Ever since the Great Pirate Era began, the seas seemed to have become the pirates' domain, with new pirates setting sail every day.
No sea could claim to be absolutely safe, including those near Marine branches.
Most pirates fled at the sight of the Marines, but there were always those who deliberately provoked them and even held the Marines in contempt.
Every so often, a monster would emerge—someone like Golden Lion, who had stormed Marine Headquarters alone.
But in the waters around Firefly Island, an anomaly had appeared. The Power Gear had practically been fighting pirates for free lately while also aiding ships in distress nearby.
For now, this service was free. After all, they were still in the early stages of building their business and had yet to make a name for themselves.
Firefly Island was also taking the opportunity to train its own forces. At the very least, they needed to improve their aim before taking on contracts.
The soldiers aboard the ship were growing as well. Thanks to the Power Gear's impressive performance, they had suffered no casualties.
Against wooden ships and outdated cannons, an ironclad held an absolute advantage. Even in close-range artillery exchanges, the ship's armor could protect its crew to the greatest extent possible.
"It's really helped us a great deal. These past few years as branch commander have been the easiest since I joined the Marines."
At the Marine G6 Branch, Burugurasu sighed over how the pressure on the G6 Branch had plummeted since Firefly Island became a nation.
"But it's a pity. This old woman will soon be heading to the New World, and this place will have to be left to the younger generation."
Marine branch commanders were generally rather stable in their positions, and Burugurasu's transfer to the New World