Testing the Waters

"The Asura Pirates, a pirate crew from the West Blue. They were responsible for the recent Heavenly Tribute robbery. Their leader is this man—the captain of the Asura Pirates, Marshall Rogge," Robin said with a smile.

"I see. They dared to touch the Heavenly Tribute? Quite bold. And they still haven't been hunted down and killed? The World Government and the Marines are becoming more and more useless." Only then did Crocodile look at Rogge, his eyes full of disdain.

He did not merely disdain Rogge; he also disdained the Marines and the World Government. In his eyes, both had become far too rotten.

"So Marine Headquarters suddenly asked me to deal with them because they touched the Heavenly Tribute," Crocodile said flatly.

"No. A few days ago, they went to Earthfire Island and stole all the wealth from its yearly quota," Robin said.

Crocodile finally showed surprise. Somewhat taken aback, he said, "Earthfire Island? They actually dared to make a move there? Didn't the nearby Marines intervene? I remember the Marine stationed nearby was rather troublesome."

"Marine Logia user Colonel Smoker, the White Hunter... has already been defeated by him. I only just received that intelligence, which is why I didn't feel at ease sending R1 and the others over. As expected, something happened," Robin said.

"Even Smoker was defeated? I see. No wonder Marine Headquarters wanted me to act. It seems they have some skill." Crocodile nodded.

Rogge did not speak. He merely watched Crocodile with a smile. In truth, he was already furious inside. He had been ignored, but there was nothing he could do about it. Being ignored was only natural. Compared to a Shichibukai, he was nothing more than a newcomer among newcomers, a pirate who had not even entered the New World.

That did