Shinra Tensei

"Captain, they're here."

Above the coast of Lapugas Island, Lafitte spread his pure-white wings with practiced grace and hovered in the air.

The nautical spyglass in his hand picked out a dense scatter of black specks on the distant horizon.

"I'll go say hello."

Before anyone could answer, Dawn pushed off the ground and shot skyward. His tall, powerful frame rose into the air, his black captain's coat—custom-made by a master tailor in the Boot Kingdom of the East Blue—snapping in the sea breeze. The golden three-legged crow embroidered on its hem flashed in the sunlight, much like his flowing golden hair.

On the horizon, a hundred pirate ships of every design, flying different, vicious-looking skull flags, formed a vast and disorderly fleet. They drove forward at full speed, cutting through the waves toward Lapugas Island.

Figureheads bared claws and fangs. Sails billowed. The fleet seemed steeped in greed and destruction.

Every deck was packed with savage-faced pirates carrying swords, guns, and cannons of all kinds.

They waved their weapons, roaring and shouting with excitement. The air reeked of alcohol and sweat, thick with feverish anticipation of plunder.

"Charge, boys! Burn everything, kill everyone, and take everything on that island!"

"Ready the cannons! One volley will flatten their harbor! Lord Oven promised we can loot freely for three days once the target's dealt with!"

"Hahaha! With Lord Chinjao, a legendary pirate worth over five hundred million, and Mr. Oven, a big shot from the BIG MOM Pirates in the New World, we can't lose!"

The pirates' cries nearly drowned out the waves and snapping sails. Blind confidence showed on every face twisted by greed.

They could already imagine wealth, blood, and women waiting for them.

Aboard the lead ship, Chinjao frowned. He raised his distinctive pointed head slightly, sensing something