Chapter 138
Marine Headquarters
Marineford
"Fleet Admiral! According to intelligence from our undercover agents, it's confirmed—the Golden Lion Pirates are preparing to wage war against the Roger Pirates. The decisive battle will most likely take place in the Edd War Sea Area!"
Sengoku burst into the Fleet Admiral's office, clutching the latest report.
In stark contrast to Sengoku's urgency, Fleet Admiral Kong appeared utterly at ease. His shirt hung open across his broad chest, a cigar resting between his lips. On the nearby table sat a glass of liquor filled with ice. In his hand, a pair of delicate pruning shears—carefully trimming a potted plant he had cultivated himself.
Compared to him, Sengoku looked exhausted.
Bloodshot eyes.
Pale lips.
Dark circles heavy beneath them.
He had clearly gone many sleepless nights.
Yet in his view, it was worth it.
Kong had gradually entrusted him with the vast majority of Marine affairs. In recent days, Sengoku had worked relentlessly to bring the Marines back on track.
The Global Marine Recruitment Drive had concluded successfully.
The Marines' combat strength had been replenished.
New warships had rolled out in large numbers.
Zephyr's Marine Recruit Training Camp was underway, selecting promising new talent.
None of this was unrelated to Sengoku's efforts.
Many had already begun calling him the "Vice Fleet Admiral" in all but name.
In truth, Kong was grooming him to succeed the position.
The post of Commander-in-Chief of the World Government Armed Forces would soon fall vacant. Kong would be assuming that role. With Sengoku ready, the transition of Marine authority would remain stable.
"Sengoku," Kong said calmly, setting down his shears and extinguishing his cigar, "I've told you many times—never be rash. Even if the sky falls, you must face it with composure."
He accepted the report and read it carefully.
"My apologies, Fleet Admiral. But this is an excellent opportunity. The Marines have recovered. The pirates in the New World are more rampant than ever—especially Shiki. He's seized over half the New World, and not just any territories—the richest ones. Arms, wealth, manpower… he has everything. This is our chance to let the snipe and the clam fight—and reap the fisherman's reward."
Though exhausted, Sengoku's eyes burned with sharp determination.
Kong nodded.
It wasn't just the New World.
Even the first half of the Grand Line was experiencing an unprecedented pirate boom. Pirate numbers had reached a historic peak.
As the force representing justice across the seas—
The Marines had to act.
"This was inevitable," Kong said evenly. "Shiki's ambition would never allow him to remain confined forever. Edd War Sea Area…"
He looked up.
"Prepare, Sengoku. Bring Garp along. And take those promising youngsters too. This operation—I'm placing it under your command."
Sengoku froze.
Kong wasn't going?
He immediately tried to protest—this was too significant an operation for someone of his experience level. Surely Fleet Admiral Kong himself should command it.
But when he met Kong's eyes—
He saw encouragement.
Trust.
Pride.
The words died in his throat.
"Yes, sir! I will not fail this mission! The arrogance of these pirates will be crushed! For justice!"
Justice that stands above all!
In that moment, Sengoku's presence was undeniable.
One of the rare Marine Admirals who possessed Conqueror's Haki, he now displayed the bearing of a future Fleet Admiral.
Perhaps—
This would be his final war as an Admiral.
Between men, understanding needed no explanation.
Sengoku gave Kong one firm look before turning and striding out. The exhaustion on his face vanished. With every step, his silhouette seemed to grow larger.
"No matter the outcome… this battle will define you, Sengoku. My proudest disciple… go."
Kong murmured softly toward the closed door.
The news spread rapidly throughout Marine Headquarters.
The base erupted.
Young soldiers eager to earn merit cheered in excitement. Veteran officers felt the pent-up frustration in their chests finally release.
They were the Marines—the embodiment of justice!
Pirates ran rampant across the seas while they held back in patience.
Now—
The blade of justice would finally be unsheathed.
In just half a day, under Sengoku's seasoned command, a massive fleet assembled.
Forces mobilized:
Sengoku (Marine Admiral)
Monkey D. Garp (Marine Headquarters Vice Admiral, near-Admiral-level combatant)
Vice Admiral Tsuru (rising toward Chief of Staff status)
Over 15 Marine Headquarters Vice Admirals
30 Marine Headquarters Rear Admirals
6,000 elite soldiers
The fleet set sail toward the New World.
ElsewhereOn the Island Where the Roger Pirates Landed
"This damn weather—how does it start pouring out of nowhere?!"
Grumbling, the Roger Pirates retreated into a cave and lit a bonfire.
Warm firelight illuminated their faces as they finally caught their breath.
But Roger—
The usually carefree captain—
Stood quietly at the cave entrance.
"What's wrong, Roger?" Rayleigh asked, stepping beside him and placing a hand on his shoulder.
Roger glanced at him and shook his head.
"No… it's nothing."
He stared out into the rain.
"I just have a bad feeling about this…"
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