[OP Marine Officer Luffy] Chapter 591 - 595

Chapter 591: Power Test

Reiju couldn't help but become genuinely intrigued as she listened to Sanji's explanation.

"So such methods actually exist? As expected of the World Government that has stood for 800 years—truly unfathomable in its resources," she remarked with genuine admiration.

Just as she was contemplating this, Bill completed his assessment.

"Well..." he began thoughtfully, "if we consider the Fighting power of an ordinary Marine wielding a standard weapon to be 10 points..."

He paused momentarily, his expression concentrated.

"Captain Sanji's power measures approximately 2,420 points—a full 70-point improvement from lastmonth's evaluation! You're truly worthy of being the mountain team captain," Bill announced proudly.

"Additionally," he continued, "I should mention that in last month's testing, Usopp's Fighting power registered at 450 points, my own Fighting power was estimated around 840, and Captain Zoro's Fighting power measured at 2,410 points."

Before Reiju could express her surprise at these numbers, Sanji spontaneously leapt into the air, pumping his fists triumphantly.

"Yes! I've surpassed that green algae-head!" he exclaimed jubilantly.

Reiju tilted her head in confusion. Who was this "green algae-head" that Sanji was so excited about surpassing?

However, at that moment, Bill added hesitantly:

"Captain, those are last month's figures. Given Captain Zoro's rate of improvement, he likely possesses a Fighting power approaching 2,500 points by now."

Sanji, who had been elated just seconds earlier, appeared as though someone had doused him with a bucket of ice water. His enthusiasm instantly deflated.

"Idiot! Of course I'm aware of that," he snapped defensively. "Couldn't you just let me enjoy the moment?"

Bill looked genuinely distressed at being reprimanded for simply stating facts. After a pitiful "Oh," he quickly recovered his spirits and hurried over to Reiju, his expression shifting to one of enthusiastic admiration.

"Sister Reiju! I'm actually a devoted fan of Germa. Would it be possible to take a photograph with you later?" he requested eagerly.

Bill's words immediately triggered a commotion among the onlookers. Many Marines from the North Blue harbored similar desires.

The look he gave Reiju brimmed with the same fervent admiration a doctor from East Blue might show toward their idol.

Reiju remained unfazed by this attention. She simply smiled and nodded her agreement.

Bill was instantly overjoyed. He immediately produced his camera den den mushi, awkwardly positioned himself beside Reiju, and captured their image together.

Seeing Bill's successful fan moment, others with similar aspirations suddenly grew animated. What had been intended as a combat assessment was rapidly transforming into an impromptu meet-and-greet with a celebrity.

Sanji immediately stepped forward, his expression darkening as he moved to restore order.

"Alright, enough!" he barked authoritatively. "Have you all completed your assigned tasks? Those who haven't, get back to work immediately. Everyone else, find something productive to do. If I see anyone still gathered here in thirty seconds, they can forget about lunch today!"

Upon hearing the chef's ultimatum, even those who were reluctant had no choice but to disperse and resume their training exercises.

There was simply no alternative—Sanji's cooking was truly exceptional. The chefs he had trained possessed culinary skills rivaling those of royal and noble private chefs. Missing such a delicious meal was more unthinkable to them than facing death itself.

After successfully driving everyone away, leaving only Bill behind, Sanji redirected his attention to Reiju.

"Go ahead," he instructed her. "Attack Bill with your strongest techniques. Don't worry about him getting injured."

Bill seemed to respond to Sanji's words with pride, puffing out his chest and patting the solid muscles beneath his uniform, signaling to his idol that he was prepared for whatever she might unleash.

Reiju flexed her fingers and rotated her wrists with evident interest. Before launching her attack, she posed one final question:

"I'm curious—what is Admiral Luffy's power level? Can you even measure it?"

Bill, who had been radiating confidence just moments before, immediately wilted upon hearing this inquiry. He waved his hand awkwardly and replied with a nervous smile:

"Don't be ridiculous! If the boss used even half—no, even a quarter—of his true strength, let alone his full power, I'd probably be reunited with my departed parents instantly."

