Sengoku naturally knew very well about the ties these two men had to Ace. He even knew about Garp's relationship with Straw Hat Luffy, who had recently wreaked havoc on Enies Lobby.
That was precisely why his feelings had grown so much more complicated and heavy.
With Garp's own grandson captured, Sengoku could understand his grief and pain. River's relationship with Ace, however, was even more complicated.
"Garp is one thing, but that fellow River!"
As Sengoku muttered, his gaze grew grave.
Compared to Garp, River was much more likely to fly into a rage and go on a rampage.
But Sengoku knew very well that Fire Fist Ace's capture was also an excellent opportunity-a golden chance to overturn the current world order.
In the world as it stood, the Four Emperors, the Marines, the Shichibukai, the World Government, and the other powers had established a delicate balance.
None of these opposing forces could gain an overwhelming advantage. But the incident involving Ace had created the possibility of breaking that balance.
"The Whitebeard Pirates."
Sengoku spoke softly, his expression already chilling.
He had held his position for over a decade. As time passed, he grew older, and a new generation of Marines rose, the time had come for him to retire.
Deep down, he wanted to accomplish something great, something to show for his years in office.
Ace's capture seemed to have given him that chance. If he could eliminate one of the Four Emperors before stepping down, he could break the balance between the Marines and the pirates.
Then his successor would have a much easier road ahead.
Moreover, Sengoku was certain that the World Government would never let this opportunity slip away easily.
They had long since come to loathe the so-called great pirate era.
"Brrru, brrru, brrru!"