"Benedict has led the Xuanwu Navy away from the East Sea?"
"What do they intend to do?"
Sengoku's report sparked curiosity in Kong Garp.
After defeating the Sky Pirates, the Xuanwu Navy had established itself as a significant force. While the Navy's top brass could theoretically suppress them, the resulting casualties would be immense. Such a weakness would undoubtedly be exploited by other pirates, leading to a devastating blow against Navy Headquarters. The current situation was a delicate balance; any move by one party would draw the attention and action of others.
"Fleet Admiral, I suspect their target is the former site of Ohara," Sengoku stated solemnly, handing a photograph to Kong Garp. The photo showed a young girl, Nico Robin.
"This child, Nico Robin, is the daughter of Ohara scholar Olvia," Sengoku added.
Kong Garp pondered, "Is there anything left at the ruins of Ohara that would pique their interest so much that even Benedict himself is involved?"
"It might be related to the Poneglyphs," Sengoku replied, presenting another stack of documents. "We received intelligence from CP9 suggesting that Ohara possessed Poneglyphs, and not just one." He paused, "However, the certainty of this information is not confirmed."
Kong Garp meticulously reviewed the documents. "How many men did Benedict bring with him this time?" He believed the Poneglyphs were undoubtedly the cause. The World Government would inevitably intervene in the Xuanwu Navy's actions.
Sengoku, having anticipated such questions, responded without hesitation, "A considerable fighting force, including 'Gold Coin Clown' Buggy and 'Sword Immortal' Sakata Gintoki. The rest of the soldiers are on three warships, estimated to be around 300 men."
"If we were to apprehend him, how much strength do you think would be needed?" Kong Garp asked, posing a hypothetical scenario.
Sengoku fell silent for a moment before answering, "I, Garp, along with Aokiji, Akainu, and Kizaru, could handle it." He continued, "However, the Beast Pirates, the Big Mom Pirates, and the Whitebeard Pirates are all watching us closely." If the Navy Headquarters were to divert a significant portion of its forces to the East Sea to engage the Xuanwu Navy, these factions would strike without hesitation. This scenario was unrealistic, and dangerous, especially without the World Government's direct intervention.
"Then let's leave it for now and let the World Government handle it," Kong Garp decided. He understood that confronting Benedict without sufficient preparation and a large enough contingent of powerful fighters would be like sending meat to a dog – a futile effort with no chance of success.
Sengoku nodded, then shifted topics. "Recently, a large area of fog appeared near an uninhabited island in the New World. Ships that entered the fog lost their bearings." He explained, "Three days ago, after the fog that had lingered for nearly half a month dispersed, the previously uninhabited island was transformed into a paradise of cuisine, attracting a large number of pirates who sought pleasure there."
"Pirates who had lost their way, upon the fog's dissipation, departed. However, they also spread news of the 'Food Island.' This not only attracted more royalty and nobles eager to indulge but also many pirates drawn by the exquisite food." Sengoku involuntarily swallowed. The fame of Food Island was indeed well-deserved. The leaked videos showcasing the artistry and deliciousness of the food, along with people's reviews, were incredibly enticing. If not for his position as a Marine Admiral and his numerous duties, he would have been tempted to visit Food Island himself.
"It is said that the current Food Island offers different tiers: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The higher the tier, the more exquisite the taste. Furthermore, entry into the advanced restaurants requires substantial wealth and strength." Besides the variety of delicacies, the island also boasted taverns, hotels, and more. It was not a paradise of entertainment, but certainly a paradise of food.
"Food Island?" Kong Garp inquired, a touch of surprise in his voice. "Have we ascertained which faction created it?" He had heard no mention of Food Island. However, its concentration of pirates and nobles made it a matter of significant interest. If possible, he wouldn't mind using this opportunity to capture all the pirates on Food Island.
Sengoku's expression turned serious. "The island's proprietor is a man named Tengu Seifu, who claims to be of the Tengu clan. He appears refined and gentle." He continued, "I had our people research this clan, but there are no records of it. After comparing extensive data on winged races, it's evident they are not of the same lineage." Sengoku suspected he was a Devil Fruit user, with his only demonstrated ability being the control of wind. His combat strength remained unknown, and he was not what he claimed to be, a member of the Tengu clan.
"A Wind-Wind Fruit user?" Kong Garp mused aloud. "But didn't Monkey D. Dragon already eat that Devil Fruit?"
"Dragon is alive, but the fruit that controls wind… perhaps that island owner possesses a different Devil Fruit with similar effects," Sengoku considered thoughtfully. "Of course, it's also possible that the so-called Tengu clan exists, but it's a race unknown to us, hidden on some island."
"In addition to the island proprietor, there's a guard force on the island. They possess exceptional physical prowess and highly skilled combat techniques." Sengoku elaborated, "Numerous pirates have caused trouble on the island and were subsequently eliminated. They strictly prohibit any form of fighting, with violators facing immediate execution." He paused, looking at Kong Garp. "A Marine unit attempted to apprehend pirates there but was intercepted by that force, leading to an altercation."
Kong Garp, seeing Sengoku's pause, asked, "What was the outcome?"
Sengoku's expression soured slightly. "The island proprietor intervened. With a single move, he conjured a gust of wind that sent our men flying into the sea." He added, "He also issued a statement welcoming the Navy to enjoy the cuisine but forbidding the apprehension of any pirates on the island, under penalty of death. Once they leave Food Island, it will not interfere further."
It was Sengoku who had ordered Momonga to scout Food Island. His objective was to capture the pirates there. Logically, as a force that traversed the seas, it was the Navy's duty to board islands and arrest pirates, a right they held without needing to inform local royalty or nobles. However, on Food Island, their usual impunity was rendered ineffective. This led to considerable mockery from the pirates enjoying themselves on the island. Paradoxically, this made the pirates who were indulging there like the island even more.
Their only regret was that everything on the island required payment. Without money, survival was impossible. As for robbing others? That would likely lead to their swift demise. Consequently, when the pirates ran out of funds, they were forced to leave Food Island to find ways to earn more money. It was then that the nearby Marines became more aggressive. Clashes were inevitable. This became a spectacle that the pirates on Food Island eagerly anticipated.
Soon, a saying spread across the seas: To land on Food Island and savor worldly delicacies, one must possess sufficient strength to overcome numerous hurdles before having a chance to partake in the earthly delights.
Kong Garp, looking at the information Sengoku had provided, spoke with a touch of exasperation, "Issue a warning. If Food Island continues to disregard it, we will use force to destroy it. Any faction that harbors pirates will be treated as the most heinous of criminals."
Sengoku remained silent and turned to leave. No matter how delicious the food, his sense of justice could not be swayed. He couldn't help but feel a twinge of regret, having hoped for an opportunity to experience it himself. For Kong Garp, the humiliation suffered at the hands of the Xuanwu Navy needed to be avenged, even if it meant confronting Food Island. A new force that dared to shelter pirates had to be eliminated.