He shook his head before continuing: "Regarding his actual strength, I only know a story from long ago when we were still at Marine Headquarters. He defeated the instructor responsible for testing Fighting power in our department and sent the poor man to the hospital. The boss was only twelve years old at the time, and the upper limit that instructor could measure was reportedly around 6,000 Fighting power units."

"Oh, I see," Reiju responded thoughtfully.

Although she already had a general understanding of Luffy's tremendous power, comparing it to Sanji's recent demonstration made the scenario even more impressive. The image of a twelve-year-old Luffy possessing a Fighting power exceeding 6,000 points was truly staggering.

This revelation only reinforced Reiju's satisfaction with her choice. After all, what woman wouldn't want her man to be exceptionally powerful?

"One more question," she said, her eyes glinting with purpose as she prepared her stance. "What's the upper limit of what you can withstand?"

Chapter 592: Germa, Transformation!!!

Bill rubbed his nose with his fingers, a hint of pride evident in his gesture as he confidently extended four fingers.

"While my own Fighting power isn't particularly impressive, I'm still fully capable of testing power levels up to 4,000 points," he declared with assurance.

"Is that so? Then I can proceed without concern," Reiju replied, a subtle smile playing at her lips.

"Absolutely. Go ahead," Bill encouraged, his voice brimming with confidence.

However, the moment those words left his mouth, immediate regret washed over him.

Reiju slowly withdrew a small pink device shaped like a canister, emblazoned with the number "0." The moment Bill laid eyes on this gadget, his pupils contracted rapidly, and his eyes widened in sudden recognition.

A cascade of emotions flickered across his face—shock, excitement, and profound regret—as his complexion cycled between flushed red and pallid blue, creating an expression that was paradoxically both terrified and delighted.

"W-wait, what is that?!" he stammered. "Sister Reiju, hold on a minute! This is supposed to be a simple test—it shouldn't require anything so serious!"

Bill's speech grew increasingly incoherent. Having recognized the device, he experienced conflicting emotions of excitement and fear.

As a devoted fan of the popular manga series "Sea Warrior Sora," he immediately understood what was about to happen. This realization gave him the surreal satisfaction of "an ordinary civilian witnessing Ultraman's transformation in person."

Yet simultaneously, as an enthusiastic follower of the series, he was acutely aware of Germa's formidable capabilities. The organization represented an adversary that even Sora struggled to overcome. Surely he wouldn't be killed by such a powerful enemy... right?

While Bill was lost in these anxious musings, Reiju had already positioned the transformation device against her lower abdomen. Instantly, a brilliant light enveloped her, so dazzling that the Marines secretly observing from a distance were forced to shield their eyes, blinking rapidly against the intense radiance.

The effect was especially overwhelming for Sanji and Bill, who stood closest to the phenomenon. Despite Bill's desperate desire to witness Reiju's transformation with his own eyes, the blinding flash compelled him to look away.

When they finally dared to open their eyes again, Reiju stood before them in an entirely new outfit.

"It's here! Germa's most advanced technology! The Battle Suit!!!" exclaimed one of the onlookers, unable to contain his excitement.

As Reiju revealed her transformed appearance, every comic enthusiast present erupted in enthusiastic cheers.

She now wore black headphones marked with the emblem "66" and a striking blue scarf elegantly wrapped around her neck. Her upper body was clothed in a pink mini-dress featuring a dramatic opening that extended from her neckline down to her lower abdomen. Specialized gloves adorned her hands, while her feet were encased in a pair of pink and white high-tech boots. Behind her flowed a purple cape that resembled delicate butterfly wings, completing the extraordinary ensemble.

Reiju's outfit projected both sensuality and sophistication, but its aesthetic appeal belied its true function. The combat suit was constructed entirely from shape-memory metal—a material so resilient that even intense flames couldn't damage it. The cape flowing from her shoulders served as her strongest defensive asset, capable of withstanding most conventional attacks.

Curious onlookers began gathering around, staring at Bill with a mixture of fascination and sympathy. His appearance had transformed dramatically—his face now bruised, several teeth missing, presenting a truly pitiful sight.

