Moreover, these immigrants are not as loyal to Caesar compared to people from their own countries.
This results in a stark imbalance between the land area and the country's population.
Over the past six months, due to the pressing need to address numerous issues, the citizens initially neglected concerns about fertility. However, as stability took hold and these pressing problems were resolved, the central government began to focus on population growth. As a result, the country is on the brink of a baby boom.
I estimate that within three months, a significant number of newborns will be delivered daily, leading to a soaring birth rate.
Nation-building demands a strong and growing population, so Caesar welcomes this development.
Meanwhile, the rapid rise of the Middle Kingdom has left neighboring nations astounded.
At first, when they heard that a pirate was ruling a country, they dismissed it as doomed to fail.
However, after Caesar introduced a series of reforms and policies, they realized he was unlike any ordinary pirate.
Now, with the Middle Kingdom achieving massive and undeniable progress, these nations have no choice but to acknowledge Caesar's unparalleled ability to govern. Jealousy festers as they witness the Middle Kingdom's current prosperity.
The Rise of the Devil Fruit Army
With its formidable strength and the strategic use of Devil Fruits, the Middle Kingdom has undergone a miraculous transformation in just six months. The nation is steadily advancing along the path Caesar envisioned.
Now, it is time to refine the governance system further.
With the country's heightened security, more people are flocking to the Middle Kingdom. While the overwhelming presence of the Caesar Pirates deters major disturbances, minor law violations are beginning to emerge.
A prosperous nation often attracts lawbreakers.
Thus, establishing a structured military and police force is essential for maintaining order.
Over the years, Caesar has accumulated a significant number of Devil Fruits. While some, like the repulsive Anchovy Fruit, are entirely useless, many others—especially Zoan-type fruits—offer valuable enhancements to a soldier's potential, physical fitness, and natural abilities.
If properly trained and awakened, even the most mediocre Zoan-type user can become a formidable warrior. After all, an awakened Zoan user gains enhanced durability, immense strength, and near-superhuman recovery abilities—traits vital for an elite fighting force.
Within Caesar's possession, there are hundreds of Zoan-type Devil Fruits, some with exceptional potential. Even after reserving the most powerful ones for his future core members, there remains a surplus of valuable fruits.
Beyond Zoan-types, Caesar has also collected numerous Paramecia-class Devil Fruits. Some of these, like the Spring-Spring Fruit, do not interest him, but they remain useful in combat.
Additionally, Caesar has stockpiled nearly forty unidentified Devil Fruits—some of which may possess extraordinary abilities. Among them, at least one or two could hold game-changing powers.
Given his ambitions to establish an elite military force, these Devil Fruits will play a crucial role in its formation.
Barrett: The First Field Marshal
At just sixteen, Caesar's power has already surpassed Gnali, and he is now seeking out worthy commanders to strengthen his regime.
Among those candidates is Douglas Barrett—a former child soldier who was abandoned at birth and raised in a brutal military environment.
Despite being taken under Caesar's wing, Barrett has remained deeply fascinated by warfare. When not training, he spends his time studying military strategy and tactics. Recognizing this passion, Caesar has deliberately cultivated Barrett's understanding of warfare.
Although Caesar himself was not a military strategist in his previous life, he had consumed countless war-related books, films, and documentaries. Over the years, he has pieced together a personal understanding of military doctrine, which he has passed down to Barrett.
Barrett eagerly absorbs every lesson, often reflecting on them until he fully grasps their deeper intricacies.
However, he is not the only one interested in military affairs.
Since Fujitora (Issho) joined Caesar's crew, he too has developed an interest in strategy. At Barrett's invitation, he has been studying alongside him.
In Caesar's mind, both Barrett and Issho will be crucial figures in shaping the Middle Kingdom's military future.
The Birth of the Middle Kingdom Army
In a vast open training ground within the Middle Kingdom, Barrett is undergoing intense self-discipline.
Although he is currently the second-strongest fighter under Caesar, he remains unsatisfied.
His ultimate goal is to surpass his captain—to reach the level of the world's strongest warriors.
His many battles against the Marines and rival pirate crews have revealed his shortcomings, driving him to relentlessly pursue greater power.
The moment he hears that Caesar is looking for him, Barrett immediately halts his training and heads to the palace.
"Captain, I'm here. What do you need from me?"
Standing before Caesar, Barrett's eyes burn with anticipation. He craves difficult tasks—challenges that will push his limits and earn his captain's approval.
Caesar sets down his pen, resting his head on one hand as he speaks.
"I'm thinking of forming an army. What are your thoughts?"
Barrett's face lights up with excitement.
"An army? Captain, I've been waiting for this! It's the perfect time!"
He immediately launches into his thoughts.
"Now that the kingdom has stabilized, we need an organized force to protect our people. Sure, I doubt anyone would dare attack us now—but we can't personally patrol the streets forever.
We need a dedicated force that ensures the safety of the citizens while allowing us to focus on larger threats."
Caesar listens attentively, nodding in agreement.
"Exactly. I also plan to establish a police force alongside the military. The influx of immigrants has led to an increase in petty crime. While we haven't faced any major disturbances, some people are still engaging in illegal activities."
Although the Caesar Pirates have been the kingdom's protectors, they cannot act as enforcers forever. Their role should be reserved for major threats, not dealing with petty criminals.
"Captain, I completely agree!" Barrett affirms. "As the population grows, security will only become a bigger issue. A structured system is necessary."
Caesar is pleased with Barrett's response. He values Barrett's military background and insight.
"You will be the Chief Instructor of the Army. Once the army is fully established, you'll take on the role of Field Marshal."
Barrett grins. "Understood, Captain! I won't disappoint you!"
Had Caesar never taken him in, Barrett likely would have risen through the military ranks elsewhere.
Fate, however, had different plans.
Now, he will fulfill his military ambitions not as a Marine, but as the commanding force of the Middle Kingdom's army.
A Nation Mobilized
That same day, Caesar issues an official decree:
> "For the security and strength of the Middle Kingdom, I hereby establish the national army!
Any young men and women willing to serve their nation and grow stronger are welcome to enlist!
Exceptional recruits will be rewarded with Devil Fruits and the opportunity to rise through the ranks as officers!"
The entire nation erupts in excitement.
Thousands of young citizens—many of whom idolize the Caesar Pirates—flock to enlist.
This country was saved by Caesar.
Now, its people stand ready to fight for him.
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