But in reality,
this was merely an attempt.
It was not only Alabasta, which had once been controlled by Crocodile, or Dressrosa, whose throne had been usurped by Little Mingo, that shared this idea.
They did not intend to make an enemy of Austin. It was more of a means of self-preservation,
or rather, a statement of their stance.
In truth, the major figures standing at the top of the seas, along with those capable of seeing future trends, mostly knew that the world would only have two people who truly called the shots in the future.
Neither the Emperors of the Sea, nor the Marines or the Revolutionary Army...
Rather, the [World Government], which stood at the highest level of visible authority over the seas,
and [Mr. Austin], who controlled the lifeblood of the world's economy, held the reins of the underworld, and possessed enough power to overturn the world.
And the masterminds who had once caused their nations immense suffering, even nearly destroyed them, were the Great Pirates surrounding Austin—the [Shichibukai].
It was a peculiar organization.
In name, it fell under the World Government's jurisdiction and was used to maintain the balance of the seas.
In reality, however, they were Austin's dependents, evil pirates closely tied to him.
Even though some unpleasant incidents had occurred over the past two years, and the Shichibukai no longer belonged entirely to the [King's Seven Warlords], with other pirates such as Weevil mixed among them,
they still had the tacit approval and backing of both poles of the world.
Even those World Government member nations that appeared strong, with vast territories and powerful national strength,
were no different from fish on a chopping block when facing people like Crocodile and Doflamingo, able only to be slaughtered and toyed with at will.
That