Kapitel 22: Redhead vs Kaido
In every corner of the world, the news of Ace's impending execution and the impending battle between the Whitebeard Pirates and the Marines had spread far and wide. Everyone was aware that a momentous conflict was on the horizon.
As anticipated, shortly after the news broke, another piece of information began to circulate—a report of the destruction of the 23 warships tasked with monitoring the movements of the Whitebeard Pirates. The Whitebeard Pirates had seemingly vanished from the sea.
This revelation sent shockwaves throughout the world.
...…
On an unnamed island in the New World, a multitude of three-masted sailing ships were moored along the coast. Each ship bore a distinctive skull flag with double horns—a flag that would immediately draw recognition from any pirate. It was the flag of Kaido, one of the New World Four Emperors.
With so many ships congregated at the island, it was a clear indication that Kaido might be present.
Somewhere on the rocky terrain of the island, a tall and brawny middle-aged man with a black shawl, prominent horns on his head, and a beard resembling a dragon's beard rested against a boulder, sipping wine.
Despite his seemingly relaxed posture, an undeniable aura of strength radiated from him, a testament to his formidable power.
This man was none other than Kaido—known as the "Strongest Creature in the World" across land, sea, and air. His pirate career had been marked by seven defeats, 18 arrests when challenging the Marines and other Emperors singlehandedly, over a thousand tortures, and 40 death sentences. Yet, he had endured it all and continued to thrive.
"So, Old Man Whitebeard has already departed?" Kaido mumbled, lifting his wine gourd and taking a hearty swig.
Despite his nonchalant appearance, there was a deep strength about him that couldn't be denied.
"Twenty-three warships assigned to monitor Whitebeard have been obliterated."
"And they haven't been spotted near Whitebeard's territory. It's clear they're heading to Marineford."
Kaido's voice was slurred from the alcohol.
He may have appeared inebriated, but his gaze sharpened considerably.
"Are you considering it?" Jack the Drought asked eagerly.
"Of course!" Kaido responded emphatically.
"Old Man Whitebeard isn't like those other fools. He's a genuine monster. If he goes to Marineford, he'll surely turn it upside down."
"I'm eager to witness the final blaze of glory from the old era."
Kaido's expression turned fierce, and he rose unsteadily to his feet.
Though his gaze was intense, he paid little mind to the wine he had spilled.
"Do you intend to engage?" Jack inquired.
"Absolutely," Kaido replied.
"Old Man Whitebeard may not be a match for the Marines, but he is heading to Marineford to save a young boy. In doing so, he's putting his life on the line. I'll take over his territory."
In the New World, the Four Emperors stood side by side, each holding their own territory. With Whitebeard and the Marines locking horns, it presented a rare opportunity for the other Emperors to bolster their power.
Kaido, faced with this once-in-a-lifetime chance, had no intention of letting it slip through his fingers.
.....
A certain sea area in the New World.
A three-masted sailing ship with two red-barred skull flags cruised on the calm sea.
On the ship, several crew members sat on the deck, engaged in a discussion.
Among them sat a well-built man with short red hair, sporting three scars on his left eye. He sat at the center with a thoughtful expression.
Captain Shanks!
One of the Four Emperors of the New World!
I had served as an intern with the Roger Pirates. After the Roger Pirates disbanded, Captain Shanks founded the Red Hair Pirates and rose to power in the New World a few years ago.
"The situation remains concerning," Captain Shanks sighed.
"What concerns Whitebeard the most are his loved ones. The Marines have captured Fire Fist Ace. Knowing Whitebeard's character, he won't simply let it slide."
"But if Whitebeard were to fall in this battle, upsetting the balance of power in the sea, the world would plunge into chaos."
"It appears that a new era is dawning."
Benn Beckman, the First Mate, a man with gray hair, a long face, and a pointed chin, along with a straight nose and sharp facial features, spoke thoughtfully.
"A new era?"
Laki Lu, a burly crew member wearing small tinted sunglasses, grinned. "So, this new era is all about a bunch of ruffians who sail the seas in search of treasure, leaving a trail of mayhem and destruction in their wake? This new era does seem to carry a rather foul odor."
"Let's not generalize."
"There are still some honorable newcomers on the sea, wouldn't you agree, Captain?"
Yasopp, with his disheveled hair, offered a smile as he looked at Captain Shanks.
"Indeed."
Captain Shanks thought of Luffy, a smile playing on his lips. However, his expression soon turned serious. "But now is not the time to ponder the new era. According to reports, Kaido is preparing to attack Whitebeard's territory."
"Hmph..."
"Even though he may possess an immortal body, Kaido is a treacherous individual who acts without scruples. Whitebeard refrained from taking action when he was alive, but as soon as he left, Kaido moved in for the kill. Such cunning tactics hardly befit a member of the Four Emperors."
Yasopp snorted in clear disdain for Kaido's actions.
"It seems that morality holds little sway in these waters. Ever since the time of Gol D. Roger, strength has been the ultimate currency."
"And that's precisely how Kaido managed to rise to the position of one of the Four Emperors."
"While Kaido's methods may be despicable, if he seizes control of Whitebeard's territory, his power will overshadow all, shattering the delicate balance that has been maintained."
Benn Beckman spoke softly as he puffed on his cigarette.
"In that case, what should we do?"
Laki Lu took a bite of the chicken leg in his hand and gazed at Captain Shanks with uncertainty.
"The hard-earned balance cannot be easily disrupted by Kaido."
"And besides, even though Whitebeard is our friend, how can we allow a ravenous wolf to plunder his riches while our friend is away?"
Captain Shanks rose to his feet and drew his sword with resolve. "Since Kaido wishes to assail Whitebeard's territory, then let's be the first to stand in his way!"
The crew on the ship displayed determined smiles upon hearing this declaration.
With Whitebeard absent, they would be the ones to confront Kaido!
Observing the unanimous support from his crew, Captain Shanks strode to the bow of the ship, gazing into the distance, a solemn thought echoing in his mind.
"I wonder if fate will grant us the opportunity to share a drink together, Whitebeard."
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