291. Damn It

Bonus 4

Marine Headquarters, Marineford.

After the war's conclusion, efforts turned towards rebuilding Marine Headquarters in Marineford.

Most Marines moving about displayed bandages of different sizes, evidence of the intense battle.

In a conflict of this magnitude, even the lowest-ranking lieutenant and Marine Fleet Admiral Sengoku couldn't avoid getting hurt.

Wait a moment, though. Is Sengoku really injured?

However, none of these Marines suffered severe injuries that left them unable to walk. They were well aware of the reason.

These outcomes were all thanks to Lord Hakuryu's extraordinary ability. Even Marines on the brink of death quickly revived after his treatment.

Unlike those monstrous beings with super self-healing powers, the Marines relied on Hakuryu's skills.

At present, Atlas holds unparalleled prestige among the Marines, except for the esteemed Marine hero, Mr. Garp.

Dong Dong——!

"Hey, Atlas! We're in a meeting. Quit staring out the window."

Observing Atlas lost in thought, Sengoku rapped on the conference table, playfully scolding.

Given Atlas's significant contributions to the war, Sengoku naturally showed concern and even had a fondness for the young individual.

"No need for this meeting, really. No matter how much we at the Marine object, there's no way the World Government will accept it. After all..."

"In their perspective, there's really no distinction between Marines and pirates. We're just crucial tools for them to uphold sea balance."

Atlas shifted his gaze away, leaning back casually in his chair.

He'd long grasped the true faces of World Government politicians, including the Five Elders.

"...."

Atlas's candid words left all the Marine leaders present in contemplative silence. As seasoned Marines, they comprehended the truth in Atlas's statement.

However, comprehension is just that – an understanding.

Certain actions can't align with one's personal feelings.

"...Ah, Admiral Sakazuki, are you sure you don't want assistance with your injuries?" Atlas, seemingly oblivious to the solemn atmosphere, joked with Akainu, seated across from him.

Indeed, Akainu's current condition is a bit grim.

——His arms and waist were swathed in white bandages, displaying dozens of haphazard white marks on the exposed chest.

Clearly, a result of the clash with Rayleigh.

He didn't gain any advantages either.

Dealing with Conqueror's Haki is genuinely frightening.

Gulu——! ! !

Upon hearing this, a substantial amount of lava swiftly welled up from Akainu's hand, dripping onto the desk, accompanied by billows of blue smoke.

"Sakazuki!"

Sengoku promptly intervened.

If they didn't halt him, the entire conference table might vanish right before their eyes.

"Ahrara, no need to be so furious, Sakazuki!"

Aokiji, seated beside him, also offered comforting words.

"Even though you let Rayleigh escape, didn't Atlas also kept his arm?"

As Aokiji spoke, Atlas shifted his gaze slowly.

Had this guy engaged in a sparring match with Gaban?

In contrast to Akainu's awkward situation, Aokiji's current condition is undeniably much better, having avoided any significant injuries.

"Alright, enough with the commotion. What's the Marine's course of action concerning the pirates who escaped Impel Down?"

Sengoku rapped on the table once more, cutting off what Akainu intended to express.

"The directive from the Five Elders is clear: Marine must keep a low profile, and the bounty on them should stay confidential," Vice Admiral Tsuru added.

"...Like I mentioned, there's no need for us to deliberate on this matter."

Atlas reiterated.

Numerous prisoners who broke free from the sixth level of Impel Down were notorious and formidable pirates.

A few were so ruthless that the world government eradicated any record of their existence.

As per the World Government, there are no plans to reinstate files for these individuals.

One can only imagine the repercussions that will follow.

"World Government..."

Akainu's expression darkened, and lava once again surfaced from his clenched fists.

"It's truly akin to those detestable Celestial Dragons!! Bwahahaha!!"

Garp joined in the laughter.

"Even during the promotion, those five old geezers aimed to hinder the Marine."

Atlas added fuel to the fire, seemingly amused and not taking the matter too seriously.

"...."

Upon hearing this, Sengoku and the others in the room fell into an even deeper silence.

As Marine continued to evolve, the senior executives in attendance grew increasingly aware.

The presence of the World Government looms over Marine like a guillotine. Any indication of defiance, and the guillotine descends a notch.

Marine's sense of justice becomes a mockery under the influence of the Celestial Dragons! !

"...This is a message from Director Magellan. It holds details about the escaped prisoners from the sixth level."

Following a prolonged silence, Sengoku instructed Brannew, standing nearby, to circulate the information.

Indeed, Magellan has now assumed the role of the official Director of Impel Down.

The former director personally shouldered the blame for the Impel Down breach, invoking the wrath of the Five Elders, ultimately leading to his resignation.

Impel Down's shift in leadership wasn't as conspicuous as Marine's, so the transition happened swiftly and was essentially settled within a few days.

Crescent Moon Hunter-Catarina Devon, Colossal Battleship-Sanjuan Wolf, Heavy Drinker-Vasco Shot, Red Count-Patrick Redfield...

As each of these names was scrutinized, an inevitable heaviness permeated the atmosphere.

"Redfield? This guy is making an appearance too..."

Garp's demeanor is no longer as jovial as it was before.

Even though this individual isn't widely recognized by those above the sea, Garp was well aware that this man's power was no less fearsome than the three legendary pirates of that era - Newgate, Roger, and Shiki.

Even Kong fell short against him.

If Garp hadn't intervened promptly, this individual would likely still be at large on the seas.

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