Jake's speech left everyone present somewhat surprised and puzzled.
Truth be told, in this world, his proposal was a completely novel idea to all.
Even a strategic genius like Sengoku was momentarily baffled.
He knew Jake's words must be correct, yet that thin layer of insight in his mind remained unbroken—he was still just one small step away from fully grasping the concept.
Garp blunt as ever, asked directly.
"I've seen those Sea Trains before. They're a pain in the ass! Just building the tracks between islands takes one or two years, and you still have to worry about weight limits when the train runs. Wouldn't it be faster and easier to just swim there in all that time?"
To Garp's question, Jake simply smiled and replied.
"That's because the Sea Train you rode was the first-generation model developed with immature technology. After improvements by Mr. Tom and myself, current Sea Train track construction—even for distances like Water Seven to Judicial Island—can now be completed in under three months."
"The weight issue was solved long ago. We can reinforce tunnel bases with steel pillars, stabilize them using the unique bubbles from Sabaody Archipelago, or even incorporate the rose stone from Slyold in the West Blue... All these methods significantly increase load capacity."
As Jake spoke, a glimmer of understanding gradually appeared on Sengoku's face.
He asked.
"Then how does this method compare to maritime shipping? Could you elaborate? In my understanding, a single shipping voyage can carry three to four times the total capacity of Sea Train operations."
In response, Jake produced a detailed analytical report.
"I'll provide a comprehensive answer. First, regarding advantages: Most civilian vessels are fundamentally different from our naval ships. With Dr. Vegapunk's assistance, we've developed numerous steam-powered vessels and ships with special capabilities. Yet mainstream shipping still relies on ordinary sailboats."
"Common sailboats are far more weather-dependent than you'd imagine, whereas Sea Trains face no such limitations. Whether in fair weather or foul, they can operate freely via steam power."
"Our calculations show that after specialized reinforcement and upgrades, a single Sea Train can transport twice the cargo of a standard warship. While matching maritime shipping in volume, its speed exceeds water transport by over threefold! Meaning within one day, Sea Trains can deliver six times the total cargo volume of maritime shipping."
Hearing this, Kizaru—being somewhat scientifically inclined—posed his own question.
"So Jake, what about the costs for modifying Sea Trains and tracks? Would they be prohibitively expensive for us?"
Hearing Kizaru's question, Jake pulled out a thick stack of documents from another pocket and handed them to him before replying.
"The costs of the renovation and subsequent maintenance have been calculated by both Mr. Tom and myself. If everything proceeds as we've tested, the expense to repair such a massive Sea Train would only amount to the value of a single warship."
At this, a look of surprise flashed across Kizaru's face. He gazed at Jake, smiled, and said.
"It seems there was a reason you liked hanging around Tom's Workers back in Water Seven. Had you already planned back then to extend the entire railway system across the Grand Line?"
To this, Jake responded slowly.
"I suppose you could say that, though not to that extent. At the time, I simply thought that if the Sea Train could be developed, the profits it would bring would be enormous—so enormous that we might even break free from the World Government's control by mastering the entire railway system."
Jake's words left everyone present momentarily stunned.
They all turned to look at him, their eyes filled with utmoss seriousness.
This strange atmosphere lingered for several minutes until Sengoku coughed and said.
"None of you are to repeat what Jake just said. If anyone asks you about it, just pin all the blame on that old fool Garp. But Jake, you little brat, try not to say such terrifying things next time."
"Hey! Sengoku, you bastard! How dare you frame me right to my face! This time, I swear I'll eat all your rice crackers!"
As Garp's voice rang out, the long-time bickering between him and Sengoku flared up once again.
After the brief scuffle ended, Sakazuki turned directly to Jake and asked.
"Jake, what is your goal in wanting the Marines to break free from the World Government? Can you tell me?"
Hearing this, Jake looked up at Sakazuki and replied slowly.
"The people the World Government wants to protect and the people we Marines want to protect have never been the same. The ones I want to protect are the hardworking, law-abiding ordinary citizens—not the lofty kings or celestial dragons. Those people, I have no desire to protect. That's all."
Upon hearing this, Sakazuki's lips curled into a smile—the first time anyone had seen him grin so brightly in public, which even surprised Kizaru, who was quite familiar with him.
The next moment, Sakazuki patted Jake on the shoulder and said, his voice slightly raised.
"You're stronger than me in this regard, at least. On this matter, I'll support you unconditionally."
"Arara~ How rare for Sakazuki to be so fired up. On this, I support you too!"
"How exciting~ I feel the same. Jake, I also agree with your perspective."
"Puhahaha! If the youngsters are saying this, Sengoku, won't you join me in supporting Jake?!"
"Indeed. Even though I've stepped back to the second line, I still believe in Jake now!"
Looking at the group of high-ranking officers before him—each one unreliable and speaking without regard for propriety—Sengoku felt a headache coming on, yet at the same time, warmth filled his heart.
He shook his head with a light chuckle and said.
"Fine, you leave me no choice. I suppose I'll agree as well!"
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