News of Marco's victory over Big Mom spread like wildfire across the seas. Word traveled fast: Marco had battled Big Mom for ten days and nights on the Kohn Islands, ultimately claiming a narrow victory, cementing his status as one of the Four Emperors.
Simultaneously, Marineford was abuzz with news of its own. Admirals Aokiji and Akainu had clashed in a fierce battle for the position of Fleet Admiral, fighting ten days and nights, until Akainu emerged victorious. He was personally appointed by Saint Topman Warcury of the Gorosei, and his first order as Fleet Admiral was a worldwide conscription.
On Onigashima, Kaido of the Beasts glanced at the latest newspaper. He wasn't particularly interested in who became Fleet Admiral, but Marco's triumph over Big Mom caught his attention.
"Linlin, when did you get so weak? You can't even defeat a mere Marco now," Kaido sneered, disdain clear in his voice. Decades ago, Kaido had shared a close bond with Big Mom, but her current weakness surprised him.
"All she does is stay home and have children," he muttered, finishing his sake. "After Whitebeard died, everything seems duller."
King, sitting across from him, asked cautiously, "Kaido-sama, should we recall Jack now? Marco defeated Big Mom; Nanku Island will be next. Jack won't stand a chance."
Kaido waved a hand dismissively, "Hmph, let him come back. I haven't recognized him as an Emperor yet. I'll find a moment to test his strength."
Meanwhile, on a distant island in the New World, the Red Hair Pirates were gathered.
"Boss, unbelievable news! Marco actually defeated Big Mom!" Lucky Roux ran up, nearly tripping in his excitement, holding out the newspaper with comical urgency.
Red-Haired Shanks took the paper, scanning the details. A hint of surprise flickered in his eyes. "I've underestimated him," Shanks admitted softly.
He had always regarded Marco as a capable first mate, but after Whitebeard's death, Marco had quickly taken command of the Whitebeard Pirates and displayed astonishing power. His growth and capability now genuinely impressed Shanks.
"You've truly become a competent Captain, Marco," Shanks said, smiling. After Whitebeard's passing, Shanks had worried that the Whitebeard Pirates' territory would collapse, upsetting the delicate balance of the New World. But Marco's victory reassured him.
Benn Beckman chuckled, "No wonder you wanted to recruit Marco. He stayed low-profile while Whitebeard lived, but now, he stabilizes the situation quickly. Remarkable."
"Indeed," Shanks agreed, eyes bright with admiration. "Lads, let's have a feast!"
"Oh!!!!!!" The crew cheered in response.
Meanwhile, on Prawn Island, Blackbeard frowned as he read the same news. Just days ago, he had planned to exploit the chaos caused by the Beasts Pirates and Big Mom's movements, but now, Marco's swift consolidation thwarted his plans.
Shiryu of the Rain, polishing his sword Raikiri, asked, "Teach, what do we do now? The Phoenix Pirates, led by Marco, have already re-established themselves in the New World. Even without Whitebeard, they seem capable of holding the Four Emperors' throne."
Blackbeard laughed, masking his concern, "Zehahahaha, don't worry, Shiryu. Marco's strength exceeds expectations, but he's still a Devil Fruit User. My Dark-Dark Fruit will counter him—I won't lose."
Shiryu frowned, voice flat. "Even if you can defeat him one-on-one, our crew is small. How will we contend with them? I joined to reach the pinnacle, not hide day after day."
Blackbeard's expression darkened briefly, then he laughed, suppressing his frustration. "Zehahahaha, relax, partner. If our plan succeeds, the World will be ours."
Shiryu sneered, "You said that before. And what happened then?"
"On the path to success, setbacks are inevitable," Blackbeard replied confidently. "You've seen my abilities; I just haven't had the right opportunity yet. When I do, I'll soar."
Shiryu sighed, resigned to the situation. "Why don't we head back to the first half of the Grand Line? Our forces will grow faster there. The New World belongs to the Four Emperors. You know the power of the Four Emperors' crews better than I do."
"Either defeat them and take their place, or submit. Right now, you can't defeat any of the Four Emperors," Shiryu added pointedly.
Blackbeard's face tightened but he remained silent. Just then, Burgess ran up, a grin spreading across his face.
"Captain! Good news! Guess who I just saw at the dock."
Blackbeard raised an eyebrow, frowning. "Who?"
"The former Seven Warlords of the Sea, Gekko Moriah," Burgess replied, a sly smile curling his lips.