Chapter 78

Future chapters (15+) at patreon.com/FFAddict.

Additionally, I have many new works readers may be interested in. Go look, if you wish! 

Chapter 78: Baptism

"Godfather, Byrnndi Valdo has come to me," Darren heard from the military phone bug with some astonishment. His expression, normally relaxed as he smoked his cigar, gradually turned strange. He had just received an order from Sengoku to track down Byrnndi Waldo's whereabouts and, within two minutes, the man had "actively" sought out his godson.

Flying Squirrel sitting opposite Darren at the desk also listened to Doflamingo's words with a dazed expression, the corners of his mouth twitching. He nearly burned himself with his cigar before he suddenly reacted.

Darren and Flying Squirrel glanced at each other, silently sharing the thought that this might not be as difficult as they had anticipated.

"What does he want?" Darren asked, exhaling a puff of smoke and beginning to think quickly.

"He needs munitions, large quantities of munitions," Doflamingo said through gritted teeth. "That guy is crazy. He almost destroyed the garrison on Lubeck Island and has given me three days to assemble a large heavy artillery."

A super large heavy artillery? Darren's eyes narrowed, and a sharp gleam flashed deep within them.

"It seems that old man Sengoku has really pushed him..." he muttered, frowning. Then he asked, "Is he hurt?"

From the other end of the phone, Doflamingo, standing with bloodied hands supporting his body, responded in a hoarse voice, "That's right."

After a moment of contemplation and with a clench of his teeth, Doflamingo inquired, "Godfather, what should I do? If Byrnndi Valdo gets a super-sized heavy cannon, with his Devil Fruit ability..."

"—then give it to him," Darren interrupted with a smile. "Give him everything he desires—munitions, weapons, heavy artillery. The more, the better, as long as he can handle it, supply it all to him."

Doflamingo was stunned. Before he could question it, Darren continued, "Let's handle this matter that way, Joker. I'm very pleased that you contacted me to inform me about this."

A cold smile curled at the corner of his mouth as he added, "There's no need for you to intervene in Byrnndi Waldo's affairs. Provide him with the arms he wants. As for the losses at the Rubeck Island station, I will ensure he pays the price."

"Joker," Darren continued, "remember that insults often occur suddenly in life and must be endured. Don't let hatred blind you. But I can assure you..."

The chief officer of North Blue stood up slowly, sneering as he reached out to take the cloak of justice from the coat rack and draped it over his shoulders. "Byrnndi Waldo will not be leaving North Blue alive."

Late at night, the waves churned, the sky was dark and the stars dim. In the territory of Germa 66, the military fortresses shone with lights, alive with celebration. Today marked the baptism day of the eldest daughter of the Germa Kingdom's Vinsmoke family. To celebrate the birth, Vinsmoke Judge, king of Germa Kingdom and commander of Germa 66, had organized a magnificent banquet and invited representatives from many North Blue member countries.

"It's so tedious... Are we sure we want to attend this so-called baptism day?" Kake yawned, standing on the docked warship's deck.

"The sea isn't just about conflict, but also about understanding the world," Darren replied with a smile. "Besides, the Germa Kingdom is a longtime ally of the North Blue Marine."

Listening to his words, Gion and Kake rolled their eyes in unison. Without knowing the context, people might actually believe Darren's tall tales.

"Admiral Darren, my lord is awaiting your arrival in the banquet hall," a man resembling a butler in a black tuxedo said as he stepped forward and bowed to Darren, who had just walked off the deck.

"Welcome, King Judge. It is an honor to witness the christening of Princess Vinsmoke," Darren replied with a smile, moving with elegance.

They all followed the butler into Germa's grand banquet hall, where sparkling crystal chandeliers dangled from the dome, and suited waiters weaved through the crowd, offering drinks and food to the guests.

Kake noted that the attendees included many influential figures from the North Blue. Merchants in fine clothes, gilded nobles, royal envoys, dignitaries, and ministers discussed government affairs, commerce, trade, land transactions, titles, high society gossip, and political shifts. Their casual exchanges carried the weight of shaping the entire region of North Blue.

As Darren's group entered the hall, conversation ceased and all eyes turned to the black-haired Marine leading the way. The sudden silence felt overwhelming and Kake couldn't help swallowing nervously.

Contrary to the guests in formal garments, Darren was clad in his usual crisp black suit with a casually knotted black tie and a sweeping white cape. His striking presence, characterized by intense eyes and a commanding air, was captivating.

Behind him, twenty formidable Marines strode in with an air of authority that suggested this was their domain rather than a celebration they were attending. Men regarded him with a mix of respect and fear, while women gazed at him with open admiration and desire.

"Tch, you only came to witness a ceremony, but you always have to look so dashing," Kake grumbled jealously. He had to admit, Darren was the center of attention.

At that moment, a loud, hearty laugh cut through the silence. Vinsmoke Judge, dressed regally, approached Darren with a laugh, extending his hand.

"It's an honor for my daughter that you could attend her christening ceremony, Admiral Darren," Judge said.

Darren shook his hand with a smile, "How could I miss such a significant event?"