A deep, powerful, domineering voice echoed across the sea, turning everyone aboard the Ark Maxim solemn and serious.
As that figure slowly rose, stepped to the front, and looked toward them, everyone felt a heavy, overwhelming pressure descend upon them.
Kaido, one of the Four Emperors.
Countless legends about him circulated throughout this world. Whitebeard was called the World's Strongest Man, while Kaido was the World's Strongest Creature.
The differences between those at the very top were minuscule; their strength hardly differed. Moreover, Kaido was now at his strongest, in his prime, unlike the aged Whitebeard.
People often said that if it came down to a one-on-one fight, Kaido would win!
That was not a question, but a definitive statement, declaring an indisputable fact that no one could challenge.
It also proved, from another angle, just how powerful and terrifying Kaido was.
He was a crazed creature, an unkillable monster. The Navy had captured him several times, yet could do nothing with him, and he had eventually escaped every time.
During the Rocks era, he had belonged to the same pirate crew as Edward Newgate, Golden Lion Shiki, Charlotte Linlin, and other great pirates whose names now thundered across the Grand Line.
Kaido's experience, reputation, and strength were in no way inferior to those of great pirates like Whitebeard and Shiki.
He was undoubtedly an incredibly fearsome powerhouse.
"I heard you fought my nephew not long ago, and it ended in a draw."
"So, with that aggressive attitude, are you looking to attack me too?"
"Kaido!"
Holding his scepter, River spoke calmly.
The instant his words rang out, he slammed the golden scepter down against the deck.
Thud!
The dull sound carried across the sea. A powerful, domineering presence suddenly radiated outward, crashing violently into the aura Kaido exuded.
Hum!