Chapter 128: The New Onigashima Project

—The Calm Belt, Impel Down.

One of the World Government’s three major institutions, the vast prison built to contain the world's criminals, had also fallen due to the great upheaval.

Guards and jailers had been defeated by a massive outbreak of prisoners, leaving the former hellhole in utter ruin.

Yet amidst the chaos, one man stood alone to stop it.

"Wa... Wait...!! You’re not getting away...!!"

Countless staff lay collapsed across the floor. Standing in the center was the prison warden of Impel Down—Magellan.

Bloody, clutching one arm, and dragging his leg, he still pursued the fleeing inmate. A sense of duty, responsibility, and justice compelled him—this man must not be allowed to escape.

Even if the World Government and Marine Headquarters had collapsed, even if countless inmates fled from this great prison... there was still meaning in continuing to defend this place.

To protect even one more civilian, Magellan did his duty as warden. He secreted poison from his body and prepared to fight.

But—

"...Not in that pathetic state... you're no match for me."

"!! Gah...!!?"

A towering, dark-skinned man. The prisoner Magellan desperately tried to stop ruthlessly drove his fist into Magellan’s gut and blasted him deep into hell.

Such a feat was unthinkable for a mere prisoner. No matter how wounded he was, Magellan was the strongest overseer of this hell. Even if several Warlord-class powerhouses attacked at once, he could subdue them. His actual strength was even rumored to rival that of an Admiral.

However—this man was on another level entirely.

"...That monster ‘Whitebeard’ is dead... the Marines who captured me are gone... but the outside world’s gotten real interesting..."

That man had been locked away in LEVEL 6, the deepest pit of hell that confined criminals whose deeds were so great, the government had erased all record of them.

And he, too, carried a terrifying history.

"‘A world of violence,’ huh... Kahahahaha!!! I like the sound of that!!!"

The man behind the “Gartzburg Massacre.” The Ninth Bullet.

A former member of the Roger Pirates, known as “The Demon’s Heir.” His name—

Douglas Bullet.

The demon aiming for a true "strongest in the world," a title no one had ever claimed, had returned from hell and plunged himself into the tides of the world.

---

—A few days after the war. New World, Whole Cake Island.

The saying goes: "Even demons from hell attend Mama’s tea parties"—a truth well-known in the New World. It referred to the tea parties hosted by one of the Four Emperors, Big Mom.

Held regularly to indulge in sweets collected from across the globe, the tea parties also served to commemorate special occasions.

Once Big Mom decided to hold one, guests would flood in—her children, subordinate pirates, and titans of the underworld—an impressive roster.

However, despite the victory in the recent war, no tea party was being held this time. That was because the celebration was meant to be shared.

They weren’t the only victors. Their allies, the Beasts Pirates led by another Emperor, had also emerged triumphant and were equally responsible for dragging the world into hell.

Thus, the celebration would be joint—this time to be hosted at the Beasts Pirates’ base: Onigashima in Wano Country, at Kaido’s stronghold, where the grand feast known as the Golden Kagura was to be held.

"Wano Country, the closed-off nation... I’ve heard stories, but this’ll be my first time going."

"Is there gonna be a festival?"

"Yeah. Apparently, Wano holds a fire festival once a year, and the Beasts Pirates throw the Golden Kagura on that day."

"...I don’t mind the party, but... having to go to their turf... and hear Nue sing again is just depressing. They even shoved TDs and merch at us... Can't we do something about it?"

"Better that than having her show up here and wreck things..."

"I actually like that song, though~"

"The song itself, yeah... You younger ones are lucky not knowing what Nue’s really like."

And so, Big Mom’s children—her officers—were preparing to depart for Wano as soon as they returned, casually talking about the Beasts Pirates and Wano while enjoying a light rooftop tea party among family.

Younger siblings like Raisin and Flampe were looking forward to the feast in Wano with pure excitement, while the older children wore bitter expressions. Oven and Daifuku grumbled about having to hear that song again so soon after hearing it in the Holy Land.

Especially the older brothers, who seemed more bothered than most, voicing their frustrations between sips of tea and bites of sweets.

"Still, I can’t believe we’re actually continuing this alliance with the Beasts Pirates."

"Seriously!! Perorin♪ —Hey Mama. It’s not too late. What if we just pretend to celebrate and slip some poison into their drinks?"

"Mamamama... Don’t be foolish. I’m the one who decided this. Play nice. We’re gonna be fighting side-by-side plenty from now on."

Laughing off their complaints was none other than Charlotte Linlin—the family matriarch and captain of the Big Mom Pirates.

As always, she stuffed her mouth with sweets, brushing off her children's whining with a sinister grin.

"...! But Mama, knowing them, they might stab us in the back! Wouldn’t it be smarter to hit first—"

"Shut up already... I know that!!!"

"!"

Still smiling, Linlin silenced them all with a single bark.

They were her children—but because they were her children, they knew all too well the terror of Charlotte Linlin, one of the Four Emperors. When it came down to it, she showed no mercy—even to her own offspring. She might care for her family, but at her core, Big Mom was a pirate—a monster born and bred. No normal person. Normal logic didn’t apply.

But she wasn’t the only monster with no regard for common sense...

The very idea of partnering with another monster is what unsettled her children.

"Don’t tell me you brats don’t trust your own mother!?"

"...!! That’s not it, but...!!"

"Hmph. You’re all just scared Kaido and Nue are gonna pull something, aren’t you?"

And Linlin saw right through them. Even among the elite officers of the Big Mom Pirates, Kaido and Nue had become more feared than ever since the war.

Even the Whitebeard Pirates and Marine HQ had been outmaneuvered. While they had played a part in the victory, the grand scheme had been drawn by the Beasts Pirates.

In recent years, the Beasts Pirates had repeatedly left the Big Mom Pirates frustrated, expanding their power rapidly. Her children had come to fairly assess their danger—and to fear it.

But Linlin had accepted that, too. She understood their advantage.

"Sure, fighting Kaido and Nue at the same time would be a losing game. Even if I take down Kaido, you lot wouldn’t be able to stop Nue, right?"

"! That’s...!!"

"………"

Yes—the Beasts Pirates were unlike any other Emperor’s crew. They had two monsters.

They had many other strengths—top-tier officers, weapons—but their true power lay in the raw strength of Kaido and Nue.

That’s what made an Emperor: not just an army, or wealth, or reputation—but overwhelming individual might. Without it, the Marines would’ve crushed them long ago.

A pirate crew’s flag earned respect through strength, daring feats, and infamy—which attracted followers. In the case of the Beasts Pirates, that foundation was “power.”

“Kaido of the Beasts” and “Nue the Beast Fiend”—these two monsters drew others in.

Pirates follow the strong. It’s that simple.

And if you add it all up, even a fool can see it:

A crew with Kaido and Nue can’t lose to anyone.

Kaido alone is called the strongest in one-on-one combat—and Nue is his equal.

Anyone who knows the Four Emperors' power understands: as long as both remain, they’re unbeatable.

Even Katakuri, the No. 2 of the Big Mom Pirates, had to admit it bitterly. At best, he could handle a Lead Performer. He hadn’t reached Nue’s level yet.

