Chapter 58: The World Government's Response
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In the grand meeting room of the World Government, the Five Elders sat around a large, ornate table. The room was filled with an air of seriousness as they began their discussions.
Elder Saturn a tall man with a long white beard, spoke first. "We need to address the increasing threat of Whitebeard. His connections with Gol D. Roger and his growing power in the New World are troubling."
Elder Mars, with a stern expression, added, "Whitebeard has been amassing territories and strengthening his crew. His influence could potentially rival what Roger once had. We must consider him a significant threat."
Elder Venus, known for his strategic mind, nodded. "It's time we increase his bounty to 4.2 billion berries. This should send a clear message about how seriously we take his actions."
The other elders agreed. Whitebeard's bounty was officially raised, reflecting the immense danger he posed to their control over the seas.
The discussion then shifted to Kaido, the Beast King.
Elder Jupiter, leaning back in his chair, remarked, "Kaido's boldness in attacking other territories and his relentless quest for power are becoming a major problem. His recent battles show his strength and determination to disrupt the balance."
Elder Mercury added, "His potential alliance with other dangerous pirates could destabilize the New World further. We need to make it clear that his actions won't be tolerated."
After some deliberation, they decided to increase Kaido's bounty to 3.7 billion berries, marking him as one of the most dangerous pirates alive.
Next on the agenda was Dracule Mihawk, the greatest swordsman in the world.
Elder Mars started, "Mihawk's duels and the power he displays are extraordinary. His potential to become an even greater threat cannot be ignored."
Elder Saturn agreed, "We must acknowledge his growing influence and capabilities. Increasing his bounty to 1.8 billion berries is a necessary step."
With a unanimous decision, Mihawk's bounty was raised, reflecting his status as a formidable force.
The conversation turned grim as they discussed Monkey D. Dragon.
Elder Venus spoke first, "Dragon's actions and his open defiance of the World Government cannot go unpunished. He's been rallying forces and challenging our authority."
Elder Jupiter declared, "We must brand him as the worst criminal in history. His bounty will be set at 3.7 billion berries, and we will use all resources available to capture him."
The elders agreed, knowing that Dragon's rebellion posed a significant threat to their control.
The discussion then shifted to two other prominent figures.
Elder Mercury began, "Gecko Moria, though less of a threat compared to others, has shown his potential. His recent activities warrant attention."
The elders decided to increase Moria's bounty to 500 million berries.
Elder Mars then brought up Sir Crocodile. "Crocodile's ambitions and recent attempts to gather power are concerning. He must be monitored closely."
Crocodile's bounty was increased to 80 million berries, reflecting his rising threat level.
The room grew tense as they discussed a more delicate matter.
Elder Saturn spoke gravely, "Doflamingo, a former Celestial Dragon, has turned pirate. His knowledge of our secrets and his connections make him extremely dangerous."
Elder Jupiter added, "We must act swiftly. His betrayal cannot be tolerated. Set his bounty at 600 million berries."
The decision was made, marking Doflamingo as a high-priority target.
With the bounties discussed, the elders moved on to countermeasures.
Elder Venus started, "We need to bolster our naval forces and ensure that we can counter these growing threats. The Admirals must be prepared to engage these powerful pirates."
Elder Mercury added, "We also need to focus on intelligence gathering. Understanding the movements and plans of these pirates is crucial."
The elders outlined a plan to increase naval presence in key areas, particularly the New World. They also emphasized the importance of capturing new and emerging pirate groups before they could gain too much power.
Finally, orders were given to maintain the Navy's power and initiate operations against new pirate threats.
Elder Saturn declared, "Send orders to the Admirals. They must ensure the Navy is at full strength and ready to engage any pirate threat that emerges. We cannot afford to let any new pirate gain a foothold."
The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency. The Five Elders knew that the world was on the brink of greater chaos, and only decisive action could maintain their control.
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As the Silver Hair Pirates sailed towards Sabaody Archipelago, Arthur read the latest news about the new bounties and the World Government's plans. "The game is changing," he thought, a smile playing on his lips. "We need to be ready for whatever comes next."
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