A somber, tense atmosphere hung over the Moby Dick.
With Whitebeard gone, Marco and the others who remained were clearly unable to shoulder the burden. Though they still nominally held their place among the Four Emperors, they no longer possessed their former commanding presence.
Now, faced with the sudden arrival of River's men, they were more guarded than ever.
A moment later, they saw a group board the ship.
Marco and the others narrowed their eyes. Ace turned to look at the newcomers as well, his eyes flickering with unreadable thoughts.
As Rob Lucci approached at the head of the group, the officers of the Whitebeard Pirates gathered around him.
"Who's in charge here now?"
After looking around, Rob Lucci faced these world-famous pirates with a cold expression and asked in a low voice.
"Why don't you tell us what you're here for first?"
Marco frowned and demanded.
With Whitebeard gone, Ace, on whom so many hopes had been pinned, should have taken over and managed the crew's affairs. But his mental state had been poor over the past month, delaying the transition.
Whether they considered Ace's identity, Pops' expectations, or the feelings of Marco and the others, he was undoubtedly the most suitable choice.
"Portgas D. Ace!"
Rob Lucci was not one to waste words. His gaze swept over the crowd and settled on Ace.
"Our boss wants to see you."
Ace's eyes sharpened at those words, and he immediately asked, "Where is River now?"
"Dressrosa."
Rob Lucci answered.
"He's waiting for you at the King's Plateau in Dressrosa."
He paused, then glanced over the people before him again.
"He has something very important to discuss with you."
"Also, he asked that you come alone. If you're ready, we can leave immediately."
These words caused Marco and the others'