A conversation
Moreover, the Navy faces more than just the Whitebeard Pirates! It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that the Navy's enemies are Pirates all over the world.
There are three other forces that can rival the Whitebeard Pirates!
Therefore, every decision the Navy made was extremely important when facing the Whitebeard Pirates!
On the other hand, the radicals were more cautious and even advocated for resolving the conflict with the Whitebeard Pirates through peaceful means.
The meeting was extremely heated, with both sides sticking to their own arguments and unable to reach a consensus.
Just then, Sengoku stood up, his gaze sweeping over every high-ranking Navy officer present. His voice was calm and powerful as he said, "Gentlemen, I know you have different opinions on Ace's execution. But I must tell you, this action is not merely the execution of Ace, but a declaration of war against the entire Whitebeard Pirates and the old era."
As Sengoku finished speaking, the atmosphere in the conference room instantly became tense. The determination and will revealed in his words put unprecedented pressure on every high-ranking naval officer present.
Everyone held their breath as they listened intently to what he was about to say.
"We must let the Pirates know that no matter how strong they are, they cannot escape the Navy's pursuit and punishment. Ace's execution is the best opportunity for us to show the world our resolve," Sengoku continued.
His words further excited the radicals, who unanimously agreed and looked forward to the day Ace would be executed. The more cautious high command of the Navy, though still harboring doubts, had no choice but to silently accept the decision under Fleet Admiral Sengoku's unwavering gaze.
After the meeting, Fleet Admiral Sengoku stood alone by the window, gazing at the distant the Sea. He knew that this decision would trigger an unprecedented storm, but he also believed that the navy had sufficient strength and wisdom to meet all challenges.
Behind him, Garp sat on the sofa, looking somewhat silent.
As a Marine, he devoted much effort and sweat to this identity, but as a grandfather, Ace was also his grandson. The contradictions and struggles in Garp's heart were like Raging Waves, constantly impacting his inner world.
He knew that as Hero of the Marines, he had to stand on the side of the Navy and uphold its honor and dignity. However, as Ace's grandfather, how could he stand idly by and watch his grandson be executed?
Garp's hands were clenched into fists, veins bulging, revealing his inner struggle and pain. His eyes conveyed an indescribable emotion, a mixture of loyalty to the Navy and deep worry for his grandson.
He knew he couldn't do anything against the Navy's principles, but he also couldn't bear the cruel reality of Ace's execution. Torn between these contradictions and struggles, Garp could only hope that things would take a turn for the better and that Ace could escape this disaster.
Sengoku knew why Garp had come to his office!
He turned around and looked into Garp's worried eyes, a complex emotion welling up inside him. Sengoku understood Garp's pain and struggle; after all, he had only just learned about the relationship between Garp and Ace from the Five Elders.
But he also understood that, as the Fleet Admiral of the navy, he had to stand firmly on the side of the navy and not be swayed by personal feelings.
"Garp, you came to see me to talk about Ace, right?" Sengoku asked softly.
Garp nodded, his voice slightly hoarse. "Sengoku, I know that as Marines, we must abide by discipline and principles. But, Ace... he's still my grandson!"
Sengoku sighed, walked over to Garp, and patted him on the shoulder. "Garp, I understand how you feel. But this operation isn't just about executing Ace; it's also an opportunity to end the Great Pirate Era!"
He straightened up and said sternly to Garp, "Did you think you concealed Ace's identity well? The World Government already knows Ace's true identity! That's why they immediately issued the order to execute him!"
Garp was silent for a moment, then raised his head, his eyes flashing with determination. "Sengoku, I understand what you mean. But I beg you, can you think of another way? Can you give Ace a chance to reform?"
Sengoku shook his head, his voice tinged with helplessness. "Garp, you know the rules of the Pirates world are cruel. Even if Ace didn't commit any serious crimes, according to the law, he must be punished. And his true identity will be his death warrant. The World Government won't allow someone with the blood of the former Pirate King to live in the world; it's a huge threat to them."
"Furthermore, don't forget that Ace was with Whitebeard. If he were to raise Ace to become the next Pirate King, I don't need to tell you how dire the consequences would be!"
"After all, Gol D. Roger's dying words single-handedly ushered in the Great Pirate Era!"
Garp's face turned pale, and he clenched his fists tightly, as if trying to control his emotions. He knew that Sengoku was telling the truth, but he couldn't accept this somewhat cruel reality for an old man like him.
Garp continued, "What about Haku? What will happen to him? Since you know Ace's true identity, you should also know about his relationship with Haku!"
Sengoku said, "This time, Sakazuki, Borsalino, and Kuzan will be the main force. I'm not planning to call Haku back. Let him search for Golden Lion's whereabouts in the East Blue!"
Garp frowned upon hearing Sengoku's words. He said, "Do you really think this brat will stay obediently in the East Blue? And what if he suppresses Golden Lion ahead of time? Are you really going to leave him there in the East Blue?!"
"You believe that kid will cause you some trouble to clean up!"
Sengoku interrupted Garp, his voice firm. "Garp, I understand your concerns. But once Haku knows my arrangements, he'll understand our predicament and our position. Besides, Golden Lion's whereabouts remain a mystery. I believe he won't be back anytime soon until this matter is resolved!"
"Fine! Whatever you say!" Garp said helplessly in the end.
As for Haku, she also learned of the Navy high command's decision through various channels, "Ha! They really don't want to transfer me back!"