The situation at Marine Headquarters had reached an awkward stalemate, which was why neither side had made a move.
Compared to Marine Headquarters, the situation at Mary Geoise was completely different. The moment Ryan arrived, the fighting began. The Five Elders did not act; Kong led Cipher Pol straight into battle. Their mission was to defend Mary Geoise.
Without needing Ryan to say a word, the Blood Sword Pirates immediately intercepted them.
Ryan did not even spare this side a glance. His gaze remained fixed on the deepest part of Mary Geoise. As if sensing Ryan's gaze, Imu within the Flower Room looked over as well.
Their gazes collided in the void, sparking as though flames had erupted. Between them, an invisible force surged, their presences sharply divided.
Every expert present felt it.
"Lord Imu!" The sword-wielding elder among the Five Elders hurriedly looked toward the Flower Room.
Everyone followed his gaze and saw someone wearing a strange hat. A mask concealed his face, revealing only a pair of eyes resembling the Sharingan, their very sight inspiring awe.
"Come, let's fight!" Ryan issued the invitation. This was not the first time they had dealt with each other. They were old rivals, so many unnecessary formalities could be skipped.
Although Imu knew Ryan was Joy Boy's successor, the past was the past, and the present was the present. He could not bury his entire family simply because Ryan was Joy Boy's successor—a ridiculous reason.
The outcome would still be decided by strength!
"Fine." Imu answered softly. His uniquely ethereal voice carried such nobility that one could recognize its owner's exalted status from the sound alone.
"Lord Imu, there is no need for you to handle something like this!" Seeing Imu prepare to accept the challenge, the Five Elders hurriedly stepped in