In the New World, within Blackbeard's territory.
"Alliance Leader, news has arrived from Dressrosa. Kuzan went alone to attack Blackbeard!" Urouge reported the news from Dressrosa to Uchiha Hiko, who was sitting at the bow with his eyes closed.
After reaching an agreement with Buggy that day, Hiko had accompanied Buggy and his forces on a long-range surprise assault straight into Blackbeard's heartland, partly to keep an eye on him and partly to sweet-talk him, lest Buggy change his mind midway, run off, and ruin the bigger plan. They had only just entered Blackbeard's territory when an unexpected message arrived from Dressrosa, their headquarters.
"Hm?" Buggy and Mr. 3 were visiting aboard Hiko's Konoha Go, discussing battle plans with him. Urouge's report made Hiko raise his head in confusion. "Alone?"
Urouge nodded. "Yes, alone. Dressrosa's local forces are assembling but have not deployed. The Germa Corps has already turned back to provide support, but under Kuzan's command, they are harassing Blackbeard's flank."
Everyone was somewhat startled. Their original plan had been to lure Blackbeard back to defend his territory, then ambush him along the way. They had not expected Dressrosa to be the first to ignite the conflict.
Hiko's brow furrowed slightly.
Luo, standing nearby, said, "Can Kuzan be trusted? If he took command and rashly sent troops into a direct clash with Blackbeard, causing Dressrosa to suffer heavy losses, then he would be highly suspicious as a spy, wouldn't he?"
Buggy swallowed hard, deeply envious. He had never expected even Marine Admiral Aokiji to pledge allegiance to Uchiha Hiko. A powerhouse like that would be welcomed anywhere.
Hiko tapped the tabletop, his delicate brows lifting as he pondered for a moment. Then he analyzed, "Even if he were a spy, he would not charge into battle alone. Our original