Onepiece: I Am Aizen, The Strongest Admiral

Although the Sabaody Archipelago held its own significance, Aizen couldn't help but find it amusing that someone with his strength was sent here. Compared to New World, this place didn't seem to warrant someone who could take down a figure like Golden Lion.

"Is this all they've got?" Aizen muttered, his voice calm yet laced with disdain. His sharp eyes scanned his surroundings briefly before he moved forward, heading straight for Area 69.

Though it was his first time on the island, Aizen didn't falter. The road signs were more than enough for someone like him to navigate with ease.

The environment was undeniably mesmerizing. Bubbles floated up from the ground, reflecting the sunlight in a dazzling display that made the entire area feel dreamlike. Each time one of the bubbles popped high above, the soft *pop-pop* sounds echoed faintly through the air.

Walking beside him, Neo followed closely, her eyes darting around in curiosity. "Aizen, this place feels surreal. But... isn't it strange that a place so close to Marine Headquarters still has so much lawlessness? I heard about human trafficking happening here. Isn't that supposed to be banned?"

Aizen turned to her briefly, his expression unreadable. "The world is never as simple as the laws written to govern it. Where there's profit, there's crime. The so-called abolition of slavery is just a facade. Behind the scenes, it thrives even more because of the protection offered to certain groups... like the Celestial Dragons."

Neo furrowed her brow, trying to piece together Aizen's words.

He continued walking, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. "As long as the powerful indulge in such practices, others will naturally follow. Supply exists only because there's demand. That's why trafficking thrives even under the shadow of the World Government."

Neo looked troubled but didn't say much. She was aware of the ugliness of the world but hearing Aizen lay it out so plainly left her unsettled.

When they reached a crossroads, Aizen halted and turned to Neo. His tone became firmer. "You're going back to the Marine base. I'll take a look around the illegal zones on my own."

Neo's eyes widened. "What? Why can't I come with you? I can handle myself, you know."

Aizen's gaze sharpened, silencing her protests. "This isn't about your capability, Neo. Sabaody is full of rats, and you'd just become a target. Stay put. That's an order."

Although visibly frustrated, Neo knew better than to argue further. She clicked her tongue and turned to head back. "Fine! But don't think I'll sit quietly if something happens."

Once Neo and the others accompanying him left, Aizen set his sights on Area 1. His pace was unhurried, and the faint sound of popping bubbles accompanied him.

When he arrived, a faint sneer curled his lips as he gazed at the rundown buildings ahead. "Of all places, the Golden Lion had to pick this cesspit."

The infamous Area 1, a place known for its illegal dealings, stood as a testament to the chaos within the Sabaody Archipelago.

As Aizen approached, a young man with vibrant green hair quickly stepped forward to greet him, his grin practically splitting his face. "Welcome! You must be new here, right? Looking to post a job? The Hunter Guild can handle anything—pirates, Marines—you name it! As long as the price is right, we'll take care of it!"

Aizen raised an eyebrow, intrigued by the audacity of this operation. "Interesting. You're not afraid of provoking both Marines and pirates? I'd like to see what gives you that confidence."

The young man leaned closer, his voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. "Heh, you don't know, do you? Our boss—he's stronger than Whitebeard, Roger, or anyone else out there. That's why we're untouchable!"

Aizen hid his amusement behind a stoic facade. The Golden Lion certainly had a knack for theatrics and recruitment. While this green-haired lackey was far from impressive in strength, he was clearly a skilled talker, perfect for drawing in clientele.

"Is that so?" Aizen replied, feigning curiosity.

The man nodded eagerly, his grin growing wider. "That's right! You've come to the right place. Let me show you around!"

Aizen allowed himself to be led deeper into the area, his expression calm as his sharp mind absorbed every detail. The Golden Lion had built something bold here, a network operating right under the noses of the World Government and Marine Headquarters. It wasn't just daring—it was audacious.

"Golden Lion, you've certainly outdone yourself," Aizen thought, his lips curling into a subtle smirk as he followed the man further into the heart of the Hunter Guild.