So then—how do they win?

"Ha~hahaha... But don’t worry. In the end, we’re the ones who’ll come out on top!!!"

"!!"

—Even while fully aware of the situation, Big Mom wore a fearless grin, brimming with unshakable confidence.

Her children, while surprised and feeling reassured, couldn’t help but harbor the slightest doubt in their hearts—Is this really okay?

Of course, Big Mom was far from weak. She wasn’t like the aged and declining Whitebeard or Golden Lion. People often said Kaido was the strongest in a one-on-one fight, but that couldn’t possibly be true. All her children firmly believed that, in a one-on-one fight, Mama was the strongest.

However, a two-on-one fight was a different story. No matter how monstrous Mama was, she couldn’t take on two monsters of equal stature. It was a power gap that even a fool could understand. Two is stronger than one.

Yet despite all that, Big Mom never doubted her victory. Her belief in her own strength was a sign of the strength befitting a ruler—and even so, she boldly declared that she would be the last one standing, rallying her children with her words.

"You got that, all of you!? The alliance stays—for now!! At least until we get our hands on the One Piece, the great treasure of the seas!!!"

"!!!"

With a monstrous expression, tongue enormous enough to match her massive body and mouth, Big Mom overwhelmed her children with sheer intensity.

The treasure left behind by the Pirate King—the One Piece.

Whoever claimed that would become the Pirate King. All her children had long dreamed of the day their Mama would rise to that title, and had fought for decades across the seas to make it happen.

The seas had long been at a stalemate. For decades, the world had been locked in an unresolved struggle. But now, that long stagnation was ending.

"With Kaido on our side, we’re in the final countdown...! Brace yourselves, all of you... from now on it’ll be us against the New Government, the Red-Haired and Buggy’s alliance, Blackbeard...!! Every last one of them’s a beast you can’t turn your back on... and we’ll be fighting them on a global stage of chaos and war!!!"

"...Yeah. We understand, Mama."

An alliance with the Beasts Pirates. A war against the entire world.

It was clear now—they had entered an age of terror. And they had to fight and win in that world.

The first to respond was Katakuri, the so-called masterpiece of the Charlotte family. He too thought of Blackbeard, who had abducted his sister, and realized the "world of violence" would grow even more frenzied. He prepared himself for that. Even without his ability to see the future, anyone could see where things were heading.

And before they knew it, the rest of the children had steeled themselves as well. There was no choice but to accept it. If they lost and died, nothing would remain. But with Mama and their siblings at their side, defeat wasn’t an option.

With that resolve in their hearts, the children’s unity grew stronger—

"—Oh, and to that end, I’ve gone ahead and started marriage negotiations with Kaido’s kid."

"...Huh?"

—Or so they had thought… But then came a casual remark from Big Mom that left the children—especially the older brothers—completely speechless.

Marriage to Kaido’s child. They immediately grasped the implications behind those words, and all of them began to sweat, their expressions falling apart. Perospero was the first to cry out, his voice trembling.

“W-We didn’t hear anything about that, Mama!!! Marriage with Kaido’s kid!?”

“Hmm? Oh, that’s right, I hadn’t told you yet. —Apparently both of Kaido’s kids are daughters, so one of you will be marrying one of them.”

“Daughters…!!”

“Then that means... it has to be one of the sons on our side...!?”

And that additional information drove them further into despair.

If the other side had sons, then one of Big Mom’s daughters would marry them. But if they were daughters, then one of Big Mom’s sons would have to go. A simple, obvious truth. Same-sex marriages didn’t produce children, and for the Big Mom Pirates, who had expanded their power through growing the family, it was a serious issue.

“……”

And so… one of them would be the sacrificial lamb. The brothers all fell silent at once. Those who were already married breathed quiet sighs of relief… but even then, the thought of being picked sent chills down their spines.

Many of the older siblings still harbored trauma over one of the family members from the other side. Even if it was a political marriage, Big Mom’s policies always allowed some family time—which meant the coming days would be a waking nightmare. Everyone desperately looked for a way out. Just as they were about to speak out in unison, one man raised his voice ahead of the rest.

“—I refuse!!!”

“Oi, Katakuri... you—wait, hey!!!”

“He saw the future and refused first!!!?”

“How badly do you not want this, big bro Katakuri!?”

“…Katakuri. Maybe she’s the daughter of your first love. That makes you perfect for this—Perorin♪”

“Shut it, all of you—and you especially, Peros-nii…!! There are things you don’t say…!!! I’m not getting married. So… yeah, Cracker. You’re not married either. You do it.”

“L-Like hell I will!! No matter what you say, even if it’s you, Katakuri-nii, there are things I won’t do…!!! …Wait, we’re both older now, right!? Wouldn’t someone closer in age be better!? Mama!!!”

“! Brilliant idea, Cracker!!!”

Trying to pass the bride onto another brother, Cracker hurled a desperate suggestion straight at the one with the power to decide—Mama. Cheers erupted from the brothers. Maybe now they’d be spared.

“Ah, I heard they’re 26 and 24, but Nue said age doesn’t really matter.”

“WHAT!!?”

“Cracker, you bastard!! Come up with something better next time!!!”

But Big Mom replied casually, saying age didn’t matter. And when they learned that it was Nue who had said so, the shock doubled. Cracker was cursed out. A total backfire.

“…Oven-nii. You go.”

“Hey!!! Why me!? This is revenge for complaining, isn’t it!?”

“Shut up!! If someone’s gotta get married, it’s supposed to be the older brothers first!! Don’t push this on the younger ones!!!”

“…He’s got a point. Alright, Katakuri, it’s back to you.”

“That should be Peros-nii’s job!!”

“Eldest brother says so!! Anyone but me!!”

“—By the way, they specifically asked for either Katakuri or Cracker.”

“See!? Turning down the other party’s request is just plain rude!! Perorin♪”

“Tch… This is Nue’s doing, isn’t it…!? Either way, I’m out!!!”

“I don’t want it either!!! Doesn’t have to be one of the preferred choices, right!!!?”

“GYAAAH!! Hey, stop wrecking the place!!!”

(...They’re all this against Mama’s arranged marriage? Just how ugly is the bride? Or is there some other reason…?)

As the brawl escalated on the roof of Whole Cake Chateau, the brothers grew rowdier and rowdier. Several siblings jumped in to stop them before things turned into a full-on fistfight. Watching her older brothers squirm and panic, Charlotte Pudding, the 35th daughter, tilted her head in confusion.

—And in the end, no marriage partner was decided that day.

---

—Wano Country, “Onigashima.”

In Wano Country, there is a festival held once a year. It takes place on “Onigashima,” the main base of the Beasts Pirates located south of Udon.

The Shogun procession of Kurozumi Orochi travels to Onigashima, where they hold a massive banquet with the Beasts Pirates. With the two heads that rule Wano gathered together in celebration, the grand feast is known as the “Golden Kagura.”

And within a room of the castle where the Golden Kagura is held, two sisters sat side by side.

“…The loud nonsense has started again…”

“Yeah… more importantly, Musashi… are you really alright… physically?”

