The Empire on the Brink (Five)

A little earlier, in Mary Geoise.

"From what we know so far..."

"Kaido's defeat caught us somewhat off guard..."

"But Reg still clashed with Big Mom, and we have enough forces to keep Whitebeard in check... The situation remains under control."

Clack, clack. In the meeting hall, the bald swordsman placed pieces bearing the emblems of the Kingdom of Heaven and Totto Land on an intricately crafted map of the seas.

Above and to the left of that stretch of sea lay a strange island of flat-topped peaks, marked with place names from Wano Country. The pieces representing its various factions had been deliberately knocked over. Only the Kozuki Family's piece, bearing a bird and moon emblem, remained standing.

Directly to the right, pieces representing Marine commanders mingled with those of Whitebeard's division commanders, arranged in pairs and clusters of differing numbers. Taken as a whole, the Marine pieces formed a circle around the Whitebeard Pirates.

"Report to the Five Elders! There's been a massive explosion at Marine Headquarters. Chief Instructor Zephyr has rebelled..."

The sudden direct call shattered the Five Elders' composure. As soon as the hurried report ended, the man with the birthmark flushed red. "That bastard! Have Cipher Pol Aigis Zero—"

"No. Cipher Pol Aigis Zero must guard the Holy Land in case the Revolutionary Army joins the battle. Order Impel Down to the highest alert. If necessary, they may destroy the prison regardless of the cost. Have Warden Magellan and Chief Warden Shiryu of the Rain pass through the Gate of Justice and suppress Zephyr as quickly as possible!"

"Agreed."

"Agreed..."

With the others' assent, the long-bearded man's proposal was issued as an order. Then an eerie silence fell over the meeting room. The cold splash of news had left all five men frowning in thought.