After using the World Government's summons to cover up his rescue of Luffy and the others, Bartholomew Kuma turned his gaze to Araki nearby.
"And this is?"
Though his eyes were fixed on Araki, he was actually asking Moria. "Those messages just now were government secrets. If unrelated personnel learned of them..."
Oh, so that was what he was waiting for!
Araki cursed inwardly at how underhanded he was. This big bear looked so honest and simple, but when it came to setting traps, he was anything but sloppy. He was trying to force Araki to reveal his identity—otherwise, he would team up with Moria and attack him, right?
After all, this involved important intelligence about the Seven Warlords of the Sea and Whitebeard. If it leaked on Moria's own territory, Moria probably would not have an easy time of it either.
Unfortunately, Araki had already struck first and established a connection with Moria ahead of time.
So not only was he not panicking now, his expression was even rather leisurely as he teased, "I'm the vice-captain of the Thriller Bark Pirates. That identity should be enough for me to know that intelligence just now, shouldn't it?"
"The vice-captain of the Thriller Bark Pirates?"
As soon as he said that, not only Bartholomew Kuma, even Moria froze for a moment.
Weren't you just saying you wanted me to follow you? How did you suddenly become my vice-captain?
Hearing Moria's thoughts, Araki likewise transmitted his voice through his mind. We'll each go by our own terms. In the Thriller Bark Pirates, I'll call you captain. At other times, you'll call me boss. Don't worry, Captain. Your boss will help you fulfill your dream.
"This..."
After hearing that, Moria was left speechless, but in Tyrant Kuma's heart, towering waves had already risen.