Back on the Roger Pirates' ship, Roger used his Observation Haki, capable of All-Hearing, to confirm Golden Lion's arrival.
Rayleigh, Gaban, and the others gathered behind Roger, waiting for Golden Lion to appear.
They did not have to wait long. Before long, Golden Lion's ships came into view.
As the ships drew closer, Gaban smiled faintly. "Let me give Golden Lion a welcome ceremony!" With that, he casually sent two flying slashes streaking across the sea toward Golden Lion.
Clang! Clang! Golden Lion casually deflected Gaban's slashes, then flew swiftly toward Roger and the others.
Seeing this, everyone shrugged. "Looks like Golden Lion has already felt our enthusiasm!"
"Rayleigh, keep an eye on our ship. Don't let them damage it!" Roger said as he turned to Rayleigh.
"Don't worry, Roger. No one can damage the Jackson," Rayleigh said gravely.
Hahaha! Laughter rang out as Golden Lion himself flew before Roger and the others.
Looking at the relaxed Roger Pirates before him, Golden Lion's expression turned solemn. "Roger, you're prepared to fight to the death this time instead of retreating!"
"Hahaha! Golden Lion!" Roger laughed. "This time, you're the ones who'll be running!"
"Hmph! We'll see who ends up running." Golden Lion flew into a rage and charged at Roger.
"Hahaha! Come on!" Roger laughed as he charged toward Golden Lion in the air, his famed blade in hand.
Clang! Roger's single sword collided with Golden Lion's twin blades. Sword energy ran rampant, Haki erupted, and rings of red lightning spread through the air around them.
Bang! The two retreated separately. Roger landed back on the small island and looked up at Golden Lion with a provocative expression.
"Hey, Shiki, your strength hasn't improved at all!" Roger smiled, his tone somewhat frivolous.
"Roger!" Golden Lion froze, then flew into a rage