The Growing Council of Elders

But Rayleigh had never heard that Kaido was good at teaching others. He turned to Shakuyaku. Because she dealt in intelligence, she knew far more about the current seas than he did.

"Don't look at me. I haven't heard of it either!" Shakuyaku said speechlessly when she saw Rayleigh looking at her.

Rayleigh said blandly, "As long as he's stronger than Gaban!"

Ryan did not continue the subject. He had merely spoken on impulse and had not meant to target Rayleigh.

"By the way, Ryan, what was that Freedom Alliance you mentioned?" Rayleigh asked.

"It's the organization I established after rescuing those slaves in Mary Geoise!"

"It's not that simple, is it?" Shakuyaku said calmly from the side.

"Haha!"

"Nothing really gets past Aunt Shakuyaku." Ryan had never intended to hide anything. It would not hinder the Freedom Alliance's development if Rayleigh and the others knew; explaining it was simply a little troublesome. But since they had reached this point, Ryan spoke up.

"To be precise, the Freedom Alliance is an organization dedicated to overthrowing the World Government and building a world that is relatively free and equal."

Shakuyaku and Rayleigh exchanged glances, and both saw the shock in the other's eyes. Ryan had such aspirations at his age!

In truth, Shakuyaku did not know much about the Freedom Alliance. She only knew that the organization was not as simple as Ryan made it sound. Who would have thought that a casual remark from her would bring such a big fish to the surface?

"Keep up the good work. If you want to buy intelligence, come to Aunt Shakuyaku!"

"No problem!"

As he spoke, a pack of cigarettes appeared in Ryan's hand. After opening it, he handed one to Shakuyaku.

Shakuyaku naturally accepted it, lit it, and took a drag.