The dagger in question was none other than the silver dagger bestowed upon Doflamingo by Morgana. Seeking to maximize chaos and impact, Doflamingo decided that targeting Sengoku would be the most strategically advantageous move.
Fully acquainted with the capabilities of the Suyin dagger, Doflamingo planned to manipulate the weapon. Once Sengoku was eliminated, the dagger would reverse direction, impaling both Garp and Kizaru, plunging Marine into disarray. In this envisioned scenario, Doflamingo anticipated a swift rise in power, potentially surpassing even the Four Emperors.
The silver dagger was within a hair's breadth of Sengoku's head, and Kizaru, though aware of Garp's presence, couldn't react in time. Doflamingo's anticipation and adrenaline surged, envisioning the macabre outcome as the dagger passed through Sengoku's head.
Unexpectedly, a long sword descended from mid-air, intercepting the dagger and protecting Sengoku.
Boom...
Accompanied by a crisp sound, Doflamingo felt a pang of disappointment, hearing what seemed like the sound of heartbreak. He could only watch in frustration as the Suyin dagger was deflected.
Subsequently, Akainu emerged, glaring at the direction from which the dagger had been repelled. He remarked, "It looks like you're ready to take on Marine Headquarters!" Acknowledging that Doflamingo posed a threat, Akainu had been on guard against him.
Doflamingo's voice echoed in the darkness, "Mr. Akainu, you are really in the way."
"Declaration of war?"
"Fufufufuufu..."
"Marine is not qualified enough; I want to declare war on the World Government!"
With that declaration, the situation took a new turn.
Doflamingo's breath dispersed instantly, signaling his realization that he stood no chance against Akainu. Any attempt to engage in a fierce battle would likely result in his defeat. Instead of persisting in combat, he deemed it wiser to withdraw immediately and initiate preparations for the Donquixote family's concealment.
In the impending days, the Marines would relentlessly pursue the Donquixote family. Sengoku, regaining his composure, questioned Akainu about the distinct qualities of the dagger and sword in his possession. Akainu, focused on the urgency of the situation, dismissed the inquiry, emphasizing the imperative need to eliminate Doflamingo promptly to avert future complications.
Akainu, wielding a flame sword, pursued the dissipating remnants of Doflamingo's presence. Doflamingo, now possessing the formidable God Body of the Second Generation, was perceived as a significant threat, surpassing even Whitebeard in danger. Sengoku, unaware of the full truth, was alarmed, questioning the urgency to act against Whitebeard when time was of the essence.
In the face of the confusion, Rayleigh expressed his intent to continue the confrontation. Despite his injuries, they paled in comparison to those of Sengoku, Kizaru, and Garp. Sengoku, frustrated and agitated, contemplated whether to persist in the conflict or put an end to the unfolding drama.
"If you opt to persist, you'll only manage to eliminate one Whitebeard at best. However, be prepared for Marine to endure Whitebeard's most formidable strike before his demise, coupled with the wrath of the Whitebeard Pirates," Rayleigh remarked, pausing to carefully weigh the consequences.
At that moment, Whitebeard, having regained his composure, stood upright and boisterously laughed, "Gu la la la... In your current condition, even if you fall in battle, I can still drag you down to the grave with me!" Despite his hearty tone, a hint of fatigue marred the old man's face.
Recognizing the dire situation, Sengoku furrowed his brow, contemplating strategies. The Vice Admiral found himself entangled with all the captains of the Whitebeard Pirates, making a plea for reinforcements too late. Evaluating the injuries of Kizaru and Garp, he realized that continuing the battle would not only jeopardize their forces but also incur the displeasure of Shendu and his son.
Addressing the predicament, Sengoku reluctantly nodded, "Let's retreat. Leave Sabaody Archipelago immediately!" The statement served as both advice and a veiled threat, acknowledging the defeat but emphasizing that it wasn't at the hands of the Whitebeard Pirates. With enough time, Sengoku believed Marine could mobilize reinforcements.
Rayleigh exhaled deeply upon hearing the decision. "Take care of yourselves first. It's not your call when we depart," he retorted, dismissing any auTohruity in dictating their actions. Whitebeard, sneering, coughed up blood, yet Sengoku, unfazed, retrieved a phone snail and began to speak.
"Everyone, evacuate!"
As the final command left his lips, it appeared as though the Marine Fleet Admiral had expended his last ounce of strength, his eyes losing their luster. Subsequently, he collapsed into the arms of his comrade, Garp.
Ron, who had remained silent until then, spoke slowly, "Would you care to join me in my tavern? It's conveniently located near the port of Area 13 where you docked." Rayleigh took over the conversation, endorsing Ron's suggestion, "This kid's wine is exceptional. Whitebeard, you won't regret it."
Without hesitation, Whitebeard agreed, "Okay," and made his way towards the tavern. Abruptly, his snail phone started ringing, producing a series of beeps. Answering it, Marco's solemn voice relayed unexpected news, "Dad, I don't know what happened, but the Marines have retreated! Did they capture Ace?" Whitebeard smiled and reassured, "No, Ace has been rescued. Meet me at the nearby tavern. Ace is injured; he needs immediate attention." However, Ace interjected, vigorously shaking his head, "No, Dad, you seem to be more seriously injured. Let Marco treat you first." Whitebeard, silent, picked up Ace and headed towards Area 13.
Observing their departure, Garp clenched his fists with a dark expression. Frustration boiled within him—his father received all the concern while his own dire state was seemingly ignored.
Under Ron's guidance, the group arrived at the tavern. Upon opening the door, they were greeted by the sight of Yoruichi standing on the windowsill. Her slender form arched high, sharp claws extended from pink pads, teeth bared in the direction of the bar, emanating an air of fury.