"But his fame and strength surpass the current era's strongest by far. In fact, the Red Earl alone could rival the combined might of the Roger Pirates and Whitebeard Pirates," Owen continued, detailing Redfield's legendary feats.
"Brother Owen! Are you serious? How can one man compete with the Whitebeard Pirates and Roger's crew from over a decade ago?" Cracker exclaimed, disbelief etched across his face.
The others were equally stunned, struggling to comprehend the magnitude of Owen's words.
"Brother Owen, you said even if our mother appeared, he would not be her match? Is that true?" Praline asked cautiously, hope glimmering in her eyes.
All eyes turned to Owen, silently seeking affirmation.
"I cannot say for certain," Owen admitted. "But over ten years ago, Whitebeard fought Redfield one-on-one and lost by a single decisive move."
Everyone went silent, the implications sinking in. Ten years ago, Redfield was arguably the strongest in the seas. Ten years later, even if his power had waned slightly, he could still stand toe-to-toe with the mightiest, perhaps rivaling Whitebeard himself.
The room was heavy with tension as the sheer legend of the Red Earl left its mark on everyone.
"Don't overthink it," Owen said, breaking the silence. "The Red Earl has allied with Kaito's pirate group, granting them the credibility and strength to challenge the Five Emperors. It's possible Kaito's group might target our crew first… or perhaps someone else." Owen glanced at Cracker, then made his way toward the cabin.
There was no time for deliberation. The best course of action was to inform their mother and prepare for any forthcoming battle.
The World Expo had concluded with Marine securing the Laludev Eternal Pointer.
Three days later, the news spread rapidly through Morgan's agency, and the seas once again became turbulent.
The first sensation was the explosive rise of Bullet, followed by the clash between Katakuri and Margao, the two vice-captains of the Big Mom Pirates.
Eventually, reports of the battle with Marine confirmed Bullet's defeat, making him one of the most notorious pirates in the world, surpassing even Kaito in fame. His past as a member of the Roger Pirates only added to the intrigue.
Marine forces, eager to seize pirates during the Expo, captured several pirate ships—including the accidentally caught Cavendish. Buena Festa, the Expo organizer, was also apprehended, though Bullet was rescued by an unknown benefactor and vanished.
After Bullet's escape, pirates across the seas breathed easier, aware that his power alone could wreak havoc if contained by Marine.
Four Emperors. Whitebeard Pirates.
Marco and the other crew leaders reported to Whitebeard with solemn expression.
"Oyaji, this is what happened."
Whitebeard laughed heartily, swirling his wine. "Ha! I thought I'd seen the last of that old fellow. I never imagined he'd reappear and even join Kaito's pirate group. Truly, the older I get, the more surprises the sea holds!"
"Wonderful! Another old friend returns. Your father won't feel lonely," Whitebeard's eyes gleamed with nostalgia. "To celebrate Redfield's return, little ones, prepare a banquet!"
Marco, however, felt conflicted. "Pops… isn't the focus supposed to be Kaito's pirate group? The Red Earl and Bullet joining Kaito Pirates is the real issue here!"
Whitebeard waved it off with a chuckle. "Let it wait. My old friend's return is worth celebrating first."
Meanwhile, the Red Hair Pirates were also abuzz.
Benn Beckman handed a newspaper to Shanks. "Look who has appeared!"
Shanks's eyes lit up as he scanned the report, the expression of surprise quickly settling into serious contemplation.
"Bullet appeared at the Expo! The Eternal Pointer was launched into the sea by his captain, and only someone of his caliber could have acquired it. Incredible!" Shanks said.
Benn Beckman exhaled calmly, forming a smoke ring. "Don't be overly surprised. Bullet is indeed powerful, but he's no longer what he used to be. Remember, you are the captain of the Red Hair Pirates and now one of the Four Emperors."
Roux, eating barbecue nearby, chimed in with a smile. "Captain, don't look so serious. Enjoy this moment!"
Yasopp added, "And if anyone dares to trouble you, we'll handle them!"
Shanks's expression softened at last. "Everyone! To celebrate the reappearance of old friends at sea, we'll hold a banquet!"
"Excellent!"
---
Big Mom Pirates.
In the shadowed castle, Katakuri recounted the events to the trembling members of his crew.
"Mother! This is what happened. We need a plan!" he urged.
Charlotte Linlin's cold voice echoed like a demon, striking fear into all nearby.
"Red Earl, Bullet, and Kaito? They formed a pirate group together?"