"Admiral, we've arrived at Marineford!" the adjutant announced, standing before Luo Ye with evident excitement.
During their recent mission to East Blue, the crew had developed profound respect for their new Admiral. Under Luo Ye's leadership, they not only gained invaluable experience but also witnessed significant enhancements in their combat skills. This growth promised accelerated advancement within Marine Headquarters.
Luo Ye acknowledged their admiration with a subtle nod, permitting them to disband and rest. He then proceeded alone to the office of Fleet Admiral Sengoku.
Reflecting on recent events, Luo Ye mused, "All this commotion over eliminating a Shichibukai. Sengoku's reaction was over the top."
Recalling his prior conversation with Sengoku, Luo Ye was grateful for his foresight in holding the Den Den Mushi at arm's length to avoid the brunt of Sengoku's outburst. Determined to address the situation directly, Luo Ye had expedited his return to Marineford.
"Do all senior officers become this irritable with age? Both Sengoku and Garp seem to have short fuses," Luo Ye pondered as he approached the office.
Upon entering, Luo Ye was taken aback to find Sengoku and Vice Admiral Garp engaged in a childish tussle over a packet of rice crackers.
"Fleet Admiral Sengoku, if the Marines witnessed this, they might question your authority," Luo Ye remarked, raising an eyebrow.
Startled, Sengoku momentarily froze. Recognizing Luo Ye, he relaxed, realizing the potential embarrassment if others had seen.
"It's this old fool Garp's fault!" Sengoku retorted, glaring at his longtime comrade.
Garp, unfazed, continued munching on his snacks, much to Sengoku's chagrin.
Turning his attention to Luo Ye, Sengoku's demeanor shifted to one of stern authority.
"You've got some nerve! Unauthorized deployment to East Blue, executing a corrupt Marine colonel, and then assassinating Crocodile, a government-appointed Shichibukai!" Sengoku's voice rose with each accusation.
Luo Ye remained composed, meeting Sengoku's gaze.
"With all due respect, Fleet Admiral, I did request leave for East Blue. Your refusal left me no choice. As for Crocodile, his crimes warranted action. Are we to overlook such transgressions?" Luo Ye countered.
Sengoku hesitated, acknowledging the validity of Luo Ye's points. Crocodile's actions were indefensible.
"But why not apprehend him and send him to Impel Down? Killing him outright puts the World Government in a difficult position," Sengoku argued.
Luo Ye smirked, "You know my stance on pirates. When have I ever shown leniency?"
Sengoku sighed, recognizing the truth in Luo Ye's words. His relentless pursuit of justice was both his strength and his flaw.
"You're incorrigible! Garp, perhaps you can instill some discipline in him," Sengoku said, exasperated.
Garp chuckled, "Discipline? From me? You must be joking."
Sengoku's frustration mounted. "Garp! It's your bad influence that's made him this way!"
Unperturbed, Garp continued enjoying his rice crackers.
Attempting to defuse the tension, Luo Ye interjected, "Fleet Admiral, consider the alternative. Had Crocodile succeeded, the repercussions for the World Government would be far graver."
Sengoku rubbed his temples, conceding the point. "You're adept at justifying your actions."
Changing the subject, Sengoku adopted a more serious tone.
"Luo Ye, since you're back, I have a task for you. Deliver a warning to Donquixote Doflamingo. Inform him that if he continues his current activities, the World Government will revoke his Shichibukai status."
Luo Ye's eyes narrowed. "Why not eliminate him as well?"
Sengoku's expression hardened. The history between him and Doflamingo was complex, especially considering the fate of his adopted son, Rosinante.
"No. Just deliver the warning. The World Government has its reasons," Sengoku stated firmly.
Luo Ye nodded, though his mind was already formulating his own plans regarding Doflamingo.
As Luo Ye turned to leave, Garp spoke up, "Oh, Luo Ye, before you go, Ace and Sabo have been promoted to the rank of colonel. Perhaps you could take them along on this mission."
Surprised, Luo Ye paused. The rapid ascent of his comrades was impressive but well-deserved.
"Understood. I'll seek them out before departing," Luo Ye replied, a hint of pride in his voice.