"Yeah, I get it. The Shichibukai system has been around forever; it's high time we shake things up a bit."
Vice Admiral Tsuru also agreed with a nod.
As for the Five Elders, even though there's no official thumbs-up for this war, there's no need to halt the Shichibukai recruitment.
While relishing the legal right to plunder given by the World Government, the Shichibukai must also deal with compulsory recruitment by the World Government and can only roam freely during peaceful times.
"But what about the New World?"
On the screen, Kuzan casually spoke through the Den Den Mushi.
He and Sakazuki are currently holding down the fort in the New World. Once everyone evacuates, there's a slight chance that other Emperors of the Sea might seize the opportunity, but the likelihood is pretty low.
"This is indeed a problem..."
Sengoku couldn't help but sink into contemplation. Despite the frequent conflicts between the other two Emperors of the Sea and Whitebeard, it was clear they wouldn't pass up the chance to exploit the situation.
However, it's still up for debate whether the target of the plunder is the Marines or Whitebeard.
Bang-dang! ! !
At that moment, a loud noise echoed from the conference room door, and an elderly man swiftly entered, loudly addressing Sengoku.
"It's really not that simple. Simply tossing Borsalino into the New World wouldn't cut it."
A loud outburst captured the attention of nearly everyone in the conference room, including Atlas.
He scrutinized the old man before him.
The immediate impression was one of strength, considerable strength. His chest was broad, muscles defined, skin tawny, and his beard and hair were styled like a 'mountain,' with a stitched scar beneath his left eye. Clearly, he was a seasoned warrior. A high-ranking Marine.
In terms of attire, he wasn't clad in the typical Marine general's suit and justice cloak. Instead, he sported a sleeveless black shirt adorned with medals, showcasing his robust arms. The insignias on his broad shoulders didn't belong to any standard Marine rank, indicating a position of considerable authority.
"Brother Kong?!"
Sengoku exclaimed in surprise.
The individual who entered was none other than Kong, the former Marine Fleet Admiral, and the current Commander-in-Chief of the World Government Army! ! !
Ever since Kong assumed the role of Commander-in-Chief of the Army, he seldom delved into Marine affairs, preferring to dedicate most of his time to the sacred grounds of Mariejois.
Occasionally, he visited Marine HQ to offer guidance on certain matters under Sengoku's purview. However, during Atlas's tenure at Marineford, there was essentially no interaction between them, despite Kong being his former nominal superior. The two paths remained entirely separate.
"Brother Kong, the Five Elders must have summoned you."
Sengoku pinpointed the reason and swiftly grasped Kong's purpose.
He was well aware of the strong opposition from the Five Elders regarding this war.
Yet, the current circumstance demanded that Marine confront Whitebeard, and even the authority of the Five Elders couldn't prevent it.
Maintaining the balance at sea is their utmost priority. The five elders don't wish to witness the complete destruction of the Whitebeard Pirates and the sudden rise in Marine strength. Their current goal is clear.
They aim to diminish Marine's fighting capacity, creating an opportunity for the Whitebeard Pirates, or ensuring that Marine incurs significant losses in the upcoming battle. Only by doing so can they sustain the equilibrium at sea.
"Yes, they also want Kuzan to protect the Holy land of Mariejois, preventing pirates from launching attacks."
A hint of embarrassment crossed Kong's face.
Having recently been promoted to Commander-in-Chief, much like Sengoku and others, he had received the official appointment document from the World Government. There was little suspense surrounding his position, even without a formal award ceremony.
The first directive from the Five Elders was one he couldn't decline.
"Hmph! The CP0 stationed at Mariejois should suffice for protection, don't you think? What pirate would dare to attack Mariejois?"
Sengoku snorted, expressing some discontent.
"Have you forgotten? Fisher Tiger..."
"Moreover, the succeeding Marine Admiral will not only require a permanent base at Naval Headquarters but also a guard in the Holy Land Mariejois. It's clear that the world nobles are already wary of another Fisher Tiger."
Kong also shook his head, wearing a rueful smile. After a brief pause, he continued:
"Not just that, they've assigned Borsalino to protect Mariejois."
"Oh~ It's quite frightening to catch the attention of Celestial Dragons~~"
Borsalino, who had been idly picking at his nails, suddenly heard his name. He subconsciously pouted and spoke with a wrinkled face.
"...Brother Kong, you understand now that sending both of them out is out of the question."
Sengoku shook his head, firm in his denial.
Even though the Whitebeard Pirates' combat prowess is evident, Marine cannot afford to be lax. Without Kuzan and Borsalino, Marine would shoulder significant risks in terms of high-end combat capabilities.
In this war, Marine must secure a victory, no room for defeat! ! !
"While it makes sense for Borsalino to go to the New World, allowing Kuzan is absolutely out of the question!! Additionally, we require the authority to recruit Shichibukai."
"I've turned down Kuzan's request to head to the Holy Land Mariejois, but..."
A hint of doubt flickered in Kong's eyes.
"Well, truth be told, Issho, whom I bought to the table is not inferior to me, and it's more than enough to stand in for Borsalino."
Atlas raised his hand, finally offering a smile to Sengoku.
"You must be Atlas. Sengoku often talks about you in my presence. What a fine young man he is!! Hahahahahaha!!"
Looking around, Sora's gaze fell upon Atlas's youthful visage. As the most remarkable individual among the younger generation of Marine, Sengoku naturally didn't hold back in praising him in front of the former Marine Marshal. Consequently, Kong had practically developed calluses on his ears from hearing Atlas's name.
"But what do you mean by Issho?"
"Oh, he's a formidable individual I stumbled upon. A Paramecia Press-Press Devil Fruit user. He's remarkably strong, no less powerful than a Marine Admiral."
For Issho to accumulate sufficient merit in the impending war, it was imperative that he made an impression among the senior Marine officials. At the very least, Issho needed to be part of Sengoku's battle strategy.
"Marine Admiral—!? Are you serious?"
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