“No need to worry, Sister Yamato. My stamina is limitless.”

“Well, maybe that’s true for you, but still…”

“…Hm? Ah, you meant this.”

The two sisters—Yamato, said to be Kaido’s son, and Musashi, his daughter—spoke with an awkward air between them.

It was the first time they’d seen each other in years. Despite being sisters, some stiffness was inevitable.

Especially from Yamato’s perspective… her younger sister had come back pregnant. It had been a week since that shocking revelation, but when Musashi absentmindedly rubbed her belly, Yamato’s expression once again grew strained and conflicted.

“Well… I don’t think there’s much to worry about. I’m keeping a close eye on things with Observation Haki… and she’s full of energy. Haha, seems she’s a strong one—just like me and him.”

“You can sense that with Observation Haki…? No, more importantly—is the father really that guy…?”

“Yeah. Though I doubt he even knows. —It was when he passed out drunk, and I just kind of…”

“—You’re the worst!!!”

“Well, looking back on it, maybe I was a bit forceful… but I think he woke up midway through, so it’s probably fine. Yeah.”

“He probably thinks it was a dream or something… Anyway, Father and the others are seriously pissed. Even though today is the once-a-year Golden Kagura… they haven’t been in a good mood up till now.”

“Well, it’s not unusual for him to get unstable after drinking… or so I’d like to say, but I suppose this time it’s my fault. Still, that won’t change the plan. We’ll just have to quietly observe this time…”

“Plan?”

As Yamato and Musashi gradually dropped their guard and conversed more openly, one word from Musashi made Yamato frown. Seeing that reaction, Musashi remembered and spoke with a solemn expression.

“You heard it at the last meeting, didn’t you… Sister Yamato. I doubt you know anyone there, but… if you do, you’d best be prepared. What’s going to happen after this… is worse than that day eighteen years ago—H-E-L-L.”

“!!?”

Eighteen years ago—that was when Kozuki Oden was executed, and Wano fell under the rule of Orochi and Kaido.

To hear that something even worse was coming—Yamato’s gut twisted with dread. Her Observation Haki wasn’t on the same level as Musashi’s, but an unshakable premonition gnawed at her.

But the two of them couldn’t act. They were under house arrest in that room… and once again, all they could do was bear witness to the massive incident their own family was about to cause.

---

—Onigashima Castle, 5th Floor.

The symbol of Onigashima—the Skull Dome.

Inside was the Live Floor, used primarily for concerts and banquets. At its center stood Kaido’s main fortress, a massive structure built into and around the cave. It was flanked by the “Right Brain Tower” and “Left Brain Tower,” and divided into multiple floors.

The fifth floor, where Kaido’s and Nue’s rooms were located, was the castle’s top level. It also housed the worship hall and the executive rooms used for meetings with the All-Stars.

And within one of those rooms—specifically, the control room managing the surveillance network spread throughout all of Wano—it was known as the “Crimson Chamber,” and overseen by one of the All-Stars.

Unlike the rest of the Wano-style decor, this room had a distinct Western influence. Red furniture adorned the space, along with a canopy bed and a wine cellar.

In that room, which could’ve been mistaken for an entire estate on its own, a figure sat on a reception sofa, facing their guest. That person was one of the Beasts Pirates’ All-Stars and the master of this room.

“—Wine, darling? We’ve got only the finest vintages♡”

“…I’ll pass.”

“Oh, how cold of you. Even though today’s our once-a-year, glorious festival… how lonely.”

“Well, I’ll help myself then,” the woman said, having her subordinates—seated on either side—pour her a glass from the wine bottle on the table. They were her subordinates, pirates as well… but what caught the eye most was the paper they wore—each with an eye symbol printed on it, stuck to their faces.

The man sitting across from her didn’t yet know, but they were part of the Beasts Pirates’ intelligence and reconnaissance division—the “Marys.”

They shared visual and auditory perception, collected intel, and served as messengers—an essential support division of the Beasts Pirates. Each unit had its own Marys embedded within to share what they saw and heard.

And the woman in the crimson dress, veiled in a thin cloth with the same eye symbol over her face, led them. Though her facial features were largely hidden, her glossy lips and outlined features made her beauty and figure undeniable.

She was the leader of the Marys. Among the All-Stars, she was particularly skilled in intelligence and negotiation, a crucial figure operating from the shadows to support the Beasts Pirates.

And she wasn’t weak either—that’s why the man across from her didn’t lower his guard for even a second. Though a defenseless beauty sat before him, sipping red wine… he couldn’t see a single opening.

“Still… fufufu♡ Who would’ve thought you’d join us…”

“…I just judged that the next ‘Justice’ lies on this side.”

“A wise choice… or so I’d like to say, but in your case, isn’t it just that the ‘New Government’ couldn’t satisfy you, so you came to us?”

“…Think what you want.”

“Oh, still so cold… You could be a little more pleasant now that you’re our ally. Didn’t you smile even once while undercover?”

“…………”

Knowing his previous affiliations, the woman teased him with pointed words—but he didn’t flinch. He remained silent, waiting for the main order.

She seemed slightly disappointed by that response, but smiled thinly and drained her wine. No matter his demeanor, if he truly joined them, it was a welcome asset. She formed her words accordingly.

“…Well, fine. Then let’s get along from now on—Mr. Ruthless Killing Machine♡”

“—Of course. If you give the order… I’ll kill anyone.”

With that, the Beasts Pirates’ All-Star “Joker” smiled softly at the expressionless man across from her and the animal perched on his shoulder. If he truly joined them and proved useful, that was good. And if he betrayed them—she’d know immediately. There was no fooling her. In that case, she’d simply eliminate him.

---

──Inside “Onigashima,” 3rd floor of the castle.

This area was an expansive banquet floor, containing several massive party halls, each the size of dozens of tatami mats. Outside of the Live Floor, this was another space where the more prominent figures often came to drink—people like Orochi and his retainers, and occasionally even Kaido or Nue would be found drinking in one of these rooms.

And the ones serving drinks, entertaining guests and higher-ups, were courtesans and hostesses affiliated with the Beasts Pirates. Most of them belonged to Black Maria, one of the Tobiroppo, and half her subordinates were women. During banquets, they served drinks, played the shamisen, and entertained the men.

The entire concept of this grand banquet was built around that. New recruits would often be overwhelmed and delighted by the extravagant scale and luxurious service, reveling in it wholeheartedly.

“Bwahaha!! Appappappappa~!! This party’s the best!!”

“Kyaa~♡”

“You drink so well~♡”

And here, too, was one such new recruit, fully immersed in enjoying his first “Golden Kagura.” Sitting cross-legged on the tatami mats with his long arms spread wide in typical Longarm Tribe fashion, surrounded by four courtesans while drinking, was one of the Beasts Pirates’ new subordinates—a “Supernova” who had taken the role of information broker.

[Beasts Pirates Informant / On Air Pirates Captain “Roar of the Sea” Scratchmen Apoo]

“Free booze, free food!! Cheery music and even girls hanging off me… Never seen a festival this wild before!!”

