The next day, news of a new crew member joining the Whitebeard Pirates spread quickly. Normally, a new member's arrival was a cause for excitement. However, everyone focused on one point—why would Father personally recruit a new member? Shouldn't recruitment be handled by the logistics department or at least the division commanders?
Father personally stepping forward raised questions.
On the Moby Dick, many frowned and expressed their dissatisfaction.
"Who is this newcomer, to warrant such fanfare?"
"Does he expect Father to greet him personally?"
"Who does he think he is? Gold Lion or Roger?"
"We are the Whitebeard Pirates; not just anyone can join!"
As Whitebeard predicted, the crew's arrogance was evident. They had been at the top for too long, without setbacks. Now, their pride had turned into complacency and disdain.
Whitebeard emerged from the back, signaling for silence. As captain, he held a place of utmost importance in his crew's hearts. With just a gesture, the previously noisy Moby Dick fell silent.
"I've sent Izou to notify the newcomer. He'll be here soon," Whitebeard said, in his patriarchal tone.
As soon as he spoke, the Moby Dick erupted into an uproar again, with a wave of dissatisfaction spreading among the crew.
"What's going on? We have to wait longer?"
"Who does this newcomer think he is?"
"Is this a joke, Pops?"
The crew gritted their teeth, eyes gleaming fiercely. Their frustration was palpable. They admired Pops and couldn't direct their anger at him, so they vented it on the newcomer.
Meanwhile, Marco, Jozu, and Vista exchanged glances.
"Pops is setting him up to attract hatred!"
"He's doomed, inciting public outrage!"
"You're in for it, Lin..."
The three commanders worried about Lin Yan's situation. Even the composed Marco twitched his mouth. "Now I understand why Pops didn't want us to reveal Izou's defeat to Lin!"
Whitebeard forbade them from disclosing Izou's defeat to Lin Yan, to ensure the desired effect.
"It's going to be interesting," Vista said, touching his sword.
At this moment, Izou found Lin Yan and told him that Pops wanted to see him.
"He wants to see me? Then let's go!" Lin Yan didn't overthink it. Without hesitation, he followed Izou.
"Have you prepared yourself?" Izou asked, recalling Pops' instructions.
"Prepared? Prepared for what?" Lin Yan didn't understand.
"Ahem, nothing, follow me!" Izou coughed and led the way.
Lin Yan followed closely. In less than half an hour, they arrived at the Moby Dick.
Lin Yan looked up and saw a ship resembling a whale on the dock. Against the waves and the wind, it stood like a towering mountain—the iconic Moby Dick!
The flag of the Whitebeard Pirates fluttered in the wind, and the enormous ship had a strong visual impact. Lin Yan walked up the gangway, heading towards the deck, eager to meet the emperor-level crew gathered on the ship.