At this moment, the waters around the Desolate Island were already surrounded by ring after ring of ships: Pirate Ships, warships, Reporter Ships, and vessels belonging to other forces, such as kingdoms of the New World and powers from the underworld.
On the Pirates' side, nearly all the major figures of the New World had arrived. The Flying Pirates were personally led by Golden Lion, the Big Mom Pirates by Big Mom herself, the Beasts Pirates by Kaido himself, and the Red Hair Pirates by Red-Haired Shanks himself. Other renowned Pirate Crews of the New World were likewise led by their captains in person.
Doflamingo, Gecko Moria, Crocodile, and Sea Knight Jinbe, who had already become Shichibukai, had all arrived. Hawk Eyes Mihawk and Tyrant Bear, who had yet to become Shichibukai, were also present. Among the members of the first Shichibukai, only Empress Hancock had not arrived and had yet to become one.
However, those three should not have to wait much longer. According to information Carlos had obtained from the World Government, Hawk Eyes Mihawk, Tyrant Bear, and Empress Hancock had already been listed as candidates for evaluation.
Besides these famous Pirates, there were also less notable Pirates who had come to watch the spectacle. In short, it was incredibly lively!
Quite a few ships and people had already sunk beneath the waters around the Desolate Island. With so many Pirates gathered here, friction was inevitable. It was perfectly normal for them to start fighting over a disagreement, and even less surprising for them to battle in anger.
The Marines' lineup was equally heavyweight. Although Fleet Admiral Sengoku remained at Marine Headquarters and had not come personally, the forces that arrived were still extremely formidable. Garp was in command, accompanied by Chief of Staff Tsuru, Kizaru Borsalino, Aokiji