The King of the Kingdom of Prodence, Elizabello II, is regarded as a formidable warrior, but his strength comes with notable limitations.
Elizabello II possesses a powerful attack known as the "King Punch." It is said to be capable of breaking through enemy fortresses and even felling top-tier opponents with a single blow. However, this claim is largely exaggerated, as no concrete evidence supports its effectiveness against the strongest figures in the world.
In the One Piece world, the true power scale is well established. Even high-ranking figures such as Admirals or Emperors possess extraordinary strength, making it highly doubtful that a single punch—no matter how powerful—could determine a battle's outcome. To put it into perspective, even individuals of Roger's or Whitebeard's caliber would not be taken down by such an attack, let alone the so-called "strongest man" of Caesar's era.
The limitations of the King Punch are further highlighted in the Dressrosa arc. During the tournament for the Mera Mera no Mi, Elizabello II spent an extended period charging up his attack. While the punch did indeed cause widespread destruction, it was ultimately rendered ineffective against Bartolomeo, who effortlessly blocked it using his Bari Bari no Mi ability. This incident alone proves that the supposed claim of being able to defeat an Emperor with a single punch is nothing more than baseless rumor. If Elizabello II truly possessed such strength, he would have long since ascended to a higher status in the world, and his kingdom would be vastly more influential.
This leads to Caesar's decision to target the Kingdom of Prodence. The strategic value of this kingdom lies in its geographical position, situated a mere hundred nautical miles (approximately 185 kilometers) from the heart of the Middle Kingdom's expansion efforts. Securing Prodence would create a crucial link between territories, bolstering trade, military logistics, and cultural influence. Under Elizabello's rule, the kingdom is relatively stable—its citizens are not impoverished, but they are far from wealthy. Nonetheless, compared to the corruption seen in many other World Government-affiliated nations, Prodence is decently governed.
However, as part of the World Government, Prodence remains burdened by the tribute of Heavenly Gold. Caesar sees an opportunity to free the country from this economic strain while integrating it into his growing domain. His grand vision is to unify strategic locations under his rule, strengthening his influence and creating a more prosperous realm. Thus, he carefully crafts his approach, considering the least destructive path to domination.
The plan to conquer the Kingdom of Prodence has been long prepared. Leading the military campaign is Douglas Bullet, a fearsome warrior known as the "Demon Heir." Commanding a battle-hardened force, Bullet's role is not only to secure victory but also to hone his own leadership and tactical prowess. As for Caesar, he remains behind the front lines, orchestrating the conquest like a true ruler.
However, before engaging in outright war, Caesar prefers to offer a diplomatic solution. A formal envoy, led by the Middle Kingdom's Foreign Minister and accompanied by the formidable Doyle, is dispatched to Prodence. Their mission is clear: to persuade Elizabello II to surrender peacefully and integrate into Caesar's expanding empire.
The audience within the royal palace of Prodence is tense. Ministers and officials watch warily as the envoy steps through a transparent dimensional portal. The Prime Minister of Prodence, suspicious of the sudden intrusion, demands an explanation.
"Hmph, why have people from the Middle Kingdom entered without prior notice?" he asks indignantly.
With a composed smile, the Foreign Minister steps forward. "King Elizabello II, esteemed officials of the Kingdom of Prodence," he begins. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am the Minister of Foreign Affairs from the Middle Kingdom. Our King, Caesar, greatly values the stability of this region and sincerely hopes that you will willingly join our cause. That is why we are here—to offer you a peaceful path forward."
Despite the diplomatic tone, Elizabello II's face hardens. "Stop joking!" he exclaims, his voice laced with defiance. "We are a member of the World Government. Your King Caesar may be infamous, but does he believe he dictates the seas?"
The minister, unshaken, responds with a chuckle. "Your Majesty, please, let us not be hasty. Our King is not one to rely solely on coercion. If that were the case, we would not have come here with words before weapons. We seek a mutually beneficial resolution." He gestures toward a nearby transponder snail-linked monitor. "You have surely seen the prosperity of the Middle Kingdom on your broadcasts. Our citizens thrive under Caesar's leadership. We offer that same prosperity to you."
A hushed murmur spreads among the ministers. Some acknowledge the undeniable economic strength of the Middle Kingdom, yet they remain wary of betraying the World Government.
The Prime Minister leans toward Elizabello II, whispering his concerns. "Your Majesty, this is a dangerous situation. If war breaks out, our forces may not be enough to repel them. Reports suggest that Caesar's military might has grown substantially."
Elizabello II furrows his brow. "You suggest seeking assistance?"
The Prime Minister nods. "Yes. We are still under the protection of the World Government. If we reach out, they will be forced to respond. After all, we have paid the Heavenly Tribute faithfully. They cannot ignore us."
After a moment of deliberation, Elizabello II rises from his throne, his resolve firm. "Tell your King that Prodence will never surrender to a former pirate, no matter how prosperous his land may be!"
The Middle Kingdom's minister, sensing the futility of further discussion, allows his expression to shift from warmth to cold detachment. "Very well," he says flatly. "Since your nation refuses our offer, prepare to face the consequences."
With that, he steps back into the shimmering portal, leaving behind a kingdom now teetering on the brink of war.
As the portal vanishes, silence engulfs the throne room. A sense of impending doom weighs upon the gathered ministers. One finally breaks the quiet. "What should we do? Caesar's forces are truly coming, aren't they?"
Another official, panic evident in his voice, adds, "He fought the Navy itself and forced them into retreat. What hope do we have?"
The Prime Minister straightens his posture. "We must act swiftly. We contact the World Government—now."
Elizabello II clenches his fists. "We have defended our kingdom before. We will not bow to tyranny."
But deep within, he knows this war will be unlike any other he has faced before.
And so, the battle for the Kingdom of Prodence begins.
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