Tsugikuni Yoriichi's words immediately drew the attention of everyone in the laboratory. They all turned to look at him. Rosinante's face first showed astonishment, then a trace of delight.
Meanwhile, Tsugikuni Yoriichi's subordinates were utterly confused. Ferland, who had already risen to the rank of major, could not help but ask:
"Are we going to North Blue?"
"That doesn't seem to be part of our plan, does it?"
"And—"
"Our ship probably can't support a long voyage anymore, much less cross the Calm Belt."
"With your strength, you might be able to drive off or kill the Sea Kings attacking the ship, but damage to the vessel would still be unavoidable."
"Crossing the Calm Belt is simply impossible."
Tsugikuni Yoriichi's New Marines had not reformed the rank system. The Marines' system of ranks had been in use for eight hundred years, and it had its merits. Tsugikuni Yoriichi had no intention of making needless changes. Moreover, continuing to use the Marines' rank system would help cultivate a sense of belonging among his subordinates.
Tsugikuni Yoriichi had no intention of remaining outside the world's political system forever. Once he had accumulated sufficient strength, he would need to contend with the World Government for a voice in world affairs.
Before that, he needed to expand his influence as much as possible, along with the influence of the New Marines.
On the routes through the first half of the New World, the Thunder God Island branch led by Issho was actively building its base and recruiting talented people.
While constructing the base, Issho and Mihawk would often lead teams out to sea, clearing out nearby pirates. As they expanded their influence, they were also planting flags across various nations and towns, establishing contact points and broadening their intelligence network.
After cutting ties with