New Beginnings

Chapter Six: New Beginnings

Smoker led Raoul and Coby through the bustling corridors of New Marineford, past rows of saluting Marines and the ever-present hum of military activity. The grandeur of the base was not lost on them; towering structures, state-of-the-art facilities, and the disciplined march of soldiers underscored the might of the Marine organization. Despite their recent promotion, Raoul and Coby were keenly aware of the gravity of their new roles.

As they walked, Smoker spoke, his tone authoritative yet instructive. "As Vice Admirals, you now hold significant responsibilities. You're on the same rank as me, but until you gain more experience, you'll follow my directives. Mistakes at this level can have severe consequences."

Coby nodded eagerly, absorbing every word. "Understood, sir."

Raoul, equally attentive, replied, "We'll do our best to learn and perform."

Smoker glanced at them, a rare hint of approval in his eyes. "Good. Your quarters are just ahead. You'll each have your own room."

For Coby, this was a momentous occasion. "My own room," he murmured, a smile spreading across his face. "I've always had to share a room, usually with Helmeppo."

Smoker's expression softened slightly. "Helmeppo did well, but he'll have another chance. Focus on your own path for now."

They reached a well-lit hallway lined with doors. Smoker stopped in front of two adjacent rooms. "These are yours. Inside, you'll find your new uniforms. Make sure they fit properly."

Coby eagerly opened the door to his room and stepped inside. Raoul followed suit, opening the door to his new quarters. As he entered, he was struck by the simplicity and functionality of the space. A bed, desk, and wardrobe were neatly arranged, all designed with a Marine's needs in mind. The room was spotless, a blank canvas awaiting his personal touch.

On the bed lay his new uniform, the pristine white coat emblazoned with "Vice Admiral" in bold letters across the back. Raoul picked it up, running his fingers over the fabric, feeling the weight of his new title. He changed into the uniform, its fit a perfect blend of comfort and authority.

Coby's voice echoed from the next room. "Raoul, can you believe it? Our own rooms and these uniforms. It's like a dream."

Raoul smiled to himself, but as he lay down on the bed, his mind began to drift. The soft mattress provided a stark contrast to the rough conditions he had endured in his past. Closing his eyes, he allowed his thoughts to wander back to a time that seemed like a lifetime ago.

He remembered the chaos, the fear, and the desperation of a dark night when everything seemed lost. Pirates had attacked his village, and he and his younger sister were on the brink of death. Flames licked the night sky, and the cries of his fellow villagers filled the air. It was then that Admiral Fujitora, a man of immense power and unyielding justice, had arrived.

With his gravity abilities, Fujitora had subdued the pirates, saving countless lives. He had personally carried Raoul and his sister to safety, his presence a beacon of hope in their darkest hour. That moment had changed everything for Raoul, instilling in him a deep-seated respect for the Marines and a burning desire to protect others as Fujitora had protected him and his sister.

Raoul opened his eyes, the memories leaving a profound sense of purpose in their wake. He sat up, looking around his new quarters with renewed determination. This was more than just a room; it was a symbol of his journey and the responsibilities that came with it.

As evening fell, the base grew quieter. The hustle of the day gave way to a more subdued, disciplined atmosphere. Raoul stepped out into the corridor and met Coby, who was similarly dressed in his new uniform, his face beaming with pride.

"Ready for the next chapter?" Raoul asked, his voice steady.

Coby nodded, a determined gleam in his eyes. "More than ever."

Together, they walked through the halls of New Marineford, their footsteps echoing with purpose. They were Vice Admirals now, each with a past that shaped them and a future that awaited their contributions. The challenges ahead were formidable, but they were ready to face them, united in their commitment to justice and the protection of the innocent.

Throughout that evening and into the night, they did not receive any orders or assignments. They just walked around, contemplating the beauty of the starry sky, and reassured by the beautiful atmosphere in which the Marines lived after the end of a day's work. They laughed, talked, and ate. As the soldiers welcomed them as if they were friends. Although the ranks vary, all of them disappear in the evening, as it is time for the soldiers to have fun and be free before bedtime arrives.

.

More Chapters on;

Pa treo n.c om/Ayaka0

(Full Link in the novel description)