ONE PIECE: THE GREAT VOYAGE

Whether for survival or to push their limits, they could do so without hesitation.

As Caesar pondered this issue, a smirk curled on his lips. His mind then wandered to another crucial point.

"If the creatures on Luskaina Island can evolve after consuming IQ grass..."

"Could it be possible to cultivate beings approaching the level of a vice admiral, or even an admiral?"

He muttered to himself as he walked, his thoughts branching out in multiple directions.

These considerations weren't mere fantasies but highly practical concerns. Strengthening his subordinates and expanding his army's power would be nothing but beneficial—whether for his own ambitions or for broader strategic purposes.

"If those creatures can evolve further and be controlled, they could become formidable assets in battle."

The beasts of Luskaina Island and Vermejo Island were already powerful, and if properly utilized, they could provide immense advantages. And the best part? They were ready-made.

"That's decided, then. After relocating Vermejo Island, Luskaina Island will be next."

After careful deliberation, Caesar made up his mind. The strategic value of these two islands was enormous. If used wisely, they might yield unexpected gains.

The rarity of IQ grass on Vermejo Island didn't concern him. Moving the island might disrupt its growth, but he had already acquired the Lush-Lush Fruit (Shibi Shibi no Mi)—cultivating plants was the least of his worries.

Additionally, with Dr. Vegapunk's research and Guizi's assistance, the evolution of IQ grass could be further enhanced. After all, if a mere scientist like Caesar Clown under the Golden Lion could manipulate it, then there was no reason why Vegapunk, with superior intellect and resources, couldn't do even better.

This matter was hardly worth overthinking. It served multiple purposes, and that was enough.

As Caesar ventured deeper into the island, he suddenly stopped.

He had found what he came for.

Before him stood a peculiar plant resembling a dandelion, yet more intricate and striking—its shape distinctly forming the letter "Q."

"This is IQ grass."

Observing the grass, he noticed signs of wildlife nearby. It was evident that a creature had been guarding it, waiting for it to mature before consuming it.

Caesar lifted his gaze, scanning his surroundings.

Sure enough, not far away, hidden within the jungle, a pair of bloodthirsty, crimson eyes locked onto him. There was fear in them—yet also resentment.

The beast had likely been startled by his Conqueror's Haki and had fled instinctively.

Ignoring the frightened creature, Caesar turned his focus back to his mission. Without further delay, he activated the power of his Force Field Fruit (Ryoku Ryoku no Mi).

The entire island trembled.

Under the alarmed gazes of every living thing, the landmass soared into the sky, following Caesar as he directed it toward the Middle Kingdom.

---

[263] Vegapunk's Shock, Scientists' Excitement

The Grand Line stretches across the world, and somewhere along its Calm Belt, between the Middle Kingdom and the South Blue, lies the legendary island of Amazon Lily—an isolated matriarchy ruled entirely by women.

Because of its location in a windless sea teeming with massive Sea Kings, few outsiders ever set foot on its shores. Even those who longed to reach this paradise of warrior women were met with near-impossible odds.

Adding to its formidable defenses, the women of Amazon Lily were armed with Haki-infused weaponry, their arrows strong enough to pierce steel. Though their Armament Haki wasn't overwhelmingly powerful, it was more than enough to deter ordinary invaders.

Caesar had no doubt that he could land there if he wanted.

However, he had little interest.

If Boa Hancock, the future Pirate Empress, had already come of age, he might have taken the opportunity to meet her. But at this point, she was merely a newborn, barely one or two years old.

And Caesar was here for business.

His true target was Luskaina Island, located not far from Amazon Lily.

Not long ago, he had successfully transported Vermejo Island, home to the IQ grass. Using his abilities, he had lifted it into the sky, suspending it within the clouds above the Middle Kingdom.

Now, he had arrived at Luskaina, ready to relocate yet another island.

The moment he set foot on the land, Caesar activated his Observation Haki, scanning the entire terrain.

As expected, the creatures here were significantly stronger than those on Vermejo Island. Some had already reached the combat level of an elite vice admiral, an impressive feat.

No wonder Monkey D. Luffy had managed to train here and grow strong enough to become a first mate-level fighter. Of course, Silvers Rayleigh's guidance had played a major role later on.

Beasts and humans gained power differently.

Humans relied on rigorous training, discipline, and natural talent to reach the pinnacle of strength. Beasts, on the other hand, evolved through sheer survival—constant battles, harsh environments, and natural selection.

Caesar continued his observations.

There were several creatures with elite rear admiral-level strength, making Luskaina an ideal training ground.

Overall, this island's power level surpassed Vermejo's, which only had IQ grass-enhanced beasts.

Wasting no time, Caesar activated his fruit ability.

First, he detached the island from the seafloor plate, severing its connection to the earth.

A massive shockwave rippled through the surrounding waters, shaking the entire sea region.

The displacement of such a massive landmass caused seawater to surge into the newly formed gap, creating violent whirlpools.

For miles, the ocean trembled. Anyone unaware of what was happening would mistake it for a natural earthquake.

On the island, chaos erupted.

Wild beasts, sensing the impending catastrophe, fled in all directions. Raptors with the ability to fly immediately took to the skies, warily observing their surroundings.

Then, their eyes landed on Caesar.

The strongest among them, territorial and aggressive, immediately took a combat stance, preparing to attack the intruder.

The dominant predator of the sky, the island's apex beast, let out a powerful screech.

Instantly, the air was filled with birds of prey, diving toward Caesar like arrows loosed from a bowstring.

But Caesar barely moved.

With a simple glance, he unleashed Conqueror's Haki.

The invisible force surged through the air, piercing into the creatures' very souls.

A moment later, panic spread among the flying beasts. Terror-stricken, they hesitated, their instincts urging them to flee.

Yet among them were a few with considerable strength—ones who might make valuable sparring partners.

Caesar wasn't about to let them escape.

Releasing another wave of Conqueror's Haki, he exerted his will upon them.

Their fear was overwhelming. But this time, they understood.

They obeyed.

They descended back to the island, submitting to the force they could not defy.

---

Amazon Lily's Reaction

Nearby, Amazon Lily had not been spared from the tremors.

The sudden disturbance puzzled its inhabitants, who had never before witnessed such an event.

Then, as they looked up, they saw it.

An entire island—flying through the sky.

The Empress of Amazon Lily, Gloriosa, watched in astonishment.

It was not the work of the Golden Lion, Shiki. His actions had grown infrequent.

No, she knew who was behind this.

It could only be the King of Heaven—Caesar.

And as the island passed overhead, plunging Amazon Lily into momentary darkness, the people of the island stared in awe.

For days, the legend of the flying island would be the only thing anyone talked about.

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