There really was such a thing as presence in this world.
In the original story, Zoro had not even used Haki when he split Monet, the Snow-Snow Fruit user, in two with a single slash, terrifying her so badly that she could not reform her body.
That was the oppressive presence of the strong.
Now, Bright also felt the presence that belonged to Charlotte Linlin.
It was as though he, a little fish, had been targeted by some apex predator of the sea. A powerful unease grew within him.
Bright slowly drew a breath. Come to think of it, had he felt something like this before? He remembered it had been when he first encountered Kizaru on Punk Hazard.
He was still too weak.
Bright stepped forward and stood in front of Tesoro and the other two. "I'm very pleased to accept your invitation, BIG. This should be an excellent Tea Party."
Charlotte Linlin watched Bright's action, the smile on her scarlet lips widening. "Mamamama, of course! My Tea Parties have never disappointed their guests."
That astonishing pressure finally vanished.
Tesoro let out a breath, while Tanaka and the other man looked as though they had survived a disaster. Both were drenched in cold sweat, lingering fear written all over them.
Bright suddenly felt that he had been too optimistic.
Those two would not even be able to stay conscious under Charlotte Linlin's Conqueror's Haki. If things truly turned hostile, they would probably be of little use.
He had to get Baccarat prepared in advance, then figure out a way to hold the line himself.
"That's right. Every guest has nothing but praise for Linlin's Tea Parties."
A familiar voice came from one side.
Bright turned his head. Stussy was sitting off to the side with a smile. Charlotte Linlin's