Tsuru spoke with a trace of helplessness, "The Three Emperors Alliance has likely established contact with the Revolutionary Army. They held discussions on Sabaody, and it is very possible they have already reached some form of agreement. On top of that, there is also Vegapunk."
"As Marines, we all understand Vegapunk's technological capabilities," she continued. "This time, the World Government intends to take advantage of the upcoming battle between the Phoenix Pirates and the Blackbeard Pirates. While they are away from the New World, we are to dismantle the Three Emperors Alliance and eliminate Vegapunk."
Tsuru paused briefly before adding, "Once the Beasts Pirates and the Big Mom Pirates are dealt with, even if the Phoenix Pirates are strong, they will no longer pose a major threat."
Sengoku rubbed his forehead, clearly troubled. "Why is there war every single day? Even with large-scale recruitment, the Marines cannot sustain continuous wars of this scale."
He exhaled heavily. "And taking down two Yonko at once is no simple task. Those monsters are not fools. If they realize they cannot win, they will retreat."
Both Kaido and Big Mom possessed the ability to move freely through the air. If the situation turned against them, escaping would not be difficult. Even during the Marineford War, despite having overwhelming advantage, the Marines failed to achieve complete annihilation. Attempting such a feat in the New World against two Yonko crews was far from realistic.
However, Tsuru remained firm. "Even so, this is an opportunity for both the World Government and the Marines. The Three Emperors Alliance is too powerful. Now that the Phoenix Pirates are heading to the Grand Line to confront the Blackbeard Pirates, this creates a rare opening for us."
Sengoku's expression darkened. "That may be true, but even without the Phoenix Pirates, the Beasts Pirates and the Big Mom Pirates alone are extremely difficult to handle. Especially Kaido."
Despite his concerns, Sengoku understood that the Gorosei had already made their decision. There was no turning back. The only option left was to prepare a battle plan.
He immediately picked up a Den Den Mushi and placed the call. Before proceeding, he needed confirmation on one crucial matter, whether the World Government would provide support.
If they did, the Marines could manage. If not, even victory would come at a devastating cost.
The call connected.
"This is the Gorosei," came a calm voice from the other end.
Sengoku straightened. "Saint Nusjuro, this is Sengoku."
Saint V. Nusjuro responded evenly, "Since you've called, have you already prepared a detailed plan, or do you have a request?"
"We have not finalized a plan yet," Sengoku said seriously. "However, I need clarification. Will the World Government support the Marines in this operation against the Big Mom Pirates and the Beasts Pirates?"
A cold snort came through the Den Den Mushi. "Sengoku, with your capabilities, are you unable to handle these two forces with Marine power alone? Both crews now have fewer than ten thousand members. Even with recent reinforcements, they are nothing extraordinary."
Sengoku maintained his composure. "Over the past year, the Marines have endured three major wars, Marineford, Whole Cake Island, and Egghead Island. Our losses have been severe."
"It is irrelevant," Nusjuro replied indifferently. "Gather elite Marines from the Four Seas and the Grand Line. Eliminating pirates is your duty."
Sengoku's eye twitched slightly. The response was dismissive, yet he could not openly challenge it.
He spoke carefully, "If we mobilize all elite forces, the Four Seas and the Grand Line will be left vulnerable. If pirates take advantage of that, it will damage the Marine's reputation. The Marines represent the World Government, any loss of credibility will reflect poorly on you as well."
"It does not matter," Nusjuro said without hesitation. "The priority is the destruction of the Alliance. As for lesser pirates, they are insignificant."
Sengoku fell silent for a moment, unable to refute further.
After a brief pause, Nusjuro continued, "However, the World Government will dispatch part of its forces to assist. They will handle the Big Mom Pirates. Your Marines will focus on eliminating the Beasts Pirates."
Hearing this, Sengoku let out a quiet breath. "Understood. I will begin drafting the detailed battle plan immediately."
…
Meanwhile, on the Grand Line.
After entrusting Luffy's body to Vegapunk for preservation, Ace returned swiftly to the Phoenix Pirates.
He had not forgotten his purpose.
This time, Blackbeard had issued the challenge himself. Ace had no intention of letting him escape. The debt of blood would be repaid.
Marco shared the same resolve. To ensure complete victory, he had mobilized the entire Phoenix Pirates force, all eighteen division commanders and thousands of subordinates.
A chance to avenge Whitebeard, to settle the score with the Blackbeard Pirates, and to bring an end to everything that had been left unresolved.
On April 6th, the appointed day, the Phoenix Pirates arrived early at Demon Valley Town.
Without hesitation, they cleared the island.
Using force, they drove out every pirate and civilian present. Word spread quickly, the Phoenix Pirates and the Blackbeard Pirates would clash here.
No one dared remain.
One by one, the pirates abandoned the island, unwilling to be caught in a battle between two forces at the level of Yonko.