Creed's current Kenbunshoku Haki (Observation Haki) is SSS+, and there aren't many in the world who can surpass him in this aspect.
Perhaps at first, he didn't notice anything strange about the black bird trailing behind, but after changing course several times and still being followed so persistently, he knew someone was tracking him.
"I've already cleaned up the seas around Hexi Island, yet someone still dares to set their sights on me. Looks like it's a big fish."
Creed was eager to see who it would be.
The tavern was noisy and bustling. Whether pirates returning in defeat or ambitious ones about to head out to sea, all they cared about here was eating and drinking.
Disliking the noise of the first floor, Creed took Ain upstairs to a quieter private room.
But with Ain's beauty shining like a lotus emerging from clear water, she was like an irresistible delicacy to the rowdy pirates. Their eyes locked on her and could not move away.
They had seen plenty of ordinary women before, but Ain's rare beauty broke through their defenses instantly.
Some pirates who thought themselves tough got up and walked toward the pair.
Seeing Creed in plain clothes like a noble son, they assumed he was like most pampered aristocrats—useless—and didn't take him seriously.
However, before they could get close, an overwhelming pressure slammed down on them. Their knees buckled, and they collapsed to the floor, unable to move, trembling in pain.
Not only were their bodies suppressed, but even their minds shook in fear.
It was the supreme dominance of a ruler.
Those with sharp eyes shouted in terror: "Haoshoku Haki (Conqueror's Haki)!"
"Haoshoku Haki that manifests as tangible pressure… and locks onto individuals? This is unlike anything I've ever seen!"
"An advanced level of Conqueror's Haki?!"
"He's stronger than our captain!"
The pirates trembled as silence swept across the tavern. Not a sound remained.
With this display of refined Conqueror's Haki, they had no choice but to submit.
Though those pirates hadn't spoken yet, Creed had extracted the Red Count's Kenbunshoku Haki, so he easily sensed their malicious intent. He didn't mind striking first as a warning.
"Clap… clap…"
As Creed ascended the stairs, the pirates finally felt relief. Their backs were drenched in cold sweat, hearts pounding.
"Who is this man?! Why would someone like him come to a small place like Orange Town?"
"He looks familiar… but I can't remember where I've seen him."
"Please, let him finish his meal and leave without trouble…"
Creed chose a room with a clear view of the port.
While he ate, a flamboyant pink ship sailed into the harbor.
"That ship… it looks like a flamingo. Doflamingo? Why isn't he in Dressrosa enjoying life as king? What's he doing in a small place like this?"
Creed frowned. He quickly realized: if Doflamingo sent someone to tail him, then it must mean he possessed something the man wanted badly.
As the base commander, a Vice Admiral, and Garp's grandson, Creed held high standing in the Marines. If Doflamingo still dared to come after him, there could only be one reason: the Ope Ope no Mi (Operation Fruit).
Years ago, Doflamingo schemed for it and ended in humiliation, nearly the greatest disgrace of his life. For him to come again for that reason made sense.
"And the only ones who could've leaked information about my powers are within the Marines… Vergo! Doflamingo's spy!"
Creed's eyes turned cold.
"It seems once this is over, I'll have to deal with that Donquixote thorn buried inside the Marines."
"Get ready for battle, Ain."
Creed warned his companion.
Ain had also noticed the flamboyant ship and recognized it. "That's… Doflamingo's ship! But isn't the Shichibukai supposed to have a cooperative agreement with the Marines?"
Creed smiled faintly. "What if they're the ones who break the agreement first?"
Ain clenched her fists. "Then I'll help you beat them down!"
"Eeeeng!"
On Creed's shoulder, the little creature Xiao Zi waved its tiny claws in support. In its other paw, it hugged a jug of fruit wine like a treasure. Ever since tasting alcohol, it had been hooked, especially on sweet wines, pestering Creed daily for more.
"Alright. Let's go meet them together."
Creed lifted Xiao Zi onto his shoulder and went downstairs with Ain.
Though the tavern was full of pirates, civilians were there too—he didn't want them caught in the crossfire.
On the ship…
"Fuffuffuffu~ He noticed us? Didn't even bother to hide? I like his nerve!"
From the flamingo ship, Doflamingo stepped forward, spotting Creed and Ain approaching from the shore.
"Diamante, Machvise—leave that girl Ain to you. Handle her carefully, I'll need her to threaten Creed if necessary."
He had only brought those two officers this time, leaving the rest in Dressrosa. If not for Creed establishing the G-K Branch, he'd have thought himself enough alone.
"Swoosh!"
Ito Ito no Mi (String-String Fruit): Sky Path!
Doflamingo pulled the air with his strings, soaring through the sky. In an instant, he spanned hundreds of meters and landed before Creed.
"So you really did come for me, Doflamingo."
Creed's voice was calm, but his aura erupted in a storm.
(End of Chapter)
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