The technological boots not only enhanced the wearer's jumping capabilities but also featured jets in the heels and soles that enabled hovering and flight, granting the advantage of aerial combat.

In essence, this battle uniform represented the perfect fusion of beauty and advanced technology—Judge Vinsmoke's proudest creation aside from his genetic manipulation of his children's bloodlines.

Having completed her transformation, Reiju glanced briefly at Sanji, who appeared bewildered, clearly struggling to comprehend the situation. She then turned to Bill with a serene smile and inquired:

"How does this look? Shall we begin?"

Bill swallowed nervously. "...Is this really necessary?"

He stood utterly dumbfounded. This was meant to be a straightforward strength assessment—was such elaborate battle gear truly warranted? His thoughts had already shifted to how he might convince Sanji to compensate him afterward with specially prepared nutritious meals during his inevitable stay in the infirmary.

"Hmm? Actually, now that I think about it, I don't seem to be at any particular disadvantage," Bill suddenly realized, his spirits inexplicably lifting.

"Alright, let's do this! I'm ready!!" he declared with renewed enthusiasm.

Having reconciled himself to his fate, Bill assumed a defensive stance, closed his eyes, and braced for the impending impact.

Reiju didn't hesitate. Almost the instant Bill finished speaking, she vanished from sight.

When she reappeared, she was standing precisely where Bill had been positioned just moments before.

Meanwhile, Bill had been launched skyward, tracing a graceful arc above the training ground before disappearing into the ceiling with a sickening crunch. Moments later, he plummeted back down, colliding with the grass below and sustaining additional damage from the secondary impact.

The assembled spectators exchanged bewildered glances and began muttering among themselves, their voices hushed with disbelief at the display of power they had just witnessed.

Chapter 593: Extraordinary Strength, Powerful Germa

"Are you kidding me? Could her strength actually exceed 4,000 Fighting power?" one Marine whispered incredulously.

"Otherwise, how could Bill be so thoroughly defeated with his considerable strength?" another responded.

"That's impossible. Even Lady Ain only possesses 3,500 Fighting power. Are we supposed to believe she's stronger than Lady Ain?"

"Well... it's not entirely implausible. Aren't there several individuals in Wano Country whose strength surpasses the Lady’s? One more extraordinarily powerful person isn't completely unacceptable..."

As the discussions intensified around them, Reiju and Sanji stood in silence, exchanging meaningful glances.

At that moment, Bill—whom everyone had presumed "dead"—slowly opened his eyes. He coughed several times, then extended a trembling hand skyward.

"F-Fighting... power... 3,120..." he managed weakly. [Fighting Power=Doriki]

After delivering this vital information, Bill's head lolled to one side as he lost consciousness completely. Or rather, as he later justified to himself: "Just taking a strategic nap first, then I'll enjoy a feast when I wake up. Truly, I'm a genius."

Hearing this impressive number, everyone present drew in sharp breaths of astonishment. All eyes turned toward the pink-haired young woman standing calmly in the training field—her expression gentle, almost demure, belying the tremendous power she had just demonstrated.

"As expected of Germa... such incredible strength!" someone murmured, voicing the collective amazement of the gathered Marines.

While the onlookers marveled at Reiju's capabilities, her younger brother Sanji—who had appointed himself as her "guide" in her nascent Marine career—stood completely dumbfounded.

His motivation for rousing Reiju so early that morning, under the pretense of training, had been twofold. Beyond fulfilling Luffy's directives, he had secretly harbored the desire to demonstrate his own enhanced abilities to his sister after their years apart. He wanted to prove to her that he was no longer the vulnerable child who had once needed her protection.

However, reflecting on the numbers Bill had announced before losing consciousness, Sanji found himself utterly speechless, his expression a complicated mixture of astonishment, admiration, and perhaps a hint of wounded pride.

Reiju, naturally observant, missed none of this. The corners of her mouth curled upward slightly as she tilted her chin toward Sanji provocatively.

"Well? What do you think, Captain Sanji? Do I still require your basic training regimen?" she teased, her voice sweet but with an unmistakable undertone of triumph.

Sanji remained momentarily speechless, struggling to formulate a response.

