Chapter 86: Whitebeard II
Dave sighed, his mind racing with thoughts. Something about Sphinx Island or something had him on edge. Not the island itself—it was peaceful, serene even. But he could feel the eyes of the world watching. Whether it was Cipher Pol, the Marines, or even the Yonko, he knew they were under constant surveillance.
"Still brooding, Captain?" Shakky's voice cut through his thoughts, smooth and teasing.
Dave smirked without turning. "Just thinking about what's next."
Before Shakky could reply, Enel's voice broke through the calm. "We've got company!" he called out, his tone half-amused, half-serious.
Dave turned sharply, his gaze narrowing as he followed Enel's pointed finger. In the distance, a massive silhouette loomed on the horizon. It didn't take long for them to recognize the distinctive shape of the Moby Dick, its whale-like figure cutting through the waves with an imposing presence.
"Well, that's one way to make an entrance," Rayleigh remarked, stepping up beside Dave.
Dave's smirk widened. "Whitebeard himself, huh? I was wondering when he'd show up."
Kaito, wide-eyed, looked to Rayleigh for confirmation. "Whitebeard? The Whitebeard?"
Rayleigh nodded, patting the boy's shoulder reassuringly. "Don't worry, kid. You're about to witness something few people ever get to see."
As the Moby Dick drew closer, the Hell Prince Pirates stood their ground, watching the legendary ship anchor just offshore. A gangplank was lowered, and the first to step onto the island was Marco, his fiery phoenix tattoo visible under the sunlight. Behind him, the towering figure of Whitebeard followed, his presence overwhelming despite the medical tubes attached to his body.
Dave stepped forward, meeting Marco's gaze with a calm but firm demeanor. "Welcome to Sphinx Island, Whitebeard Pirates," he said, his voice carrying a note of authority.