One Piece Devouring Fruit - Chapter 38
Even if Michion wanted to become a pirate as a child, it was unrealistic. He would be crushed instantly.
Since arriving in this world, Michion had been planning his future. He adhered to “lawful good” but didn’t intend to serve one faction until death, especially with scum at the top.
It’s certain that Michion would need to operate under the Navy’s identity for a long time, accumulating power and reputation.
However, the new identity brought by Adolf offered substantial benefits.
Though it disrupted Michion’s plans, this new identity allowed for earlier implementation of many strategies.
As for Michion’s plans…
Before they are executed, they are just worthless fantasies. Michion must still achieve the first step of becoming more assertive and self-sufficient. Losing a plan doesn’t matter!
On the contrary, the identity of a kingdom’s heir could greatly aid Michion’s development.
Having quickly accepted his new identity, Michion was now conversing with Adolf. After all, experiencing such a bizarre event as crossing worlds, being a lost prince was not strange.
Some people transmigrate directly as Celestial Dragons or with a system; being a prince was nothing special.
Having swiftly accepted his new identity, Michion began actively learning about the Kingdom of Ishtar from Adolf, which helped him gain a clearer understanding.
First, his country was influential in the North Blue and aligned with the Navy. The king, his biological father, was a benevolent ruler who cared for his people.
Understandably, a tyrannical ruler would have left the country in ruins, unable to export food. They’d struggle to feed their people.
Second, his royal identity did not conflict with his Navy status. In fact, the relationship might offer some benefits.
This meant more freedom. Michion now had some backing from above.
“Can I recruit crew members under the guise of guards, posing as Navy personnel to sail with me?”
The idea was that as a prince, he would naturally have bodyguards assigned by the king. But in the Navy, he was a soldier, not a prince. Therefore, these guards needed to wear Navy uniforms for appearances.
He could then select and train his crew members.
Although this roundabout method seemed convoluted, it allowed the Navy to acknowledge Michion having personal guards.
For Michion, this was a great benefit, enabling many initiatives to proceed smoothly.
For example, recruited crew members could officially be Navy personnel, allowing them to receive Navy training, including the Six Powers. This was a significant advantage.
Without being part of the Navy, learning the Six Powers might make someone a target.
With this, Michion’s eyes lit up. This meant his influence in the Navy wouldn’t just be about factions but could involve his own crew, increasing his independence.
He could remain semi-autonomous, adhering to orders but retaining personal independence.
It was a delightful prospect.
Shaking his head to clear unrealistic thoughts, Michion knew he needed strength to achieve this.
Even if he could use his knowledge to recruit people, the fundamental requirement was strength.
Without strength, everything was difficult.
But necessary planning was always beneficial. Michion thought, stroking his chin.
“Your Highness, your emblem bears a special mark when blood is applied. Please be cautious not to reveal it,” Adolf advised seriously.
“Oh? So there’s more to this emblem? Is that how you recognized me?”
Michion had noticed Adolf covering the emblem and then putting it away. He suspected there was something hidden.
“Apologies, Your Highness, but only King Gaius can explain this to you,” Adolf said, bowing deeply.
“Never mind, I’ll wait… until we reach the Kingdom of Ishtar.” Michion decided it was best to wait.
Moreover, cutting himself was painful and would only raise more questions. It was better to get the answers directly later.
“Kuzan is probably making a call right now. Once this is settled, there should be a ship to take us to the North Blue.”
Michion scratched his head, feeling awkward with Adolf’s deference. The sudden change in the atmosphere made him uncomfortable.
Breaking the silence, Michion asked, “By the way, Adolf, how did you get captured by pirates?” He was curious since a royal butler should be in the safest place.
“To my shame, the king granted me a vacation to relax. I went sea fishing with an old friend, but we were ambushed by pirates. My friend was shot and fell into the sea, his fate unknown…”
Adolf said, looking despondent.
Wow, going fishing and getting captured by pirates. What luck.
“Sorry, Adolf.” Michion felt more awkward, having unintentionally touched a sore spot.
“It’s alright, Your Highness. Meeting you is a blessing amidst misfortune. The king and queen will be thrilled to hear this news,” Adolf sighed.
“By the way, you mentioned our family has military experience. How strong is my father?” Michion asked curiously.
“The king once said he sparred with Navy Rear Admirals. He could only hold his ground but never win,” Adolf said with admiration. “It’s hard to imagine how powerful the Navy must be to struggle against pirates like Whitebeard, whom they call a demon.”
Michion shrugged. For most civilians, it was unimaginable to understand the terrifying strength of someone like Whitebeard.
After coming to this world, Michion realised how little the familiar people expected from life.
Their expectations were almost pitifully low.
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