Chapter 55: Second Great Pirate Era
In the aftermath of the Marines' defeat at the Battle of Marineford, the heart of the World Government's authority, the location of their headquarters, buzzed with tension. The Five Elders, the supreme figures of the World Government, gathered in a meeting room, each finding a place on a plush couch. The atmosphere was heavy with frustration etched across their faces.
As they settled on the couch, their expressions betrayed a profound anger. The news of the Marine's loss had hit them hard. Despite mustering a formidable force of one hundred thousand soldiers, they had succumbed to the might of the Whitebeard Pirates. The defeat was a resounding slap, leaving a sharp sting on the reputation of the World Government.
"Has the Marine decayed to such an extent? Losing a battle that was supposed to be a sure victory!" exclaimed one of the Elders.
"The repercussions of this defeat tarnish the very essence of the World Government," another Elder added with a furrowed brow.
"The power of the Whitebeard Pirates is beyond imagination. According to reports, it seems Whitebeard has returned to his peak state," informed a third Elder.
"Peak state? How is that even possible?" questioned another, mirroring the incredulity that permeated the room.
"In any case, news of the defeat has spread worldwide. The authority of both the World Government and the Marines has taken a severe blow. Turmoil will ensue in the world, and we must be prepared," cautioned an Elder, his voice resonating with a sense of urgency.
The Five Elders exchanged words among themselves, discussing the repercussions of the defeat. One of them, adopting a solemn tone, spoke out, "Sengoku is too weak. He bears the main responsibility for the failure of this war. I suggest we dismiss him from the position of Fleet Admiral."
The gravity of the situation lingered in the room, the echoes of the defeat demanding decisive action from the highest echelons of power.
The four individuals exchanged hesitant glances, their brows furrowed in contemplation.
"Is it really Sengoku's fault that this war failed?" one of them pondered aloud.
Sengoku, the Fleet Admiral of the Marines, was known as The Resourceful General and had proven himself capable since taking on the role. The group hesitated to solely blame him and strip him of his position.
"But if not Sengoku, then who?" another questioned.
Finding someone with the right mix of wisdom, strength, resources, and prestige to lead seemed like a daunting task. The group genuinely desired a replacement for Sengoku but struggled with uncertainty.
"The defeat at Marineford signals a new era of powerful pirates, even more intense than after Roger's death," one of them remarked.
"To face this era, we need a formidable leader," another added.
"I suggest Sakazuki to replace Sengoku!" declared the Five Elders who had been silent earlier.
"Sakazuki?" The others pondered the recommendation before eventually nodding in agreement.
"But before that, there's something we must do," one of the elders interjected.
"Whitebeard's victory has elevated his reputation to rival that of Roger. We can't let him roam freely in the New World," he continued with disdain.
The decision was made to collaborate with CP0, raising Whitebeard's bounty and, if the opportunity presented itself, unleashing the Buster Call to eliminate Whitebeard at all costs.
"And we mustn't let the ships under the Whitebeard banner slip away!" Another one of the Five Elders emphasized.
"Absolutely!" chimed in one of the remaining three, their expressions determined.
Nods of agreement circulated among the group. Swiftly, they issued their commands, setting the plan into motion.
Meanwhile, Admiral Sengoku, stationed on a Marine warship in the seas near the former Marine Headquarters, promptly received the orders.
"Increase Whitebeard's bounty?" Sengoku questioned, raising an eyebrow at the unexpected directive.
He sighed, contemplating the implications. Knowing Whitebeard's formidable strength, he realized that such a tactic might prove futile. A higher bounty would only enhance the legendary pirate's status.
"Whitebeard, Whitebeard, you troublesome old man, you've given me a headache for a lifetime!" Sengoku muttered, expressing his exasperation.
"Ugh..." He let out a deep sigh, pondering the best course of action. Determined, he summoned the Admirals to gather in the meeting room for a discussion.
As they convened, the Admirals engaged in a lively debate, aiming to reach a unanimous decision on the appropriate increase for Whitebeard's bounty. The tension in the room was palpable as they strategized to counter the infamous pirate's maneuvers.
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