The Captain's Final Order

Moonlight.

The enemy was about to catch up.

Moria forced himself to his feet despite the numbness. Even now, arcs of electricity still occasionally flickered across the surface of his body.

A calm yet resolute voice came from his mouth.

"The enemy is a Rumble-Rumble Fruit user. His strength and speed far surpass those of ordinary people. Before him, you're utterly helpless and won't be able to hold him off for long!"

"Therefore, only I can try to stop him!"

Moria looked around, engraving everyone's faces deep into his heart. In a low voice, he said, "I don't care what you think. On this ship, I am the captain. You must obey my orders!"

"Now, I'm issuing the captain's final order. Listen carefully, you burdens!"

Moria's voice carried an undeniable authority as he kept a cold expression.

"I'll stop the Marines shortly and buy you burdens some time."

"Hmph. Remember this: you only have a little time. This captain's life is worth a lot. If you want to die, don't drag me down with you."

After saying that, Moria walked alone to the bow, his back facing the others. Without turning around, his indifferent voice reached their ears once more.

"One last piece of advice: don't stop, don't hesitate. Sail toward Sabaody Archipelago as fast as you can!"

"Captain!"

Keen and the others looked at Moria's back with tears in their eyes, their voices choked with emotion.

Although Moria kept calling them burdens, they knew he had only said that deliberately because he was afraid they would refuse to leave.

Moria was willing to face the Marines alone to protect them. That proved they were not burdens, but companions!

Madoros was overcome with emotion. "No, Moria, I'll never leave you behi—"

Bang!

Keen smashed his fist into Madoros's head, knocking