Jaya Island's strength was terrifying.
Sengoku and the others knew that well.
On the surface, this was not supposed to be a total war. They only needed to disrupt order on Jaya Island through warfare, preventing its various factions from salvaging gold in peace.
But the Navy would have to deploy at least half its forces. How was that any different from a major war?
The World Government made it sound easy, leaving the Navy to bear the pressure.
The expenditure and losses from the Bloody War were still fresh in their minds.
Still, they did not want to truly go to war. The Navy could not afford that price.
Settling for the next-best option was already the best approach available.
"The World Government has issued its orders. You should all have received word."
Sengoku stood beside the projection, looking at the many officers present.
"Sakazuki, Kuzan, Borsalino, each of you will lead five thousand troops to garrison one of these three islands."
"Marine bases will be established on the islands afterward."
The projection displayed a map of the waters around Jaya Island.
Three nearby islands formed a triangle, surrounding Jaya Island at its center.
"Your primary mission will be to send warships patrolling the waters around Jaya Island. Attack any vessels you discover, preferably destroying them all, and disrupt the people on Jaya Island so they cannot continue salvaging gold."
"Some clashes will be unavoidable, but preserve your fighting strength as much as possible."
To Sengoku, the Five Elders' orders suited his wishes.
Fighting was secondary. As long as they disrupted the factions on Jaya Island and prevented them from salvaging gold, their objective would be achieved.
"Yes, sir," all three replied.
All three understood what Sengoku meant, and they were also well aware of the Navy's current condition.