Luffy held the Cloud-Cloud Fruit in his hand, turning it over carefully as he examined its swirling pattern. With a confident smile, he replied, "I can't speak for other Devil Fruits, but with the Cloud Cloud Fruit? I'm certain Nami can develop it better than anyone else."
Sengoku nodded, his expression neutral but his interest piqued. "Well, now that you've put it that way, I'll look forward to her progress."
Though part of him still felt the fruit could be better utilized elsewhere, Sengoku knew the decision was out of his hands. If Luffy was confident, then he'd trust him for now. Who knew? Perhaps Nami's potential with the fruit would surprise them all.
After playing with the fruit for a mont longer, Luffy carefully tucked it away and shifted his attention back to Sengoku. "By the way, what's the latest on the governnt's arrangents for Amazon Lily?" he asked, his curiosity evident.
Sengoku reached for the teacup on the table, only for Garp to snatch it away with a mischievous grin.
"This is mine. Get your own if you're thirsty," Garp said, taking an exaggerated sip.
Sengoku shot him a glare but chose to ignore the provocation, opting instead to focus on Luffy.
"The governnt's arrangents are in line with what we previously discussed," Sengoku said, his tone steady despite Garp's antics. "Every year, they'll recruit 500 girls—healthy and talented, between the ages of 1 and 8—from orphanages worldwide. These children will be sent to Amazon Lily, along with monthly supplies to support the island's needs."
He paused, his voice growing more serious. "In exchange, Amazon Lily must join the World Governnt as a mber state, disband the Kuja Pirate Group, and pledge that two-thirds of the girls, once grown, will serve in governnt positions as a substitute for the 'Heavenly Tribute.'"
Luffy frowned, tapping the table with his fingers as he mulled over the terms. The mbership requirent wasn't an issue; becoming a mber state could actually benefit Amazon Lily by providing access to naval support in tis of danger.
Disbanding the Kuja Pirates? That was manageable too. Hancock could easily rebrand the group as an expedition team or adventurers. It was more of a formality than a real loss.
What gave Luffy pause was the stipulation about governnt service. The thought of losing two-thirds of the children—carefully trained for years—to the World Governnt rubbed him the wrong way.
But then, a realization struck him. The oldest of these children would be eight years old. Even if they were to serve at 16, that was eight years away. Eight years was an eternity in this volatile world. By then, the governnt itself might not even exist.
Luffy's frown lted into a smile as he relaxed, his confidence restored.
"Alright, I don't see any major issues with these terms," he said. "Hancock should be able to accept them. As long as these kids aren't forced to serve the Celestial Dragons, we're fine with them joining the Marine or the world governt."
He leaned forward, a glint of determination in his eye. "In fact, I think 500 kids a year isn't enough. The number of pirates is growing every year, and we need more manpower to keep up. If the governnt's serious about supporting the Marine, they'll need to step up."
Sengoku's stern expression softened slightly, a hint of approval flashing in his eyes. Luffy's reasoning was sound, and his proposal aligned with the Marine's long-term interests.
"You make a good point," Sengoku said, nodding thoughtfully. "If we can secure more resources and personnel now, it will strengthen the Marine for years to co."
He slapped his thigh, his voice filled with resolve. "Alright, I'll push for it. Even if it ans taking a hit to my reputation, I'll demand more from the governnt. Consider it my way of paving the road for the next generation."
Luffy stood abruptly, his posture straight and respectful as he saluted. "Thank you, Fleet Admiral Sengoku. I'll make sure your efforts aren't in vain."
Garp, watching the exchange with an amused smirk, suddenly gave Sengoku a thumbs-up. "Well, well, Sengoku, looks like you've finally done sothing useful. Co on, let's go find those old fogeys and demand so real support. If they don't cough up today, I'll personally see to it that they regret it!"
Sengoku shot him a withering glare. "What's that supposed to an? Are you saying I've been useless up until now?! Keep it up, Garp, and I'll strip you of your rank and send you ho to farm!"
"Farm?" Garp snorted. "Fine by ! As long as Luffy gives a great-grandson, I'll happily retire and raise kids all day!"
"You wish!" Sengoku barked, his patience wearing thin. "You're staying right here at headquarters. When I retire, I'll be the one taking care of those kids!"
"Over my dead body!" Garp shot back, his grin widening. "You think I'd let you near my great-grandkids? Dream on!"
"Oh, for crying out loud! What are you going to do, hog all the kids for yourself?!"
"Damn right I will!" Garp declared, puffing out his chest. "And if I need help, I'll ask Tsuru. After all, Kujaku's her granddaughter, so she'd be more than happy to pitch in."
"You arrogant—!" Sengoku spluttered, his temper flaring once more.
Their bickering escalated into a full-blown shouting match, the room ringing with insults and laughter.
Luffy watched the exchange with a grin, shaking his head. These two will never change.
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