Of course, everyone seated here was sharp-minded. After a few visits, reckless figures like Bullet, Page One, and Sasaki found the atmosphere unbearable and voluntarily went out to patrol the territory. Kaito was more than happy to allow it. Having those idiots around would only invite unnecessary interruptions.
"What movements have the World Government and the Marines made?" Kaito asked, his expression solemn as he sat at the head seat.
He had killed several Celestial Dragons in succession, yet neither the World Government nor the Marines had made any statement. Kaito did not believe they would simply swallow such humiliation.
Based on their past behavior, they would normally send spies or attempt to bribe pirate officers into betrayal.
As he thought about it, Kaito continued, "Have there been any unfamiliar faces entering our territory recently?"
"There are businessmen who cooperate with our crew," someone replied. "They know the boundaries. There shouldn't be any problems."
"We can't afford carelessness," Kaito said calmly. "The Marines and the World Government are most likely planning to turn one of us from the inside."
"Before my battle with Whitebeard, every outsider must be screened thoroughly. No exceptions."
"Understood, Captain. I'll handle it personally," Katakuri said.
"Good," Kaito nodded.
"And the New World?" Kaito asked again.
"It's in chaos," someone reported with a smile. "Pirates, newspapers, and reporters from all over the world are gathering."
"The towns around Barnhart Island are booming. Some people even sailed in with pirate ships packed full of food and supplies, ready to stay long-term."
"It's said that among the Supernovas, aside from Straw Hat Luffy who vanished after the Paramount War, and Cavendish who was captured by the Marines, nearly everyone else is here. Calling it a gathering of monsters wouldn't be an exaggeration."
"And the Marines?" Kaito asked.
"They haven't moved at all," came the reply. "Even the Marines stationed at G5 are acting as if nothing is happening. That surprised us."
"No movement is the greatest movement," Kaito said, his eyes gleaming.
"Captain, what do you mean?" someone asked, puzzled.
"The fisherman benefits while the snipe and clam fight," Kaito explained calmly. "When Whitebeard and I clash, the Marines will strike alongside the World Government."
"They'll launch a surprise assault and attempt to wipe us out in one blow."
"To eliminate the greatest threat on the seas."
"That's impossible, right?" Mondor muttered, swallowing nervously.
"It's not only possible, it's certain," Kaito said decisively. "This is their best opportunity."
"If I defeat Whitebeard and absorb his forces, our strength will grow even further. The Marines won't allow that."
"So tell me," Kaito continued, "is it better for them to ambush us while Whitebeard and I are exhausted, or to wait until we're stronger and fight us head-on?"
"The first," Issho answered without hesitation.
"Exactly," Kaito nodded. "If we can think of this, so can Tsuru and the Marine strategists."
"That means my battle with Whitebeard may turn into the opening move of a war for the New World itself."
A sharp intake of breath spread through the room.
Without Kaito's analysis, none of them would have seen the depth of the Marine's scheme. A surprise attack wouldn't necessarily destroy them, but it would come at a devastating cost.
"Captain, are you certain?" King asked with a frown. "If that's true, this is the most critical moment for us."
"Yes," Kaito replied. "And recently, Sengoku hasn't appeared publicly at all."
"What?" Perospero exclaimed in shock.
As the one managing their intelligence network, he was deeply familiar with Marine movements.
"Our spies inside Marine HQ reported that Sengoku has been staying in his office under the excuse of paperwork," Kaito said coldly. "Not just Sengoku. Tsuru and Garp as well."
"They announced Sengoku's upcoming retirement and claimed they're clearing old documents to give the next Fleet Admiral a lighter workload."
"Light?" Kaito sneered.
Sengoku and Tsuru might make sense, but Garp staying put for days? That alone was suspicious enough.
"Enough talk," Kaito said, standing up. "Prepare for war."
"Inform Kaido and have him move all hidden forces from Onigashima."
"King, you're fast. Take Brulee and begin repositioning forces through the mirror world."
"If the Marines want a surprise attack, then we'll surprise them first."
"Yes, Captain," King replied, vanishing instantly along with Brulee.
Kaito watched them leave, his expression unreadable.
"I'm heading to Whitebeard's territory."
"Captain?" someone asked in confusion. "What are you planning?"
Kaito grinned, revealing sharp white teeth. "I'll start the fight early. Whitebeard won't mind."
"That way, you can focus entirely on the Marines."
"Is there a hidden island in Whitebeard's waters?" Kaito asked. "Somewhere isolated, where even massive destruction won't draw attention?"
"Kukukuku," Perospero laughed softly. "There is one."
"Berenhalter, also known as the Dark Abyss."
"It's massive, about the size of two towns. The environment is stable, but the beasts there are extremely violent."
"They're born with strength comparable to Marine-trained soldiers. Once fully grown, many rival Marine Admiral-level power."
"Their bloodlines are savage. Once awakened, their strength skyrockets."
"For hundreds of years, no one has crossed the island from end to end."
"Even a Marine Admiral could fall if unlucky."
"A few years ago, a pirate with a 700 million Berries bounty tried his luck. He never returned."
"Hardly anyone passes through. Even ships nearby detour immediately. No one will notice excessive movement."
"That's the place," Kaito said, his eyes lighting up. "Perfect."
"Captain, there's no need to rush," Perospero advised. "We can delay your fight with Whitebeard until the Marines are dealt with."
"No," Kaito replied calmly. "Too troublesome."
"I'll go first. You handle things here."
"Wait for my good news."
With that, Kaito stood up. His figure blurred, and in the next instant, he vanished into the sky.
As he left, worry crept across everyone's faces.
That was Whitebeard.
The strongest man in the world.
"Don't overthink it," Redfield said calmly. "The Captain's strength goes far beyond what you see."
"If he says he'll win, then he will."
"It's just a shame," Redfield added softly, "that I won't witness that battle myself."
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