“…Yeah.”

Apoo was thoroughly enjoying his first Golden Kagura—but the guy he had tried to call out to wasn’t joining in. A fellow of his generation was nursing his drink with a sour look on his face. Seeing that, Apoo went over and exaggeratedly tried to rope him in.

“YOYO Drake!! You’re no fun at all, man!! This is a festival, come on!! If you don’t enjoy it, you’re wasting your life~~~!!”

“Hmph… Sorry, but unlike you, I’m not the kind to raise hell over a party.”

“Ahhh~? What a boring guy you are!! You really think you’ll last out here like that!? Hey!!”

“That’s none of your concern…”

[Beasts Pirates Headliner “Red Flag” X Drake]

Drake, an ex-Navy officer with an unusual background, was also one of the Supernova. Despite Apoo’s attempts to get him involved, his expression remained stern, and he didn’t even glance at the courtesans. After the war, he officially joined the Beasts Pirates and was immediately promoted to Headliner for his strength. Though his role differed from Apoo’s, they had joined at roughly the same time, which is why they were brought in together—and why Apoo tried to connect with him. But their personalities were just too different, and they simply didn’t mesh.

Still, they were comrades for now. And Apoo found it amusing to be brushed off, so he clicked his tongue and kept poking at Drake.

“Tch… You’re seriously no fun at all… I was hoping us guys from the same generation could bond a little, but maybe I should just pin my hopes on the third guy!!”

“? A third guy…? Someone else is coming?”

“Appappa~!! You don’t know, Drake!! It’s not certain if they’ll make it in time, but rumor has it one or two more people from our generation are joining the pirate alliance side~~~♫ I dunno if they’ll get here for the banquet, or whether they’ll side with the Beasts or Big Mom!!”

(…One or two more? Who could that be?)

Drake narrowed his eyes at the new info. He hadn’t heard any of this. In fact, he hadn’t even known Apoo was here until he arrived. If more were coming… who could they be? He mentally listed a few names. And then—

“──This is the place…”

“Oh? Speak of the devil…”

“!! You’re…!!”

The last Supernova to side with the Beasts Pirates stepped into the room, and both Apoo and Drake reacted with surprise. —It was someone unexpected.

---

──“Grand Line,” at sea.

On a stretch of calm ocean, rare amidst today’s turbulent world, floated a ship led by the globally renowned “Pirate Empress”—the Kuja Pirates’ vessel.

“Luffy!! You’re marrying the Snake Princess!?”

“Congratulations!!”

“That was a lie. I owe you guys an apology. Sorry.”

“When’s the wedding!?”

“The Snake Princess as a bride…♡ She must be unimaginably beautiful…♡”

“Hey, are you even listening!? I told you, I’m not marrying her!!”

Despite the chaotic world, things aboard this ship were unusually lively. The Kuja Pirates remained easygoing as ever, crowding around and fussing over the man who had made headlines for supposedly marrying their empress.

It was a brief moment of peace—though everyone knew even that wouldn’t last long. Soon, the Kujas too would be swept into the tides of war and return to a life of battle greater than ever before. But as a tribe of warriors, they were strong. They didn’t flinch the way ordinary people might.

“I wonder if this’ll reach them… those guys.”

“Mm… If they read the article, they’ll know. The very fact it’s so unlike you—that’s the giveaway. There was one guy… no, maybe two, who might worry, but… I think it’ll be fine. I have that feeling…”

That’s why the people on board weren’t especially anxious. Worried, yes, but they trusted their comrades. The old veteran shared the same faith in his captain and those who followed him.

Their ship was a concern too, of course—but the old soldier had promised to look after it personally. He helped transport it to the uninhabited island where the upcoming training would take place.

For now, everything was going smoothly. Their preparations to grow stronger were proceeding without issue.

[──So then… what was the meaning of that article, Hancock-chaaaan?]

“…! That was…”

──At least, on the surface.

In a room aboard the ship—both the captain’s cabin and the personal chamber of the empress—only Boa Hancock and her sisters were permitted to enter. But now, the “Pirate Empress” herself, Boa Hancock, whose name was making headlines, sat alone in the dim room.

Her sisters weren’t present, and no one else was allowed entry either. For one reason only: she didn’t want them to worry during her communication.

[What was that, huh? Come on, tell me the truth. I mean, sure, who Hancock-chan marries is totally her business. But you know, as one of our subordinates, there’s this little thing called a duty to report, right? I’m not Linlin, but if the marriage is real, then as far as pirates go, that makes them part of our alliance. And the groom… well, he’s the reason you betrayed us last time—Straw Hat Luffy.]

What she said made sense. It was pirate logic—honor among pirates.

Romantic relationships between pirates weren’t rare. But if two captains from different crews got involved, then their respective crews would be seen as kin—or even allies.

In this case, the captain of the Kuja Pirates, who were under the Beasts Pirates, might be marrying the captain of another crew. That meant the Straw Hat Pirates could be considered subordinates too. Depending on how the two parties handled it, anyway. But either way, a heads-up to their “parent” crew, the Beasts Pirates, was customary.

On top of that, the groom in question was the one who caused her to betray them. She’d only just made amends and closed the book on that incident. To now be involved with him again… it was a gray area. It could go either way, depending on interpretation. Emotionally, it didn’t sit well.

That’s why the other party didn’t let up, her voice carrying a distinct air of pressure.

[It made all the news, you know? I just want to hear a satisfying reason from you, Hancock-chan. So come on… hurry up and spill it.]

“…!”

And in front of the voice coming from the Den-Den Mushi, Hancock could do nothing but cower like a solitary girl.

To an objective ear, it might sound like a simply cute young girl’s voice—but to those who knew better, it could only be that of a demon.

One misstep in responding meant facing hell—she was prepared for that. Even so, betraying this person, someone Hancock could never lift her head to, someone who was likely the most powerful girl in the world right now—the Beasts Pirates’ Deputy Governor, "Demon Beast Nue"—was absolutely terrifying.

『Hey, are you done yet? I don’t exactly have a lot of free time, y’know. I’ve got a huge event coming up, so I’d really like to get going… is it going to take much longer?』

“...! I understand… that article, well…”

『That article, huh? …Don’t tell me, after all the trouble I went through to settle things… you’re not helping Straw Hat Luffy again or anything… are you?』

“Th-That’s not…!!”

Each time Nue spoke, Hancock’s body jolted. Sweat beaded on her forehead, and her stammering, flustered state bore none of the dignity of a former Warlord, nor the authority of the Kuja’s warrior empress.

But it couldn’t be helped. Nue was simply too large a presence in Hancock’s life—for better or worse.

She had saved her from hell. Taught her how to fight. Was her superior as a pirate. Sometimes like an older sister… sometimes even like a mother, caring for her in many ways.

That’s why Hancock knew—knew Nue’s strength, and her terror. Knew exactly what happened to those who defied her or upset her.

The same Beasts Pirates’ purges Hancock had just warned Luffy about… no one feared them more than Hancock herself. And worse still, this didn’t just involve her anymore. If it put her sisters—or Luffy—at risk, then Hancock found herself unable to speak.

