232. Akainu's Anger

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Akainu, already brimming with suppressed anger, could only force himself to maintain composure upon witnessing the scene before him.

The number of personnel aboard the Tru Empire's warships was nearly equivalent to the Marine forces present, and the overall configuration of the ten Tru Empire warships seemed to rival, if not surpass, the might of the Marines' Buster Call.

With nearly 5,000 soldiers assembled, these warships were more than capable of delivering a devastating blow. Even the presence of Marine legends like Garp, renowned as the strongest Marine, might not turn the tide.

After all, the Tru Empire wasn't merely boasting numbers; they had two generals on board, formidable in their own right.

Though they might not match the top combatants of the Marines in raw power, the overwhelming numbers were more than enough to compensate.

"What exactly do you want?" Akainu demanded, his voice tightly restrained as he directed his gaze toward Abona, who stood confidently on the opposing deck.

Abona, however, did not rush to respond. Instead, he raised his right hand deliberately, and as if on cue, the Tru Empire's fleet adjusted their weapons.

The cannons of all their ships aimed squarely at the Marine vessels. Particularly menacing were the massive steel ships flanking the formation, their gigantic cannons locked onto the Marines with unnerving precision.

After ensuring everything was in place, Abona spoke leisurely, a faint smile on his face. "Admiral Akainu, we harbour no ill intentions. This is merely a routine inspection. The most critical issue is that the Tru Empire is conducting military exercises in this sea area. All vessels in the South Blue are prohibited from entering during this time."

These were orders conveyed earlier that morning, and Abona knew that dragging out the situation for a few hours would likely be inconsequential.

Akainu's clenched fists betrayed his internal rage as magma dripped from his fingertips, a visible display of his temper.

This sight did not go unnoticed; even from 50 meters away, the Tru Empire's soldiers were on high alert. Should Akainu make the slightest aggressive move, the Tru Empire fleet was prepared to retaliate without hesitation.

"Admiral Akainu," continued Daiki, another Tru Empire general standing on the deck, "the military exercises will conclude by noon. At that time, you may proceed with your mission as you see fit. If your situation is urgent, inform us, and the soldiers of the Tru Empire will gladly assist in ensuring your success within these waters."

"Wow, haha! Where's Fujitora? Why hasn't he shown up yet?" A familiar voice broke the tense atmosphere. Garp, looking half-asleep, strolled onto the Marine deck, his uniform loosely buttoned.

He paid no mind to the simmering tension and instead called out directly to Daiki of the Tru Empire.

The previous night's poor visibility had prevented Abona from recognizing everyone aboard the Marine ships.

But upon hearing Garp's voice and seeing his face now, Abona's expression grew serious. He hadn't anticipated encountering the legendary Marine hero under these circumstances.

For Garp, the feeling was mutual. His eyes carried an unspoken mix of emotions as he gazed at Abona. Memories of the past surfaced, particularly of the day the Tru Empire officially established its navy months ago.

A photograph from that event had shown Abona seated as one of the Tru Empire's generals, a stark transformation from the man Garp once knew.

"It's quite a surprise to see you here, Vice Admiral Garp," Abona said, maintaining a respectful tone. "If His Majesty knew about this meeting, he would certainly ask me to convey his regards."

"Wow, haha! So, you do know me! Then don't block our path let us handle our business without either side losing face," Garp replied, half-jokingly but with an undertone of sincerity.

"My apologies, Vice Admiral Garp," Daiki interjected, his demeanour courteous yet firm. "The Tru Empire's military exercises are a matter of utmost importance and will conclude by noon. I humbly ask for your patience. Once they're over, I'll personally ensure your mission proceeds without further hindrance."

"Huh," Garp sighed, his frustration evident. His options were limited; starting a fight now would be reckless, especially with their numbers and position in the South Blue.

The Marine forces lacked the manpower to decisively overpower the Tru Empire fleet, and any prolonged engagement would only work against them.

Furthermore, a war between the Marines and the Tru Empire would send shockwaves through the New World, destabilizing the fragile balance the Marines had worked so hard to maintain.

Daiki, standing on the deck, calmly issued an order to his adjutant. "Fire a warning shot into the sea ahead. Let's ensure no unexpected threats are lurking beneath the surface."

"Yes," the adjutant responded promptly.

The Tru Empire's flagship shifted its colossal cannon away from the Marine vessels and fired into the distant sea.

Boom!

The deafening roar of the cannon echoed across the waters, and the resulting explosion sent a massive wave surging into the air, nearly 100 meters high.

The sheer power of the shot served as an undeniable warning a clear message to the Marines that the Tru Empire's strength was not to be underestimated.

Akainu's face grew grim as he observed the display. Though his fury burned hotter than ever, he knew that a battle here, in the South Blue, would be unwise. For now, all he could do was endure and bide his time.

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