One Piece: The warrior of Justice

Chapter 49: Echoes in the Holy Land



The Holy Land of Mary Geoise stood as a testament to opulence and power, perched atop the Red Line, a natural fortress separating seas and skies. Its marble palaces shimmered in the sunlight, their golden spires piercing the heavens. Lush gardens filled with rare and exotic flora stretched endlessly, tended by slaves whose hands bled as they worked to maintain the perfection that symbolized celestial authority.

The Holy Land wasn't just a city—it was a throne of tyranny.

Beneath the splendor lay a suffocating air of cruelty. The World Nobles, or Celestial Dragons, moved about in their ornate bubbles, their faces hidden behind masks as though the common air itself was unworthy of their touch. They viewed the world as a playground for their amusement and its people as mere tools. Slaves dragged their chained feet across cobblestone streets, their hollow eyes reflecting lives stripped of dignity. Any disobedience, no matter how minor, was met with the crack of whips or execution for sport.

Despite the facade of grandeur, Mary Geoise had a chilling undercurrent—a constant reminder of the iron grip the World Government held over the seas.

The Meeting of the Five Elders

Deep within Pangaea Castle, in a chamber adorned with ancient maps and relics of a bygone era, the Five Elders gathered. Seated around a circular table, each carried an aura of wisdom and dread, their very presence a reminder of their absolute authority.

Saint Renfred de Armitage, a tall, gaunt man with a long white beard, spoke first. Known for his expertise in history, he was considered the custodian of the world's secrets.

"The breach at Tequila Wolf cannot go unanswered. It is a stain on our dominance."

Saint Aurelio Valquez, a broad-shouldered figure with scars etched across his face, nodded. Renowned for his combat strategy, he was often called the Shield of the Elders.

"The report mentions slaves were freed by masked figures. This 'Lion Mask,' Gadgil D. Atharva… is concerning."

At the mention of the name, the air in the room grew heavier.

Saint Caelum Versailles, the youngest among them with piercing gray eyes, leaned forward. A master diplomat, he was the face of reason in their council.

"'D.' The will of 'D' surfaces once again. It is as if the universe itself mocks our rule."

Saint Magnus Faust, the elder with a bald head and a blade resting against the table, scowled.

"They are nothing more than a thorn. We have eradicated them before, and we will do so again."

Lastly, Saint Lucius Dragora, the most enigmatic among them, leaned back with a calculating smile.

"This Gadgil D. Atharva appears to be no ordinary fool. His actions, combined with his name, have stirred the waters. If left unchecked, he could inspire rebellion."

The Significance of 'D'

The conversation shifted, the elders discussing the Will of D, a mystery that had plagued them for centuries.

Renfred spoke with a grim tone. "The 'D' is a curse—a symbol of defiance against the gods. Those who carry it are destined to disrupt the natural order."

Aurelio slammed his hand on the table. "This one must be dealt with immediately. We cannot allow another rogue to challenge us!"

Caelum added, "We must ensure this does not reach the ears of the people, especially Morgan. The world does not need another symbol of rebellion."

Lucius nodded. "It is decided, then. He will be eliminated."

Orders Issued

Saint Magnus reached for a black Den Den Mushi, its polished shell reflecting the dim light of the chamber. Turning a dial, he connected to a CP0 agent, who materialized moments later in a flash of Soru. The agent bowed deeply, awaiting their orders.

"Your task is simple," Magnus said coldly. "Contain this incident. The name Gadgil D. Atharva must not spread. Silence witnesses if needed, and ensure Big News Morgans does not get wind of this. Do not fail."

The CP0 agent vanished into thin air with a nod, leaving the chamber shrouded in silence. Moments later, another agent was summoned and given orders to capture more slaves to replace those freed in the breach. "Tequila Wolf must remain operational," Aurelio barked. "Another failure, and your life is forfeit."

Finally, they turned their attention to the Fleet Admiral Sengoku, issuing a direct command to arrest Gadgil D. Atharva and place a 100 million berri bounty on his head. "We must make him a target, but not an icon," Caelum advised.

Reflections in the Chamber

With their orders dispatched, the elders sat in silence, each lost in thought. Magnus sharpened his blade, while Renfred gazed at an ancient map of the Grand Line.

Caelum finally broke the silence. "Do you think we've done enough?"

Lucius smirked. "Enough? Hardly. But it will suffice for now. The tides of fate are unpredictable. We can only hope our net catches this 'D' before it's too late."

As the meeting adjourned, the elders dispersed, their minds weighed with schemes and shadows.

To Be Continued...


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