The day after receiving news of the Holy Land assault from Kuro.
While guest commanders like Hack and Mihawk, who were busy guarding captured pirates and training promising soldiers, weren't present, the official executives bearing the three-clawed cat emblem and their attendants had gathered in one room.
"...It's been a while since all of Black Cat's executives and our ally Bege have assembled here in Mopchi's castle."
Vice Governor 'Steel Blade' Daz Bonez, taking charge of the meeting in Kuro's absence.
"Horohoroho, we've expanded our territory recently, so that's inevitable."
Youngest executive 'Ghost Princess' Perona, using her ability to watch for eavesdroppers around the conference room.
"Hack aside, but something bothers me about Mihawk not being here..."
'Devil of Ohara' Nico Robin, repeatedly reading documents and message notes entrusted by Mihawk, who was focused on training, to prepare for the meeting.
"Sensei seems to think strengthening our forces is urgent. ...Thanks to that, an incredible number of soldiers are getting properly blown away..."
"Ah, so that's why I saw people in our uniforms flying through the air earlier..."
"I think training where people fly through the air every time is questionable."
'Imperial Guard Captain' Amis, with squad members Miakis and Catharine flanking her for the meeting.
"I've also been called to participate in training later. Probably haki training..."
"Ufufu, Elder Sister is better at teaching haki than that man."
'First Fleet Admiral' Boa Hancock, similarly flanked by her sister Sandersonia and, for some reason, a glasses-wearing gentleman with his hair styled into the distinctive shape of the number '3.'
"It was about time to strengthen our shipbuilding capabilities, but... given what we're hearing, it'll be difficult to increase as planned."
"Heh heh heh, with your forces, a few less ships wouldn't be enough to stop you."
'Internal Affairs Officer' Gild Tesoro, gradually adapting to the organization and now handling development projects and tax coordination across various territories.
And 'Big Father' Capone Bege, Black Cat's ally who, despite being mafia, was gradually gaining influence with the Navy.
An impressive lineup that would intimidate any West Blue Marine who knew the Black Cat Pirates well.
"Now then, let's begin the meeting... Hancock."
"Indeed. Sorry to take up time, but I have someone to introduce to everyone again. ...Galdino."
The meeting began with Hancock.
While still showing her youth, the pirate girl who was particularly distinguished among the crew, excluding guest commanders, stood up from her chair and spoke. At her words, the glasses-wearing man behind her stepped forward.
"I've shown my face to the Vice Governor, Miss Perona, and some Imperial Guard, but this is my first meeting with the other executives. I'm called Galdino, and I surrendered to 'Black Cat' during the recent incident."
"He was the instigator during the Pirate Alliance incident and commanded subsequent operations. He surrendered to us during that human trafficking commotion, and has since contributed to reconstruction work in Mogwa and other locations using his ability to create and manipulate wax."
"But first, what's with that '3' hairstyle? It was different when I met you before."
At Perona's quiet mutter, Hancock almost agreed but held back.
"Since our lord is absent, this is only provisional... but I want to appoint this man as First Fleet staff officer."
"I think it's fine. His ability was incredibly useful for reconstruction. Plus, we don't need to worry about fuel for winter anymore."
Perona was first to agree as Hancock looked around at everyone.
"I heard about this last night, but why a staff officer role?"
While somewhat concerned about his use of human trafficking, Amis wasn't strongly opposed given his proven results, but asked about the point that bothered her.
"Simply put, I wanted someone like Tesoro on the ship."
The First Fleet was a newly constructed fleet, but currently the only complete independent force.
Therefore, it was often expected to act as a proxy for the main force led by Kuro and Daz.
Regarding combat, the First Fleet had sufficient fighting power with Hancock, accompanying Imperial Guard, and soldiers gaining strength through training and actual combat.
However, compared to the main force at full strength, Hancock judged they were significantly inferior in development and planning abilities.
"To act as our lord's representative, I lack the necessary abilities mainly in internal affairs. Critically so. I understand I need to accumulate experience and improve, but right now I need an advisor. However, I can't always drag around Tesoro or suitable Imperial Guard."
"I see... So a staff officer."
"Indeed. While I naturally make fleet action decisions, having someone who can advise on options would help in naval battles too. Plus as you know, this man is a battle-experienced ability user. In fleet operations, he has sufficient power for at least self-defense."
Amis and the accompanying Imperial Guard were convinced, and other executives generally agreed.
As Hancock knew, this man had been making introductions and building connections within his capabilities even while treated as a complete prisoner, and Tesoro particularly valued his efficiency and diligence.
"...But as Perona mentioned, Galdino, what really happened to your hair?"
"As I discussed with your sister, excluding the Imperial Guard, my position in the fleet hierarchy is third."
"...So that's why?"
"If my colleagues have a strong impression of me as the third person, it's reassuring for me too."
