The natural system started off strong, but the navy finally reached its peak!

He opened his mouth, seemingly wanting to explain that it was called "tactics" or "surprise attack."

But under Hawkeye's icy gaze that said, "You won't be able to defile the swordsman,"

In the end, he swallowed his words and touched his nose somewhat dejectedly.

"Haha." Even the usually composed Zephyr couldn't help but laugh out loud, while Ain and Binz covered their mouths and shrugged.

Hawkeye's incredibly precise wit exposed Gern's little scheme to "infiltrate" the ranks of swordsmen.

They ruthlessly kicked him out of the discussion about "sword masters".

Conclusion: Tianzhen Geen possesses terrifying strength, but he is fundamentally incompatible with the term "pure swordsman".

When he fights, he uses whatever is convenient for him. A knife? It's just a useful tool.

Chapter 525 Fujitora's Smile

After a few lighthearted banter, Hawkeye regained his stern expression and looked at Gern.

The tone became more formal, and a final assessment of Yixiao's strength was given.

"Putting aside the purity of swordsmanship, in terms of overall combat strength alone, well... he has the strength to barely reach the general level."

After all, this was just a "correction" assessment, not a life-or-death struggle, and Hawkeye couldn't possibly force Yixiao to reveal all his cards.

However, given his demonstrated mastery of the Gravity Fruit and solid swordsmanship, his current position as a Marine Admiral already demonstrates sufficient strength in terms of raw power.

After all, we can usually pull down meteorites for fun, who knows if we can pull down a planet and cause a mass extinction!

Of course, in terms of overall strength, compared to veteran generals like Gern, they are neither the best nor the worst...

And Guern himself was certainly more aware of Issho's (Fujitora's) true strength, as well as the sense of justice he upheld.

But right now, there are things more important to him than confirming his strength.

He needs to use a 'PUA' smile to make him willingly stay and become this 'workhorse'!

There was no other way; reality forced us to be like this!

Kuzan left; their philosophies clashed, and he went to pursue his own path.

As for Kizaru? Heh, he's a seasoned slacker. He'd rather lie down than stand up. Expecting him to take on extra work is like hoping the Celestial Dragons will have a change of heart.

Sakazuki is a man of action (though his methods are extreme), but he has already been "exiled" to oversee G-2.

They're responsible for deterring and clearing out pirates in the first half of the Grand Line; they can't be counted on in the New World.

Therefore, the Navy Headquarters, especially in the New World, the center of power and storms.

We urgently need someone who can get things done, has sufficient strength and prestige, and upholds true justice to serve as the permanent general!

This person needs to be: capable of getting things done, responsible, and not slacking off.

It possesses both human brilliance and compassion, which can balance the Navy's past hardline approach towards civilians.

He also has the courage to defy orders and uphold principles when facing the Celestial Dragons, showing a personality similar to that of a younger version of Gern.

Most importantly, we must possess true "justice" that can withstand the test of time!

And a smile is tailor-made for this position!

As long as Yixiao can be kept in this position, Gern himself can be freed from countless tedious daily military affairs and decision-making.

More time to deal with strategic issues, or... just go and have some fun in the fight!

With that in mind, Gern's gaze towards Yixiao instantly became even more "amiable".

He cleared his throat and began his 'PUA' techniques.

(It is euphemistically called: to explain the current state of the navy and its future vision, and to invite like-minded people to join in the effort)

“A smile.” Gern’s voice became steady and calm. He stepped forward, placed his hands on the shoulders, and sincerely “looked” at the other person (though A smile couldn’t see it).

"You heard Mihawk's assessment as well."

Your abilities are beyond question; you are more than capable of shouldering heavy responsibilities.

"However!" he said, then changed the subject, his tone becoming more serious and candid, "I'm sure you know that the Navy is currently in a critical period of transformation."

With headquarters relocated to the New World, facing the Four Emperors head-on, the pressure is unprecedented.

There have also been some internal changes, particularly in high-end combat capabilities... especially those capable of truly holding down a position in a region.

A vacancy has arisen for a general who can handle complex tasks while upholding unwavering convictions.

He didn't explicitly say that Aokiji had left and Kizaru was slacking off, but the meaning was clear.

"The New World is different from Paradise (the first half of the Grand Line). Here, pirate forces are deeply entrenched, and the situation is extremely complex."

We face not only a powerful enemy, but also countless civilians struggling to survive in the cracks of society.

“The Navy needs to change!” Gern’s voice rose.

"We need tougher measures to combat evil, but we also need... a warmer kind of 'justice' to protect ordinary people who are powerless to protect themselves!"

To counterbalance any potential extremism and coldness within the organization!

“You might not believe it, but I’ve actually learned about your thinking: ‘righteous justice’.”

"Huh? When did he find out?"

Not far away, Zefa stared into thought at the document board in his hand that Gern had never even glanced at.

Gern, completely unaffected, continued, "To be honest, such voices are especially valuable within the Navy today."

What we need is not killing machines that simply execute orders.

Rather, it is someone like you, possessing immense power, yet understanding how to use that power, knowing compassion and restraint—a true guardian!

"So that's it!!" Gern revealed his true intentions, extending his final invitation.

"Smile, the new world needs you, the navy needs you, and the people who yearn for peace need you even more!"

