On the execution platform, Sengoku continued speaking.
"About two years ago, you began using your mother's surname.
"As the captain of the Spade Pirates, you rode the seas with your exceptional strength and speed. At last, we realized that Roger's bloodline had not been extinguished!"
"However." Sengoku's grave expression filled the giant screen. "Whitebeard discovered this at the same time we did.
"To raise you into the next Pirate King, he took the son of his former rival aboard his ship!"
"That's not true!!" Ace roared in protest. "I joined that ship so that Pops could become the Pirate King!"
"You're the only one who thinks that way! The truth is, we could not act against you freely because Whitebeard was protecting you."
Sengoku's words pierced Ace's heart like icy blades, seeming to mock his naivety and leaving him stunned.
"If we had left you alone, you would undoubtedly have shown the potential to stand at the pinnacle of the next generation of pirates."
Looking down with killing intent in his eyes, Sengoku shouted with incomparable conviction, "That is why taking your head here today carries such great significance! Even if it means an all-out war with Whitebeard, we will not hesitate!"
"OOOOOOHHHHH!!!!!"
The roar echoed throughout Marine Headquarters along with Sengoku's declaration, raising the Marines' morale to its peak.
Every Marine responded with all their might. This was their support for Sengoku's words!
Then, the cries gradually died down. Yet, as though someone had given an order, Marine Headquarters slowly fell into silence.
Every Marine remained on guard.
"How quiet."
Standing at the very front, Hancock felt the atmosphere around her and could not help looking grave.
Doflamingo grinned wickedly and licked his lips. "This is far too unnatural."
Then, through the lookout's telescope, countless ship silhouettes abruptly appeared