The Marines mobilized more than a hundred elites skilled in Haki and the Six Powers, along with three vice admirals and one admiral.
Such a lavish lineup left the pirates throughout the Sabaody Archipelago trembling in fear.
Every pirate was like an ostrich, doing everything they could to hide in what they considered safe places.
They did not even dare take another look at the situation, afraid of bringing disaster upon themselves.
That was the wisest choice.
Although Aokiji and the other Marines had not come for them, if they were spotted, they would certainly be dealt with along the way.
At this moment.
Hawkins was faced with a choice.
Should he retreat from the battlefield, abandon Perona and Urouge, and rely on his substitute dolls to escape this place as far as possible?
Or should he stake his life without regret and fight to protect Perona and Urouge until his dying breath?
To seek fortune and avoid misfortune was simply human nature.
Even if it meant abandoning Urouge and Perona, Hawkins felt no pressure at all.
But...
"I already missed one chance to 'choose'..."
A bright gleam flashed in Hawkins's eyes.
"This time, I'll stake everything!"
"That man is worth doing this for!"
"Whether I live or die, gain or lose, I'll leave it all to 'fate' to decide!"
All sorts of heroic displays Maud had shown before flashed through Hawkins's mind.
His resolve was made at once!
Hawkins suddenly vaulted over Onigumo and charged toward Urouge and Perona.
"Hm?"
Onigumo keenly sensed that Hawkins seemed to have made some sort of decision. His originally lifeless aura appeared to be undergoing a transformation.
Though puzzled, Onigumo did not miss the chance to attack.
As Hawkins passed recklessly by his side, Onigumo slashed him with his sword.
Blood flashed, and