The journey back to Oran Island was quite uneventful. After Cipher Pol's agents were driven out of the New World, the balance between its Five Emperors had become remarkably stable.
Everyone essentially kept to their own territory, lacking sufficient incentive to expand. The pirates arriving from Paradise each year failed to stir up any trouble, either being wiped out or absorbed by Lind and Shiki.
But being unable to expand within the New World did not mean they lacked ambitions for broader territory.
Shiki in particular had been eyeing the rich lands of Paradise and the Four Blues.
Unfortunately, the Marines were powerful now. They had forcefully repelled all of Shiki's moves against Paradise and the Four Blues, leaving him capable of inflicting only minor damage at best.
He had never managed to establish a foothold in Paradise or the Four Blues and extend his influence into other seas.
Thus, after Lind revealed a little of his plan to Shiki, Shiki showed intense interest.
Just as Lind had said, this would not only give Shiki unprecedented prestige, but also allow his forces to use this opportunity to firmly establish themselves in Paradise and the Four Blues.
"Then I'll go make the arrangements, Shiki. If you know any kings or anyone else interested in this plan, they can join us after your speech."
Lind raised his wineglass and spoke to Shiki with a smile.
To show how seriously he took this operation, Lind had even made a special trip to Shiki's base to discuss it in person rather than simply settling things over a Den Den Mushi.
"Jahahahaha! Lind, looks like I'll be basking in your glory this time. That fellow Roger still wants to become the Pirate King."
"You don't become the Pirate King just by finding some so-called Laugh