With no Marines blocking their way, the Black Emperor Pirates easily stormed into the Grand Line.
They passed through Whiskey Peak, the only town on Cactus Island.
The bounty hunters hiding on the island did not dare make so much as a peep.
These bounty hunters mostly preyed on rookie pirates heading from the Four Seas to the New World.
Facing the renowned Black Emperor Pirates, they did not even dare entertain the thought.
Their overwhelming presence alone made it clear that a few cheap tricks would not be enough to deal with them.
After replenishing their supplies on the island, the Black Emperor Pirates left without giving it much thought.
Lubbock had long since investigated the situation on the island.
Given the Black Emperor Pirates' potential, some Underground Forces were willing to invest early. Even the Underworld Kings would show Marshall D. Teach respect.
Even when Teach had only just left the Sky Arena, he already ranked among the strong fighters of the New World.
Someone that powerful could easily establish himself in the New World.
How could he fail to draw their attention?
That was why Lubbock had his own intelligence channels, allowing him to learn about the island's situation immediately.
For the forces of the Underworld, that could not have been easier.
Information was always exchanged.
Even the World Government and the Marines obtained a large portion of their intelligence from the Underworld.
Some people even refused to see the Black Emperor Pirates cut down before their time. The moment the World Government or the Marines made a move, they would pass along the news.
The rise of every Sea Emperor meant a reshuffling of power.
They were not merely pirate crews, but vast networks of interests and influence.
Those who invested early would reap generous rewards