Marine Headquarters, Marineford.
Several sets of sofas had been added to the spacious Fleet Admiral's Office, with senior officers sitting in small groups.
Once Morris and Zephyr entered together and took their seats, Fleet Admiral Kong spoke.
"Regarding the Golden Lion's escape."
"And its subsequent repercussions, I'd like everyone's analysis."
Sengoku sat on one of the sofas below, his expression grave.
"We should investigate the Golden Lion's former territories."
"And try to learn of his movements as soon as possible."
"That man has never been interested in peace."
"However, he probably won't attack us immediately."
"His territories have long since been carved up, and his followers have scattered."
"It will take time for him to make a comeback."
Vice Admiral Tsuru sat beside Sengoku.
"That's right."
"The Golden Lion was once one of the strongest men in the world."
"But now, with his legs and an arm gone, although he remains a king among pirates..."
"His strength has probably diminished considerably."
"We don't need to worry about him causing trouble in the short term."
"The most pressing issue is the repercussions."
"Sakazuki's promotion and operations had only just begun to produce results."
"Yet Impel Down's reputation as an impregnable fortress has been shattered in an instant."
"This is a tremendous blow to the Marines' prestige and the public's trust."
"We must suppress its impact as quickly as possible."
Morris sat with his arms folded and spoke.
"Then we need to make a show of strength."
"Preferably by targeting a major pirate with sufficient fame and power."
"And throwing them into Impel Down."
"But the only ones who measure up to the Golden Lion are Charlotte Linlin and Hale Nock in the New World, aren't they?"
"Let's pick one."
Zephyr suddenly spoke from beside him.
"No."
"The consequences of moving against