Thanks to the development over the past year, the 16th Branch's entire layout was completely different from what Smoker had seen upon his initial arrival.
Led by Dante, the group took a careful tour of the branch's overall operations.
Although Zephyr and Ain had already seen the academy facilities last night, Dante deliberately took them on another thorough inspection.
It had been dark last night, and they were exhausted from days of sailing. Though Zephyr claimed he wasn't tired and was highly curious about the 16th Branch, he had ultimately decided not to push it. Considering the late hour and the presence of two women, he had merely taken a brief look around before calling it a night.
Because of this, Zephyr remained incredibly curious as he inspected the branch academy today. Of course, he was also curious about everything else, determined to see exactly what his wayward student had been secretly building in the East Blue.
Upon seeing this Marine Academy, which was completely different from the training camps he was used to, Smoker looked surprised.
In less than two years, it had already expanded to this scale?
Thinking about the current situation in the East Blue, Smoker wasn't fooled. Although they claimed to operate under the banner of the Shichibukai, Bartholomew Kuma, how could he not know whose territories those islands really were?
Guarding so many islands required a massive number of Marines. Therefore, it wasn't strange for Dante to secretly expand his branch's numbers.
As for whatever regulations Marine HQ had set regarding branch troop limits and territorial borders, Dante simply didn't care. He shouted about following the law while being the biggest lawbreaker behind the scenes.
Smoker didn't say much, quietly observing alongside Zephyr.
Although this branch academy wasn't massive, certainly not comparable to HQ's academy, it was small but complete. It offered all necessary training programs, and the grounds were fully equipped with modern gear. Zephyr and Smoker were genuinely shocked that a small branch could achieve this level.
"Although there are only four instructors in the academy right now, every one of them is highly talented," Dante said with a satisfied smile, looking at the stunned group. "They're proficient in swordsmanship, physical combat, fighting techniques, navigation, and more. Each has their own deep understanding of combat. Especially one excellent instructor who created the unique technique, Stealth Walk. His speed is on par with the Marine Six Powers technique, Soru. His classes are humorous and engaging, he treats students strictly, and he is deeply loved by everyone."
Dante gestured broadly. "Don't judge our academy by its size. We have renowned teachers and strong educational resources. The teaching quality is quite high. Of course, this is all thanks to the 16th Branch's heavy investment. Coming here to teach not only offers a high salary and generous benefits, but also provides food and housing!"
As soon as Dante finished his pitch, Smoker nodded and deadpanned, "Indeed, many renowned teachers. Three of your four instructors are pirates. One might think you're running a pirate academy."
Hearing this, Zephyr and his group, who had just been nodding in approval, froze in surprise. They all frowned, staring sharply at Dante.
Under their collective gaze, a glint flashed through Dante's eyes. Lowering his head, he spoke with a trace of deep regret. "This really is my fault. I've always wanted to provide the students with a better education, but the situation in the East Blue..."
Dante shook his head, looking thoroughly disappointed. "You all know how it is. Anyone with real talent went off to become a pirate. As for the Marine branches here... aside from myself and Captain Smoker, the rest are corrupt scum. There are very few qualified teachers, and their abilities don't even compare to pirates. So, to ensure the children could grow up healthy and receive proper training, I made the hard decision to carefully select a few individuals from the thousands of pirates in the East Blue. Although Instructor Kuro and Instructor Daz Bonez committed many wrongs in the past, they've since reformed. For the past two years, they've been at the forefront of our educational efforts, diligently teaching the children and cultivating real talent for the Marines!"
He paused, looking pained. "As for Nami... please don't judge her for being a former pirate. She had no choice. You should know her adoptive mother, Bellemere, was also a Marine Ensign..."
After Dante finished speaking, everyone fell silent as tragic scenes involuntarily flashed through their minds.
Kuro, reformed and known throughout the Academy as the Ghost Instructor.
Daz Bonez, who became a teacher for the sake of an ideal nation.
And the most tragic of all... Nami. To protect her hometown, she had joined the very pirates who murdered her adoptive mother, enduring their oppression yet never forgetting Bellemere's teachings. In the end, she had reformed, inherited her mother's dying wish, and become a righteous Petty Officer in the Marines.
Adding the story of the retired Marine Ensign who gave up her high position to build up her impoverished hometown, only to die protecting her two daughters due to the corruption of local Marines, made the tale utterly heartbreaking.
Instantly, a heavy silence settled over the group. Even the usually stoic Ain was moved, her eyes turning red as everyone glared venomously at the heartless Smoker.
"Captain Smoker, Nami-san is a good person!" Tashigi glared at him angrily. "Please don't speak about her like that anymore!"
"You're still being small-minded, kid," Zephyr said with a disappointed sigh. "Though I too despise pirates, I would never mock those who have truly reformed."
Smoker's face reddened as he suddenly found himself the target of everyone's glares for no apparent reason.
He wanted nothing more than to slap himself.
Why did he have to open his big mouth? Dante was nothing but trouble! Why did he ever agree to help him?
He opened his mouth, about to defend himself, when-
"Smoker-san didn't mean any harm. After all, Kuro and the others were indeed pirates before," Dante sighed, looking up wistfully. "It's not his fault. He has justice in his heart and can't stand any wrongdoing. I can only blame myself for not doing well enough."
"I..."
"Please don't blame Smoker-san." Without giving Smoker any chance to speak, Dante pushed on smoothly. "The Academy and I will reflect on this properly. Next, let's take a look at the other facilities. If anyone has differing opinions, please speak up, we will definitely make improvements!"
With that, he led the group onward to continue the tour.
Only Smoker remained behind, completely bewildered.
'Wasn't it you who told me to say that?'
Swearing under his breath, Smoker's face reddened completely.
That bastard had definitely set him up on purpose. But thinking about the promised reward, Smoker swallowed his anger. He took a deep drag on his cigar and silently followed behind.
===============
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