Aokiji chimed in, "Well said."
Zephyr, with hearty laughter, added, "That's a good scolding. Now, talking about justice in the Marine? Pure nonsense."
It's only after stepping out of Marine that one can truly perceive its reality. Free from the hatred that clouded his vision, Zephyr let go of the reluctance of being cast out by Marine. As he looked back, what Zephyr observed was nothing but a gradual descent into corruption within the organization.
Numerous injustices have persisted until now, and Zephyr undeniably holds the qualifications to voice criticism.
Despite his past role as a senior Marine, Zephyr significantly stepped back from Marine management after the tragic murder of his wife and son 32 years ago. Although he retained the title of Admiral, he relinquished much of his power, primarily focusing on the responsibility of training new Marines.
Three decades in the past, the Krojashi kingdom fell apart, Ohara faced its demise twenty-two years ago, and the Frevans incident occurred sixteen years ago.
Moreover, the Dressrosa event a decade back, even though the World Government supported it, was widely recognized as a scheme by Doflamingo.
The Shichibukai system, akin to a troublesome mess, truly humiliated the Marines.
Roja and Garp's conversation continued while outside the Marines pondered the concept of justice.
"Maybe because he sensed the tension in the air, Roja didn't press the issue further. Instead, he changed the topic," the narrative went on.
"I'm not too familiar with the World Government, Mr. Garp. I'm curious. If I were to lead a rebellion against the rule of the Goa Kingdom but continue paying the Celestial Dragons, would the World Government still intervene?" Roja inquired.
Without hesitation, Garp pinched his nostrils and waved dismissively, "Don't worry. The Celestial Dragons are a bunch of fools who only seek self-indulgence."
"As long as you keep quiet about leaving the franchise and pay the Celestial Dragons their dues on time, you'll be fine," Garp assured.
"The World Government oversees numerous franchise countries, and they don't have laws against conflicts between them. For instance, North Blue and New World occasionally witness throne usurpations, and it's not a major issue," he explained.
"However, the safest route is to appoint a figurehead king to minimize the risk," Garp cautioned.
"I understand," Roja responded, nodding thoughtfully.
"I must emphasize that the Goa Kingdom is relatively small and won't attract much attention. But if you were to overthrow the governments of multiple East Blue countries, the World Government wouldn't overlook it," Garp warned with a serious expression.
"You should be aware that the Marines aren't the only force under the World Government. In reality, it's the CP organization that handles all aspects of intelligence. Don't underestimate them," Garp warned.
"I understand. I'll keep that in mind," Roja acknowledged. "Actually, my initial plan didn't involve overthrowing the Goa Kingdom, nor did it include expansion in East Blue."
"This sea area is the most peaceful among the four, and the World Government is scrutinizing it too closely," Roja explained.
"Then, where do you plan to expand?" Garp asked with curiosity.
"Curious, Mr. Garp?" Roja grinned and teased, "If you're really interested, join the Revolutionary Army."
"You cheeky kid," Garp scolded playfully.
"Garp, you rascal."
The Five Elders observed the scene in the movie, their chests heaving and panting like a cow.
"I can't wait to storm into the theatre and take down that Garp character."
Evidently, being a high-ranking Marine, he backstabbed the Five Elders, not only verbally abusing them but also aiding the leaders of the opposing forces in scrutinizing their actions.
It's truly repulsive.
Are you a Marine or part of the Revolutionary Army?
Did you forget who's footing your bills, you rascal?
The Five Elders cursed with no restraint. At this moment, they even overlooked the fact that Im was still seated on the lofty throne before them.
"Ah, choo!"
In the offices of the New World's Naval Headquarters, Garp let out a loud sneeze.
"Who's gossiping about me?"
"Hehe, the Five Elders are probably considering taking you out," Sengoku joked. "Hey, Garp, after the movie, why don't you find a spot to lay low for a few days?"
"Am I scared of those old rascals?" Garp sniffed disdainfully.
"But it's about time to head home and take a break."
"Hehe."
The banter between them concluded, and Roja directed Garp to the port of Windmill Village, where a warship was already waiting.
Before departing, Garp didn't say much, but Aokiji approached. He looked at Roja and spoke seriously.
"Even though I appreciate what you've accomplished, assembling such a large armed group goes against the law. I'll be keeping an eye on you. If I discover you initiating a war in East Blue, I won't hesitate to intervene."
Roja didn't express any anger in response to the remarks. Instead, he asked with a smile, "Would you like to join our Revolutionary Army, Mr. Kuzan?"
"Huh?" Kuzan didn't anticipate an invitation after his less-than-friendly words.
"I'm not interested. I'm a Marine dedicated to upholding burning justice. How could I join your small armed group?" Kuzan dismissed with a wave of his hands.
"People can always change," Roja continued to smile calmly. "We'll cross paths again in the future. When that time comes, I hope you'll steadfastly adhere to your sense of justice and stand by your words."
Roja's calm demeanour unsettled Aokiji; an unexplained shiver ran down his spine. He couldn't shake the feeling that Roja, despite his youth, possessed a hint of malevolence.
At this age, it seemed Roja had insights into many aspects of the world. The tone of his speech and the gaze in his eyes gave off an aura of foreseeing the future.
This sensation of being seen through made Aokiji uneasy. He refrained from further conversation with Roja and swiftly boarded the warship.
Roja remained unfazed, offering a smile and a wave as the warship departed.
Once the warship was completely out of sight, Roja gazed at the vast sea and spoke indifferently, "The gears of fate have begun to turn. Although some alterations have been made, their impact will be minimal. There isn't much time left."
"What are you talking about, Brother Roja?" Makino, now three years old, tugged on Roja's trousers, asking with curiosity.
"It's nothing. By the way, Makino, you sneaked out again behind the proprietress's back; that's not good," Roja said as he picked up Makino.
After handing Makino over to the concerned tavern proprietress, Roja returned to the camp.
Once back at the camp, Roja urgently summoned several high-ranking individuals currently present – Smile, Naguri, Ge Meng, and other key figures.
"Everyone, we can accelerate the development, and the previous plan can be set in motion," Roja announced as he waited for everyone to gather, a smile on his face.
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You can read the 10 advanced chapters here: patreon.com/GregariousLion