But if she didn’t say something, punishment was certain. Steeling herself, she forced her trembling voice through the receiver.

“That is… partly true. I proposed to Straw Hat Luffy… but… he rejected me. That’s all.”

『…Hmmmmm. That’s all, huh… I see…』

Nue’s reply was ambiguous, thoughtful, and gave off the air of someone contemplating something.

On the other end of the Den-Den Mushi was, of course, the Beasts Pirates’ stronghold in the New World—Onigashima.

Inside the island’s castle, in a quiet room set apart from the noisy surroundings, Nue was listening to Hancock’s report while looking at the photo from that article. The smile that had been on her face just moments ago had vanished.

And even across the line, Hancock could sense that change. Eyes narrowed, as if suspecting something—that shift alone was terrifying.

There was no way she could have found anything out, but… Nue was unfathomable. Rumors claimed she somehow obtained information no one should know, or accurately guessed the impossible…

Some of that was true—attributed to Nue’s masterful Observation Haki—but the reality was unclear. Unknown. Unknowable. And that’s what made her so frightening.

What would she say next? With Nue, it was entirely plausible that she’d decide to kill you with a smile the very next second. In fact, when she did decide to kill, she often smiled more sweetly than ever. Hancock knew that, too. That innocent, girlish smile contrasted so sharply with the murderous intent behind it, it left people paralyzed with confusion and fear. It was the smile of a monster. A youkai.

Nue’s silence stretched long. It was just the tension making it feel so—time had barely passed.

What was she thinking? One second… two… three… and then, finally, Nue spoke again with a smile.

『—Awwww, that’s too bad!! Oh well, them’s the breaks!!』

“!!”

An unexpectedly light-hearted response—her usual cheerful voice, full of casual encouragement.

『Wow, what a shame! Hancock-chan finally found someone she liked enough to propose to, and he turned her down? Seriously? That Straw Hat Luffy guy must be out of his mind. Maybe he’s not even into girls, huh?』

“T-That… may very well be the case…”

『Right!? And hey, Hancock-chan, you should be careful, okay? That article’s got a bunch of guys over here all heartbroken—someone might try to stab you or Luffy out of jealousy. It’s dangerous, I’m telling you! Gossip scandals are scary stuff!!』

“…Yes…”

Nue rambled on, and Hancock couldn’t offer any witty replies. She didn’t even have the mental space to feel relief. Something about how easily Nue accepted her explanation made her suspicious.

『But still, I’m happy for you, Hancock-chan! Even if he turned you down… oh, I know. In that case—』

She couldn’t even find words to cut in. Nue kept talking, and Hancock could only stare, turning pale at the next terrifying suggestion.

『—Wanna just… kidnap him and torture him until he says he loves you and agrees to marry you? I could mess him up real good with my own two hands—』

“…!!”

Speechless, Hancock’s eyes filled with horror. She knew what that meant.

Nue’s torture was terrifying. The Beasts Pirates had many skilled torturers. The lead performers—King, Queen, Jack, Joker—were all proficient in it. The Flying Six were, too. Black Maria in particular was known for forcing confessions of love from men through torture.

But Nue… Nue knew exactly how to cause the most pain and fear. Her methods were brutal, disturbing, unwatchable. Just imagining someone she cared about enduring that made Hancock’s blood run cold.

She wanted to beg her to stop—for the sake of the one who had given her hope.

But at the last moment, she couldn’t do it. She couldn’t muster the courage to defy her. So she waited for Nue’s next words.

『—Kidding! Just kidding. Ahaha, you didn’t take that seriously, did you?』

“...A… joke…”

『Of course! I care about my crew, you know? I wouldn’t hurt Hancock-chan’s crush without a good reason. I wouldn’t want to make you sad, after all~』

—And the next thing she said was that it had been a joke.

A joke that wasn’t funny. A joke that didn’t feel like a joke, coming from Nue. Because if she wanted to, she’d really do it.

And yet Hancock… felt relief at hearing it.

That fact alone stabbed deep into her heart. And whether Nue knew that or not, she smiled slyly and continued.

『Besides… someone like Straw Hat Luffy isn’t even worth the trouble~』

“! …Yes… that’s true…”

At last, Hancock voiced agreement. It was a convenient conclusion for her, and an objectively reasonable judgment.

The “Four Emperors”—the Beasts Pirates. The world’s most powerful force. There was no reason they’d target a tiny pirate crew like Luffy’s. And if they did, it would be just like any other crew: an invitation to surrender and join.

And above all—they had far more important things to do.

『Well, if he enters our territory in the New World or messes with our operations, then maybe we’ll deal with him. But until then, who cares? I mean, if you really want, Hancock-chan, I could capture him and convince him to join us. I bet he’d be useful. We’d even give him Shinuchi status~』

“…I’ll consider it…”

『Cool. Well, I’m busy, so I’m hanging up. We’re moving next week, so start packing, okay? Not that it matters—we’re abducting the whole island anyway♡ See ya~!!』

“Yes, until then…”

And with that final, emotionless notification of their relocation, the Den-Den Mushi went silent.

Only then did Hancock finally relax the slightest bit, the mental exhaustion making her collapse onto her bedding.

“…If that hadn’t been a joke… would I have been able to defy her…?”

Lying back, completely limp, she whispered to herself.

It was a question to herself, a rebuke for letting herself feel relief at the word “joke.”

The one she loved—had said he’d beat even Kaido and Nue for her.

And what had she done in return?

What could she do?

What did she need, to be able to do something?

“…Fufufu… that much is obvious, isn’t it…!!”

As she asked herself these things, Hancock smiled—and found her answer. One thing came to her heart: resolve. She sat up from the bedding.

She peeked through a gap in the curtains—and saw Luffy playing with the crew. The look of a determined man who still believed in his future. Seeing that, Hancock made her decision.

“Luffy… until you and your crew are strong enough… I will buy you that time, no matter what…”

She would not darken that face.

She would not let anyone steal the crown from the man chasing his dream.

So for now… it was goodbye.

“…Seems I won’t be feeding you any of my cooking for a while…”

And so, at last, Hancock stood. To save the one she loved—and free herself from that control—she stepped into the world on her own two feet.

---

——Inside the fortress on Onigashima. I let out a sigh as I placed the Den Den Mushi down in the room.

Today comes only once a year. At the “Golden Kagura” festival, my live performance is always the main attraction and the biggest highlight.

Normally, I would have already changed and finished prepping for the live show, already out on stage by now... but instead, I put it off and lay sprawled out on the tatami.

That’s when someone tries to speak to me. My secretary, Sono, is already in the room—but it’s not her. A giant enters the room. One of Kaido’s and my trusted “All-Stars,” Jack. He’s probably here to fetch me. What a thoughtful boy.

But ignoring all that and following my impulses—I let out a scream.

“Nue-san. The elder brothers, the Tobi Roppo, Big Mom, and even Orochi are all gathered already—”

“Aaaaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhh!!! Enough already!!! Hancock-chan lied to me again~~~~!!! She betrayed me~~~~~~~~~~~!!!”