"Hmph," he finally managed, affecting an air of nonchalance. "This level of strength is merely adequate—passable, but barely. Don't grow complacent. You might possess raw power, but you lack the refined techniques to complement it. Even with the disparity in our Dao levels, you're not necessarily capable of defeating me in actual combat."

To demonstrate his point, Sanji leaped lightly into the air, channeling his energy through his right leg to execute a powerful Storm Kick directed at a steel training dummy positioned nearby. The crescent-shaped vacuum blade that formed from his kick sliced cleanly through the metal construct, bisecting it with apparent ease.

Reiju's eyes brightened noticeably upon witnessing this display, and she offered a respectful round of applause in acknowledgment.

After landing gracefully, buoyed by the positive reception to his demonstration, Sanji regained some of his confidence. He crossed his arms and addressed Reiju with a slightly condescending tone:

"Next, I'll introduce you to advanced training protocols and instruct you in the Government's exclusive techniques—the Six Styles. I'll even guide your development of Haki, which will further enhance your natural physical capabilities."

Reiju listened attentively. As the princess of the technologically dominant Germa Kingdom, her knowledge base far exceeded that of ordinary North Blue inhabitants. At minimum, she was familiar with the terms "Rokushiki" and "Haki" from her extensive education.

However, under Judge's leadership, Germa had placed excessive faith in technological advancement. Consequently, Reiju's understanding of Haki remained theoretical and vague—she knew only that it represented an ability mastered by virtually all formidable combatants in the world.

This explained her careful attention to Sanji's words. For his part, Sanji was finally experiencing the satisfaction of demonstrating valuable expertise to his sister, making his earlier efforts feel worthwhile.

He provided Reiju with a concise introduction to the Six Styles and the fundamentals of Haki, eager to transition from sibling to instructor for his "new student."

Just as they prepared to begin practical training, Sanji's gaze traveled from Reiju's head to her feet, his brow furrowing as he examined her combat uniform with evident skepticism.

"While I'm not entirely certain what this outfit of yours represents, my instincts suggest you should remove it during training sessions," he advised firmly.

Reiju glanced down at her battle suit, considering his words.

"This is merely a standard combat uniform," she explained. "I happen to have another one with me. If you're interested, I could offer it to you."

The surrounding Marines froze, their expressions a mixture of disbelief and sudden intense interest.

"Battle suit?" Sanji repeated, dismissively. "I have no need for such devices. Keep it for yourself."

The Marines' collective disappointment was palpable, many suppressing audible gasps.

"Are you certain?" Reiju inquired, sounding genuinely surprised. "That's unfortunate. The spare unit is specifically designed for male users. If you truly don't want it, I suppose I'll simply discard it."

Chapter 594: The Tour Ends, Return

"Wait!!!"

No longer able to maintain his pretense of unconsciousness after overhearing the siblings' exchange, Bill abruptly rolled over and sprang to his feet. He approached Reiju with an obsequious demeanor, his tone simultaneously pleading and fawning:

"I want it! I want it! If Captain Sanji doesn't want it, please give it to me instead! I'm begging you, Sister Reiju!"

His outburst triggered a chorus of similar pleas from the surrounding Marines: "Please, please give it to me!!"

Sanji glared at his subordinates in disbelief. "Hey, you bastards!!"

Despite the disruptive influence of these enthusiastic interruptions, Sanji's training program ultimately proceeded—albeit with numerous unexpected detours—and eventually yielded positive results. At minimum, he succeeded in capturing Reiju's genuine interest in both the Six Styles and Haki, securing her willing participation in his instructional sessions.

Beyond combat training, Reiju unexpectedly developed an interest in culinary arts. She began rising early each morning to assist in meal preparation for Sanji's division. After completing kitchen duties, she would join the crew for combat training exercises, occasionally regaling her growing fanbase with captivating stories about Germa.

Gradually, life aboard the vessel settled into a comfortable routine.

Throughout the following months, Luffy continued his diplomatic mission across the North Blue. During this nearly six-month period, the World Government dispatched formal greetings to all member states of the region.

