Marco was the first to speak. His tone was respectful, but his anxiety was unmistakable.
Whitebeard lifted his sake gourd and took a deep swig. He fell silent for a moment before slowly saying, "Impel Down is a tough bone to chew. It won't be easy to break through, and the Navy must have prepared long ago, waiting for us to walk into their trap."
One had to know that Impel Down's defenses were not so easily breached. The entire structure was built with vast quantities of Seastone, making it incredibly sturdy.
"Are we supposed to just stand by and watch Ace be executed?"
"He's our brother!"
Jozu could not help shouting, clenching his fists again. It could be said that everyone present had a very close relationship with Ace.
"Who said we would just stand by? Ace is my son. I will never let anything happen to him!"
Whitebeard's gaze suddenly sharpened. After a pause, he continued, "Pass down the order. Gather every fleet and prepare to head for Marineford."
At that moment, Whitebeard truly did not want anything to happen to Ace. Not only was Ace his son, he was also that man's child.
Marco was somewhat surprised. He had not expected Whitebeard to make such a decision.
Marineford was home to Marine Headquarters, with heavily guarded defenses. Going there was no different from seeking death.
"Pops, you mean—"
"That's right. The Navy will definitely execute Ace at Marineford. They want to lure us there and make an example of us."
"Then I'll grant their wish and let them see what happens when they provoke Whitebeard."
Whitebeard nodded, his voice firm.
Marco looked at Whitebeard worriedly. He knew that Whitebeard's health had never been good, and years of fighting had left him covered in wounds.
"But Pops, your