"...Propaganda that also appeals there's no rebellion since you received sufficient rank? You're still a cunning man."
But that's reassuring, Hancock smiled and looked at Daz.
The Vice Governor nodded slightly.
"Galdino. I provisionally appoint you as First Fleet staff officer. Continue participating in this meeting."
"Understood. ...So, I've already heard today's main topic from the Admiral..."
"Indeed."
And the atmosphere that had brightened slightly with Galdino's topic quickly became heavy.
"As previously notified, Captain Kuro engaged the pirate 'Golden Lion' at the Holy Land."
While those present had never met face-to-face, he was an opponent with a connection.
Though not central to the plan, he was still the biggest factor that had ravaged West Blue.
Since he had fought their Governor Kuro, he was an enemy they would someday face with full force.
"While we succeeded in driving him off, the Celestial Dragons' food supplies were completely stolen. Naturally, the World Government will try to gather the massive food stores that were kept at the Holy Land again."
"...While West Blue was excluded from food requisitions for the Holy Land's recent celebrations, this time we probably can't avoid it."
The coldest day of winter had passed, and while still cold, the unbearable cold that prevented venturing outside was over.
However, food problems remained, and Daz and Tesoro struggled daily with adjusting food distribution.
"Robin, how's Canet? According to the original plan, we were going to make that our granary base."
At Perona's question, Robin, who had been entrusted with developing Canet Island using Mihawk as their greatest agricultural asset, stood up.
"Since we needed to prepare quantity anyway, I planted as much fast-growing, low-maintenance wheat as possible. But... if nothing happens before harvest, we'll still have damage from birds and beasts."
"Depends on the loss amount."
"Yeah. Even estimating high losses, I think we can secure enough for Canet's people plus surplus to sell or distribute elsewhere..."
Materials with current yield predictions and future cultivation and planting plans written by Mihawk and Robin had already been distributed to everyone.
"...I always wonder if this is really okay, but he's definitely reliable for farm work."
Perona nodded repeatedly in admiration, noting it was worth him writing books.
She was also satisfied that the medicinal herb fields she'd previously requested from that swordsman were being properly maintained as requested.
"The problem is how the Navy... no, the government will move. Hancock."
"Indeed, Kuzan returned to headquarters. This incident means he can no longer stay stationed in West Blue."
"...The government's most important location, the Holy Land, was attacked. That itself isn't strange, but..."
The Navy Headquarters Admiral who had wanted to meet Kuro once more had returned to Marineford yesterday.
According to him, he'd probably be assigned to guard the Holy Land...
"Excuse me. As someone handling internal affairs, I'm concerned about what happens to our ceasefire agreement with the Navy regarding territorial defense... Admiral Hancock, any subsequent Navy movements?"
"No notable movements. Command authority was returned from Kuzan to the current West Blue branch commander, but that's all."
"...No talk of food aid requests either?"
"Indeed. ...Well, I haven't spoken with the new West Blue commander yet... Currently, soldiers in Mogwa are rallying around Colonel Taki."
The three Imperial Guard members working in the field showed slight relief.
Being former Marines aside, having fought together and knowing his character, having the trusted Rear Admiral Taki hold real power in West Blue's military was reassuring news.
"Kuzan said a replacement would arrive in Mogwa in a few days, so we should meet them..."
"He seemed... somewhat anxious?"
"Hard to say. He was thoroughly disgusted about having to go to the Holy Land first."
"I see..."
While Tesoro hadn't made many appearances to the Navy per Kuro's intentions, he still understood the situation through reports from executives and Imperial Guard, or regular reports in formats Kuro established.
"Admiral Hancock, sorry to say this right after placing a staff officer, but please let me accompany the next Mogwa trip."
Hancock was slightly surprised at Tesoro's words and glanced at the man she'd appointed as staff officer.
She'd worried he might be displeased, but he was nodding "naturally."
"Depending on Navy or government movements, war with them is possible. As a precaution, I should see our next opponent directly or I might hesitate in snap judgments..."
"Tesoro, do you think it'll go to war?"
Daz was frowning more than usual, either not fully convinced or fearing that scenario.
"I think member nations will definitely face considerable burdens again from this incident. So it wouldn't be strange if they tried to impose more burdens on non-member nations to deflect that dissatisfaction."
"...Forced food requisition?"
"Or requisition of labor, which the Governor negotiated away as a condition last time."
Remembering the irritating official's face from their confrontation in Mogwa, Daz lightly knocked his temple.
"...As a precaution, let's prepare to provide some quantity in case they request food cooperation through negotiation. Of course, limited to amounts that won't adversely affect us. Robin, alright?"
"Yeah, understood. I'll call Mihawk later and discuss with Bege and Tesoro."
At Robin's words, not only Black Cat's crew but ally Bege smiled slightly.
