A gigantic steam liner cruised slowly across the sea, carrying numerous passengers from TJ Port to Japan.
Yet from a bird's-eye view, countless shadows from the deep sea filled the waters ahead of the liner, forming a complex array.
Near every node of the array, one or two figures lurked underwater, staring fixedly at the ship passing above.
"Confirm it one more time. These key targets are no weaklings. They're all at the level of top-tier Veteran Intruders."
"Codename Ulquiorra. He follows the Arrancar path and should have inherited No. 4's true legacy, perhaps even surpassed him, incorporating many other abilities."
"Codename Uchiha Itachi. Yes, exactly who you think he is. He has already awakened the Four-Tomoe Sharingan. Whatever you do, don't meet his eyes."
"We have the advantage of preparation and numbers. Between the gap in strength and this ambush, we must aim for a flawless victory and seize the goods!"
The figure issuing the orders also took out a scroll.
Though it was underwater, it remained completely unaffected, radiating an inexplicable majesty.
Emperor's Edict.
Within Japan, it was an imperial decree capable of forcibly changing an item's ownership.
Backed by national fortune and Dragon Qi, if used the instant they were defeated, it would be enough to forcibly seize ownership of the goods they were escorting.
Of course, the conditions for using such an edict were quite harsh. First, the opponent had to be defeated and rendered incapable of resistance. Second, "equipment"-type items that enhanced combat power could not be taken; only consumables and props could be seized.
Normally, such things were rarely used because they simply were not cost-effective.
But here, they were exactly what was needed!
Only after they began investigating the Penguin Merchant Guild's flow of goods did they realize with shock that once this