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Sea Circle Calendar 1520
The penultimate year before the events of the main story.
The world continues on its course, largely unchanged, though tensions simmer beneath the surface. After a four-year interval, the Levely—the World Summit—will convene once again.
The World Government, once boasting over 200 allied nations, has seen its membership gradually decline to around 180. This is due not only to the proliferation of illegal arms in various countries through the underground market but also to the Revolutionary Army's actions. Over the past four years, no fewer than ten member nations have been "liberated" by the revolutionaries.
At the helm of this global movement stands Monkey D. Dragon, labeled by the World Government as the most dangerous criminal alive. In response to his growing influence, a specialized task force has been formed to address the Revolutionary Army.
While some notable cadres, including the Miracle Person Emporio Ivankov, have been captured and imprisoned in Impel Down, the organization remains a formidable threat. As long as Dragon remains free, the Revolutionary Army's danger to the status quo will persist.
For allied nations, the World Government provides protection in exchange for the hefty tribute of Heavenly Tribute. However, despite recent Marine conscriptions stabilizing the situation across the Four Seas and the Paradise half of the Grand Line, troubling developments persist.
Rising figures like Red-Haired Shanks and Portgas D. Ace, who gained widespread fame last year, have yet to fully assert dominance over the seas. And now, the Revolutionary Army looms as an even greater existential threat, becoming the central topic at this year's Levely.
At the summit, high-ranking government officials presiding over the meeting appear unfazed by these familiar discussions. Most kings have ulterior motives for their participation, particularly their desire to reduce the burden of the Heavenly Tribute. This recurring issue surfaces at every Levely, with shrewd rulers arguing for cuts in their payments—not for their nations but often to line their own coffers.
Despite the kings' shared grievances, reaching a unified consensus remains rare. Every proposal must secure majority approval through a formal vote, making agreement among the diverse assembly of cunning monarchs a daunting challenge. Historically, the World Government has managed to fend off these attempts by presenting compelling justifications. Four years ago, the success of Marine conscription was a key argument.
This time, however, the government's position is less convincing. With fewer successes to showcase, dissatisfaction among member nations has grown. Private discussions among the rulers have yielded a loose coalition of dissenting voices. Bolstered by a collective resolve, many now openly expressed their grievances.
During one such heated debate, the official at the center of the round table bowed slightly and addressed the assembly:
"We understand the concerns raised by King Reyes and King Galdana."
"However, before a vote is called on this matter, allow us to present the latest developments from the government's scientific division."
At that moment, an aide activated a Video Transponder Snail, projecting an image in the center of the room for all to see. The display revealed a rugged test site surrounded by mountains and rocky terrain. The environment bore the unmistakable markings of experiments conducted by the World Government's Special Science Group (SSG).
Immediately afterward, under the curious gazes of the gathered kings, the video projection revealed a massive humanoid machine constructed from countless steel components. Its imposing frame and intricate design drew murmurs of astonishment.
The narrator, speaking on behalf of the World Government, explained:
"This is the latest weapon developed by Dr. Vegapunk, tentatively named the Pacifista. Its construction is exorbitantly expensive, on par with a Marine's highest-grade battleship. However, it is crafted from rare, high-grade alloys, granting it a durability far exceeding that of standard steel. Furthermore, it wields incredible destructive power through the implementation of our cutting-edge laser technology."
The video demonstration showed the Pacifista's capabilities in action. Its laser cannon obliterated a mountainside in a single, devastating blast, leaving many kings visibly shaken. The narrator continued:
"More impressively, it possesses the ability to independently assess and identify enemies, capture targets, and utilize advanced combat techniques. While this technology is still undergoing further development and refinement, it is expected to be fully operational within two years. Its primary application will be to combat piracy, though in the future, it could also serve to enhance national security."
The kings watched with rapt attention as the video showcased the Pacifista's versatility and destructive potential. Understanding the profound impact this could have, the government official pressed on:
"Mighty kings, you can see the extraordinary promise of this technology. As it evolves, it will become a force capable of overwhelming pirates at every level. However, as with any groundbreaking advancement, its development hinges on funding, particularly through contributions of Heavenly Tribute. Scientific research, especially at this scale, requires vast resources."
The official paused, then added with a meaningful tone:
"Of course, the pace of this research directly correlates with the tribute provided by member nations. Some nations may delay utilizing this technology, while others could gain an early advantage."
This statement caused a ripple of unease among the kings who had previously advocated for reducing their financial contributions. The implications were clear. If a neighboring country adopted Pacifistas and they did not, it would create an imbalance, lowering their nation's status and increasing vulnerabilities. Such disparities could lead to conflicts over trade, influence, and even open war.
Many kings quickly reconsidered their positions. The idea of falling behind their rivals in this technological arms race was unthinkable. The king who initially proposed reducing the Heavenly Tribute swiftly withdrew the motion, and his decision was echoed by the majority of the assembly. In the final vote, over 80% of the kings supported maintaining the current tribute levels.
This decision, however, came at a cost. Several member nations, already struggling with economic hardships, were now faced with an even heavier burden. While it is true that the 170-plus member nations of the World Government are among the most stable in the world, their prosperity is not evenly distributed. Many nations face poverty, border conflicts, and internal unrest.
Take Alabasta, for example. In 1520, the kingdom's plight worsened significantly. Persistent droughts plagued the capital, rumors of the king's misuse of Dance Powder spread dissent, and civil war erupted, threatening to destabilize the nation entirely. With its economy in shambles, Alabasta found it increasingly difficult to meet its tribute obligations.
Beyond Alabasta and the World Summit, another major event shook the world in 1520: the rise of Fire Fist Ace. The Spade Pirates, who had dominated much of the prior year, suffered a crushing defeat after challenging Whitebeard.
Following their loss, Ace and his crew joined the Whitebeard Pirates. By mid-year, Ace had demonstrated his exceptional prowess, earning the title of captain of Whitebeard's Second Division, a position that had remained vacant for years.
As the leader of a battle-ready division, Ace quickly became one of the faces of the Whitebeard Pirates, alongside stalwarts like Marco and Jozu. His meteoric rise earned him the title of the "strongest rookie," and his reputation grew rapidly across the New World.
His exploits not only bolstered Whitebeard's influence but also sparked challenges from rivals eager to test his strength. Among them, the young retainers of Alex voiced their dissatisfaction and vowed to confront him in battle.