At the long conference table aboard the Moby Dick, Marco sat firmly in Whitebeard's former seat, his gaze sweeping over the sixteen Captains, including Zack and Law. His voice carried calm authority as he spoke.
"Law, I owe you an apology. I promised long ago to help you take down Doflamingo, but our responsibilities kept delaying it. Now that the external threats have mostly been eliminated, I can finally assist you with what you asked of me."
Law's chest tightened at those words, but he remained composed.
"Thank you, Leader of the Phoenix Pirates," he replied politely.
Marco's eyes remained steady as he continued,
"So, when do you plan to move?"
A subtle edge of intensity flared in Law's eyes, barely restrained.
"I can go anytime. I've been waiting to cut off Doflamingo's head for a long time. If possible, I want to end it myself."
Marco nodded.
"Naturally, that will not be a problem. However," he added, his tone serious, "there's something you need to know."
Law's brow furrowed slightly.
"What is it?"
"Doflamingo maintains extensive business ties with Kaido, one of the Four Emperors," Marco explained solemnly. "In many ways, he is Kaido's subordinate. Taking him down will undoubtedly anger Kaido."
Law's eyes narrowed.
"I'm not afraid of Kaido. Our feud with the Beasts Pirates already puts us in conflict. Even if Kaido does not act immediately, I'll settle matters with him later regarding Nanku Island."
Marco's expression remained grave.
"Kaido is a brute, yes, but he understands boundaries. He would never start a full-scale war with another Four Emperors crew just over Doflamingo. Most likely, his anger will target you directly."
Law's jaw tightened at this.
Marco continued, offering a hand of trust.
"After Doflamingo is dealt with, would you consider joining the Phoenix Pirates? If you do, I can make you Captain of the Seventeenth Division."
Law raised an eyebrow in surprise. Marco offering him a Captain position directly was beyond his expectations.
"Of course," Marco added, "if you prefer freedom, you can remain independent under the Phoenix Pirates' banner. As long as you are aligned with us, any threat from Kaido will be met with our protection. This is only a suggestion—I will not force you."
Law fell silent, weighing the offer. He had considered the Seven Warlords route before, a position that would provide government protection. But Marco's proposal offered a different path, one rooted in loyalty and strength rather than politics.
"I need time to think," Law finally said. "I must discuss this with my crew."
Marco smiled faintly.
"Very well. Should you choose to join, the door is always open."
Turning his attention to Sak, Marco continued,
"Sak, you've served as acting Captain of the First Division for a long time. From now on, you are officially the Captain of the First Division."
Sak's face lit up.
"Yes, Captain Marco!"
Marco added, a mysterious smile on his lips,
"Before we move forward, I need to find you a Devil Fruit."
Sak blinked, curious.
"A Devil Fruit? What kind?"
"You'll see soon enough," Marco replied, his tone teasing but deliberate. He planned to retrieve the artificial Zoan-type Azure Dragon Fruit from Punk Hazard. Such a powerful Devil Fruit would ensure Sak's growth, solidifying his position as a Captain-level powerhouse.
Ace, brimming with confidence, spoke up.
"Marco, let me take down Doflamingo! My strength has grown recently; it's the perfect opportunity to test it."
Marco nodded approvingly.
"Alright, but I'll accompany you."
He felt a surge of pride. Assessing Ace recently, he noted that Ace had reached standard Yonko Commander-level strength. In just three months, he had advanced from Weak Emperor's Second-in-Command to full commander caliber—a terrifyingly fast progression.
Marco addressed the rest of the crew.
"Ace, Sak, and I will lead the First and Second Divisions to deal with Doflamingo. I'll leave the home front to all of you. Handle things among yourselves, and if a situation escalates beyond control, contact me immediately."
The Captains nodded firmly.
"Leave it to us!"
"Now that you, Marco, are a Four Emperors, no one would dare challenge the Phoenix Pirates lightly!"
"Go with confidence, Captain!"