One piece: I,Akaino will not die easily

"Soldier..."

Onigumo muttered the word softly, hesitating for a moment. With an uncertain tone, he responded,

"We are protectors of peace. We are servicemen in the military, maintaining the stability of the World Government's regime and the order under the allied nations."

Finishing his explanation, Onigumo looked up at Sakazuki, awaiting the vice admiral's evaluation. Sakazuki nodded slightly, a hint of approval in his expression.

"Correct, but not entirely correct."

Onigumo did not show impatience, quietly awaiting further instruction. Sakazuki slowly adjusted his gloves before speaking:

"Soldiers are intrinsically linked to war. Our existence is to use violence to quell chaos and wars." These words resonated deeply with Onigumo, who couldn't help but voice his agreement,

"As expected of Lord Sakazuki, truly insightful." Sakazuki waved his hand dismissively and continued,

"Soldiers are born for war and die for peace. Becoming a soldier does not automatically make one a true warrior. A true soldier carries a heart of justice and a fiery passion, using their unyielding spirit to safeguard their nation, their people, and their interests."

Many of the soldiers on the deck paused their work, turning their attention to Sakazuki and listening intently. Some even nodded repeatedly. Sakazuki surveyed the surroundings and spoke again, his voice resonating powerfully:

"The essence of being a soldier is sacrifice and responsibility. Soldiers choose to dedicate their most youthful years, to sacrifice themselves. Soldiers! In their loneliest moments, they choose resilience and perseverance!! Soldiers! When faced with the grievances of their loved ones, they choose patience and silence!! Soldiers! When confronting the tests of life and death, they choose to charge forward fearlessly and abandon all thoughts of self-preservation!!!"

The deck was utterly silent, with many Navy personnel reflecting on the passion and pursuit of justice they had when they first joined the Navy. Sakazuki turned his gaze to the thoughtful rear admiral and asked,

"Where does our military funding come from?"

Without waiting for Onigumo to respond, he answered his own question:

"From the World Government. But have you ever thought about where the World Government's finances come from? That's right! From the allied nations. And where do the allied nations' funds come from?"

A soldier who had been wiping a cannon hesitated before putting down his cloth and responded,

"From the taxes of citizens and subjects in each country."

Sakazuki immediately followed up:

"Exactly, from the taxes of the common people. It's their tax money that sustains the military! Even the vast majority of Navy soldiers come from civilians across various regions who hold justice in their hearts!! So, you tell me, if we cannot protect their safety and interests, how is that any different from betrayal?!

Despite its many unspoken hardships and sorrows, choosing a military career does not justify becoming deserters or refusing to carry out missions. Military life gives us strength and instills in us a sense of duty and obligation. Soldiers endure hardships that ordinary people cannot; they withstand pains that ordinary people cannot. As soldiers, you may drift aimlessly, but as warriors!! You must have a backbone!! Soldiers!!! Must have a soul!!!"

Sakazuki roared, turning the conversation into an impromptu speech. He didn't expect everyone to agree with his views; he only hoped to leave an impression on the soldiers, to ensure they upheld the fundamental dignity of being "human."

Whether it was adopting Robin or aiding civilians, Sakazuki had tried his best to do what was right. He couldn't save the scholars on Ohara Island, couldn't save Olvia, and couldn't save Saul. But he hoped that such tragedies would never happen again in the future.

A single instance of searing pain was enough. Sakazuki hoped to bring about change—not just within himself.

Though powerless to oppose the current blow, nor did he expect to alter Admiral Sengoku's orders, he wished that from this moment onward, his modest efforts could gradually influence the Navy Headquarters. Individual strength, no matter how remarkable, is ultimately limited.

Even with his astonishing power and high-ranking position, the success of such a challenging, top-down reform would require internal, bottom-up support driven by collective will. That, he believed, would make the process much easier.

Several naval officers stood with their feet together, raising their hands in salute toward Sakazuki. More and more people followed suit. There was no applause, no cheers, but the soldiers silently expressed their sincere respect for the vice admiral in the way of the military.

Onigumo, who had remained silent throughout, seemed to grasp something as he looked at his superior. Even for someone as cold and unyielding as him, even after so much time had passed, he would never forget his original convictions.

But today, Sakazuki's words had opened a new door for him. People may have different definitions and understandings of justice, but what Sakazuki ultimately wanted to convey was the unyielding spirit and dignity of a soldier. With a solemn expression, Onigumo stood at attention, pivoted on his heel, and bowed deeply to Sakazuki.

Sakazuki's voice was low but powerful: "Tell me, what are you?"

The voices of everyone on the deck broke through the clouds: "Soldiers! Soldiers! Soldiers!"

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