Perhaps due to the legendary Admiral's presence, pirates throughout the North Blue demonstrated markedly improved behavior during this interval. Many notorious crews chose to retreat into obscurity, minimizing their activities out of prudent caution.

Naturally, exceptions existed—fearless or foolhardy individuals who persisted in defying maritime law. On one notable occasion, Luffy was visiting a kingdom that happened to suffer a pirate incursion during his stay.

Such an opportunity for public relations was too perfect for Luffy to ignore. With decisive action, he effortlessly eliminated the threat. The dramatic spectacle of lightning columns descending from the heavens not only terrified the local royal family but compelled them to abandon their dignified facades and prostrate themselves before him in gratitude.

This display dominated the front pages of major newspapers for an entire week, once again cementing Luffy's position as the focus of global attention.

With his authority as an Admiral and his overwhelming strength, Luffy effectively functioned as a regional emperor within the North Blue, patrolling his designated territory at will.

Unfortunately, this exhilarating experience would soon conclude with his visit to the final nation on his itinerary. Now en route back to the Grand Line, it wouldn't be long before he could return to his beloved Wano Country after an extended absence.

Thwack!

The crisp impact resonated through the recreation room as the white cue ball rolled forward with precision, disappearing into the designated pocket exactly as intended.

Luffy cursed under his breath, his expression darkening as he stepped aside to apply chalk to his cue tip while intently studying the table configuration.

As a novice billiards player, he naturally lacked the expertise for sophisticated games like snooker. He was engaged in the most straightforward variant—eight-ball—with solid-colored balls as his targets, while his opponent Nami played for the striped balls.

Unlike Luffy, who remained a beginner, Nami had navigated the sea since childhood and possessed extensive familiarity with common gambling diversions and recreational pursuits. Despite deliberately restraining her abilities, she had eliminated all but her number 12 ball from the table.

After pocketing the 12, she would need only to sink the black 8-ball to secure another victory. Observing Luffy, who had managed to pocket only two balls—largely due to fortunate positioning rather than skill—Nami couldn't suppress a sense of mild exasperation.

After retrieving the cue ball from the pocket, she positioned it thoughtfully and executed a casual shot. Without bothering to track the ball's trajectory, she collected her drink from the nearby table and retreated to the comfortable sofa to rest.

"This is becoming tedious," she sighed. "Had I anticipated your lack of skill, I would have chosen to join Vivi for a proper gaming session instead."

Irritated by her transparent condescension, Luffy bristled visibly.

"Don't pretend you're some billiards expert," he retorted sharply. "If I hadn't been exercising my observation Haki, you would have lost countless games by now."

Following this declaration, he leaned forward across the table, studying the arrangement of balls with exaggerated concentration. He made several elaborate feints with his cue stick, though no one observed him actually attempting a shot.

Witnessing this display, Nami could only sigh once more, shaking her head and choosing to remain silent. Experience had taught her the futility of reasoning with a stubborn man, particularly one whose convictions seemed as impenetrable as diamonds.

Seated beside Nami, Reiju supported her cheek with one hand, watching Luffy's awkward positioning with undisguised amusement. After several months in his company, she had discovered numerous endearing qualities beyond his handsome appearance and formidable abilities.

For instance, his current stubborn determination and earnest concentration struck her as particularly charming. The more time she spent with him, the more these small, human moments revealed the complex personality beneath the legendary Admiral's intimidating reputation.

Chapter 595: Luffy: It's Not Fair! I Want the Golden Den Den Mushi!

"Bang!"

Another shot missed its mark, and Luffy watched with dismay as the white cue ball tumbled into the pocket. His expression darkening, he turned abruptly and tossed the cue stick aside, abandoning the game entirely.

Nami exhaled a sigh of relief at this development. To preserve this man's dignity, she had deliberately missed countless easy shots during their match!

Luffy seemed to detect her thoughts, shooting her a dissatisfied glare.

Nami returned his look with an irritated expression of her own.

"What are you staring at?" she challenged. "Have something to say, oh defeated Admiral?"

Luffy remained silent, his mouth pressed into a thin line.

Having just suffered a humiliating defeat at the billiards table, he clearly lacked any grounds to offer a rebuttal.

