Marco looked at Loa with a complicated expression. He wanted to thank him, but the words refused to come out.
This man had saved Ace. He was their benefactor. But he had also killed Whitebeard. He was their enemy.
Marco could no longer tell which he was.
Loa glanced at him, took a deep breath, and said, "Take your people and get out! Before I change my mind! Or you could try..."
A wicked smile touched Loa's lips. "See whether you can stop me while I'm badly wounded. Avenge your Pops!"
Badly wounded?
That was right!
Loa was wounded too!
Only then did everyone remember. Loa, the Ice Dragon, had killed Whitebeard, but afterward, he had suffered a devastating injury himself!
Look at that enormous wound. An ordinary person would have died long ago! Only someone as tough as the Ice Dragon could remain so calm and speak with such confidence!
So should they try?
The gash was enormous. Even with Loa's healing ability, it would take time to close!
That question was meant not only for Marco, but for the Marines present as well. Countless people hesitated, weighing whether to make a move!
But!
"No need. Let's go!"
After Whitebeard's death, First Division Commander Marco held the greatest authority among them. His order cut through everyone else's deliberations, and he dragged the struggling Ace away.
Ace was struggling, of course, because Luffy was still being held in the Marine ranks. He wanted to save his younger brother, but he didn't want his comrades to keep fighting in this meat grinder!
Jozu punched him unconscious and had someone carry him toward Bay Port. The only ones left were the Marines, Loa, and every one of Whitebeard's division commanders, including Marco!
"Oh? Why aren't you leaving?" Loa studied him with interest.