Inside the Fleet Admiral's office at Marineford, Sakazuki gripped the report in his hand. His palm shimmered as magma-like heat radiated from him, burning the paper to ashes. He gritted his teeth and growled, "What exactly are these pirates planning? What does that bastard Kaido intend this time?"
Nearby, Kizaru sipped his tea leisurely, unfazed. "We don't know Kaido's full intent, but we must monitor closely. If this develops into a worst-case scenario, we need to be ready."
Sakazuki scowled. "Damn it, why weren't there ever this many problems under Sengoku?" Becoming Fleet Admiral hadn't even been long, and already the world seemed to be spiraling. Just the thought of the Four Emperors gathering sent chills down his spine. He barked an order, "Keep watch on every move. Report anything unusual immediately."
Even the Marines, powerful as they were, had to respect the overwhelming influence of the Four Emperors.
Meanwhile, in the New World, on a distant island, Red-Haired Shanks held the invitation from the Beasts Pirates with a hint of unease. Lucky Roux, chewing on a chicken leg, asked, "Boss, are we going? I heard Kaido didn't just invite us—he's also invited the Phoenix Pirates and the Big Mom Pirates."
Benn Beckman's expression darkened. "I don't know why Kaido sent an invitation, but something feels off. There may be a trap."
Yasopp waved it off. "He probably just got carried away after defeating Marco on Nanku Island and thinking he's the strongest pirate."
Shanks' gaze turned steely. "What exactly is Kaido aiming for? Is he trying to disrupt the balance of the New World?"
Benn Beckman asked quietly, "So what's the plan, Shanks?"
Shanks laughed warmly, eyes resolute. "Since they've sent an invitation, we'll go and see for ourselves."
On the other side, Marco led Ace, Jozu, Jinbe, Kingdew, Kiel, Harta, Izo, and several other captains toward Wano Country, while the remaining Phoenix Pirates stayed behind to guard Beehive Island.
In Wano, the Beasts Pirates prepared carefully. Inviting the other three Emperors required full readiness, both to demonstrate the Beasts Pirates' strength and to ensure Kaido's authority remained unquestioned.
On Onigashima, Kaido lifted his gourd, drinking deeply before calling out, "Who's Who?"
"Here, Lord Kaido," answered his secretary immediately.
"Have they responded? The others?" Kaido asked casually, referring to the other Emperors.
"They have all agreed to attend, Lord Kaido. The three other Emperors are on their way," Who's Who replied respectfully.
Kaido's eyes widened in surprise. "Did that Red Hair guy confirm as well?"
"Yes, Lord Kaido. Rocks D. reported the Red Hair Pirates are en route," Who's Who confirmed.
"worororo, this is exciting! A gathering of the Four Emperors," Kaido laughed with delight. He hadn't expected all of them to actually show up.
Nearby, Black Maria commented with a sly smile, "This is because Lord Kaido is now at the head of the Emperors. Even the others must respect him."
Kaido beamed and instructed his subordinates, "Prepare everything properly! A meeting of the Four Emperors is a rare occasion!"
Just then, the transponder snail on Who's Who's desk rang. "Moshi Moshi…"
The voice on the other end reported urgently, "Lord Who's Who, the Big Mom Pirates have reached the waters near Wano. Big Mom is crossing the waterfall on Thundercloud Zeus, heading for Onigashima."
Kaido's grin widened. "worororo, I didn't expect Linlin to arrive so quickly!"
Transforming rapidly into his Azure Dragon form, Kaido soared from Onigashima to greet her. If Big Mom failed to locate him, the consequences could have been catastrophic.
Big Mom approached on Zeus, the ominous storm cloud swirling around her. Landing gracefully on Onigashima, she met Kaido's gaze.
Kaido reverted to human form, laughing loudly. "worororo, I just heard you set off. I didn't expect you to arrive so fast! Welcome to Onigashima, Linlin!"
The Beasts Pirates stared in awe. Big Mom radiated an aura nearly as terrifying as Kaido's, and imagining all four Emperors together on Onigashima sent shivers through them.
Big Mom's lips curled into a smile. "Mamamamamama! I never thought… that little brat from back then would become the strongest in the New World!"
Kaido's expression darkened slightly. Now the world's strongest pirate and captain, being called a 'little brat' by Big Mom was irritating. He snorted, exhaling hot air. "Hmph, you think I'm like you! All you do is stay home and pop out children."
Big Mom's smile remained playful, but her eyes sharpened. "Mamamamamama! As expected of a pirate with a Marine bounty over 4.9 billion Berries. Arrogant, aren't you? But don't forget, you still owe me a debt. Remember who helped you get where you are today. If I hadn't given you the Fish-Fish Fruit back then, would you even dare reach these heights?"