The Op-Op Fruit (Ope Ope no Mi)—a Devil Fruit with powers considered among the most dangerous and miraculous in existence—was not just a tool of surgery or battle. Its true potential was beyond comprehension.
A dark horse in the Naval Headquarters—Director of the Criminal Investigation Bureau, a formidable and secretive figure—brought grave news.
At the same time, within the Naval Headquarters, the tension had reached its peak. The rising threat of Ayr, who ruled the New World like a phantom emperor, was growing unbearable.
"Lately, the sea has been strangely quiet. The veteran pirates haven't stirred, and several of the younger upstarts have accepted positions as Shichibukai, becoming part of our system," said Fleet Admiral Kong solemnly during the emergency high command meeting.
"I believe this is our best opportunity. While the seas are calm, I'll personally oversee this operation," he added.
"I'll go too, Kong," offered Sengoku. "I'm currently unoccupied and ready to act."
The highest-ranking Marines shared a mutual, unspoken belief: their only hope was to stall Ayr until his strength waned with age. But that hope was now under threat.
Because now, Ayr was seeking the Op-Op Fruit—to become immortal.
The possibility alone was chilling.
"Well, the operation won't consume much time or energy. I'll accompany them," said Vice Admiral Tsuru (He Dao), calm but visibly concerned.
The meeting room's doors opened slowly. A Marine named Nagley walked in respectfully and saluted.
Kong stood and cast his gaze across the room, filled with high-ranking officers. His tone was grave.
"Everyone, our investigation has confirmed it—Ayr is actively searching for the Op-Op Fruit."
The revelation caused a stir in the room.
The dark horse continued his report. "We have reason to believe that Ayr intends to use the fruit not just for healing or battlefield advantage—but to perform the Perpetual Youth Operation, granting himself eternal life."
He paused, watching the officers' faces pale.
"Once successful... there will be no force in this world that can defeat him."
This was no exaggeration.
Years ago, Ayr had already used forbidden techniques to resurrect Rocks D. Xebec, the most dangerous pirate in history. That alone proved he had transcended ordinary human capability. But if he now acquired immortality?
Unstoppable.
"We believe Ayr's plan involves feeding the Op-Op Fruit to a creature—possibly a Sea King resembling a lantern—and forcing it to perform the operation on him," the report continued.
"Once that's done, Ayr will become truly undying."
Garp slammed his fist into the table. "This monster... he really plans to live forever!?"
The other officers exchanged grave glances. Pure Gold, a legendary substance that slowed aging, was one route to longevity. But it was virtually untraceable. The Op-Op Fruit, however, was real—and within reach.
"This is why Ayr has been so quiet for years," Zephyr muttered, fists clenched. "He's been biding his time, planning this..."
The dark horse didn't stop.
"We traced the Op-Op Fruit's current whereabouts to Diez Barreiros—a former Marine turned pirate, and the father of X Drake, one of the upcoming Supernovas."
Barreiros had once found the fruit by chance and sold it back to the Marines at an astronomical price. But now, it had resurfaced—and this time, its value wasn't just strategic. It was existential.
If Ayr obtained the fruit, no one—not the World Government, not Kaido, not even Shanks—could stand against him.
"Then we must act immediately," said Sengoku, rising abruptly. "We cannot let this Devil Fruit fall into Ayr's hands. If we do, Marine Headquarters will forever live in his shadow."
"Agreed. The four of us will go," said Garp.
Kong looked over the room. "Then it's settled. Garp, Sengoku, Zephyr, Tsuru—the mission is yours. Head to the island where Diez Barreiros is stationed and retrieve the Op-Op Fruit at all costs."
As they nodded, Kong's voice echoed like a gavel.
"The future of this world may depend on it."
Suddenly, another voice pierced the tension.
"Dark Horse, update us with the most current intel."
The dark horse stepped forward. "Yes, sir. According to our surveillance, Ayr has ordered all his forces across the Grand Line to locate the Op-Op Fruit. His goal is confirmed—immortality."
The room fell into a tense silence.
Even in this age of great pirates, Ayr stood apart. His forces were global, his knowledge ancient, and his power terrifying. Even with the combined might of Marineford, few dared challenge him directly.
"We must get the fruit before he does," Tsuru said. "Even if it means outbidding, intercepting, or forcefully retrieving it. Once in Marine custody, the option of immortality must be sealed."
"If pure gold is found, it's acceptable," Zephyr said. "But if not—this fruit must not fall into enemy hands."
Back in the New World, Ayr sat calmly in a tavern.
He raised his voice toward the door. "Nagley, begin immediate investigation into the Op-Op Fruit's location. And if possible... locate the lantern-shaped Sea King."
Nagley saluted. "Understood, Mr. Ayr."
Ayr's plan was elaborate but clear. Even if he couldn't find Pure Gold, the Op-Op Fruit would suffice. One way or another, he would conquer time itself.
In the Holy Land Mariejois, whispers began to spread. Even the Celestial Dragons had begun to stir at the thought of a man transcending mortality without permission of the gods.
Meanwhile, the four Marine legends—Garp, Sengoku, Zephyr, and Tsuru—prepared to depart.
No matter the cost, they would secure the Devil Fruit. For justice. For balance. For the world.
Because if they failed—
Ayr would become eternal.
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