One Piece: Wielder of the Void

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Within a short time, Fujitora had led the group to an unexpected location. This was not the royal palace; they were now hundreds of kilometres away from the capital of the Tru Empire.

The transition was seamless. As soon as they entered the palace, a completely transparent doorway had transported them to a desolate area.

This arrangement had been meticulously planned by Anos.

The goal was clear if a conflict arose, it should not jeopardize the nation's security. Bringing the group to an uninhabited location was the safest option.

Despite their entry into the palace moments ago, the group now found themselves in a barren landscape.

For miles around, there wasn't a single trace of civilization just an empty, deserted island.

"General Fujitora, what is the meaning of this?"

The tall, thin CP officer spoke, his expression a mixture of shock and disbelief.

The others shared similar reactions, their unease evident as they tried to make sense of the sudden change.

Fujitora, calm as ever, replied in a measured tone. "Do not worry. This location is simply more appropriate for us to discuss certain matters."

The braided CP agent laughed, his tone mocking. "What an impressive trick! Instantly transporting us such a distance is this a Devil Fruit ability, or some advanced technology? Truly fascinating!"

Ignoring the man's taunts, Fujitora directed his attention to the tall, thin officer. His expression grew serious. "Now that you're here, state the purpose of your visit to the Tru Empire. What does the World Government seek from us?"

The officer didn't mince words. "Our mission is to formally invite your nation to join the World Government."

Fujitora smirked faintly, unperturbed. "Joining the World Government isn't out of the question. However, His Majesty, King Anos, has outlined three non-negotiable conditions:

1. The Tru Empire must be recognized as a first-class allied nation, exempt from paying the Heavenly Tribute, and granted exclusive, unrestricted access to the Red Line and New World territories. Any ship flying our flag must pass without interference.

2. All commercial vessels bearing our flag must receive priority Marine protection in times of need.

3. The World Government must share the technology for navigating the Calm Belt using Seastone-coated ships.

Beyond these conditions, neither the World Government nor the Marines are permitted to interfere in the internal affairs of the Tru Empire. Should these terms be unacceptable, there is no need for further discussion. The Tru Empire does not rely on the World Government to thrive."

As Fujitora spoke, the braided CP agent began darting around behind him, testing the admiral's rumoured blindness. His antics escalated until, without warning, Fujitora drew his cane sword.

With a flick of his blade and the power of the Zushi Zushi no Mi (Gravity Fruit), the braided man was slammed into the ground, creating a deep crater. It was unclear whether he survived.

The abrupt display of force heightened the group's tension. Even the tall, thin officer now stood on high alert, despite his composed facade.

"My apologies, General Fujitora," the tall officer said, bowing slightly. "I will discipline my subordinate appropriately. Regarding your conditions, I lack the authority to make such decisions. I will, however, report them to my superiors. As for this behaviour, I take full responsibility."

Fujitora released the pressure, sheathing his blade. The braided man climbed out of the crater moments later, seemingly unscathed and ready to retaliate.

Before he could act, the tall officer intervened, striking him with a precise kick that sent him skidding across the barren ground, leaving a long trench in his wake.

Despite the punishment, the braided man sprang to his feet again, his resilience unnerving even Fujitora.

"Is this man immortal?" Fujitora wondered, observing the strange ability at play. It was clear this was no ordinary durability perhaps the result of a Devil Fruit.

The tall officer, maintaining his composure, turned back to Fujitora. "Once again, my sincerest apologies for my subordinate's behaviour. However, regarding the Tru Empire's demands, I cannot promise anything. I will relay them to the higher-ups. Ultimately, the decision is not mine to make."

Fujitora studied him carefully, noting the officer's uncharacteristically respectful demeanour. It was unusual for agents of Cipher Pol to show such restraint; they were notorious for their arrogance.

But the tension shifted abruptly when the officer asked, "General Fujitora, I must inquire where did the Tru Empire train its tens of thousands of soldiers?"

Fujitora's expression hardened. "The military operations of the Tru Empire are classified. No comment."

Unfazed, the officer pressed on. Meanwhile, another agent, who had been silent until now, moved swiftly toward Fujitora.

The man, wearing a pristine white mask, attempted to make physical contact with

Fujitora.

Sensing the intrusion, Fujitora drew his blade again, unleashing a wave of gravitational force that distorted the space around them.

Yet, the masked man was unnaturally quick, managing to briefly touch Fujitora before retreating.

In that instant, Fujitora's perception wavered. A haze clouded his mind an illusion.

The tall, thin officer's demeanour shifted, his tone turning smug. "Hohoho... Truly formidable. If you weren't blind, my associate here, the 'Water Cat,' would have ensnared you in his illusion long ago. Even so, it seems our efforts are not entirely wasted."

Fujitora steadied himself, gripping his cane sword tightly. He could feel the subtle effects of the illusion but was already working to counter it.

The battle of wits and willpower between the Tru Empire and the World Government had only just begun.

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