After clearing his throat lightly, he decisively changed the subject, his voice taking on a petulant tone:

"I don't understand what Fleet Admiral Sengoku is thinking. I hold the prestigious rank of Admiral in the Marines, yet beyond this empty title, he's granted me no substantial privileges. I've been planning to test the Buster Call once I received the Golden Den Den Mushi."

"You have quite the imagination," Nami remarked dryly.

Both she and Reiju were visibly taken aback by his casual statement.

One had accompanied Luffy for years, while the other was a princess from an allied nation with exceptional connections—both women immediately recognized the significance of the "Golden Den Den Mushi" he had mentioned so casually.

This was no trivial matter—the device served as the "key" for initiating the Buster Call, a devastating military operation. A simple activation could obliterate an entire kingdom of supposed wrongdoers.

Yet in Luffy's casual discussion, this weapon of mass destruction sounded like some novel toy he wished to experiment with.

What exactly went through this man's mind?

Luffy's frustration was genuine, however. While his authority as commander of the G66 branch certainly exceeded that of most Marine officers, he lacked the power to issue the Buster Call—a privilege extended to other Admirals—and this disparity clearly bothered him.

"What's the meaning of this differential treatment?" he grumbled.

After her initial surprise subsided, Reiju composed herself and offered a rational analysis:

"Technically, as an Admiral, you should indeed possess this authority," she acknowledged. "However, don't overlook your age—you're not even eighteen yet, still legally a minor. If I were responsible for distributing a weapon as devastating as the Buster Call, I too would exercise caution in your case."

Nami nodded emphatically, expressing complete agreement with Reiju's assessment.

Luffy frowned uncomfortably, clearly dissatisfied with what he perceived as Sengoku's age discrimination. Unfortunately, his complaints carried little weight. During a previous call to Sengoku where he had attempted to argue his case, the old man had simply retorted with "I am the Fleet Admiral"—a response that had nearly driven Luffy to apoplexy.

Perhaps sensing the depth of Luffy's resentment, Reiju stood, approached him, and gently patted his head.

"You'll have access to such responsibilities when you're older," she assured him with a slight smile. "We're nearly at our destination—let's inform the rest of the crew about our arrival."

With these parting words, Reiju exited the recreation room, leaving Luffy and Nami alone, staring at each other in bewilderment.

Luffy touched his hair, his expression incredulous.

"Did she... just treat me like a child?" he asked, seemingly unable to process what had transpired.

Nami silently rose from her seat and moved to his side, extending her hand to mimic Reiju's head pat.

Her attempt was immediately halted by Luffy's withering glare.

"Hmph! You have absolutely no respect for your superiors!" he snapped.

With an indignant snort, Luffy stormed out, determined to teach the pink-haired woman a lesson in proper respect.

Nami raised her hands in surrender, waiting until everyone had departed before stamping her foot in frustration and muttering angrily:

"What a petty, thin-skinned man!"

After this brief outburst, she hastily followed the Admiral.

Meanwhile, at Onigashima in Wano Country, Marine officers who had received advance notice of the Admiral's return had been assembled in formation for quite some time.

Numerous Wano civilians and foreign tourists, having heard about the Admiral's imminent arrival, had gathered to witness the spectacle and admire the legendary Marine's presence firsthand.

At the forefront of the crowd stood dozens of exceptionally beautiful women, each possessing extraordinary beauty, poise, and dignity—truly one-in-a-million specimens of feminine grace.

Many onlookers who had originally intended to glimpse the Admiral found themselves captivated by these stunning women, their attention diverted regardless of gender.

Particularly notable was a tall woman with flowing black hair who appeared to be the leader of this extraordinary gathering. Her frosty demeanor, cold elegance, and stern countenance had captured the admiration of countless young men and women in the crowd.

What these admirers found regrettable was their goddess's complete indifference to their attention. Even now, her thoughts were entirely consumed by another man.

"That bastard Luffy," she fumed silently. "He abandoned us here while gallivanting around with other women for over half a year. Just wait until he returns—I'll show him precisely how I deal with such disloyalty!"