“……If you want her eliminated, I’ll do it now—”

“I raised her with so much love since she was little~~~~!!! That ungrateful wretch~~~~~~~~~~~!!!”

“……Nue-san. Everyone can hear you, you know……”

I flailed on the tatami as I screamed at the top of my lungs. It helped let out the frustration and restlessness that had been smoldering inside me.

“……If you’re going to take her out, leave it to me.”

“Oooh Jack~~... You’re such a thoughtful good boy~~ Compared to you, that girl... haah, even after I went out of my way to care about her, just a tiny bit of love and she betrays me. So heartless, right!!?”

“——Maybe it’s because Nue-sama kept getting annoyingly clingy?”

“Shut up, Sono!! I’m not annoying!! Anyone would be blessed to have such a cute girl dote on them!! From me!!”

“That’s not blessing, that’s just personal punishment…”

Shut up!! I silenced Sono’s snarky remark. Honestly, what a rude subordinate. Jack, on the other hand, is such a good kid. I could tell even in silence that he didn’t disagree with me. Yes, yes. That’s Jack for you. He even offered to take care of the problem for me, such a considerate boy. Thanks to that, I was starting to feel a little better.

“……Well, whatever. Let’s just leave Hancock-chan alone for now.”

“……Are you sure about that?”

“It’s fine. She seems to be planning to obey us for the time being anyway. If that’s the case, I’ll make full use of her as a fighting force and work her to the bone. I already told her we’d let her betrayal slide because we’re moving bases, after all.”

Yes. Technically, we let it slide when she helped Straw Hat Luffy during the war... and besides. Even if it was betrayal—

“Lying and cozying up to other pirates is obviously a problem... but helping someone like Straw Hat Luffy, a rookie, doesn’t really harm us at all, right? It’s not like she got in our way. It’s just... after we just settled things, she goes and does the same thing again, and that’s a question of pirate honor. So this time—no purge!!”

“……Understood.”

When I closed my eyes and made an X-sign with my arms to declare my decision on Hancock, Jack accepted it with a nod. I mean, if she’s going to betray us, fine. Just use her as long as she’s still useful. She won’t act alone while isolated. And if she pulls something again, I’ll just kill her. No next chances. Clear and simple rules.

And like I said, even if she helped Luffy, the Beasts Pirates aren’t harmed in the slightest. They don’t even make us flinch. At least, for now.

If we’re thinking long-term, crushing them early would be the smarter play. And we can do it. But then again... Kaido and I both agree, this way adds another layer of fun. It’ll be more satisfying to crush them once they actually become a threat.

……Still, maybe just a little bit... it might be fun to take something away from them ahead of time. I’ll talk to Kaido about it again later, and if we feel like it, maybe we’ll go through with it.

“Still, to choose betrayal in times like these... even for love... What do you think, Jack-sama?”

“Feh... I didn’t think Hancock was that dumb of a woman... but either way, I never trusted her. She’s got a record, remember...!! And to betray us for some brat like that…”

“——Seriously!! Why won’t Hancock-chan or Musashi listen to what I say!? I’m being nice to them and they get all cocky…!! Ugh, now I really wanna go on a rampage...”

I responded loudly again to Sono and Jack’s exchange. Being betrayed by people you raised is so frustrating and miserable. In Musashi’s case, it helped her grow, so it’s complicated—but still, thinking about what they did just irritates me. Even though the event is coming up, I’m starting to want to go on another rampage somewhere.

“You’ve already destroyed two islands outside our territory… isn’t that enough?”

“Nue-san, if you keep destroying islands, the labor force we were supposed to gain will—”

“No!! It’s not enough, it’s never enough!! We can gather more slaves anytime!! Whether it’s two or three islands, what’s the difference!!!”

“Well, that’s not wrong but…”

“Wait, are you drunk already?”

“I’m not drunk!!! What part of me looks drunk, you idiot!! Haa... mmm... puhah... ugh, not enough fear. I wanna go wild... hic”

((She’s totally drunk!!))

……Hmm? Jack and Sono look like they’re sweating... Is it hot today? Or did the sake just heat me up? Doesn’t matter. The booze tastes great.

Still, no matter how much I drink, I can’t get my thoughts straight. Maybe there’s no choice but that after all, I think as I stew in my irritation... but then suddenly I chuckle.

“Hehe, hehehe... ahahahaha… But really, isn’t not knowing just the most fun thing of all♡”

“……Nue-san. It’s about time…”

“Aren’t you going to go on stage today? The schedule says you’re supposed to make a big announcement next, so you should really get moving… Well, not that I mind slacking off…”

As I muttered to myself, Jack and Sono started urging me along.

True, today is packed. Fun things, surprises—unlike the war, where most of the fighting was scripted and expected to be won, today and what comes after are unpredictable. The state of the world, Straw Hat Luffy, even my career as an idol—

“……Yeah, I’ve got to try harder as an idol too... And I need to become even more mysterious.”

“……Nue-sama, you’re already more than mysterious enough. Honestly, your connection to the idol business is already complete nonsense…”

“Hey…!!”

“Mmmmm?”

When I muttered that to myself, Sono snapped at me, and Jack scolded her—but I just laughed it off. Come to think of it, maybe I’ve never told Sono or the younger ones about my deeper will. In that case, this might be a good opportunity.

“……Hey, Sono. What do you think is the most mysterious thing in the world?”

“…? Huh… Nue-sama, isn’t it you? No, seriously. I’ve worked under you for a long time now, but I’ve never had a boss this frustrating—uh, I mean, elusive.”

“You were about to say frustrating!!”

“Just kidding. Really. ——So what’s the answer?”

Sono said something rude again… but I’ll let it slide. It’s fun, after all. A little banter isn’t rebellion. Especially from a cute and strong subordinate. So I shrugged it off and gave her the answer.

“Too bad. It’s not me…”

“! There’s something more mysterious than you, Nue-sama!?”

“Yeah, there is. Want me to tell you?”

She was clearly surprised I admitted it. She frowned and asked back, and I nodded and continued.

Something more mysterious than me. Something unknowable. A secret. The ultimate mystery, and my rival at the top.

It is——

“More mysterious than me... it’s the One Piece, the legendary treasure of the Grand Line.”

"!!"

She speaks. Yes—more enigmatic than even myself is the legendary treasure left behind by the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger… the "One Piece."

And precisely because of that, I must keep moving forward. I must act.

"The ‘One Piece’ is the most mysterious thing in the world. Overwhelmingly so."

"But… wait… wouldn’t the Roger Pirates know what the One Piece really is?"

"If it were back when the Roger Pirates and those close to them were still alive, sure. But now, the only ones who might know are people like Rayleigh—just a handful left. Even Whitebeard's gone. …Besides, that doesn’t even matter. The ‘One Piece’ is, regardless, the most mysterious thing in the world."

"? What do you mean…?"

She answers Sono's question. Indeed, even if someone like Rayleigh, one of the rare survivors of the Roger Pirates, or the leaders of the vanished World Government knew the truth—it doesn’t really matter. Well, it does, but only in the sense that very few know. In that sense, there’s not much difference between myself and the One Piece. But that’s not what’s important. Let me tell you what is.

