https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1302-The-Strongest-Navy-of-All-Generations/13542670/
https://novelcool.info/chapter/Chapter-1304-Grand-Line-Safety-That-s-My-Priority/13542701/
Chapter 1303: Why Don't You Just Carry Me to the Throne!
Chapter 1303: Why Don’t You Just Carry Me to the Throne!
Whether Sakazuki succeeds or fails doesn’t really affect the Five Elders, but the member states have strong opinions. The World Summit is the stage where these member states flex their influence. Especially the newly crowned King Conqueror David, who practically jumped with excitement when hearing the news about replacing the Fleet Admiral. As the biggest contributor to Heavenly Gold and a formidable power personally chosen by Kuro, he naturally wants Kuro to take that position.
Member states are crucial to the World Government—they’re the ones paying taxes. The Navy’s operational funds and Heavenly Gold all come from their coffers. The two-year Navy expedition drained them financially, and now the war is stuck in a stalemate while their own territories face internal issues. Of course they’re panicking.
If the World Government falls, they’ll stop paying taxes altogether. Without funds, how can the Navy operate? How can Heavenly Gold be collected?
That’s why the World Government must heed the member states’ opinions. Otherwise, there wouldn’t be a World Summit every four years. During these meetings, they decide the world’s direction—including Fleet Admiral appointments. They originally selected Sakazuki, though they can’t fully dictate the choice. Still, they’ve always had a say.
Now that they favor Kuro and Sakazuki has failed, the decision seems natural. But their main concern remains Shirahoshi.
The Sea King Poseidon being a mermaid princess was unexpected. They initially thought it was a weapon, but now it’s clear this is far more complex. If pirates control it, the Grand Line is doomed.
They must end the war before that happens. Ideally, they’d eliminate the key players directly.
“Prepare then. Your inauguration ceremony will come soon,” said the Bearded Elder.
Kuro took a deep breath. “We’ll discuss this. Sakazuki can’t step down, but I’ll end this war quickly—Luffy, Marshall D. Teach, I’ll deal with them all at once.”
The Curly-Haired Elderly Man replied coolly, “That’s your duty. Understand your challenges, but this is an order. Dismissed.”
Kuro saw the old men had already turned away, realizing there was no room for negotiation. After a silent moment, he left.
Once Kuro vanished, the elders exchanged glances.
“Why’s he so reluctant to become Fleet Admiral?” the Red-Skinned Elder murmured.
“He fears criticism. This guy cares more about his reputation than we do,” the Bearded Elder said. “Sakazuki’s injured and defeated, but if he steps down immediately for Kuro, others will judge him harshly.”
“But it’s our decision. He’ll handle it. What matters is I’m confident he’ll end this war swiftly,” the Curly-Haired Elderly Man added.
“Poseidon… has already emerged?”
The Map Elder sighed. “The world’s balance is gone. These ‘firebrands’ igniting chaos burn brighter every day. Our job is to extinguish them.”
“Damn! Damn! Damn!”
Kuro stormed out, cursing under his breath. He’d come to question the elders about the sudden decision, only to be forced into becoming Fleet Admiral.
Sakazuki’s been Fleet Admiral for just a few years!
Already replacing him? They didn’t even ask if he could handle it!
Fuming, he marched forward when a voice interrupted.
“Hey! What’re you doing here?”
Kuro turned to see Luo Wei.
“You’re Navy, right? Why’re you always hanging around Mariejois? You’re just an Admiral, not Fleet Admiral,” Luo Wei asked, genuinely curious. Whether he hides his identity or not, officially he’s only an Admiral. How does he roam Mariejois like it’s his home?
“None of your damn business!” Kuro snapped. “Go plan a meaningful meeting instead—like convincing others not to replace the Fleet Admiral!”
“Oh? You know about it?” Luo Wei blinked, smirking. “I supported the proposal. You as Fleet Admiral beats some unknown face. Everyone trusts you, and it benefits us later.”
Kuro’s eyes narrowed. “You backed it too? Who else?”
“Lord!!” A voice rang out behind Luo Wei, full of excitement. “Lord, you’re here!”
It was David.
“I told you not to call me ‘Lord’—you’re involved too, aren’t you?” Kuro glared.
“Huh?” David looked confused.
“Did you support the Fleet Admiral proposal?” Kuro asked.
“I didn’t.”
Kuro relaxed—until Luo Wei added, “He’s the main instigator.”
“You—!” Kuro’s finger trembled as he pointed at them. “You’ve gotta be kidding me! You think this is an accident?”
“Surprised? Delighted?” Luo Wei grinned. “Hey, you’re Fleet Admiral now! Remember to make my sister an Admiral candidate. I won’t push for Admiral—her strength isn’t there yet. Letting a young girl get into bloody fights? Admiral candidate’s safer.”
“I’ll surprise you—!” Kuro bit back a curse, his temple throbbing. “Why are you guys doing this? Messing with nearby nations is one thing, but why drag me into this? I don’t wanna be Fleet Admiral!”
He jabbed a finger upward, pointing at the distant throne atop the staircase—a throne protected by countless blades. “Why don’t you just carry me to that throne already!”
He stood exactly where the World Government’s symbol loomed: the throne hall, where blades’ intent symbolized countless member states, yet the throne itself remained empty.
“Perfect! That empty seat’s been gathering dust. Since you’re so capable, let me sit there! What a joke!”
Kuro spat at the two and shoved past Luo Wei, storming out.
“What’s his problem?” Luo Wei frowned. “Becoming Fleet Admiral should be good, right? Isn’t he closer to his goal?”
“Closer, but not there yet,” David mused, staring at the empty throne. “Did you hear Lord’s words? He said this position… seems vacant.”
Luo Wei paled, glancing at the throne. Cold sweat dripped as he whispered, “Hey, don’t joke. If someone takes that seat, it’ll be terrifying.”
“That’s not the point. Our studies teach us never to oversimplify. Whether it’s occupied or not, our plan continues. Most importantly—” David’s voice darkened. “Lord is already impatient.”
(End of Chapter)
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