Ever since Leo mentioned that there was another Revolutionary Army in the East Blue with the same goal as them—and even greater combat strength—everyone had been thrilled.
Leo had single-handedly built this force from the ground up, but everyone had witnessed its growth together—it was far too young.
So young that it was still only a tender shoot, one that a little wind and rain could snap in half.
But now, Marine Vice Admiral Garp's son was actually their comrade. Far away in the East Blue, they had other comrades as well, and powerful supporters at that.
It was simply wonderful news.
Ace, in particular, was immensely excited, his entire body falling into some inexplicable rhythm of delight.
But a single sentence from Leo made him feel pressured.
"Sabo isn't just a strategist now. He's the number two figure in the entire Revolutionary Army, and his combat strength is astonishing. He's probably on about the same level as Sandersonia? I don't know the specifics. All I know is that he's trained both his Observation Haki and Armament Haki extremely well."
"If you fight him? You'll probably get beaten senseless."
Leo's words instantly filled Ace with tension and urgency. As an older brother, he had never imagined that he might lose to a younger brother who had supposedly been dead for over a decade.
He could not help recalling the duels he had fought with Sabo ten years ago.
He had basically won every time. (Fake)
But if Sabo had trained bitterly for ten years while he himself had made no progress, then when they met, Sabo might very well pin him to the ground and beat him up.
Where would his dignity as an older brother be then?!
Ace immediately became fired up. Rather than seek out the stronger Rindou