They knew well how hard this girl had been working since their leader Kuro left for the Holy Land.
Particularly Bege, who Kuro had asked to stabilize the route between Canet where Robin handled development and the still-unnamed island being considered as a trading hub, had frequently met with Robin.
"Now then, let's move to determining force restructuring guidelines. Currently, combining two fleets and island defense forces, we have fourteen warships, six escort gunships, and five transport ships of various sizes, plus ships under construction..."
The Black Cat meeting continued after that.
They discussed troop reorganization preparing for potential combat with the Navy, Tesoro-led insurance business preparations and preliminary transport convoy escort requests, development plans, and more.
Half-listening to this, Perona quietly thought while manipulating her ability.
(Damn. There's been a strange increase in people trying to get inside. I'm driving them all away or silencing them, but I should report once we reach a break.)
◆ ◇ ◆ ◇ ◆ ◇
"Hey, Spandam."
"...What?"
"Seems like work suddenly increased. Reconstruction-related stuff."
"...I'm lending you personnel properly."
"Yeah, that's right, Spandam."
Why did I end up with an office built next to my sleeping quarters?
Well, that's fine.
Since they're connected I can sleep immediately, and I'm gradually securing sleep time. Somehow managing two hours.
Besides my work desk, several work tables were set up with government officials handling various clerical tasks and moving according to my instructions, which honestly helps.
They accepted the general reconstruction plan, and the temporary evacuation of Celestial Dragons under the pretext of isolation from the site, which I requested jointly with Fleet Admiral Sengoku, was approved.
Now we're adjusting material and labor acceptance plans, and expanding loading docks for that, trying to make the first delivery deadline with Sengoku and Spandam...
Actually, me doing this work is definitely weird, isn't it?
...W-well, that's fine separately.
"Hey, Spandam."
"...Yeah."
"Why are only women surrounding me?"
"Men are, you know... assigned to reconstruction work."
"I see. But they're all beautiful like it was planned."
"...Better than being surrounded by rough guys."
"Please say that while looking me in the eye."
Hey Spandam.
Hey, I'm talking to you.
"Spandine, face Kuro."
"Hey girl, I'm CP Chief. Watch how you talk."
Having Hina by my side like a secretary is incredibly helpful.
Even among beauties, she's completely on my side and I can trust her completely, so honestly I'm too scared to eat or drink anything except what she's checked.
"...Yes, understood."
"Muhaha. Right, when you're young you need to be proper about these things..."
"Defendant, answer."
"Hey, is this a trial?!"
Well, I'm glad we could dismiss everyone saying today's work is done.
Having that beauty squad around is incredibly unsettling. Even eating, food has no taste.
Unlike the Imperial Guard who naturally stay nearby, even though they're the same group of beauties, there's this feeling of being observed in every gesture that's incredibly uncomfortable.
During lunch I had to work on urgent tasks while eating, so it couldn't be helped, but that was an uncomfortable meal...
"So, defendant Spandine."
"Kuro, you too?!"
Come on, answer.
Well, I already know the answer.
But still...
"Seriously trying to honey trap a 14-year-old kid, how is that as a grown adult?"
"Don't stab my heart!"
"Honestly, I'm disgusted with you. Hina, contempt."
"Shut up, damn it!"
A middle-aged man getting told off by a little girl shouldn't be almost crying.
"Look, not everything was arranged by me! I'm CP Chief, but I'm CP-9 Chief! Other departments are also sending women to you! I only prepared good-looking women who could actually do office work!"
"Then please restrain those movements... Spandam, you can do it."
"This would all be solved if you'd just join the government or become a Marine! Bring the guys remaining in West Blue and come here!"
"I politely decline, you bastard."
I can clearly see a future of being kept like a pet, and don't think I've forgotten about Robin.
Besides, this whole incident clearly showed the Celestial Dragons aren't trustworthy.
...No, I really sympathize with Spandam.
Court service with excessively tyrannical superiors is seriously painful.
At least it would be better without the Celestial Dragons watching, but this time I have to stay at their home base, the Holy Land.
"Besides, starting with honey traps, are CP guys really okay?"
More proper CP should be...
Ah, wait, come to think of it, the guys Sanji fought were all pretty hopeless.
"What's wrong with a job where you can do what you like and leave dangerous stuff to subordinates! Plus you can have as many beautiful women serving you as you want! I wanted that position!!"
"Terrible."
"Hina, please don't cut him down in one word."
Men become fragile with age. Their hearts.
"Actually, seriously, why is this happening? The recruiting has been persistent since around when I submitted that report."
"You probably understand most of it. Orders went out to all CP departments to keep you here by any means necessary."
"So why honey traps?"
"Most men around that age fail with women at least once."
"...Personal experience?"
"Stop it, girl, don't analyze."
Hina, please stop looking at him like garbage.
...
Huh? Am I being looked at too?
