After Akira and his group left, Imu immediately summoned the Five Elders and Gringo.
In the dimly lit palace hall, Imu sat motionless on the Void Throne, like a statue. His dark red, ringed eyes showed no emotion as he looked down at the Five Elders and Gringo.
The Five Elders weren't standing. They all faced the Void Throne, kneeling on both knees and prostrating themselves. Gringo was no exception, but as the commander of the Knights of God, he knelt on one knee.
"I know what you're thinking!"
After a brief silence, Imu's voice drifted into everyone's ears. "Are you all thinking that Akira should have been sent to the Execution Platform for his treason, yet I agreed to all his conditions? Not only did I give up two of the Five Elders' seats in the Chamber of Power, I also gave him the same privileges you have?"
At those words, the Five Elders all stiffened. They did indeed think that, but they wouldn't dare say it aloud.
"The reason is simple. Monkey D. Garp, a member of the D Clan, became a Navy hero. You, who should have died long ago, became the Five Elders and seized the highest power in the world. The so-called Emperors of the Sea have appeared one after another in the Grand Line. So why can't I support another Navy King?"
"As more and more people learn of my existence, the world is bound to be thrown into turmoil again. It may even hasten Nika's return to the Grand Line. Eight hundred years ago, twenty original kings united against Nika. The World Government, eight hundred years later, is already weathering a storm. Can you handle it alone?"
"Akira has ambition—great ambition. But that isn't entirely a bad thing!"
"Ambition means he has needs.