"I, Gern Reginald Sigma, in the name of the Grand Admiral of the New World Navy..."

We are formally inviting you to join the Navy and assume the rank of Admiral! You will be permanently stationed at the New World Headquarters!

"Here, you can truly practice your 'benevolence and righteousness'."

Use your power and ideals to influence and change this most chaotic sea, which most desperately needs order and light!

His words, though seemingly grand and sincere, highlighted the Navy's predicament (they couldn't do without him).

They further elevated Yixiao's ideal (it has to be you), and finally offered a very tempting position and platform (a general's position, a new world stage).

That was a perfect speech!!

Gurn waited intently for Yixiao's reply.

He silently chanted in his mind: "Say yes! Say yes! You have to help me with this extra class!"

After listening to Gern's "invitation" and "visionary description," Yi Xiao fell into a brief silence.

His blind whites stared intently, but in reality, he was using his Observation Haki to carefully perceive the emotions contained in Gern's words.

Although his perception and perception cannot directly read minds, he can clearly distinguish between good and evil, truth and falsehood.

Now, in Yixiao's perception, Gern's words were not deceiving.

He could sense the weight in Gern's words regarding the current state of the Navy, his concern about the lack of high-end combat capabilities, and his clear understanding of the complex situation in the new world.

More importantly, he could sense that Guern's advocacy and yearning for "warm justice," "protecting ordinary people," and "the ideals of benevolence and righteousness" came from the bottom of his heart.

This "Tianzhen," who intimidated the seas with absolute force, seemed to truly understand and endorse the path he upheld.

Of course, what truly touched me and made me smile wasn't just these things.

Rather, through Guern's words, and combined with his own past experiences and observations, he confirmed a fact...

Gern, the future leader of the Navy, understands!

He understands what true justice is, which is not just about the violent suppression of pirates, but also about the protection of the weak and helpless!

He understands the suffering of ordinary people, and the struggles and despair of those non-member states abandoned by the world government in the chaotic new world!

Thinking of this, Yi Xiao's usually tightly pursed lips couldn't help but curve upwards slightly, forming a genuine smile, and she slowly opened her mouth.

"Your Excellency Gern, to be honest..."

"Actually, I've wanted to meet you for a long time."

"Hmm?" Gern frowned.

Yi Xiao then began his story, his tone filled with reminiscence and emotion.

"Back then, you entered this most chaotic sea area alone and established the G-10 base."

At first, like many others who were reading the newspaper for the first time, I thought you had simply changed your approach.

They collect so-called 'protection fees' from countries and islands that are not members of the World Government.

Then, like a world government, they will turn a blind eye to their potential suffering and simply maintain a semblance of order.

"But, only after going downstream did I truly understand..." Yi Xiao's tone gradually became serious: "You didn't."

"You have made those countries and islands that raise the flag of natural disasters truly understand what responsibility is!"

"In this New World where pirates roam and the strong prey on the weak, in those corners abandoned by the World Government and receiving no protection whatsoever..."

Wherever the flag of 'natural disaster' flew, the people there were indeed able to live in peace and prosperity, far from the harassment of most pirates, and lead a relatively happy and peaceful life.

"Therefore, the reason I responded to the global conscription and came to participate in this so-called assessment is..."

One of the most important reasons is that I want to take this opportunity to see for myself... no, to experience it firsthand, and to meet with Your Excellency..." He bowed slightly and solemnly to Gern.

"Work together!"

There were no grand pronouncements, no desire for power, only a shared commitment to ideals and a yearning for the common goal of protecting the weak.

Yixiao's response was clear and firm.

What he endorses is the "responsibility" that Gern practiced and the "peace" that was protected under the G-10 banner.

"It is fortunate if one cannot see things, because there are too many filthy and despicable people in the world that are unbearable to look at!"

But... this so-called 'lucky break' has now made me regretful, regretful that I couldn't truly see your face clearly."

This is the highest tribute from a strong person who upholds "benevolence and righteousness" to another who shares the same ideals.

Upon hearing Yixiao's words, the relaxed expression on Gern's face slowly faded, replaced by a serious one.

He didn't say anything, but silently walked forward, stretched out his hands, and steadily supported Yi Xiao's slightly bowed body, helping him straighten up again.

"The World Government is not a god."

"From the moment I assumed the position of Grand Admiral of the New World Navy and truly took control of the navy's direction..."

"The navy belongs only to the people!"

As he finished speaking, Gern removed the cloak of justice from his back, a cloak symbolizing the highest authority and responsibility in the Navy.

He spread his arms out and then solemnly draped it over Yixiao's shoulders!

A white cloak bearing the word "justice" rests on Yixiao's body.

"Starting today!"

"You will bear this 'justice'!"

"The justice you uphold, the justice of mercy, will be carried out by you throughout your life!"

“Welcome to the Navy…” Gern paused, then announced the code name and title he had prepared beforehand.

"Admiral..."

"Fujitora is laughing!"

Chapter 526 Barrett's Taunt

Just as Gern finished speaking, symbolizing the official birth of a new general upholding "benevolence and justice,"

An untimely laugh, filled with sarcasm and cynicism, rang out.

"Tch." Huang Mu crossed his arms and stared at Gern.