Chapter 75: Something Interesting

If one were to consider the subjugation of an entire nation merely in terms of military might or combat strength, it would pose no insurmountable obstacle for the Donquixote family as it stands now. In fact, Doflamingo alone could quell all resistance simply by deploying the "Birdcage" technique.

The real issue, however, lies in the fact that Dressrosa is a member state of the World Government, ruled by the legitimate Riku royal family. For pirates, destroying a country like this would be a simple feat; but to seize control and become its rightful king by sheer force—such a notion is laughable.

A pirate suddenly ascending to the throne? Impossible. Would the World Government ever invite a wanted criminal to attend the Reverie?

Such a coup would never be recognized by the World Government; it would likely provoke a crushing response from their military might. One hardly needs to imagine a large-scale naval deployment—just picture what would happen if Vice Admiral Garp alone were sent against the Donquixotes.

The power of a single nation is negligible when set against the World Government, or even just Marine Headquarters. Likewise, if the Navy were to focus its efforts, the Donquixote family would be no more than a tough bone to crack, but crack it they would.

What Doflamingo seeks is "legitimacy." He wants to reclaim the throne of Dressrosa lawfully, not to grab it at gunpoint and flee. This is the crux of the challenge.

Though Doflamingo's plans regarding Flevance were not yet precise or detailed at this point, his initial strategy was already clear: assuming the throne as a pirate would be outrageous, a direct affront to the Marines and the World Government. Therefore, he would need a stepping stone to alter his standing.

If ordinary pirates are unacceptable, then what about “legal” pirates? Legal pirates are those who operate under World Government orders, integrated into its system.

Going from pirate, to legal pirate, to king—the entire affair would seem far less conspicuous.

There is only one type of pirate recognized by the World Government as having the right to plunder: the "Warlords of the Sea."

Thus, acquiring this status was indispensable for Doflamingo’s entire plan; besides, the title of Warlord itself brought immense convenience in many matters.

If, after becoming a Warlord, the people of Dressrosa themselves ousted the “tyrannical” King Riku and welcomed back the former king, Donquixote—what could the World Government say then?

With the cover of kingship, Doflamingo’s opportunities would multiply—though that is a matter for the future.

This endeavor required careful planning and step-by-step execution, with absolute secrecy before the fact; if the World Government learned of it in advance and took measures, all of Doflamingo’s scheming would be for naught.

Thus…it was under these uncertain circumstances that the Donquixote family suddenly entered a period of dormancy.

For a pirate crew notorious for their brutality, the Donquixote family was uncharacteristically well-behaved during this time. With their absence from the North Blue, the seas grew more chaotic and lively.

Doflamingo’s silence even led some to believe it was time for rivals to advance while he retreated; groups like the Komodo Pirates began expanding their influence in earnest. Some uninformed onlookers even thought the Donquixote family had lost its power.

As a result, certain individuals became increasingly brazen in their actions.

In truth, even without the Donquixotes, the Marines remained as busy as ever.

Still, Doflamingo’s newfound quiet was, overall, considered good news. Some “discerning individuals” believed it was merely the calm before the storm, that Doflamingo was brewing some grand scheme—but these were only suspicions.

Of course, for some restless souls, the family’s lack of activity was most unfortunate. World peace is a noble ideal, but it is by no means everyone’s.

There is no shortage of troublemakers eager to disrupt the world’s order and unity, and Qiubai was a prime example.

For three months straight, Qiubai had languished in idleness. His daily routine had dwindled to eating, sleeping, training, and—eventually—having nothing left on the entire island to meddle with.

But at this time, there was nothing he could do; even the most free-spirited pirate must sometimes obey the “big picture.”

“So…bored,” he muttered.

That one phrase summed up all his feelings. The calm had begun to unsettle him. Even Trafalgar Law’s hostility had diminished during this period—at least he was no longer on the verge of exploding or drawing his blade at the slightest provocation. Rocinante’s “guidance” had evidently had some effect.

Qiubai’s contact with Law remained limited; as previously mentioned, he only wanted to reap the benefits without even bothering to build rapport.

As time passed, and Qiubai began to wonder if the world outside truly had achieved peace, he finally received another summons from Doflamingo.

In fact, upon hearing that Doflamingo was looking for him, Qiubai felt an unusual sense of urgency.

…………

“Travel southeast from the North Blue. Near the entrance to the Grand Line, by Reverse Mountain, there lies an archipelago called the ‘Nyanjalapas’ Islands. It’s a prosperous region, frequented by Marines, merchants, and even pirates; as a result, there’s a significant Marine presence, which makes it difficult for the family to establish a foothold there.”

“In fact, one could say the archipelago is beyond the family’s reach. The rulers of its underworld are likely certain degenerate nobles.”

Qiubai listened attentively to Doflamingo’s explanation. Clearly, his next mission would involve this archipelago.

“Nonetheless, we can still acquire information. On the main island, in a city called ‘Pas’, there’s credible news that a local underground auction house will, in a month’s time, be selling a rather interesting item. And as it happens, I am somewhat interested in it myself…”

Obviously, the Donquixote family could not intervene directly in that auction house—otherwise, there would be no need to send a top officer.

“What is it?” Qiubai asked.

What was it that Doflamingo desired? That was the crucial point.

“It’s a rather unique Devil Fruit. You may have seen it in the illustrated guide. The one known as the ‘Play-Play Fruit.’”

“That’s all you need to know for now. Your mission is to bring the fruit back,” Doflamingo said.

“I understand.”

Qiubai nodded, asking nothing further—there was no need.

“The other family officers are preoccupied with other matters, so you may undertake this ‘simple’ task with Ain… Any questions?”

“Just one: if the Devil Fruit is up for auction, how much of a budget will the family provide?”

Buying the item at auction was, after all, the most proper method, was it not?

But that was hardly in keeping with the pirate way, and Doflamingo clearly thought so too, for he replied generously:

“We’ll reimburse your travel expenses.”

“……”