CH 46: The Time Is Right, Wanokuni Recovery Operation

Onigashima Castle: A Tense Night

The top floor of Onigashima Castle lay bathed in bright moonlight. Carlos sat cross-legged on the ground, his expression solemn as he held Yama in his hands. He continuously infused Armament Haki into the sword. After two days of "feeding," he had essentially tamed this famous blade. Known as "a sword that can destroy even hell," Yama wasn't as sharp as his Hidden Thunder but had the unique ability to absorb and store Armament Haki.

During this period, Carlos conducted several experiments, confirming Yama's astonishing power. A single swipe could split mountains and rocks. Though newly acquired, this sword was not inferior to his Hidden Thunder. To fully tame this magical blade, Carlos needed to continue feeding it Armament Haki.

Suddenly, the phone in his arms rang, pulling Carlos from his thoughts. After connecting the call, Stussy's voice came through.

"Carlos, the information is correct. Kaido appeared at Punk Hazard."

"What's happening now?" Carlos asked.

"As planned, he and Big Mom have been surrounded by the Marines. Despite all the agents in the area being confirmed dead, with the help of two Marine Admirals, Kaido's fate is sealed. If nothing unexpected happens, the results will be available before dawn. With you in charge of Wanokuni, there shouldn't be any issues."

Carlos sighed with relief, and Stussy continued with a touch of admiration. "You played the most significant role in the downfall of the two emperors this time. I wonder how the Five Elders will reward you. Just don't forget me when you become rich."

Carlos smiled. "Let's discuss it when I return."

After hanging up, Carlos stood up, looked into the distance, and dialed another phone. "The time has come. The recovery operation has officially begun."

The Battle in Wanokuni

In the distance, towards Wanokuni, countless dots of fire lit up the darkness. The sounds of fierce fighting soared into the sky, audible even from Carlos's position. The months-long undercover mission was nearing its end. With Kaido's defeat, the Beasts Pirates could be completely destroyed.

"I'm really looking forward to the S-level system rewards," Carlos thought, his heart racing. Time passed, and suddenly, he heard rushed footsteps behind him.

"Garros, there's a riot in Wanokuni! The Flower City, Rabbit Bowl, and other areas were attacked. Kurozumi Orochi is demanding immediate support! Queen can't hold out any longer!" came the panicked shouts of Samu, Fozifu, and Maria.

Carlos didn't turn around, his tone unusually calm. "Don't worry about them. We'll deal with it after Boss Kaido returns."

The three were startled and quickly objected. "This isn't appropriate. This is a revolution that could overthrow the Wanokuni regime!"

Carlos slowly turned and shook his head. "Let them fight. I hope the resisters can kill Kurozumi Orochi and overthrow his rule."

"Are you crazy?" they asked, bewildered.

Carlos smiled and explained, "Yes, Kurozumi is our ally, but two tigers cannot share one mountain. Boss Kaido has always wanted to take Wanokuni completely. When the fighting ends, no matter who wins, we'll pick up the pieces and take over everything."

His words calmed the three. Black Maria's eyes lit up. "This is good for us! Even if Kurozumi wins, his forces will be weakened, making them easier to deal with. We'll dominate Wanokuni."

"You're powerful and strategic. No wonder Boss Kaido put you in charge," Maria admired. Then she paused. "But what about the Rabbit Bowl?"

Carlos anticipated her concern. "Queen is as formidable as I am, one of the three strongest among the Beasts Pirates. Besides," he looked meaningfully at Samu and Fozifu, "isn't it advantageous to have one less big star?"

Samu and Fozifu understood and agreed. Black Maria, facing their sharp glances, kept quiet. Carlos concluded, "With Boss Kaido absent, I make the decisions for the Beasts Pirates. We just need to wait quietly."

The Battle at Punk Hazard

Meanwhile, the battle at Punk Hazard raged on. Under the joint attack of Aokiji and Akainu, Kaido was pushed to his limits. Abandoning his dragon form, he transformed into a more agile dragon-man hybrid, wielding a massive mace for close combat.

Aokiji and Akainu fought fiercely, their ice spear and lava fist creating countless afterimages. The roaring wind and violent shockwaves destroyed everything on the island, transforming it into a land of lava and ice. Despite Kaido's monstrous physique, he was at a disadvantage, his body covered in burns and frostbite. His defeat seemed imminent.

Big Mom, too, had decided to retreat. With Caesar Clown in hand, her priority was escaping safely. She rode her thundercloud Zeus towards the coast, clashing with Vice Admirals Flying Squirrel, Huoshaoshan, Dauberman, Ghost Spider, and Stolo Berry.