Chapter 37: Chapter 35: Deal
Garp pointed accusingly at Sakazuki, his voice laced with anger, "You're burning bridges and forgetting you've taken a life too."
Sakazuki retorted, "The concept of burning bridges fits you better. After all, you've been harbouring the bloodline of Pirate King Roger secretly. Should that get out, your position won't shield you from severe repercussions. The Marine's approval isn't guaranteed."
Garp's expression fluctuated before he relented, "Fine, fine. Sakazuki, you've got some nerve. What do you want then?"
"I'm not here to make demands. I simply cannot bring myself to harm a pregnant woman. The child is blameless. I'll relinquish custody to you, under the condition that you ensure he's raised with the right values. Joining the Marines could be a positive direction. Failing that, ensure he leads a lawful life."
Garp's demeanour grew serious as he nodded, "I'll see to it, no need to spell it out. You're right. The child is innocent. I won't let him follow in his father's footsteps. I'll take on that responsibility."
Sakazuki's tone turned solemn, "If I find out that the child strayed down a criminal path in the future, I won't hesitate. Regardless of your relationship with Roger's child, I'll be the one to execute him."
Garp remained silent, his acquiescence implicit. Sakazuki concluded, "Remember, Vice Admiral Garp, you owe me one. When the time comes, I'll expect you to honour that debt."
After Sakazuki's departure, Garp's frustration boiled over.
"This little rascal! Threatening me while I'm caught off guard! Just wait till I get my hands on you!"
Though he vented his frustrations, Garp inwardly felt gratitude towards Sakazuki. Originally, this matter didn't concern Sakazuki. Even if he disclosed the secret and apprehended Portgas D. Rouge, Garp had no grounds to accuse him. That was simply executing orders, as a soldier should.
However, Sakazuki chose to spare Portgas D. Rouge out of personal conviction and aided in eliminating the CP0 agents. He could have left them to their fate, but he wanted to prove his reliability.
Thus, Garp's perception of Sakazuki underwent a significant shift. Sakazuki wasn't the cold-hearted figure his son, Dragon, had portrayed him to be. He was, after all, human.
This decision didn't come easily for Sakazuki. He deliberated over whether to apprehend Portgas D. Rouge. Kong's promise as a Marine Admiral weighed heavily on him, compelling him to uphold it.
It was only upon encountering Portgas D. Rouge, a woman willing to sacrifice her life to protect her unborn child, that Sakazuki's resolve wavered. Her maternal love was profound, rendering him incapable of taking action against her.
The outcome wasn't unfavourable. Though he missed his chance at becoming an Admiral, he found solace in his decision. Each person held their own sense of justice, and Sakazuki believed his actions aligned with his.
The deaths of the four CP0 agents served to contain the incident. Additionally, he earned a favour from Garp, whose staunch character could prove invaluable in times of need. Thus, Sakazuki considered his decision a win.
As for Ace's future, Sakazuki harboured no concerns. Even if Ace were to become a pirate, he'd show no leniency. His resolve remained unwavering.
However, he issued a warning to Garp. Whether Garp would disclose Ace's lineage remained uncertain. Should Ace remain unaware, he might veer away from the path of piracy. Yet, if Ace were to discover his heritage, he might follow in his father's footsteps.
Upon returning to the Marine's temporary base, Sakazuki immediately dispatched personnel to Portgas D. Rouge's former residence. He trusted Garp to handle the aftermath.
The subsequent steps were straightforward. The bodies of the four CP0 agents were discovered, alongside evidence pointing to the involvement of Roger Pirates. Sakazuki and Garp's narrative held sway, absolving Marine of blame.
After relaying the information to Marine Headquarters, Sakazuki received their directives promptly. He was to lead his troops back to Marineford, while the Marine branch personnel remained on Baterilla Island to establish a base.
Days later, in Marine Headquarters' chambers, Kong perused the detailed report submitted by Sakazuki and Garp.
Turning to Sakazuki, Kong inquired, "Is this accurate?"
Sakazuki affirmed, "It's as stated in the report. Though I didn't witness it firsthand, the assailant who neutralized the four CP0 agents, except for Roger's associate, was likely associated with the Roger Pirates. The scene indicated a brief yet decisive confrontation."
Garp interjected, "Indeed, what's written is true. You think we'd deceive you?"
Ignoring Garp's outburst, Kong addressed Sakazuki, "Continue."
Sakazuki elaborated, "While I couldn't ascertain the assailant's identity, the scene bore the hallmarks of an ambush. CP0 likely tracked Roger's wife, only to fall prey to the waiting Roger Pirates. Ultimately, the associate was rescued."
Their responses were well-rehearsed, reflecting their mutual understanding and cooperation.
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