Chapter 19: CHAPTER 19
Far at the end of the first half of the Grand Line, near the Red Line, stands a colossal fortress of justice: Marineford, the headquarters of the Navy. Towering into the sky, its imposing presence symbolizes the might and authority of the World Government.
This is the heart of the Marines, the Marine Headquarters, where orders to maintain justice across the seas are issued.
At this time, the position of Fleet Admiral is held by Marshal Brownie, a formidable leader during an era when the notorious Rocks Pirates were at their peak, spreading chaos across the New World. (This was before the infamous God Valley Incident that marked the downfall of the Rocks Pirates.)
Inside the grand office at the top floor of Marineford, Marshal Brownie sat at his desk, his piercing gaze fixed on a pile of documents. Opposite him stood Vice Admiral Kong, a towering and powerful Marine who would one day rise to become the Commander-in-Chief of the World Government's forces.
"Boom! Boom!"
A knock at the door broke the room's tension.
"Come in," Brownie commanded, his voice steady but authoritative.
The door creaked open, revealing Brownie's adjutant, a young but capable Marine officer. He stepped in, saluted sharply, and presented a folder.
"Report to Marshal Brownie," the adjutant began, "we've located the Rocks Pirates' trail in the New World."
At the mention of the Rocks Pirates, a flicker of excitement crossed Brownie's face. This crew, led by the enigmatic and ruthless Rocks D. Xebec, was the most dangerous pirate alliance of the era, housing future legends such as Whitebeard, Big Mom, and Kaido. Eliminating this crew was a top priority for the Navy.
"Where are they?" Vice Admiral Kong interjected, his deep voice filled with curiosity and caution.
The adjutant responded, "Our intelligence indicates they're at a ship-repairing port in the New World. Based on their activity, they'll likely remain on the island for a while."
A grin spread across Brownie's face. "Finally, we have a lead. Issue the order: dispatch an Admiral with a fleet to capture them immediately!"
"Understood!" The adjutant saluted and turned to leave, but Vice Admiral Kong raised a hand to stop him.
"Wait," Kong said, his tone measured. "Marshal Brownie, while I share your eagerness, we must proceed cautiously. The Rocks Pirates are unlike any other enemy we've faced. A direct assault without adequate preparation could lead to devastating losses."
Brownie frowned but gestured for Kong to elaborate.
Kong continued, "Before committing our forces, we should send reconnaissance teams to gather intelligence. Learn the island's layout, assess the Rocks Pirates' strength, and identify their key members and positions. A premature attack could play right into their hands, but with proper planning, we can crush them with minimal risk."
Brownie considered Kong's words, his expression thoughtful. He respected Kong not only for his immense strength but also for his strategic acumen, which had often guided the Marines to victory.
"Very well," Brownie said. "You have a point. Issue the orders: send scouts to gather detailed intelligence. Once we're confident in our knowledge of the situation, we'll strike decisively."
"Yes, sir!" the adjutant replied, saluting again before leaving the room.
As the door closed, Brownie leaned back in his chair. "Rocks D. Xebec," he muttered, his eyes narrowing. "Your reign of terror ends here. This time, there will be no escape."
The plan was clear: dismantle the Rocks Pirates' growing threat through calculated encirclement and suppression. By methodically executing their strategy, the Marines could eliminate the Rocks Pirates with minimal losses.
"It's an excellent proposal," Brownie said, nodding thoughtfully as he rested his chin on his hand.
"Do you have any recommendations on who should handle the intelligence gathering?"
"Of course," Kong replied with a laugh. "Recently, we've had a few exceptional recruits making waves on the Grand Line."
"You mean Garp, Sengoku, Tsuru, and Zephyr?" Brownie asked, raising an eyebrow.
Kong nodded. The four had joined the Marines around the same time, quickly making names for themselves. Their collective achievements were remarkable—rarely did a mission involving them end in failure. Due to their outstanding performances, they had risen swiftly through the ranks, each earning the rank of Marine Colonel in record time. Together, they were informally known as the "Marine Four Stars," a testament to their potential.
However, their successes on the Grand Line weren't enough to satisfy their thirst for justice or their desire to challenge greater threats. Recognizing their talents, the Marines had recently assigned them to the New World, where the stakes were higher, and the enemies far more dangerous.
"Yes," Kong affirmed. "All four are intelligent, resourceful, and fearless. I'm confident they can handle this task. They've proven their worth time and time again."
Kong, who had personally overseen their training, held high expectations for them. He saw in Garp, Sengoku, Tsuru, and Zephyr the future pillars of the Marines, capable of steering the organization through the turbulent seas of the New World.
"They're exceptional, no doubt," Brownie admitted, frowning slightly. "But isn't it a bit early to send them against the Rocks Pirates? Their strength is still growing, and if they're discovered, we risk losing four of our brightest rising stars."
"The New World has become a hotbed of chaos, especially with Rocks D. Xebec consolidating power," Kong said gravely. "Sooner or later, they'll face his crew. This mission isn't about direct confrontation—it's reconnaissance. If they fail to survive such a task, then perhaps they lack the fortitude required for the battles ahead."
Brownie hesitated before nodding. "Fair enough. Assign the mission to them."
Though Brownie was not as adept at strategic analysis as Vice Admiral Kong, his physical strength and battle prowess were unmatched in his era. It was these qualities that allowed him to ascend to the rank of Fleet Admiral during one of the most dangerous periods in Marine history.
Thus, the decision was made. The "Marine Four Stars" would venture into the depths of the New World, tasked with gathering intelligence on the Rocks Pirates. It was a dangerous mission, but one that could shape the future of the Marines—and perhaps the world.