Behind Ronglin, Jazz stood in a row with nine members of the Phantom Group, their imposing presence radiating pressure. Hawkins took one glance and could tell that every one of them was exceptionally skilled.
"I didn't come here for Kaido." Ronglin revealed the purpose of his personal expedition. "The Pirate Alliance is like a centipede that refuses to die. They've plotted against us time and again, and I've long found them an eyesore. This is the perfect chance to lure them out and wipe out those annoying flies in one stroke!"
Hawkins's pupils widened. He had originally thought Ronglin's voyage was merely a pretext for his own withdrawal. He had not expected that once Ronglin arrived in person, he would actually intend to completely destroy the Pirate Alliance.
"But the Pirate Alliance's movements are unpredictable. It'll be difficult for us to catch them." Hawkins voiced the problem. "We intercepted their patrol ships before, but we never succeeded. Their methods of concealment are simply too sophisticated."
"No matter!" Ronglin said. "If they won't show themselves, then we'll lure them out."
The next day, Blackbeard received an anonymous report that Ronglin, the Alliance Leader of the Star Alliance, had appeared within his territory. Moreover, Ronglin had stationed several thousand troops along the border, while the elite forces of the Second Fleet stood ready for battle.
Blackbeard's side kept a low profile and made no major moves. The forces on the surrounding islands merely pulled back. Rather than sending men to attack the Star Alliance, he left the border region vacant, effectively relinquishing the territory he had occupied there.
Blackbeard's actions caused an uproar throughout the outside world. At the same time, people were baffled that Ronglin had turned toward Blackbeard instead of heading to Mary Geoise.
Many people cursed wildly, wondering what