If our strength was lacking, then we just had to keep growing.
The stupidest thing was to insist on fighting when we clearly couldn't win.
There was always a long road ahead...
Maud smiled as he watched Gion remain motionless.
It was as if invisible reins had come from every direction, binding Gion tightly in place.
The Marines obeyed the World Government, while the World Government collected certain benefits from its member nations. Naturally, it had to provide those member nations with tangible assistance in return.
If Gion, a vice admiral of Headquarters, disregarded the life of a member nation's king just to capture a pirate with a bounty of over a hundred million...
Then...
That would be very interesting.
These constraints brought about by identity, position, and status were what Maud hated most.
But he was more than happy to use those constraints against people he disliked.
Just like now.
This was delightful.
"Old woman, look forward to our next meeting..."
Seeing that Gion remained silent, Maud tightened his grip on his sword, pressing it harder against Digal's neck and opening a bleeding wound.
The blade drew blood, and Digal's heart raced. He hurriedly shut his mouth and stopped shouting.
Maud kept Digal restrained as he slowly backed away.
Luo's strength had been exhausted. Half his body leaned against Maud, who dragged him along.
"Your Majesty!"
The soldiers, retainers, and nobles all pressed forward, anxiously watching Digal.
"None of you move!!!"
The one ordering them not to move was Digal himself.
Several veins suddenly bulged on his forehead, and his eyes were bloodshot.
His extreme desire to live made him abandon all dignity.
"Your Majesty..."
Everyone gritted their teeth, yet there was nothing they could do.
"Maud, do you think you can escape just by doing this?"
Gion swung