Throughout history, many warlords had used the tactic of raising their enemies to secure their own power. By maintaining an environment of constant threat, they ensured that their independent military forces remained indispensable.
But Liu Feng hadn't expected that in this pirate-dominated world—where a single ruling family had held sway for 800 years—the World Government would employ such a sinister strategy.
Yet, upon reflection, it made perfect sense.
This sea was simply too vast. Unlike a centralized empire, the World Government didn't rule through direct governance but through a network of allied member states—more akin to the ancient Greek city-states bound by treaties.
At its core, the government's grip on the world was still limited.
To compensate, its leaders had devised this twisted strategy: colluding with pirate crews to incite wars across the world, forcing nations to submit and seek protection under the government's military might.
"Feeding the enemy to protect yourself?"
Doflamingo, still in his black cat form, was momentarily taken aback before curling his lips into a mocking grin.
"Fufufu… That's an interesting way to put it," he chuckled. "But you're absolutely right."
Law hesitated, then cautiously asked, "Fleet Admiral Liu Feng, how should we respond?"
Liu Feng fell into deep thought. After a moment, he suddenly asked, "What's the latest update on the Revolutionary Army?"
Law's eyes widened slightly at Liu Feng's words. "Fleet Admiral, do you mean to take Wano in just three days?"
Liu Feng exhaled a slow breath, his smirk unwavering. "That's right. We'll end this before the World Conference even begins."
Law frowned, clearly concerned. "But gathering troops, preparing warships, strategizing—there's barely enough time."
Liu Feng shook his head. "We don't need to send an army. Wano already has an army inside. We just have to light the fire."
Doflamingo, in his black cat form, let out a low chuckle. "Fufufu… You're talking about the rebels, aren't you?"
Liu Feng's eyes gleamed. "Exactly. The people of Wano have been under Kaido's rule for too long. They're on the edge of rebellion. We just have to push them over."
He turned to Law. "Send word to Koshiro, Golden Lion, Zephyr, and Rayleigh. The five of us are all that's needed."
Law saluted. "Understood, Fleet Admiral!"
As Liu Feng stepped toward the door, the wind from the open sea ruffled his coat.
Then, from behind him, Doflamingo's voice purred, "And me?"
Liu Feng paused. "You?"
Doflamingo's cat-like grin widened. "I've been to Wano. I know the land, the arsenals, and the weaknesses in their defenses. Besides…" His golden eyes gleamed with amusement. "I'd rather like to see what Kaido's final moments look like."
Liu Feng let out a short chuckle. "You really are a cold bastard."
Doflamingo flicked his tail. "And you need me."
Liu Feng turned back toward the sea. "Fine. Let's go break a dragon."
Law He slightly widened his eyes.
Law's eyes widened in surprise, but he quickly composed himself. "Understood, Fleet Admiral Liu Feng. I'll notify them immediately."
As Liu Feng donned his cloak, the weight of the situation seemed to settle in. He was not just leading a military operation—he was taking personal command. The timing was tight, but Liu Feng's confidence never wavered.
"Do not worry about the lack of troops," Liu Feng continued, his voice calm but with an undeniable edge of resolve. "Wano is a powder keg ready to explode. We don't need to bring in the army. We'll use the forces already within the country."
He looked toward the horizon as though seeing Wano in his mind's eye, a small smirk creeping onto his face. "The real power lies not in numbers but in the timing of when to strike. And I know exactly when that is."
Law nodded, although his concerns lingered. He had been with Liu Feng long enough to know his fleet admiral had a plan, but the lack of a full military force still troubled him. However, it was clear that Liu Feng was no ordinary commander. He had always seen opportunities where others only saw risks.
Liu Feng turned, his silhouette imposing against the backdrop of the open door, where the wind whipped through. "Prepare them," he said, his voice firm. "In three days, we'll make Wano ours. And we won't be bringing war—we'll be bringing the end."
As he strode out of the room, the weight of what he was about to do settled. Liu Feng wasn't just going to conquer Wano—he was going to rewrite the rules of the game.
Liu Feng turned slowly, his piercing gaze fixing on the black cat. A dangerous smile curled at the corner of his lips.
"I can't deny that your knowledge of Wano will be useful," Liu Feng said, his tone deliberate. "But your past with Kaido... that doesn't exactly make you a trustworthy ally."
The black cat—Doflamingo, now in his feline form—scoffed, clearly unphased. "Trust is a fragile thing, Liu Feng. We're both playing this game, and you're going to need all the help you can get. Besides, my reasons are clear—seeing Kaido fall would be... amusing."
Liu Feng's expression hardened, but his thoughts were sharp. Doflamingo had been an ally to Kaido, and his loyalty was anything but certain. Yet, his knowledge of Wano's terrain and weaponry was invaluable. As long as Liu Feng could keep him in check, the black cat's utility outweighed his potential danger.
Liu Feng raised an eyebrow. "You will come, but remember—one wrong move and I won't hesitate to cut you loose. Understood?"
Doflamingo grinned, showing off his sharp teeth. "Understood, Fleet Admiral. I'll be on my best behavior. After all, I'm far more useful to you alive."
Liu Feng's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Good. Pack your things. We leave for Wano in three days."
As the door closed behind him, Liu Feng took a deep breath. This plan was risky, but it was the only way. With Doflamingo's knowledge and the skills of his chosen few, he would ensure the fall of Kaido—once and for all.