orders are clear: no unnecessary provocations. This isn't like other nations. These people might actually retaliate. Be cautious."

The group, previously tasked with investigating the disappearance of CP2 agents suspected to be linked to the Tru Empire had no solid evidence to act upon.

With the situation unresolved, the tall man reiterated his warning to his subordinates.

"What are you afraid of?" the smiling-masked man scoffed. "Do you think they'd dare attack us?"

"I'm not saying they will, but it's best not to push them too far," the leader countered. "We have three objectives here: investigate their military training facilities, locate their shipyards, and persuade them to join the World Government. Anything beyond that is outside our jurisdiction."

"How boring," muttered the patterned-mask man. "We can't handle this like we do in other nations. I don't understand how the Tru Empire suddenly became so powerful."

"Exactly! Why are we handling this mission anyway? Shouldn't CP4 be dealing with these matters?" grumbled the smiling-masked man.

As they argued, a figure approached from the front a masked individual with a braided hairstyle and an eccentric demeanour. Judging by their attire, it was difficult to discern their identity.

Bounding toward the group, the braided figure exclaimed with excitement, "This place is amazing! The food here is to die for! Boss, if we could control the king of this country, wouldn't we get to enjoy this every day?"

The outburst annoyed the others, who frowned at the speaker's flippant attitude. The tall leader's gaze, cold and piercing through his mask, silenced the braided figure.

"Watch your words," the leader warned sternly. "Do you think your status as a CP operative makes you invincible? If you weren't part of the World Government, you'd likely never leave this country alive after saying such things."

"Hah! Boss, when did you become so timid?" the braided figure mocked.

"Your boss is right." A calm but authoritative voice interrupted. Suddenly, Admiral Fujitora emerged, seemingly from nowhere, his cane tapping the ground as he approached. His navy blue and black uniform gave him an imposing presence, and his expression was devoid of humour.

The braided man's smug grin vanished instantly, and even the tall leader tensed. None of them had noticed Fujitora's arrival despite their heightened Observation of Haki. The admiral's silent approach unnerved them.

"Welcome to the Tru Empire," Fujitora said politely. "But this is not the place for discussions. Please accompany me to the palace." His tone was composed, but the gravity of his words was undeniable.

He then directed an intense wave of pressure an overwhelming display of Conqueror's Haki toward the braided figure. "When in the Tru Empire, respect its laws. Speak and act within their boundaries. Your strength may carry weight elsewhere, but here, it means nothing."

The tall leader quickly intervened, attempting to smooth things over. "General Fujitora personally greeting us is an honour. Rest assured, we will abide by your laws. We'll conduct ourselves appropriately while in your country."

Fujitora's stern demeanor softened slightly. "Good. Follow me."

The group followed the General, their destination clearly in sight: the royal palace, a structure that loomed magnificently over the prosperous capital.

Although the palace had expanded significantly in recent years, its grandeur remained imposing.

The CP agents had no choice but to comply. Fujitora's presence left them with no room to refuse. As they neared the gates, the tall leader reflected on the mission's precarious nature, silently resolving to tread carefully in this enigmatic and powerful nation.

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