"To be mysterious… something must first be recognized by the people."

"Recognized…?"

"Yes, exactly. Let me ask you something… between me and the One Piece—which one do you think is more famous?"

"!! That’s…"

Sono hesitates. She doesn’t answer right away. And that hesitation says it all. Despite her usual flippant nature, Sono’s lack of immediate response in this situation is the clearest answer. I smile, just a little self-mockingly, and explain.

"Exactly… No matter how notorious I am for what I’ve done, how cute I am, how strong I am… I still can’t compare to the One Piece. Even in the most remote, backwater village on the most forgotten island, everyone knows about the One Piece. Everyone recognizes it. Pirate King Gol D. Roger made sure of that. This entire world revolves around the One Piece!!"

The treasure’s legend. Its recognition among people is absolute. For twenty-two years, it’s been unmatched at the top. It is the most well-known thing that no one actually understands. That is the One Piece. And so, I declare:

"My greatest rival… is the One Piece—spread throughout the world by Roger himself. And unless I surpass it… I will never be the world’s most mysterious being!!!"

"!!"

That’s why I say it. I rise to my feet, and make a declaration—not just of resolve, but of war.

As I stride quickly toward the room’s exit,

"That’s why I’ve decided!! I’m going to become the most famous person in the world… and then become the true embodiment of mystery!!!"

And what I have to do to achieve that is simple. I declare it. My ambition—and one goal that comes even before that.

"First, I’ll make Kaido the Pirate King… and then!! I’ll reveal the true identity of the One Piece to the entire world!!!"

"!!?"

And if I do that… well, the outcome is obvious.

"If the world’s most famous idol—me—who stands equal to Kaido, the Pirate King… openly announces what the One Piece really is, then!!! The world’s perception will flip upside down!!! And the greatest mystery will no longer be the One Piece—it’ll be me!!!"

Yes, it’s all about ratios.

I’ll gain global recognition, and on top of that, make sure that no one knows who I really am. That’s what true mystery is. That’s me.

"When that happens, the entire world will be consumed in mystery!! The world itself will be shrouded in the unknown that is me!! The fear beyond that!! The people of the world won’t understand who I am—and they’ll all be dyed in my color!!!"

My eyes shine as I sing that dream aloud. That future is my ideal.

"Oh, what a glorious world that would be!! I’ll replace the One Piece as the face of this world!! The new center of this world will be me, Nue the Sealed Beast!! The mysterious monster Nue!! I alone will be the pure embodiment of fear and romance!! In a world full of blood and violence, I will be the most feared of all!!!"

A pirate, an idol, and a yokai—that’s me.

To create a world full of violence, cuteness, and fear. That’s why—I speak as I pass through the exit.

"—And to do that… I’ll take the world!!! I’ll do anything to make it mine!!! You know that, don’t you!? Kaido!!!"

"Aaah!! You’re the only one crazy enough to say stuff like that, Nue!! Just like I heard back in the day… I’ll be the strongest, and you’ll be the most terrifying!!!"

"Ha~hahaha mamamamama!!! So that’s what you’ve been plotting, huh Nue!! Sounds fun♡ But I’m the one who’ll become Pirate King!!! So be ready for that day!!!"

"Of course, Linlin!! When that day comes, I’ll kill you♡ But that’s a story for after we get it."

"The One Piece, that is!!!"

"UWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!"

In that instant—the floor erupts in frenzy.

Everything until now has been broadcast across all of Onigashima, and this very place is the stage of the Live Floor.

At its center stand me, Kaido, and Linlin. Alongside us, the Lead Performers and Sweet Commanders. The Flying Six and the key ministers line up to make the declaration.

And of course, among them stands our other ally in the Beasts Pirates.

"Gyufufufufu!! Incredible!! Kaido!! Nue!! We’re already on the brink of ruling the world…!!!"

"Ahahaha!!! Isn’t it wonderful, Orochi!!! Today is the best day ever!!!"

The Shogun of Wano—Kurozumi Orochi.

Eighteen years ago. Teaming up with him to defeat Kozuki Oden and the Red Scabbards, seizing control of Wano—there’s no denying that was a turning point.

Thanks to all his support, we’ve come this far.

Which is why I offer my thanks now. Beside Kaido as he delivers his speech.

"And now, right here—we shall begin the ‘New Onigashima Plan’!!!"

"…Thanks for everything till now, Orochi♡"

"Huh!? What’s this all of a sudden…? And what’s this ‘New Onigashima Plan’…?"

Kaido declares the launch of the “New Onigashima Plan.” Orochi looks confused, puzzled by both my gratitude and Kaido’s announcement.

At that moment, I give the signal. To the member of the Flying Six behind Orochi—the one who holds a grudge against him.

"—You can do it now… Kozuki… Hiyori-chan♡"

"!!? Kozuki—…!!!"

In an instant—what happens shocks even the lowliest of the floor’s underlings.

One of the Flying Six, "Komurasaki," draws the sword “Enma” from her waist and, from behind, drives it into Orochi’s heart—

"I’ve waited… so long for this moment… Lord Orochi…!!!"

"Y-you…!!! Guh—!!!"

"—Lord Orochi!!!"

Orochi’s face contorts in terror and disbelief, as he collapses from the pain of being stabbed in the heart.

But it doesn’t end there. Hiyori-chan, who had everything taken from her by Orochi, drives the blade into him again and again.

"I lived on… only for this moment…!! Until this day…!!"

"Kyaa!!"

"Waaah~~!!"

"Lady Komurasaki stabbed Orochi!? Why!?"

"They’ve been allies for so long…!!"

The floor descends into chaos. The festive golden Kagura mood falters, hints of panic spreading.

The samurai in particular are thrown into confusion, and slowly begin to feel fear toward us… but by this point, it’s already too late.

"Followers of Orochi!!! Orochi is dead!!! You now have only two paths before you!!!"

"!!?"

Kaido addresses them—all of them—amid the panic and terror.

"This ‘Land of Wano’ is surrounded by waterfalls—a natural fortress not even the world government can easily touch!!! If we increase weapon factories and use the people of the Capital as labor—this land will become a lawless zone, a paradise for all pirates!!!"

"……!! Kaidou… you bastard…!!!"

Orochi, in the final moments of his life, tries to utter one last curse filled with hatred—but even that mouth of his falls silent the very next second.

"Die… die…!!! If it weren’t for you… if only you hadn’t existed…!!!"

"…Fufufu…♡"

Hiyori doesn’t stop at Orochi’s heart. She drives the blade into his face as well. She doesn’t care about the blood that splashes back. Again and again, she stabs him—letting out snarls of resentment with every thrust.

Her expression—a mixture of rage and other, more complex emotions—was so vivid, so intense… I couldn’t help but laugh.

And even amid all that, Kaidou’s speech—and his threats—continued uninterrupted. He gave the fallen Orochi and the blood-soaked Hiyori a brief glance, only to shift his eyes forward again, as if to say he had no interest in any of it.

"To us…!! The Kurozumi clan, the Kozuki clan—none of that matters!!!"

