The Navy and World Government's Double Standards

"Stop!"

"Bastard! How dare you!"

In the distance, the three naval officers locked in fierce combat with the Adams Pirates' officers witnessed the scene, their expressions changing drastically as furious, alarmed shouts rang out at once.

Though they disliked Tokikake's usual behavior, they could never stand by and watch a fellow officer die at pirates' hands.

Gion's pretty face was frosty as she swung Kompira, driving her opponent back with a fierce slash. She tried to rush to his aid, only to be held back by several powerful attacks.

Ronse roared repeatedly, while Momonga's face darkened like water. Neither could break free. The Adams Pirates' officers were astonishingly strong and worked together seamlessly, pinning them firmly in place.

Tokikake felt the shadow of death descend over him. He closed his eyes in despair and waited for the end.

Just as Adams's foot was about to come crashing down—

A bone-deep chill, cold enough to freeze the soul, descended without warning!

The temperature plummeted. Moisture along the shoreline instantly condensed into tiny ice crystals, and the water vapor in the air gave off faint cracking sounds. A layer of white frost spread across the ground at a visible rate, rapidly expanding outward.

A cold voice, somewhat lazy yet carrying unquestionable power, came from the sea not far behind Adams:

"Ara ara... young man, could you please stop? I don't want to watch a fellow officer die here."

The owner of the voice rode a strangely shaped bicycle leisurely across the sea. He was tall, with curly black hair, and the cloak bearing the word "Justice" on his back fluttered loudly in the wind.

The newcomer was none other than Marine Headquarters Vice Admiral candidate, Kuzan.

Adams's raised right foot paused slightly, but he did not turn around. A cold curve tugged