In Marineford, a dramatic turn of events was unfolding.
River, the former Marine Admiral codenamed Daytime Tiger, had actually spoken those words before the entire world. Everyone was stunned.
At the same time, his words struck a chord in their hearts.
"Sengoku!"
"I know perfectly well what the words I just said mean."
River smiled in response to Sengoku's shouted challenge.
"Are you going to wage war against the Marines here?"
Sengoku's expression darkened. His fists clenched as he demanded in a low voice.
His gaze sharpened as well. In truth, he had long been monitoring River's every move. Every day, the Marine intelligence department and Cipher Pol sent him a steady stream of reports concerning River.
Sengoku had anticipated this moment, but he had never expected it to come so soon, right in the middle of this war.
He had to admit that River was a cunning old fox. Making such a move during a war of this scale, in full view of the world, would indeed maximize its impact.
In other words, River had planned this long ago. Everything happening now was part of his plan.
Defeat Whitebeard, save Ace, and declare your stance before the entire world.
Was all of it part of your plan?
How terrifying!
Sengoku's eyes flickered as he silently thought to himself.
Unfortunately for you, I already considered this scenario and made every preparation.
Everything you're hoping for will end in failure!
Keeping his eyes fixed on River, Sengoku spoke again.
"Have you really thought this through?"
"After fighting Whitebeard, you may look unscathed, but you must have expended a great deal of strength."
"And this is Marineford!"
"The largest, most heavily defended fortress in the world!"
"You may never leave this place!"
As his cold, stern words spread, fierce winds suddenly swept