Shattered Star Region, Dark God Temple.
This was a complex of black palaces built on an asteroid in space, with a transparent dome separating its interior from the outside.
The palace complex was resplendent, with an enormous plaza nestled within it and a black statue of a god at the plaza's center.
Standing dozens of meters tall, the statue was carved entirely from obsidian, its face indistinct. Carefully designed lighting made it gleam like black crystal, lending it an air of cold, shadowy sanctity.
Around the statue, densely packed worshippers murmured devout prayers. If not for the pirate flag fluttering outside, no one would have imagined this was a pirate den.
At that moment, inside a secluded palace.
"I never imagined a mere Ghost Pirate Gang could put us in such a sorry state. This All Things Unity Society really is not to be underestimated."
Dressed in a black robe embroidered with gold and wearing a metal mask, Dark Shadow could not help sighing after hearing all the intelligence gathered over the past two days.
Thinking back to his meeting with the Ghost Captain in the Arena, how long had it even been? That little Pirate Crew he had never taken seriously had already grown into a major force in the Shattered Star Region—and caused him so much trouble.
If I'd known, I should have stepped into the ring and killed that wildcard myself!
"Yes, my lord. Whether in intelligence, tactics, or even strategy, I have to admit I was thoroughly outplayed this time. The All Things Unity Society... is definitely a formidable opponent!" Across from Dark Shadow, Kloros's Hologram spoke.
Surprisingly, Kloros carried himself as a subordinate before Dark Shadow, making their relative standing immediately clear.
"Unfortunately, no matter how much of our intelligence network we deploy to investigate,