The summons were divided into two types.
One was an emergency summons brought about by a major incident, while the other was an ordinary summons for a meeting.
The letter delivered by the Carrier Bat this time belonged to the latter type.
Ever since becoming a Shichibukai, Hawk Eyes had never responded to an ordinary summons. Only an emergency summons that he could not refuse would make him take a trip.
This time, however, he had felt a sudden urge to attend the Shichibukai meeting.
As for the reason...
It was not only because of the great sword that had briefly appeared in the newspaper photo, but also because of the importance his close friend behind him attached to it.
"You haven't finished your drink yet?"
Shanks was surprised, then called out to stop him.
"Next time."
Hawk Eyes glanced back at the carefree-looking Shanks and walked toward the shore where the small raft was moored.
Shanks scratched his cheek. Rather than insist, he smiled and said, "I'll save the drink for you. Have it when you get back."
"..."
Hawk Eyes's departing footsteps did not change in the slightest.
He really does care quite a bit, Red-Haired...
Alabasta, located in the first half of the Grand Line, was a relatively rare superpower.
However, Alabasta was now shrouded in the shadow of an organization known as the Shichibukai.
Rain Country.
Located at the hub of Alabasta, the city was a prosperous place and was known as the dream city of the Alabasta Kingdom.
At the center of Rain Country stood a magnificent, pyramid-shaped casino built in the middle of a lake—Rain Dinners, the property of Shichibukai Crocodile.
The lowest level of Rain Dinners contained a spacious, luxurious room.
"Tap, tap..."
A tall figure pushed open the room's door and descended