Secret Talks (Part One)

The elevator took them straight into Pangu City, deep within the Holy Land. When the group stepped out, the streets had been cleared. Every household had shut its doors and drawn its curtains tight.

"Are you that determined to keep news of my arrival from getting out?"

Oric smiled easily. "Before long, you might even have to call me master."

"What did you say?!"

Akainu's face darkened as he spoke.

Oric had come to the Holy Land with demands, but Akainu did not know what they were. He only knew the Five Elders had ordered them to watch Oric and stop him from trying anything.

If Oric could say that, could it mean...?

Oric gave him a cryptic smile.

"Oh? I said..."

"Keep your little schemes to yourself, Oric."

Before he could finish, Aokiji cut in.

"You know perfectly well that even threatening them with Poseidon, the Ancient Weapon, won't make the Five Elders let you return to the Holy Land and take power."

"Or are you confident enough to start a war right now and fight us?"

Aokiji was no fool. He dared challenge Oric because Ron had pointed out in their earlier discussion that Oric had come to the Holy Land because he had no other choice.

That meant they still held the upper hand.

"..."

Oric studied Aokiji, then shook his head.

"You're right. I don't dare."

"But Kuzan, don't underestimate what I have to bargain with!"

Mary Geoise, World Government headquarters!

As Oric entered the hall, all five Elders stirred. They looked up at him, some speechless, others furious.

"It's been a long time, gentlemen."

Oric removed his mask and gave a slight bow, simple yet elegant, holding the mask against his chest. He was proof that appearances could deceive. Who would have guessed that this