Chapter 132: The Chaotic Situation
"Gather my troops, I will crush that brat's territory." Kaido picked up his kanabō and shouted, "This time, no matter who it is, no one will stop me from taking that brat's head."
"Understood!" King the Wildfire nodded, turned around, and left to carry out Kaido's orders.
"Lord Kaido!" a subordinate suddenly burst in. "Lord Orochi has sent a message—he claims they've captured Kozuki Oden's son and intend to execute him publicly with the cruelest methods. He's invited you to witness it."
"Oden's son?" Kaido's eyes narrowed. At the mention of Kozuki Oden, he instinctively touched the scar on his abdomen. Sobered from his drunken stupor, Kaido laughed. "So the prophecy that's echoed for 20 years might finally be ending?"
He transformed into a massive Azure Dragon, launched himself from the rooftop, and soared toward Wano Country.
"Boss Kaido, what about our assault on Fire Fist Ace?" King, now in his Pteranodon form, followed closely behind.
"Oden's heir takes priority. We'll deal with that brat Ace once I return!" Kaido growled.
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New World – Moby Dick, Whitebeard Pirates' Flagship
The Moby Dick hosted a rare guest—Red-Haired Shanks, another of the Four Emperors. This meeting was conducted in secret, beyond the knowledge of the World Government.
On deck, only Whitebeard and Shanks were present.
"I never thought you'd visit me like this, Shanks," Whitebeard said with some surprise.
Shanks looked serious. "Things have escalated beyond expectations. The world is shifting. The war in Dressrosa and the revelation of Ace's lineage will spark chaos. The World Government won't hold back. And I know you'll stand by Ace, even if it means war with them."
Whitebeard chuckled. "Kuhahaha, you know me well. Are you offering help, then?"
"Exactly," Shanks said. "I'll join forces with you to protect Ace from the World Government. But he must avoid reckless moves during this time."
"Reckless?" Whitebeard asked.
"Nothing too serious," Shanks deflected. "The key is making sure Ace survives."
"Are you trying to restrain him?" Whitebeard asked coldly.
"No, to protect him."
Whitebeard slammed down his sake. "That's not protection—it's an insult. On these seas, no man's freedom should be chained—not even for so-called safety."
Shanks fell silent and drank.
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Marine Headquarters – Marineford
Inside the Fleet Admiral's office, Sengoku faced Vice Admiral Garp.
"Garp, the World Government has made its decision. They've authorized the deployment of all Marine combat forces. We're to capture Portgas D. Ace, even if it means war with the Whitebeard Pirates."
"They won't allow the Pirate King's bloodline to thrive," Sengoku said, handing over an official document.
Garp pushed the paper away. "I always knew this day would come... just didn't expect it so soon. Do what you must—but don't expect me to help."
"Fair enough," Sengoku replied. "Then stay in my office and drink tea."
After Sengoku left, Garp stared solemnly out the window toward the sea.
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New World – Revolutionary Army Base
Karasu, Commander of the Northern Army, returned from Dressrosa with a bounty of plunder. He reported to Dragon directly.
"Chief, Sabo's decision to assist Ace was the right one. The tech we recovered from Dressrosa could advance our cause by years."
"That's good news," Dragon said with his usual stoicism. "Any word from Sabo or Koala?"
"No, but don't worry," Karasu replied. "Sabo has the strength to stand toe-to-toe with an Admiral now. I saw him defeat Kizaru myself. Ace has helped him grow tremendously."
Lindbergh chimed in, "They're probably off on a date! Let's not bother them."
Dragon said simply, "I hope you're right."
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