Speaking of which…
The idea of being a warrior of the sea also inspired Caesar to consider building a navy. However, there was a major obstacle—the Middle Kingdom's population was too small. Even if he implemented policies to encourage childbirth, it would take decades before any significant results could be seen.
Thus, Caesar devised an alternative plan.
If the navy could not be expanded domestically due to a lack of manpower, why not bring people in from other places?
Across the vast world, countless islands—large and small—were plagued by devastation. Oppression, corruption, and tyranny were widespread, leaving many islanders to suffer under unjust rule.
Caesar wondered: Could these people be brought to the Middle Kingdom?
His gaze shifted to a large, detailed map hanging on the wall of his chambers. The Middle Kingdom, despite being one of the larger islands in the world, was still just an island. What if he could expand it into a continent by integrating nearby islands?
Given his Devil Fruit powers, altering the landscape was not an impossible feat.
His ability had long surpassed that of the Fuwa Fuwa no Mi (Fluffy-Fluffy Fruit). With gravity manipulation, he could theoretically move entire islands. As long as the underground water sources were properly connected, there would be no ecological imbalance.
Moreover, he didn't have to limit himself to islands on the sea—floating islands in the sky could also be moved. A land, sea, and air expansion strategy would provide unmatched strategic advantages.
At this thought, Caesar couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement.
He recalled a specific Sky Island in the New World—an uninhabited island of clouds where Kaido had once leaped from, attempting to end his own life.
If that floating landmass could be integrated into the Middle Kingdom, the kingdom would gain an unprecedented edge in aerial dominance.
However, such a grand project could not be undertaken alone.
Inside the Palace
Summoning his top advisors, ministers, and key officials, Caesar took his place on the throne. After a few moments of silence, he spoke with deliberate authority:
"I have called you all here today to discuss several pressing matters."
"The first issue is population growth. The Middle Kingdom has been developing for over a year, and while the birth rate has improved, the total youth population remains critically low. To sustain our future, we must look beyond our borders."
"I propose recruiting people from other islands."
His words stirred immediate discussion among the ministers.
"Your Majesty, how do you intend to bring them here? Other kingdoms also value their populations—why would they willingly migrate?"
"Does His Majesty suggest an open recruitment policy?"
Caesar remained composed.
"Recruitment is only one method. However, I am referring to a greater mission—one that aligns with our core principles."
"As you all know, many islands suffer from corrupt rulers, oppressive regimes, and unlivable conditions. We have seen it firsthand—the tragedy of the Kingdom of Gilmanda is just one example."
The mention of Gilmanda made the room grow somber.
That kingdom had been on the brink of collapse, its people suffering under tyrannical rule, until Caesar led the revolution that liberated them.
Realization dawned on the ministers.
"Your Majesty… Are you suggesting we rescue the oppressed?"
Caesar nodded.
"I intend to offer sanctuary to those who have nowhere else to turn. By doing so, we not only save lives but also strengthen our own kingdom. This will be a land where the oppressed can find redemption."
The ministers exchanged glances, absorbing the weight of the decision.
Then, one by one, voices of agreement filled the hall.
"Your Majesty, I fully support this!"
"This is a noble cause, and it will also expand our workforce and military potential."
Caesar smiled as the momentum of the discussion shifted in his favor.
The Next Proposal: Island Expansion
"Now, onto the second matter."
"The size of a nation and its population determines its power. While our central island is substantial, it is still not enough."
"My proposal is simple: we bring the islands to us."
Silence fell over the room.
The ministers' eyes widened in shock.
"Your Majesty… Are you suggesting we move entire islands and merge them with the Middle Kingdom?"
Caesar met their astonishment with unwavering confidence.
"Yes."
"The people need a home. Their islands are their homes. Instead of simply relocating individuals, we will bring their islands here and unite them under one landmass—just like we did with Gilmanda."
A senior minister, still reeling from disbelief, asked cautiously:
"But… is that even possible?"
Caesar's eyes gleamed.
"With my power, nothing is impossible."
His gravity-based Devil Fruit granted him a level of terrain control that few in history could rival. If Fujitora could pull meteors from the sky, what was stopping him from pulling islands?
At that moment, Caesar's crew—who had long witnessed his feats—nodded without hesitation.
"If it can be done, we must act!"
"Your Majesty, if we move forward with this plan, I suggest avoiding islands under World Government control," a minister cautioned.
"Directly interfering with government-affiliated nations could provoke an all-out war."
Caesar acknowledged the concern with a slight nod.
"That is precisely my thought. We will not touch any islands that belong to World Government-aligned nations—at least, not yet."
"At this stage, it is unwise to draw the full wrath of the World Government. While we are powerful, their resources and numbers still surpass ours. Until we are truly ready, we must act strategically."
Executing the Plan
After careful deliberation, Caesar split his forces into teams.
"There is much to do, so we must divide our efforts."
"I will operate alone."
"Issho (Fujitora), you will travel with Gnaly. If anything unexpected happens, the two of you together can handle it."
Fujitora nodded. His gravity-based abilities complemented Caesar's own, making them an unstoppable force.
Then, Caesar turned to Barrett.
"Barrett, you will be assigned to a separate mission—"
"Captain, just tell me where to go! I don't need a partner!" Barrett interrupted, his battle-hungry grin evident.
Caesar chuckled.
"Calm yourself, Barrett. This isn't just about fighting."
Barrett crossed his arms but said nothing, awaiting orders.
The strategy was set.
Over the next few months, intelligence operatives gathered data on ideal islands—focusing on regions with oppressed populations, minimal pirate activity, and high birth rates.
Caesar's goal was clear:
Expand the Middle Kingdom to 100,000 square kilometers and grow the population to 30 million within three years.
An ambitious goal.
A difficult one.
But for Caesar, nothing was impossible.
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