In the first half of the Grand Line, beneath the Red Line, stood the fortress of absolute justice—Marine Headquarters, Marineford.
Inside a tatami-floored office, Sengoku sat with his head lowered, reviewing documents.
"Whitebeard's Second Division commander, Portgas D. Ace, is suspected of making contact with Blackbeard Teach."
"Ahh..."
Sengoku removed his frog-shaped glasses and closed his eyes as he rubbed the bridge of his nose. "What a restless bunch. I have a feeling something major is about to happen."
He set down the last report, opened a drawer, and took out a bag of rice crackers. Just as he picked one up to put it in his mouth—
"Puru puru puru!!!!"
Suddenly, a rapid, deep ringing sounded!
Sengoku was immediately startled and looked toward the silver Transponder Snail in the corner.
It was a special Transponder Snail incapable of communication. Its sole function was to receive the signal of the Golden Transponder Snail, serving as the activation signal for a Buster Call!
Less than a moment after the Transponder Snail rang, the Marine Headquarters building descended into chaos.
After all, mobilizing ten warships and nearly ten thousand soldiers could not be accomplished instantly, even with the headquarters' ample standing forces. The soldiers hurriedly prepared their equipment.
"Where is it?!"
"It came from Enies Lobby!"
"Isn't that Judicial Island?!"
"Forget that! Assemble, now!"
At the same time, Brannew immediately rushed into Sengoku's office. The moment he entered, he shouted anxiously.
"Fleet Admiral! Here is the list of vice admirals currently at headquarters who can be deployed at any time!"
"No need to hurry. I've already contacted Aokiji. As for the vice admirals..."
Sengoku glanced over the list and directly named five people. "Onigumo, Doberman, Onigumo, Strawberry, Gion. Send them."
"Yes, sir!" Brannew saluted and immediately ran outside.
Whooo—whooo—whooo!
At that