The next day.
Mary Geoise, God's Knights headquarters.
Inside the towering white-stone hall, rows of figures clad in knightly capes stood along both sides of the long table, the silence heavy and oppressive.
When Figarland Garling entered the hall, everyone's eyes fell upon him at once.
He stood at the head of the table and swept his gaze over the crowd.
"The Elbaf plan has received approval from the Five Elders."
Several knights' expressions shifted slightly.
Elbaf, the Giant Tribe, the world's strongest nation.
This was no ordinary mission.
Saint Green's voice was icy. "Some allied nations have begun relying on the Marines as they test the Holy Land's limits."
"And Rock is winning the people's hearts, while the Revolutionary Army is taking the opportunity to spread its sparks."
"If we continue allowing this, the World Government's control over these seas will be hollowed out bit by bit."
He raised a hand, and a map of Elbaf unfolded across the long table.
The colossal ancient tree, the sprawling mountain ranges, the royal city, the entrance to the Underworld—every important location had been clearly marked.
"We need the Giant Tribe's strength."
"Not a few conscripted giant Marines, but an entire force of weapons of war capable of taking the front lines."
"As long as Elbaf sides with the World Government, Marine Headquarters will no longer be able to act without restraint."
When his words fell, the hall went quiet.
After a moment, a burly knight with a lewd grin slowly raised his head.
Saint Shepherd Somaz.
He bared his teeth, his laughter shrill.
"Chi ha ha ha~"
"That sounds rather interesting."
On the other side, a man with the head of a qilin but a humanoid body and limbs yawned.
Saint Limousine Killingham.
"What a hassle..."
"Why can't we just beat