Chapter 177: 177. Leaving for Skypiea
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Before dawn, a long line of people had already assembled at this location.
Each one of them had received the same special mission, a directive that had been issued several days prior.
However, the details of this mission remained a mystery to all. Despite this, they intuitively understood that the objective must be related to rigorous training and a trial to sharpen their current capabilities.
From the mountain's peak to its base, tens of thousands of individuals marched in unison, all clad in black uniforms and carrying large black bags.
Despite their sheer numbers, their movements went unnoticed.
Neither the citizens of the royal city nor the palace guards were aware of their departure.
Under the cover of night, they set off, reaching the designated gathering point by the early hours of the morning.
Standing at the forefront was Haruya, who addressed the crowd with a serious expression. "Your Majesty, Haruya, Captain of the Royal Palace Guards of the Tru Kingdom, reporting. The Kingdom's Special Forces should total 11,500 members, and the actual count stands at 11,500. Please give your instructions."
King Anos observed the assembled forces, his sharp gaze scanning the line of determined faces.
He raised his voice, imbued with the authoritative resonance of Conqueror's Haki, ensuring his words reached every ear even those at the base of the mountain.
"These individuals are the future pillars of the Tru Kingdom," he declared. "From this moment onward, the safety and prosperity of our kingdom, and the well-being of the families and people who depend on us, will rest in your hands."
"However, your current strength is insufficient. Beginning today, each of you will undertake a special mission to grow into warriors capable of protecting this land. You will safeguard the kingdom's honour, defend your families, and embody the hopes of our people."
"As your king, I, Anos, will personally see you off. When you return, I expect each of you to become a shield for the kingdom, a blade to ensure its peace and a hero in whom the people can place their trust!"
The soldiers, though silent, were filled with pride and determination. Being addressed by their king was an honour beyond words.
For this group, whose unwavering loyalty to Anos served as their guiding light, his presence alone inspired courage and resolve.
After his speech, King Anos pulled out a Den Den Mushi adorned with a crown. Activating it, he spoke firmly, "Daiki, prepare to receive them. From this moment on, these soldiers are under your care."
The Den Den Mushi's expression shifted to one of seriousness as a voice replied, "Understood, Your Majesty. I, Daiki, will not betray the trust of the kingdom."
At the newly constructed Sky Island space portal, Daiki stood with the royal guards stationed there, maintaining a disciplined formation.
Though still under development, Sky Island, once known as Shandora, was transforming into a strategic military base.
The underground Golden City, now fully operational, served as a logistics hub to support the future training of the kingdom's forces.
When everything was ready, King Anos approached Zen, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "I look forward to seeing your transformation upon your return," he said with a rare smile. "When the time comes, I will personally welcome you back."
"Your Majesty, you're making me blush," Zen replied with a grin, scratching the back of his head.
"Enough chatter," Anos said with a commanding tone. "You have much to accomplish. Remember, you carry the hopes of the kingdom on your shoulders."
"Yes, Your Majesty!" Haruya shouted, standing tall. "We will not disappoint the kingdom!"
"Move out!" Anos ordered.
As Haruya led the charge, he guided the soldiers toward the portal. The massive space vortex, stabilized by Anos' ability, glowed with an intense blue light.
For security, Anos personally enhanced the portal to ensure its integrity as tens of thousands passed through.
With precision, the soldiers stepped onto a wooden platform suspended over a deep pit, leading them directly into the swirling vortex.
As each soldier entered, they experienced an instant transition, arriving seamlessly at the Sky Island base.
This training marked the beginning of their transformation. These individuals would one day return not just as soldiers but as elite members of the Tru Kingdom Special Forces, a force that would become the kingdom's ultimate weapon.
Yet this group was only the first. Many more awaited their turn to ascend to the skies, where they would train in the art of Haki, mastering skills like Armament and Observation in preparation for the trials ahead.
For now, their training began with a simple but gruelling test: facing each other in combat, sharpening their abilities through competition and camaraderie.
Standing by the portal, Anos watched as the last of the soldiers stepped through. A faint smile crossed his face. "The future of the Tru Kingdom is bright," he murmured.
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