This battle had dealt the Whitebeard Pirates a devastating blow. Several division commanders had been captured, and the pirate crews under their flag had suffered heavy losses.
"Don't blame yourself or get discouraged, Ace!"
"This war had little to do with you. They were after Pops from the start."
Marco sighed again.
Ace said nothing, silently clenching his fists.
"Besides, Sakazuki already explained everything you'd been through during the war."
"No one will believe Sengoku's words. You did it all for us!"
"We're family, aren't we?"
Marco spoke slowly.
Behind him stood the other division commanders of the Whitebeard Pirates.
Ace trembled, then raised his head to look at them.
"No one will believe the Marines' bullshit!"
"Pops believes in you, and so do we!"
"Hahaha, Ace, how long have you been with us? And how long were you with the Marines? Who do you think we'll believe?"
"You're the captain Pops personally chose. Chin up!"
"Exactly! The Whitebeard Pirates will be counting on you to lead us from now on!"
Vista the Flower Sword, Blamenco, Rakuyo, Blenheim, and the other commanders all spoke with smiles, their eyes filled with trust and encouragement.
At the sight, Ace's heart trembled. He took a deep breath and nodded firmly.
"Thank you all for believing in me!"
Marco smiled too and patted him. "The harder things get, the more we have to keep going."
He paused, his tone taking on a strange weight.
"The Whitebeard Pirates."
"Must not fall!"
Ace's pupils contracted, and he exhaled. "I know what I have to do!"
"From this moment on, you're the crew's new captain!"
"Bring everyone home safely."
"Then we'll regroup, and one day, avenge this defeat!"
Marco spoke gravely.
"I'll save Pops, no matter what!!"
Ace gritted his teeth.
Before leaving, they had all seen