One Piece: King of the World

Chapter 205: The Prologue of the Cake Island Event

After several days on Cake Island, Stussy's ship finally arrived.

Somehow, Stussy managed to bring Crocodile, Enel, and Mihawk with her. Claudius wasn't entirely sure how they got in, but they had succeeded without raising suspicion.

Crocodile didn't bother hiding his identity. He showed up as himself, explaining that he was already working on something with Stussy and, upon hearing about the tea party, decided to join in the fun.

Although Crocodile had been stirring up the first half of the Grand Line in recent years—going as far as earning the title of "national hero" in Alabasta—his influence in the New World wasn't particularly strong. That explained why Big Mom's tea party had not included an invitation for him. However, as a member of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, Crocodile still had enough status to justify his appearance, especially when accompanied by Stussy, who had some rapport with Charlotte Linlin.

Under such circumstances, Big Mom's crew didn't turn him away.

Enel, on the other hand, was disguised by Stussy. Wearing a sharp black suit and carrying Stussy's bag like an attendant, he blended in well enough to avoid suspicion. His usual arrogance was hidden beneath the façade, allowing him to enter Cake Island quietly.

As for Mihawk, his situation was similar. Initially, he had been reluctant to go undercover, arguing that if Crocodile could enter openly as a Warlord, he should be able to do the same. But whatever Stussy said to him must have worked, as Mihawk eventually relented, though not without some visible discomfort.

Now, in Doflamingo's room, the group gathered to discuss the situation.

"It's easy enough for pirates or people from the underworld to slip in," Claudius began, leaning back in his chair. "But when Tesoro and the others arrive, things will get more complicated. Sakazuki, Kuzan, and Borsalino aren't exactly the type to blend in."

Their distinct temperaments and imposing presences would make it nearly impossible for them to move unnoticed.

Stussy, sitting elegantly nearby, smiled. "Your Highness, there's been a slight adjustment to the plan. Since you've already made it onto Cake Island, there was no need for Tesoro to bring them in. Sakazuki, Kuzan, and Borsalino will be arriving with Bartholomew Kuma. Tesoro will come alone."

Claudius nodded at the explanation. "A good change. It'll make things smoother."

Stussy's gaze shifted to Gion, a knowing look in her eyes. Having heard from Doflamingo that Gion and Claudius had been sharing a room for the past few days, she was intrigued. Though she had a close relationship with Claudius, Stussy never saw herself as someone who could—or should—control him. He was a Celestial Dragon after all.

Crocodile smirked. "Simple enough."

He paused for a moment, then asked, "And what about Cake Island itself? The place is heavily guarded. We can't exactly smuggle in explosives, can we?"

Claudius chuckled. "Who needs bombs when we've got six Logia users?"

Crocodile blinked, then counted on his fingers. "Let's see... You, me, Enel, and the three Admirals. That makes six."

"Exactly," Claudius said. "The bombs are just a nice bonus, but they're not essential. When the six of us get to work, we'll wreak more havoc than any bomb ever could."

Enel, visibly excited, raised his hand. "Your Highness, I've developed a new move! It's powerful enough to destroy all of Cake Island!"

Crocodile sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose. "And no doubt destroy us along with it."

Enel scratched his head, grinning sheepishly. "Well... maybe..."

Claudius laughed, waving off the concern. "Don't worry, Enel. I've got another task for you. When the time comes, I want you to intercept all external communication from Cake Island. Cut off their phone bug signals and make sure they can't call for reinforcements."

Enel perked up at the assignment, eager to prove himself.

Claudius continued, "If we can disrupt their communication, it'll throw their forces into disarray. The more chaotic things get, the better it is for us."

The group spent the next hour exchanging information, carefully planning their strategy. They discussed how to pair up against their opponents based on abilities and weaknesses, aiming to maximize their efficiency in the upcoming battle.

Finally, Claudius clapped his hands. "Alright, everyone. For the next few days, stay vigilant and avoid acting alone. Big Mom has plenty of strange abilities, and we don't want anyone getting caught off guard. Be especially wary of mirrors.

"Don't gather in large groups, either. We don't want to draw unnecessary attention. For now, let's disperse and wait for the tea party to begin."