One Piece: Marine Luffy, Garp regrets it

If Luffy hadn't known Judge's character in advance, he might have believed he was a loyal subject of the World Government and a role model for member states.

Or if these words had come from anyone else, Luffy might have taken them at face value.

But coming from the mouth of Judge—cold-blooded, power-hungry, and filled with enormous ambition—Luffy treated his words as a joke, inwardly laughing without taking them seriously.

Still, he had to play his part. He was now a high-ranking official of the government, and when faced with such a "loyal" and "good man" willing to share the government's burdens, he naturally had to respond with appropriate courtesy.

Luffy immediately nodded with a look of surprise and appreciation, asking with a pleased smile:

"Germa is truly worthy of being considered a power in the North Sea—more responsible than other countries. Along our journey, we've passed through many member states, but Your Majesty Judge was the only one who took the initiative to offer assistance with the government's concerns. Based on this loyalty alone, even if Your Majesty has some small requests, I am willing to agree on behalf of the government and advocate for you to the leadership."

"Excellent! I've been waiting for you to say this!"

Judge was overjoyed but waved his hand in a show of modesty:

"No, no, this is simply my duty as a member of the World Government. The evil Revolutionary Army has long been despised by countries worldwide for their unjust actions. Although our Germa Kingdom is small, we will never tolerate such villains and will strike hard against them."

Luffy was stunned by Judge's self-righteous words.

Who the hell do you think you are, Germa? You actually have the nerve to call the Revolutionary Army evil? To be honest, your reputation among the member nations isn't much better than theirs. I can only say you're truly worthy of being a king—your face doesn't show even a hint of shame!

Though he complained secretly in his heart, Luffy kept nodding on the surface, appearing to agree with Judge's remarks.

"The Revolutionary Army has long been condemned for its actions. Since Your Majesty is willing to stand up for all member states, I would like to express gratitude on behalf of those rulers who unfortunately lost their countries."

As he spoke, Luffy gave Judge a slight bow to express his appreciation.

Judge didn't dare accept Luffy's gesture and quickly stepped aside.

Luffy was merely performing, and after doing enough surface work, he finally got to the point.

"Since the Germa Kingdom is willing to be the vanguard in punishing evil, the government naturally cannot remain silent. Your Majesty, if you have any difficulties or needs, please speak freely. I will put in a good word for you to the government, both officially and privately. I'll make sure the higher-ups understand Germa's challenges and loyalty."

"In that case, I do have something to ask of you, Luffy."

Judge could no longer contain his joy. He coughed lightly and quickly continued:

"As you know, the Germa Kingdom has no true territory for development. Our entire nation relies on mercenary business to sustain itself. If we're to fight against a formidable organization like the Revolutionary Army, we cannot do so without a stable base. So I would like to request the government's permission to attack the non-member states in the North Sea and first secure a rear base that can provide a steady supply of manpower and resources."

As Judge spoke, he carefully observed Luffy's expression, trying to discern his thoughts.

To his disappointment, his future son-in-law was not a reckless man who only knew how to fight. Throughout Judge's entire request, Luffy's face remained impassive, giving no indication whether he agreed or not.

After Judge finished speaking, Luffy did not immediately answer.

He fell silent—no one could tell what he was thinking—and walked out of the arsenal on his own.

Judge grew nervous, but seeing Luffy move away, he had no choice but to follow quietly.

After leaving the arsenal, Luffy walked aimlessly, not knowing the way.

He had only taken a few steps when he finally broke his extended silence.

"Attacking non-member states is legal for any member of the World Government. But since Your Majesty specifically mentioned this to me, it must not be as simple as conquering one or two small countries."