Three days later.
"Dogahahaha... Cough, cough..."
Loki lay spread-eagled on the freezing snow. His already sparse clothing was now more tattered than the rags some slaves used to cover themselves, exposing his muscular body, mottled with bruises and blood scabs.
His chest heaved violently, the white vapor from his breath stretching long in the frigid wind. Yet his snake-like eyes shone with unprecedented brilliance as they stared fixedly at the human standing on his chest.
"You won, Dawn. You really are strong. No wonder you inherited Rocks's will. Let me join your pirate crew!"
Giants revered strength and respected the strong. Loki might have disdained other humans, but the blond young man before him was an exception.
Dawn raised his brow slightly. His primary purpose in coming to Elbaf this time had been to leave a deep impression on this giant prince with limitless potential, paving the way for a future invitation.
Loki's initiative spared him countless words and calculations.
The identity of the David Clan, the imitation of Rocks's swordsmanship, and the world-shaking attack on Mary Geoise—combined, they seemed to hold a far stronger appeal for Loki than Dawn had anticipated.
After pondering for a moment, Dawn answered,
"My new ship hasn't been built yet. The old one can't accommodate someone your size. When I officially sail to Elbaf one day, if you still feel the same way, there'll be a place for you on my ship."
Recruiting Loki had always been part of Dawn's plan. Otherwise, he would not have specifically asked Mr. Tom to build a separate cabin capable of accommodating Ancient Giants.
But Loki had neither eaten a Devil Fruit nor obtained a weapon of his own yet. His potential had not reached its peak, so taking him away now meant little. Letting him remain in