I wasn't mistaken. He really had become stronger—and not by just a little. Just like before, it was a massive leap in strength.
"Fuck."
In Kizaru's mind, a smaller Kizaru turned into the character for "grass," expressing exactly how he felt at that moment.
"Ah~"
He sighed inwardly. He was at Kuta's mercy now. Kuta had grown far stronger than him, and no matter how much he hated it, he could only force a strained smile.
"Of course not. How could I possibly have any objections to you? I only came over to receive you on Dr. Vegapunk's behalf when I saw you arrive."
Kuta swept his gaze over Kizaru, then withdrew his aura in boredom and waved his hand. "All right, enough joking around. We've known each other for quite some time, and you know my temper. As long as you don't provoke me, I won't do anything to you either. All right, disperse. I came here today just to see Dr. Vegapunk and ask him a few things."
As he spoke, Kuta spread his hands. "Don't worry. I won't make things difficult for you. After all, we're old friends, aren't we?"
Looking at Kuta, Kizaru's expression gradually returned to normal. In the end, that signature lecherous smile appeared on his face again.
He had come over as a matter of routine and had obtained Kuta's personal promise.
Although they were Marines, and listening to a pirate's promise was somewhat laughable, this was Silver Hair—Silver Hair Kuta. His word carried the greatest weight here.
After taking a deep look at Kuta, Kizaru said nothing. He turned around and sat back down on the deck chair at the bow. Picking up the steaming teacup beside him, he brought it to his lips and took a light sip.
He then ordered