Chapter 90: Situation on Marines

"I never expected you to actually pull it off! Impel Down is completely independent from other forces now. Even the World Government doesn't dare make a peep!"

Honestly, even though Robin saw this with her own eyes, it still felt unreal.

In the past, if someone told her the Marines were subdued by force, she wouldn't have believed it for a second. But now, seeing it for herself, Robin was utterly shocked by Luo Ning's series of actions.

"They're in no position to challenge me right now, so they won't say anything. Even if I push things further, the World Government won't dare retaliate!"

Luo Ning acknowledged that the World Government likely had some hidden cards, but these cards couldn't be played carelessly. Given his current strength and the precarious situation, the World Government was probably blinded by fear.

Their only option was to avoid conflict with him.

***

Just as Luo Ning predicted, upon receiving the news from, the Five Elders fell silent. They were at a complete loss for their next move.

While the Marines were only a portion of their overall strength, it was still a significant force of 240 battleships. They did have hidden cards, but with the exception of the ancient weapon Uranus wielded by Im, none were necessarily stronger than the Marines.

Blinded by fear, they recognized the Marines' complete collapse and their own inability to challenge Luo Ning.

"Seek an audience with Lord Im! This situation has escalated beyond our control!"

One of the Five Elders broke the silence, prompting quick nods of agreement from the others. They proceeded to meet with Im, recounting the recent events.

"Let the Marines clean up their own mess. They caused this immense trouble. As for this situation, don't worry about it. Avoid conflict with him!"

Im had no intention of dealing with Luo Ning. The potential cost was too high, and lacking complete information, Im was powerless against him.

Just like with the Marines previously, the World Government has chosen a stalemate with Luo Ning. As long as he doesn't go overboard, they won't take action against him. However, if he pushes his luck again, like capturing Celestial Dragons, things will escalate.

With the current situation, as long as Luo Ning doesn't form a full-blown army to overthrow the World Government like the Revolutionary Army, Im sees no reason to target him.

"But Lord Im, Nico Robin is in their hands!"

One of the Five Elders pointed out that while Robin's situation was hidden from other forces, the Marines were aware of her presence with Luo Ning.

"It's nothing to worry about. She's just someone who can decipher historical texts. Let them gather those texts!"

Im also has no desire to start a war over Robin. Im simply needs to cut off the source. Additionally, the World Government has already collected some of the most critical historical texts. As for the rest, they'll focus on acquiring what they can and ensure the others never see the light of day.

Without access to the historical texts, what use is Robin's interpretation ability? Therefore, Im isn't overly concerned. The main priority is to avoid conflict with Luo Ning, as any war would cause immense problems, something Im desperately wants to avoid.

"Yes!"

The Five Elders acknowledged the order and departed to carry out Im's instructions.

***

Back at Marine Headquarters, Sengoku and the others who had awakened found themselves in a helpless situation. Sengoku subsequently made the decision to step down, taking full responsibility for the events.

This was the only viable option. If Sengoku remained in charge, the Marines' reputation would be utterly tarnished. Restoration required taking the blame himself.

Sengoku, weary by now, had originally planned to observe potential candidates for a while before selecting the right successor. However, with no time for an election, the position of Fleet Admiral could only be filled by one of the three Admirals. Kizaru would immediately withdraw from consideration, and Aokiji was left with lasting injuries, leaving Akainu as the sole viable choice.

Sengoku, after taking responsibility for the recent events, stepped down directly. He claimed dismissal and investigation, which wouldn't be a major issue. Once the situation was clarified, his reputation would eventually recover.

Sengoku bore a significant amount of infamy with his actions, but he no longer cared. As long as it ultimately benefited the Marines, he was content.

"While I've shouldered a lot of blame, retirement does feel much easier!"

Following his resignation, Sengoku remained at Marine Headquarters.

"They should have asked you to step down a long time ago. Did you think you could lead the Marines forever? That's simply unrealistic!"

Garp saw the situation clearly, but his own carefree nature had prevented him from facing any consequences.

"If everyone was like you, the Marines would truly be finished."

Sengoku rolled his eyes in response.

"Speaking of which, Zephyr left with a group to join Impel Down. Why haven't you said anything about it?"

Garp inquired. After their defeat, Zephyr had also departed immediately with a group of loyalists. This group formed the foundation for the Neo-Marines in Zephyr's original story.

This time, however, Zephyr had managed to convince more Marines to leave. The Marines' recent humiliation had shaken many, and a significant number opted to abandon the organization. In the past, such departures wouldn't have been tolerated, but the current upheaval was so immense that even the Marine leadership didn't dare intervene. The Marines themselves had been significantly impacted by these events.

From Zephyr's perspective, the Marines no longer embodied his ideals. Conversely, Luo Ning, who had dared to capture Celestial Dragons, and who now controlled Impel Down, represented a place where his sense of justice could flourish. Luo Ning's earlier invitation played a role in his decision, and with no one daring to stop him, he left.

"What can we do about it now? Stopping him is pointless. But that's alright. While that monster caused the Marines a significant loss, he's at least somewhat on the side of justice. As long as he's not a pirate!"

Having stepped down, Sengoku couldn't be bothered. Akainu was now Fleet Admiral, and these problems belonged to him. Sengoku had already shouldered enough blame, and they couldn't burden him further.

"That's right, let the old coot Zephyr figure it out," Garp chuckled in agreement.

Both the Marines and the World Government were preoccupied with their own issues, especially the Marines who were currently in a state of disarray. No one had the time or energy to worry about Zephyr taking people with him. Their focus was now on dealing with the pirates and salvaging the Marines' reputation.