As Ryuya spoke, he unleashed "Evening Elephant," one of the ultimate techniques of the eighth gate, the , Death Gate, possessing immense destructive power.
He struck Dragon's abdomen with a powerful blow.
The devastating air cannon registered instantly with Dragon's Observation Haki.
Its speed escalated dramatically, from level 1 to level 5, far exceeding expectations.
Ryuya had previously tested the technique; level 1 alone could injure Dragon and cause significant ground damage.
This strike, however, was aimed upwards.
At the last moment, Dragon unleashed his strongest Armament Haki, coating his abdomen.
This barely deflected the attack, but the impact still sent him flying into the air.
Once he reached a certain height, the air cannon exploded.
The air rippled with the force of the explosion.
Violent winds dispersed the heavy storm clouds.
"That terrifying power... I've only seen it from Admiral Ryuya, but this is completely different!"
"This isn't Ryuya! Is Sterry truly this strong?"
Dragon felt his insides churn violently.
The pain of his displaced organs left him momentarily dazed.
Even so, he knew he had to retreat immediately.
He hadn't expected such severe injuries from a moment of carelessness.
This would significantly delay the Revolutionary Army's progress—precisely Ryuya's intention.
By slowing the Revolutionary Army, Ryuya and the Dawn Bird would gain time to consolidate their power.
By the time Dragon recovered, they would find themselves with no foothold left on the Grand Line.
Dragon's retreat was anticipated.
Ryuya turned to the shocked ministers, standing calmly.
They prostrated themselves before him.
"His Majesty is mighty! He defeated the Revolutionary Army's leader single-handedly!"
"Such power is awe-inspiring! Long live the King!"
Ryuya remained unmoved by their praise.
"Do your duty. Follow me, and wealth and glory will follow," he said, returning to his throne.
"Report the machine casualties."
"Your Majesty, of the 1000 standard machines produced, 327 were damaged. Of the 10 advanced mechanical soldiers, 2 were lost."
"Good. Recover them and return them to the factory for repairs. They'll be as good as new."
He continued, "Spread news of this battle worldwide—that the Revolutionary Army was defeated by our mechanical soldiers.
We will sell these soldiers to other nations."
"Materials and payment will be their responsibility.
Damaged soldiers can be returned for repair at a minimal cost!"
The ministers realized this was a tremendously lucrative venture—a money-printing machine.
The victory, achieved without outside assistance, was undeniable.
Within three days, four nations contacted them to purchase mechanical soldiers.
Ryuya readily agreed, stating he would produce as many as they could afford.
Marine Headquarters, Marineford:
Sengoku reviewed the reports, his forehead creased with worry.
"Is Sterry trying to incite war?" he wondered, concerned.
The reports, combined with rumors, painted a picture of incredibly powerful mechanical soldiers.
While he doubted they could defeat Dragon, they would be a formidable force in inter-national conflicts.
He contacted Ryuya, who had just returned to Marineford.
Before Sengoku could speak, Ryuya said, "Admiral, I request a leave of absence.
I'm suffering from extreme mental fatigue."
Sengoku sighed. "How long a leave? Don't tell me it's four months."
"Yes, four months. Approval requested," Ryuya replied.
Sengoku sighed again. Ryuya had worked incredibly hard.
"Approved. But return immediately if anything major happens."
"Understood, Admiral."
Ryuya hung up. Sengoku sighed once more, contacting Kuzan.
He'd grown accustomed to delegating tasks to Ryuya due to his efficiency, but this couldn't continue.
He needed to support Kuzan more.
Just as Ryuya was preparing to depart, a masked figure in white robes appeared.
"Admiral White Dove, the Gorosei request your presence." ʀᴇᴀᴅ ʟᴀᴛᴇsᴛ ᴄʜᴀᴘᴛᴇʀs ᴀᴛ NovᴇlFɪre.nᴇt
Ryuya smirked at the CP0 agent.
"Excellent. I have the time. Let's go."
He stood, stretched, and followed the CP0 agent towards Mary Geoise—his first official summons to the Holy Land.
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