The world awoke to silence, and then confusion.
News of the annihilation of the Blackbeard Pirates spread like wildfire. Word of their deaths, of the obliteration of Beehive Island, and the brutal demise of even the monstrous Sanjuan Wolf, Devon, Vasco Shot, and Avalo Pizarro sent ripples through every corner of the Grand Line.
But most of the world didn't know the name of their executioner.
The World Government simply announced a classified high-level operation had eliminated a major pirate threat.
Pirates in shock.
Kings trembled.
And the Marines... the Marines stared at each other in disbelief.
Only those within the upper echelons of the government, marine and revolutionary army knew the truth. The operation had been carried out by one man, the Commander of the God's Knights, Figarland Shamrock.
Marineford, Admiral Strategy Chamber
Fleet Admiral Akainu's fist trembled, lava dripping down his fingers and burning deep scars into the steel table. He said nothing for a long time.
"The Blackbeard Pirates are gone," Borsalino muttered, removing his sunglasses. "Officially, it's just 'a classified operation.' But between us, we know who moved."
Akainu didn't answer. His eyes turned toward the giant map on the wall, upon which several territories had been crossed out in red ink.
"Where's Garp?" he finally asked.
"Gone," an officer replied, voice low. "Still missing after the news of the incident... he hasn't checked in once."
The silence returned.
Sakazuki's voice finally broke through. "Find him. We can't afford to lose another legend."
The Revolutionary Army, Kamabakka Kingdom
Dragon stood at the summit, arms folded, his expression unreadable as he stared into the open sky.
"We've received word," Sabo said quietly behind him. "Blackbeard's entire force was wiped out. No survivors."
Dragon didn't speak. His mind was elsewhere focused on his son.
"Still no news about Luffy?"
Sabo shook his head. "Nothing. Egghead's transmissions were severed days ago. Even Cipher Pol's operatives aren't responding."
Dragon closed his eyes.
He wasn't one for fear. But what he felt now…
It was close.
The Red Line, Mariejois
In the hallowed chambers of the Five Elders, tension reigned.
"He killed Shanks and now Blackbeard," murmured Saturn, his hand gripping his cane tightly. "The balance of the world is getting out of control."
"He's out of control." Mars said grimly. "He's getting very dangerous."
"Figarland Shamrock," murmured V. Nusjuro, stroking the hilt of his blade.
"Where is the grand commander Figarland Garling? He must give an explanation and take responsibility." Jaygarcia Saturn asked, voice tense.
None of them had received orders from Imu in days.
And that silence was more terrifying than anything else.