Issho paused briefly there, then continued, "And not all pirates are evil, either."
"I know." Kuta gave Issho a long look, then smiled. "I do hate pirates, but I'm not some bloodthirsty killer. You'll understand once you've spent more time with me."
"Mm." Issho nodded and offered no further comment.
As for Kuta's claim that he wasn't a bloodthirsty killer, that seemed rather laughable, judging by what Issho had seen so far.
He would reserve judgment and observe him over time.
Before long, not a single pirate remained standing in the square.
Crackle~
Kuina emerged from the lightning, caught Kuta's left arm, and hugged it to her chest. "All done. Kuta, let's get going! These small fry are no fun at all. I'm still looking forward to fighting Uncle Issho!"
As she spoke, she leaned out in front of Kuta and tilted her head toward Issho. "Isn't that right, Uncle Issho?"
"Mm." Issho nodded.
Kuina had no interest in these pirates, and Issho
naturally had none either. Even when pirates charged right up to him, he hadn't drawn his blade. Kuta had dealt with them instead.
The man had made himself completely at home, acting as though he knew Kuta would take care of it.
"Let's go, then!"
With the pirates dealt with, Kuta reunited with his companions and headed back the way they had come.
At the docks.
Several enormous warships were moored there.
Among them were Tokikake's and Gion's vice admiral warships, along with other warships that had rushed over from nearby.
"Move, move, move!"
Marines poured off the warships' decks, then formed orderly ranks behind Tokikake and Gion, their faces solemn.
"Vice Admirals, all soldiers have assembled. Please give us our next orders."
Tokikake's deputy, Rear Admiral Golden, stepped forward and saluted the two of them.