Knuckle wasn't really interested in the battle between Mihawk and Ugetsu Asari. He believed that the outcome was already decided before it even began, and Ugetsu Asari would not lose. If he had any question in his heart, it was whether Mihawk could survive or not.
After all, compared to their previous duel, Mihawk was significantly stronger. He was now close to Admiral-level now, so he shouldn't be instantly killed by Ugetsu Asari, right?
"Yo, Marines! Return to your ships and leave New World at once. Don't make me repeat myself!" Knuckle said condescendingly at the Marines. He handed his bible to a member of the Family and said, "Continuing this battle is meaningless, and you're no match against us anyway. Save your strength to protect those who need it. Besides, we have our own matters to attend to as well, so there's no time to waste here!"
Akainu suddenly retorted, "Mere criminals dare to lecture us of our duty? Without pirates and you, the world would be a much better place!"
If it weren't for Xanxus, Akainu would've pummelled Knuckle with his magma punch!
"Watch your mouth, Akainu! Don't lump us with pirates!" Seeing Akainu's hostility, Xanxus pointed his gun at him. He would immediately shoot as soon as Akainu made any unnecessary moves. The battle had been going on for a while now, and Xanxus was getting tired, but his determination was enough to keep him fighting until the end.
"Hahaha! To be honest, you guys sure give me a hard time, much like Rock and Roger Pirates." Garp laughed heartily and continued, "But you're facing the Marines, and our justice is invincible! Even Rock and Roger fell under this banner. Even though your Family is as strong as they were, and that kid Giotto is as amazing as them, but... justice will prevail!"
Garp always believed in his justice as a Marine. He had devoted everything to the Marines and held firm to the principles of justice. Even the World Nobles meant nothing to him.
"Justice will prevail, you say? How interesting. We also believe in that. But the justice we believe in is different from the Marines! However, since we share a similar belief, I have an ultimate proposal..." Knuckle smiled, and then Sun Flame was emitted from his ring, causing his aura to rise again. "Let's make a bet, Marine hero! If I win in against you, the Marines will unconditionally withdraw from the New World, and this battle will end here. If you win, you can do however you please with me!"
As it was a bet, it had to be a fair exchange. As the Sun Guardian, Knuckle was undoubtedly an Admiral-level combatant, yet he put his own life on the line. Having the Marines withdraw from the New World might be insignificant compared to Knuckle's life.
Upon hearing the proposal, Garp was interested, but he couldn't just make his own decision without Sengoku's approval, so he looked at Sengoku for an answer.
"How certain are you?" Sengoku asked. From his perspective, continuing the battle was not ideal, even though he believed that the Marines still had the advantage. If Garp could at least defeat Knuckle and they could leave New World, it would be something at least
"Like I told you, there's no such a thing as certain in battle, but I think it's a good idea. That way, we can minimize the casualties. Besides, I'm quite interested in fighting this Sun Guardian!" Garp eagerly said, acknowledging that his opponent was a skilled fighter, which piqued his interest.
"Everyone, step back and give them some room!"
Admiral Sengoku nodded and made a decision, "As the Fleet Admiral, I accept your proposal, Vongola Family Sun Guardian. This battle will be between you and Garp. No one else will intervene. I hope you can also keep your comrade in check."
"Alright, it's settled then."
Knuckle smiled and said, "Alaudi, I'll do the rest. You're fine with this, right?"