Chapter 50: The Rising Threat and the Wings of Light
"Reporting to Admiral Sengoku, this is Vice Admiral Momosagi. The capture mission has failed."
Inside the Marine Headquarters office, Sengoku held the Den Den Mushi receiver tightly, his face stern.
Though he had mentally prepared for such news, hearing it firsthand still brought a wave of disappointment. Momosagi—also known as Gion—was a promising elite within the Navy ranks. While not quite on par with the likes of Aokiji, she was still one of Sengoku's favored candidates for future admiralship. Yet even she had failed to capture a newly emerged pirate crew?
"Tell me everything that happened," Sengoku said in a low, heavy tone.
"Yes, sir," Momosagi replied promptly, her voice composed yet tinged with frustration. "As far as we know, there are four members on this pirate ship: the captain, Kurokawa Mio, and crew members Erica, Warwick, and Nico Robin."
"Except for Captain Kurokawa Mio—whose abilities are currently unknown—the other three are all confirmed Devil Fruit users. Warwick possesses an animal-type Devil Fruit related to wolves. Erica's ability is unconfirmed but appears to also be animal-based. She can seemingly control ants or possibly all insects, and she's incredibly dangerous. Nico Robin is, as you know, already a known target."
She paused, then continued with a more serious tone. "Aside from Robin, none of the other three can be considered weak. Kurokawa Mio's current base strength is around the level of a Navy colonel, but he's capable of sudden explosive combat power. Warwick's full power remains unclear. Erica's strength is on par with my own."
"Furthermore, all of them appear to have basic proficiency in Haki, though they're likely still in the early stages of mastery."
Momosagi then added, "We also encountered two giant pirates on the prehistoric island, Little Garden. They interfered and allowed the pirate group to escape."
Sengoku rubbed his temples at this, his frown deepening. "Forget the giants for now. As for this so-called rookie pirate group... this situation has exceeded my expectations. They don't act like rookies at all."
He knew of the two giants stationed on Little Garden and the peculiar history behind their presence. In fact, the mysterious girl related to their quarrel—one who might one day grow into someone significant—had always intrigued him.