Loguetown

Seeing Shanks looking rather awkward, Ryan did not pursue the matter further. He said flatly, "Just say what you want. A big shot like you wouldn't put on such a show just to say hello to me."

His tone was indifferent as he looked at Shanks.

Ryan could roughly guess part of what Shanks was thinking. Judging from his portrayal in the anime from Ryan's previous life, Shanks seemed to play the role of a guardian on these seas.

Guarding Roger, or perhaps some other secret.

The unexpected appearance of him and Nazarick had clearly disrupted Shanks's original plans.

Meeting now and taking the opportunity to probe their background was perfectly normal.

Hearing Ryan get straight to the point, Shanks reined in his embarrassment and said seriously, "All right. I only want to know one thing."

"What is your goal?"

His voice was forceful. Though he did not release any Haki, he still gave off an intimidating feeling.

Ryan raised his head, a trace of puzzlement in his voice. "Is that an interrogation?"

"No." Shanks narrowed his eyes. "You can choose not to answer."

Even though he believed his side was by no means weak, he was not confident he could deal with Ryan's group, especially with the Whitebeard Pirates nearby.

"I see..." Ryan pondered for a moment, then suddenly smiled. "There's nothing worth hiding. If you want to know, it doesn't matter if I tell you."

After speaking, he seemed to organize his thoughts. Only after quite a while did he say:

"The first-stage goal is to overthrow the World Government. It should happen within the next two years. If you're interested then, want to join us?"

Ryan's invitation to Shanks made the others who heard it shrink their pupils and gasp.

Overthrowing the World Government—if an ordinary person