230. Confrontation

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Under the faint light, the faces of both sides became visible, as the ships were now only 50 meters apart. Such close proximity was risky for vessels of this size collisions could happen easily.

However, the massive steel ships of the Tru Empire had no concern about being hit by the Marines' wooden vessels; it was the Marines who should worry about the damage.

It was this imbalance that made Akainu's expression sour as if he had been forced to swallow something bitter.

Unable to retaliate and unwilling to resort to insults, he could do nothing but reluctantly allow the inspection. This kind of humiliation was unprecedented, even in the New World.

"I'm sorry, everyone. The Tru Empire Navy patrols the South Blue freely, and all ships, including yours, must submit to inspection!"

Abona, standing confidently at the bow of the ship, smiled as he shouted toward Akainu.

At such a close distance, there was no need for a microphone or speaker. In the calm of the night, his voice carried easily over the water, leaving no room for formality.

"This is a Marine Headquarters warship. The Tru Empire has no jurisdiction to conduct inspections here. Stand down immediately and stop interfering with Marine operations!"

The adjutant beside Akainu shouted back, his voice firm and commanding.

"We've heard this story before," retorted a crewman standing next to Abona, his tone equally resolute. "A few days ago, another ship claimed to be from Marine Headquarters, and it turned out to be a pirate ship. That's why we've enforced strict inspections. We hope for your full cooperation!"

Abona remained silent, letting his subordinate speak. After all, time was on their side. They could afford the delay, as long as it served their purpose. Should the situation escalate, they could always offer a formal apology later.

For now, this tactic was ideal for stalling and fulfilling their mission objectives.

But patience was not Akainu's strong suit. His piercing gaze swept over the two steel warships, scrutinizing every detail. When Abona and Daiki appeared, he immediately recognized them.

The images of these individuals, particularly the high-ranking officers of the Tru Empire Navy, had been circulated among Marine Headquarters. Their identities were no secret, but their abilities remained a mystery.

Aside from Fujitora, the Tru Empire's known general, the strength of its other commanders was an enigma. However, the fact that these officers could hold their positions alongside Fujitora suggested they were formidable.

The simultaneous presence of two Tru Empire generals only increased the pressure on the Marines.

On the other Marine battleship, Garp lounged in a deck chair, casually observing the standoff as if watching a play. He seemed entirely unbothered by the confrontation, unlike Gion, who stood nearby with a look of uncertainty.

"Vice Admiral Garp, there are two generals on the other side. Shouldn't we intervene?" Gion asked, her expression laced with concern.

"Intervene? No need," Garp replied lazily. "They've already locked onto us. Just sit back and let Akainu handle this mess."

"Locked onto us?" Gion's confusion deepened.

For her, the idea of a Marine Headquarters battleship being intercepted, let alone rendered helpless, was unheard of. It was baffling to see Akainu, one of the Marines' strongest forces, caught in such a situation.

"This ...Tru Empire... has become frighteningly powerful," Garp explained, leaning back in his chair. "Their sudden rise has left many questions unanswered. That's why it's critical not to engage them in conflict right now."

"Then why hasn't anyone investigated them?" Gion pressed.

Garp glanced at her with a mix of amusement and exasperation. "Do you think the Marines or the World Government haven't thought of that? They've been watching this country closely for over a year. And yet, they've found nothing. Not even how their massive steel warships were built."

"But wouldn't it be simpler to investigate their king directly?" Gion asked, her logic straightforward.

Garp chuckled, shaking his head. "You think the King of the Tru Empire is like the other kings you've seen? If it were that simple, do you think the World Government would've let him live this long? Not only is he alive, but he's turned his barren kingdom into one of the most formidable nations in just six years. Do you know how long it took the World Government to build itself into what it is today? Over 800 years. Have you ever wondered why?"

Gion listened in silence, her earlier confidence replaced with uncertainty.

"Have they found any weaknesses in the king?" she asked hesitantly.

"About Anos of the Tru Empire," Garp began, his tone serious, "there have been countless discussions among senior leaders. To this day, no one has seen him fight. But make no mistake he's far stronger than anyone gives him credit for. He's about your age, yet his strength far surpasses yours."

"He managed to recruit someone like Fujitora as a general for his Empire. That alone speaks volumes about his judgment and leadership. He's not just powerful; his courage and vision outstrip most leaders in history."

"In the beginning, the Tru Empire was a barren, insignificant nation. But now? No one can ignore them. Not us, not the World Government. They've achieved in six years what others haven't in centuries."

Garp's words left Gion deep in thought as she began to grasp the enormity of the situation.

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