Yes, it really doesn’t matter.

Sure, Orochi was useful. The Kozuki samurai were strong and made for some fun opponents.

But the conflict over Wano, the struggle for its political control—who cares? I might have some interest in individuals, but clan disputes mean absolutely nothing. What happens to Wano means even less.

"Decide within five seconds!! Orochi’s followers!!!"

The people of Wano? Doesn’t matter. Follow the law of the strong.

"Choose, samurai!!! Will you become pirates with us!!! Or will you challenge us here and now—and die!!!"

Be useful, become slaves—or become corpses. Those are the only choices. No other options will be tolerated.

"As the world heads into a massive war—we will turn this country into a Pirate Empire!! Our overseas campaigns will only increase from here!!"

And so Wano will be reforged in our image.

The world will soon be at war everywhere. We’ll move to expand our influence and crush rival forces.

For that… we begin now.

"……!?"

"What the hell!! An earthquake!?"

"……!! No… this is bad!! The island—!!"

A tremor shakes the entire island. But this is no natural disaster. This is the movement we need for our plan.

Kaido’s Flame Clouds lift the entire island—and begin to carry it.

At the same time, I launch my UFO, moving it in sync… leading everything toward the capital.

"Tonight, we’ll take this Onigashima—"

All for the hell that’s about to begin.

"—and move it over the Flower Capital!!! Wano will fall!!!"

And we will build our country in its place.

"The name of the country will be New Onigashima!!! The Shogun shall be my son Yamato!!! And the Vice Shogun—my daughter, Musashi!!!"

This is the first step toward conquering the entire world.

"Now hurry up and choose!! Orochi’s subordinates!! Will you die here with your master Orochi!!? Or will you seize the world with us!!?"

"I know full well the loyalty of you samurai!! Those who rise against us—we’ll honor them too!!!"

I join in, pressing them to choose. If they choose death… well, for old times’ sake, I’ll at least make it quick and painless.

But it looks like that won’t be necessary.

"The Wano Country’s Ninja Army, the Oniwabanshu—five thousand strong!! We pledge ourselves to you!!!"

"The same goes for the Wano Samurai Corps—another five thousand!! From now on, we serve you!!!"

The commander of the Oniwabanshu, Fukurokuju, and the chief of the Mimawarigumi, Hotei, both step forward and swear loyalty.

That’s a clean ten thousand new troops added to our forces. And samurai are far stronger than average soldiers—this is a massive gain.

"Well then!! We’ll now drop this Onigashima onto the Flower Capital, and to the sound of my song—start anew right here!!!"

And with that, we begin again—with a song.

During the Marineford War, there was no time for something like this. But now? I can sing as much as I like. We’ve got all the time in the world.

"Listen well!! This is my new single, dedicated to the New World and to New Onigashima!!! —『World of Violence』!!!"

And from here on too… I’ll enjoy it. And I’ll make you enjoy it too♡ Because I am the mysterious yokai—Nue!!!

---

──And thus, Wano Country... fell into the hands of the Beasts Pirates.

"What... what the hell is that!?"

"The island... it's flying through the sky!!"

"This is bad!! Run for it...!!!"

"……!! That’s... we’re in deep trouble...!!"

Everyone, from the Flower Capital to the other regions, saw it.

The Beasts Pirates’ stronghold floated in the sky, advancing straight toward the Flower Capital.

"Kh...!! Damn it...!! Am I really powerless to do anything again...!? Me...!?"

"…………Bear witness, Sister. We must watch it unfold... and then think of what we can do from here. That’s the only way... the only way we can repay our debt."

What began there... was hell.

Many regions had already become hellish, but the Flower Capital alone had been spared.

The once-a-year “Fire Festival” was a day without Orochi, without the Beasts Pirates. A day when no one died. A kind day, where people could drink in peace and be merry.

For those who followed the Kozuki, it was also a day when they could dare to speak of fantasies that would never come true.

But even that──

"…The cost was great, but... one of our long-cherished wishes... has been fulfilled, hasn’t it, Lady Hiyori..."

"…Shinobu…"

"It’s all right. No matter what happens... I will accompany you through this hellish path to the very end."

──That wish can no longer be granted.

Peace for Wano. The return of its lush greenery. A land where everyone can eat their fill.

Even the dream of opening the country... may now be out of reach.

"Wahahaha!! Kyoshiro!! That makes it official—you’re one of us now!! Welcome aboard!! With your skills, you’ll be aiming for the Flying Six in no time!!"

"～～～～ngh... Y-Yeah...!!"

"Hmm? What’s with the shaking? That happy to be here? Or is this all just too funny!? Yeah, I get it. It’s a great show...!! And just thinking about how we can wreck this place and rebuild it however we want gives me chills!!"

"…………!"

──With the fall of Wano, the retainers of old could only tremble, realizing how far their lord’s will had been cast aside.

That year’s Fire Festival became the last one in Wano’s history──and marked the day Wano was declared dead.

It was crushed beneath the foundation of a newly built pirate empire: “New Onigashima.”

Many people lost their lives that day.

And using that as their feast──the monsters drank and made merry.

"Worororo!! With this, we’ve taken another step closer... to the One Piece!!"

"Ahahaha!! Man, I’m so pumped!! We can do whatever we want in this country now! Things are gonna be even more fun than ever!!"

"Yeah... Our numbers have grown too...!! There's still prep to do, but we’ve got everything we need to expand our forces...!!"

"Yup yup!! Let’s aim for our goal in three years!! Let’s give it our all!! YEAH!!"

As night passed and the festival—originally meant to last only a day—came to an end, even with the monsters from beyond the seas retreating, the hellish celebration refused to end.

Atop Onigashima—or rather, the new Onigashima—on the rooftop of the Skull Dome, two monsters drank together.

"──Ah, right, Kaido. There’s still something I want to say—or rather, declare publicly to everyone and the world..."

"...? What’s this all about?"

The moon was veiled in clouds, and the streets below glowed red—a true hellscape.

And amid that──

"Recently, people keep calling me an old hag or treating me like I’m older. And there’s that incident too, right? So I’ve been thinking: what do I have to do to keep being an idol? And I figured out one of the causes, so I’m gonna fix it."

"What the hell are you on about?"

One of the monsters spoke—her equal in siblinghood.

"Like, clearly you look like an old dude, and since I’m seen as your equal, they think I’m older too—even though I’m forever fifteen! So they misunderstand and call me an old hag... That’s why I’ve decided: enough of the big-sister thing. When you think about it, it doesn’t matter if I’m the older or younger one—we’re still equals. It’s like with sworn brothers—even if one’s called the elder, they’re still equals."

"...……Huh!?"

"In short──from now on, I’m your little sis. Got it? ♡ I’ll rebrand myself as the ‘little sister-type idol’♪ So, yeah, best regards!!!"

"...……HUH!!!?"

And with that declaration—over something so trivial—the sibling monsters launched into yet another catastrophic fight. In later generations, the people would pass down this tale: on that day, the death throes of Wano rang out... and the birth cry of New Onigashima echoed across the land.

And thus began a night of unending violence and terror.