One Piece: Wielder of the Void

----

After hearing Fujitora's words, the tall and thin man realized that since the other party was willing to compromise, there was no need to press the matter further.

'More importantly, how had Fujitora escaped the power of time just now?' This puzzled the tall and thin man even more.

The only logical conclusion was that his temporal ability could not completely trap the two individuals. Perhaps there were hidden factors at play that he could not foresee.

Under his mask, the tall and thin man licked his lips nervously and reluctantly retrieved a Den Den Mushi from his coat. 'Who should he contact in this situation?'

After a brief hesitation, the tall and thin man stepped forward and said, "The higher-ups have agreed to your terms. The World Economic News will be informed to recognize the Tru Empire as a first-level affiliate nation of the World Government."

"You will be exempt from the Heavenly Tribute, and we will open a direct passage through the Red Line for your ships. Vessels flying the flag of the Tru Empire will have unrestricted access. However, Haki-sea stone technology will not be shared."

Fujitora remained composed and responded, "We will wait for confirmation in the World Economic News. As for the rest, ensure you fulfil your obligations."

Fujitora's calm demeanour left no room for negotiation. He made it clear that the technology of seastone was of secondary importance. His control over the power of gravity meant the Tru Empire could hold its own, regardless.

"Wait!" the tall and thin man suddenly called out as Fujitora and Abona began to leave.

"The power of time has its limits," he continued. "While it may shield us momentarily from Abona's attacks, the meteorites above us are a different matter entirely. They will still destroy us."

"What more do you want to say?" Abona turned back, his expression cold. "We are patient and in no rush. Take your time and think it through."

The tall and thin man hesitated before admitting, "We cannot give you sea stone technology. I don't know how you obtained information about it, but even if we were to die here, that technology would never be leaked. If you have any other reasonable demands, I will relay them to my superiors."

"Are you certain?" Fujitora asked, his piercing gaze focused on the man.

"Yes. As long as your request is reasonable, I will do my best to communicate it," the tall man replied.

Abona snorted, "That teammate of yours is on the brink of death, yet you refuse to compromise. The dignity of the Tru Empire cannot be trampled upon. As a general of the Tru Empire, I can assure you we do not need your seastone technology. But he—" Abona gestured toward the injured man in the white mask, "—cannot afford to lose this opportunity."

The tall man, sensing his precarious position, relented. "Fine. Take him if you must. He's of little use to us now anyway."

"Abona, gather our people and leave," Fujitora ordered. With a flick of his sword, he dissipated the meteorites looming over the CP agents.

Abona hesitated for a moment, clearly frustrated. "You're a general, Fujitora, and so am I. Why am I the one cleaning up your mess? Especially for someone barely clinging to life? What use is he to us?"

Despite his complaints, Abona followed orders. The injured agent, his body mangled and pale from blood loss, was barely conscious. His upper body had been severed from the waist, and yet, eerily, no blood spilt from the wound.

When his teammates attempted to reattach his body, it fused unnaturally, leaving him alive but grotesquely misshapen.

"It's truly troublesome," Abona muttered as he hefted the man over his shoulder. He couldn't fathom why Fujitora insisted on saving him.

Fujitora addressed the remaining CP agents, "Now that you are free, leave the Tru Empire immediately. Do not overstep your bounds, or you will not leave here alive. Furthermore, as a member nation of the World Government, we demand the same rights and privileges granted to all affiliates."

"You can rest assured," the tall man replied with a forced smile. "As a member nation, the Tru Empire is part of the World Government. However, let me remind you to maintain balance. This world is still ruled by the World Government, and it is we who decide its fate."

"Abona, let's go," Fujitora said calmly, turning to leave.

The two generals chose to walk away rather than use their abilities to teleport. Their measured steps were deliberate, a silent show of strength.

Behind them, the CP agents stood in sullen silence, their expressions a mix of anger and humiliation.

"Captain, they've taken the Water Cat. What should we do next? I recommend deploying a Buster Call to erase the Tru Empire from the map!" said a masked agent with red stripes.

"Are you a fool?" the tall and thin man retorted coldly. "Do you think the Tru Empire can be wiped out with a mere Buster Call? Their navy isn't just for show. Their warships are on par with Marine technology. Don't underestimate them."

The tension hung heavy in the air as the agents realized the gravity of their failure. Meanwhile, Fujitora and Abona disappeared into the distance, their mission complete.

----

Don't forget to drop some Power Stones!

For early access to advanced chapters on p@treon.

P@treon/iamxeno

Thank you so much for your support and for reading!