"When I left Kuri," Captain Leo began, his tone grave, "some of the local ronin had already started organizing themselves into teams and heading toward the Flower Capital to join the enemy. By now, they've probably arrived. If we delay any longer, their numbers will keep growing, and we'll be at an even greater disadvantage. The best course of action is to attack now, just as Vice Admiral Luffy ordered. We must strike before their forces consolidate."
Everyone in the room nodded in agreement, their faces set with determination.
Dev stepped forward, his voice confident as he sought to bolster their spirits. "From the intelligence I've gathered, most of the enemy's forces are nothing more than vagrants and petty criminals—people who are more familiar with collecting protection fees than fighting battles. Even the samurai and ronin among them are mostly opportunists, driven by greed rather than loyalty. They're a disorganized rabble, and with the strength of our elite troops, we can defeat them."
While Dev's words were aimed at raising morale, Rear Admiral Darius's expression remained serious. Though the young officer's optimism was appreciated, Darius's years of experience had taught him never to underestimate an opponent, no matter how disorganized they seemed.
"Dev, your report is timely and appreciated," Darius said, his tone even. "But remember—underestimating the enemy is a dangerous mistake. Overconfidence has cost many lives in the past."
Dev nodded immediately, acknowledging the criticism. "You're right, Rear Admiral. I won't let my guard down."
With that, Darius stood, placing his hands firmly on the table. His gaze swept over the officers in the room. "There's no time to lose. Prepare the troops. We move out now."
"Yes, sir!" the officers replied in unison.
The Marines wasted no time. Over 2,400 troops stationed in Wano Country swiftly assembled, their movements precise and disciplined. Each soldier carried muskets and provisions, their faces resolute as they marched toward the designated battlefield under the guidance of their officers.
Meanwhile, across the river, Gankuro was dealing with his own frustrations.
"Damn it!" he bellowed, pacing near the water's edge. "I sent out four teams, and only two came back?!"
The subordinate who brought the report flinched under his glare, his head bowed low. "Sir, the two missing teams were sent east. One was attacked not far from the main force; none of them survived. The other was wiped out in Ringo Village. By the time we arrived, the villagers had fled, likely fearing retribution."
Gankuro's fists clenched, his face red with fury. "Useless! A whole squad wiped out near our main force, and no one even noticed? What are our scouts doing? Are they blind?! And as for the team at Ringo Village, a samurai being defeated by a bunch of villagers? What a disgrace!"
As he ranted, one of his subordinates hesitated but finally mustered the courage to interrupt. "Sir, we've received word from Kuri. The local ronin and samurai loyal to His Majesty the Shogun are ready. They await your signal to attack from both wings, coordinating with our main force for a pincer movement."
Gankuro paused mid-rant, his fury momentarily giving way to thought. Though annoyed at being interrupted, he realized this news could tip the scales in their favor.
Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Gankuro suppressed his anger and let a cruel smile spread across his face. "Good. With the brave Samurai of Kuri on our side, victory is assured. Spread the word to the men: we'll crush these outsiders, and afterward, I'll treat everyone to the finest entertainment the red-light district has to offer!"
His subordinates, emboldened by the promise of wealth and indulgence, cheered enthusiastically. "Thank you, Lord Gankuro! We'll fight bravely and slaughter the enemy!"
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