On Cake Island, a constant flow of guests arrived, each dressed in bright attire that announced their wealth and influence.
Perospero, eldest son of the BIGMOM Pirates, was stationed near the castle to personally receive these important guests.
The BIGMOM Pirates operated like a complex family network, often using strategic marriages to secure alliances with powerful figures across the seas.
Their influence extended far and wide, reaching deep into the underground world—arms dealers, information brokers, and more.
Among the Four Emperors, the BIGMOM Pirates had the most intricate web of connections.
Morgans, observing from a distance with his camera, remarked, "Perospero made a special effort to welcome you. Linlin treats this tea party very seriously."
"Of course," Perospero replied with a sly smile.
"Every tea party is Mother's happiest time. She must be pleased."
The island's scenery was ever-changing, a spectacle for the eyes.
"Every visit here feels different, but the beauty never fades. Shall we enter now, or wait a bit longer?" Morgans asked.
"All my old friends are here, yes?"
"No, you are the first to arrive," Perospero answered.
"Then I'll wait and see Mother with them later, for now I'll just capture these stunning views," Morgans said, raising his camera.
As they spoke, two elegantly dressed figures approached.
One was a slender woman in an orange dress and a felt hat, revealing short blonde hair—a rare beauty with an air of refined elegance.
Beside her, a tall man with lion-like sideburns, a blindfold, and a scythe in hand appeared—the second of the six kings of the underground world: Queen of the Pleasure District, Stucy, alongside the Funeral Home Giants, Dracula, and Paike Luo.
"Stucy! Paike Luo! You two are here!" Morgans exclaimed, momentarily abandoning his camera to greet them warmly.
"Oh! Morgans! You're early!" they replied.
Old acquaintances quickly fell into animated conversation with Perospero's associates, creating a lively, cheerful atmosphere.
Soon after, the remaining kings of the underground network arrived: the Warehouse Giant, Stealth Master Gibson, Sea King Umit, and the loan shark Lucifer Lufield.
The presence of all six naturally drew the attention of the crowd.
After brief greetings, Perospero led the group toward the castle.
Kaito, observing the spectacle, shook his head in quiet amusement.
He remembered seeing Luffy and others enjoying Cake Island in the past, but now, having arrived himself, he felt no excitement—only a sense of routine from experience.
As they approached Cake Castle, the tea party was about to begin.
Perospero, stationed at the entrance, glanced at the newcomer and muttered in disbelief, "Finally, he's here!"
According to the news, Kaito had already arrived on the island, yet he wandered casually, inspecting the surroundings as if a child experiencing everything for the first time.
Truly, anyone unaware would assume he was just an ordinary visitor.
"Ah, I apologize. It's my first time here, so I can't help being curious," Kaito said with a faint smile.
"It's no matter! You honor Mother with your presence. The tea party will begin shortly!" Perospero replied respectfully.
Stepping into the hall, Kaito chose a quiet spot, wishing to avoid unnecessary attention.
Yet, his reputation as one of the New World's Emperors—or perhaps even one of the top three in the New World—made anonymity impossible.
His triumphs over powerful foes, including the Red-Haired Pirates, and his relentless pursuit of global dominance, ensured that everyone present had reasons to flatter him.
Hidden in his corner, Kaito was soon approached by those curious about his presence, wine glasses in hand, eager to converse.
Instantly, he became the center of attention.
"Who is that? So thin yet so commanding?" Smoothie, one of the Four Dessert Stars, frowned in curiosity.
"Kaito! Captain of the Thunder Pirates!" Dafu announced solemnly.
"Is it really him? How dare he attend! Did Katakuri arrange this?" someone whispered.
"No need to worry. Let's see how he handles this," Dafu replied, shaking his head.
Kaito, feeling slightly impatient amid the chatter, excused himself and moved at will.
Observers, skilled in reading expressions, immediately noticed his demeanor but did not follow—high-ranking figures were accustomed to such behavior.
Alone, Kaito surveyed the room, smiling faintly.
To him, this tea party was merely a gathering designed by BIGMOM to consolidate her organization and exchange pleasantries, not unlike celebrity events of his old world.
"Welcome!" a familiar voice called from behind.
Kaito turned, slightly surprised.
"The Whitebeard Pirates are attending such an event?"
"Of course! Even if the relationship isn't perfect, Dad sent me to help," Marco said, holding a wine glass with a resigned look.
"Judging by your expression, you didn't expect it?" Kaito teased.
"How could you know?" Marco replied with a twitch of his eye.
Kaito smirked. "I guessed..."
"You're incredible!" Marco eventually admitted, choking back a laugh.
"But you truly surprised me!"
"What happened?" Kaito asked, curious.
"I assumed your crew would send a representative like Dad! I never expected the captain himself to appear—it gives BIGMOM proper respect!"
"No way! Someone has to attract attention when dealing with big matters.
That someone is me, the captain," Kaito said, smiling confidently.
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