On the Moby Dick, the atmosphere instantly grew suffocating.
The sea breeze had stopped, and even the sound of the waves seemed pinned down by the thunderclouds. Everyone looked up at the sky.
That figure clad in a white coat of justice stood beneath the thunderclouds.
He had brought no warships or soldiers, yet the pressure he carried was heavier than an entire Buster Call fleet.
Marco was the first to spread his wings, blue Phoenix flames igniting across his shoulders and back.
The instant his wings unfurled, the entire deck was illuminated by an eerie blue glow.
Jozu stepped forward, diamond luster spreading from his shoulders across his chest before covering his entire body.
Vista drew both swords, their blades gleaming coldly beneath the lightning. The other commanders gripped their weapons as well.
Everyone knew that they were still not qualified to face Rock head-on.
The battle on Ink Tide Island had utterly crushed the last traces of luck in their hearts, but their opponent was already standing above them. They could not retreat, and they must not retreat.
The Moby Dick was the ship Whitebeard had left behind. Even if this flag was already tattered, it could not bow its head before the Marines on its own.
Just as Marco was about to speak, a hand suddenly rose.
"Don't move."
Teach's voice was not loud, yet everyone on the deck froze.
Marco frowned.
"Teach!"
Teach did not turn around. He merely stared fixedly at Rock in the sky.
The face that usually wore an honest smile had lost its usual relaxed disguise.
Sweat beaded at his temples, but his gaze was exceptionally clear.
"Don't move..."
He repeated himself.
"He didn't come to wipe us out."
Marco's eyes darkened.
Jozu asked quietly, "Are you sure?"
Teach bared his teeth