The Four Emperors' Choice (Part One)

"Anyone who dares to fly a black flag in the New World—every last one of you—wash your necks and wait for me.

I'm back!"

The broadcast cut off there. Static filled the television screen, and the tavern fell deathly silent.

"Hahahahahaha! As expected of a young man—he really dares to act! Hahahahaha!"

Everyone remained silent. Only the red-haired middle-aged man threw back his head and laughed, his mood utterly unchanged by what had just happened.

"Hahahaha!"

"Boss Shanks, you can still laugh? We're in serious trouble now, hahahaha."

"Hey, aren't you laughing too?"

Shanks's laughter seemed like the most effective reassurance. His crew unconsciously caught his mood, and their tension instantly vanished.

That was right. The New World Marines were indeed powerful, but the Red-Hair Pirates were no pushovers either.

If Yatogami Long Yi wanted to test them, then let him try!

"Quit acting so carefree, you lot."

The captain could afford not to care, because he was the backbone of the crew. If even he panicked, they might as well disband.

But as first mate, Benn Beckman would not allow himself to underestimate the enemy strategically.

The Marines' forces were formidable. That was an undeniable fact.

Although the Red-Hair Pirates had preserved their strength remarkably well due to their small numbers and low profile, they still had to be extremely cautious when facing Marines whose fighting spirit was running high.

"Heh. Without thorough preparations, I suggest you hide out on some island and wait for the storm to pass. That monster is serious this time.

Shanks, you were lucky not to join in the excitement a while back. Heh heh. Otherwise, Yatogami Long Yi would probably make an example out of you first."

The dejected one-armed man sat at the edge of the tavern, looking utterly out of place