It's fine, this level of honey trap is too lukewarm to even count as one.
"Actually, you showed too much value. Why did you work this much? Golden Lion aside, you could have stayed in the castle."
"Considering the Holy Land's influence, naturally suppressing damage even slightly is proper."
Really.
Right now Daz and the others are probably preparing countermeasures for aid requests or forceful measures from the government or Navy.
The magnitude of that influence...
The government's borderline depending too much on Celestial Dragons' moods makes it too scary to serve under them.
Seriously, even if I had to become a Seven Warlords-like position, unless it's Navy-led planning, it's too frightening.
"While food requisition will be moderately restrained as promised verbally before me and Sengoku, the world impact will still be large, right?"
"...Well, yeah."
"Even during the food requisition when I came here, several countries lost member nation status. Considering more will increase..."
"That's not something pirates should worry about."
"I do worry. We are 'Black Cat.'"
Really, West Blue was adjusting trade networks with Bege's cooperation, so I think it'll somehow work out, but without food we can't do cheap sales or aid.
(Right now Robin and Mihawk are developing Canet and the countries in Area A that we protected... Superior and Rigalo. Both were rumored to have kings who lived in luxury with women like the original Mogwa... those are key.)
Superior was a nation with strong admiration for Celestial Dragons, like Goa Kingdom.
Rigalo wasn't quite that much, but a fairly shrewd nation.
(They're definitely storing considerable food as future negotiation tools with neighboring countries.)
While Kuzan, Daz, and Hancock might be angry, having food pools in this situation is reassuring. Or should I say a blessing in disguise.
Anyway, if that's offered to the Holy Land, neighboring nations' burdens should be considerably reduced... hopefully.
"If we were just pirates who only rampage, forget Hina, I wouldn't be meeting with Spandam like this, let alone working alongside him."
"If I hadn't met you, I wouldn't be wearing my stomach down like this!"
Well, that's not wrong.
"What I ultimately aim for is stable world development. And honestly, while the World Government calls itself a government, I don't think it's sincerely fulfilling that role."
"Kuro, how many times do I have to say this is the Holy Land!!"
That's exactly why I'm saying it.
"Seriously Spandam, that labor requisition from non-member nations you originally tried to do, couldn't that have been handled otherwise? It was canceled due to this incident though."
"...That's why you should join the government, Kuro."
Oh my, smoking in front of me for the first time in a while.
Is he pretty stressed after all?
"Because you helped adjust various things during negotiations, we probably could have managed with just aid requests to each country."
"...Some places the World Government went too far though."
"Ah, well... yeah."
Specifically, countries that basically lost member nation status.
There was some reason for doing that, right? At least legitimate reasons, right? At least on paper, the required food amounts should have been met without doing that, right?
Please tell me that's the case. I'm too scared to ask.
"Too accustomed to consuming... to using things up."
"Wouldn't things change a bit if you guys joined our side? From what I hear from subordinates left in West Blue, your people are capable too."
"They're still in training."
Well, we're managing somehow because Tesoro is there.
Of course Daz, and the Imperial Guard are studying governance and money-making, but without Tesoro I couldn't have acted separately.
(Daz, Robin, Amis, and Hancock are working hard, but it'll take time before they're ready.)
Regarding production, having ultimate farmer Mihawk gives a sense of security somehow.
Plus our soldiers are used to farm work and civil engineering.
I want one or two more people who can see the balance between governance and public sentiment and practical benefits, but aren't there any lying around somewhere...
(Plus, while I almost forgot due to Golden Lion's assault, the Five Elders' unnaturally tight unity. Joining from within is too dangerous.)
Having to constantly fear worse than dismissal or disciplinary action goes beyond black companies to dangerous territory.
"...You've seen the World Government's methods too and thought things should be done differently, right?"
"That's true, but..."
"For example?"
"...Like the Ohara incident."
I think there were better ways to handle that.
"Kuro, what would you have done?"
Whoa. Hina, you're cutting into difficult territory.
"Let's see..."
If it were me...
Hmph, quite an interesting conversation you're having.
...Oh boy.
"This is... I didn't expect you to come personally."
The person who opened the door after several knocks without waiting for a response was completely unexpected.
I thought it would be Admiral Zephyr guarding outside...
So you do go out sometimes.
"Five Elders 'Legal Martial God,' Saint Topman Warcury."
Spandam, I understand straightening your posture, but prostrating isn't necessary.
Even if he's one of the Five Elders, he came here, and this is my office.
Hina, please suppress your suspicion a bit more.
He's my guest.
"I planned to finish business quickly and return, but..."
If I said go home quickly, would Spandam definitely drop-kick me?
"Interesting. Tell me while we chat, Kuro."
"How would you have handled the Ohara matter?"
If I chanted sutras, would these guys explode and scatter green liquid... damn it.