Judge had spent years laying the groundwork for his ambition to rule the North Blue. He had planned every move with painstaking care.
Even though Ye Mu had prepared himself for the Vinsmoke Family's strength, the figure of eighty thousand still caught him by surprise.
Judge was pleased by his reaction. After all, this was his proudest achievement to date.
"Yes. Eighty thousand is every soldier the Vinsmoke Family can field right now. Thanks to modifications to their lineage factors, each has a powerful physique and no fear of death. They're every bit as capable as the Marines' elite troops, and it takes only five years to train a qualified soldier."
Judge hesitated briefly before continuing.
"But that's also why they have no potential to grow beyond a certain point. At their strongest, they can only reach the level of a Marine captain. For anyone stronger than that, we'll have to rely on your top fighters, Captain Ye Mu."
Judge was describing his kingdom's forces, but he was also testing Ye Mu.
He had made up his mind, but there were still things he needed to know.
Judge had no intention of following Ye Mu to his grave.
Ye Mu understood and answered frankly.
"You don't need to worry about that. We're still behind the Marines and the World Government in numbers and combat strength, but not by enough to decide the outcome of this war."
Judge thought for a moment, then asked hesitantly.
"Will Whitebeard, Charlotte Linlin, and Kaido be taking part in this war too?"
"Unfortunately, although the three of them agreed to my deal, they'll only serve as a deterrent and provide protection if needed. They won't start a fight with the World Government for our sake."
Judge had expected that answer, but it left him wondering: