Wisps of smoke rose into the air. All the civilians stood frozen, staring in shock at the figure whose back was turned to them.
The collar lay broken in two on the ground, thick smoke pouring from it. The earth around it had been blasted black.
Rustle!
Suddenly, a breeze swept past, making the cape emblazoned with the word "Justice" flutter.
"Hey!"
"Remember that, pirate. From now on, you belong to me!"
River grinned at the tall man before him, who was gasping for breath, his face full of shock and terror.
"You... you saved me?!"
The pirate spoke in disbelief. He glanced at the smoking collar on the ground, then felt his neck. Finding it bare, he immediately grew excited.
"I'm saved! I really am saved!"
He shouted with excitement.
"Heh. Saved, huh?"
"Serving under me might not make you any happier than being a slave to the Celestial Dragons!"
River grinned.
The tall pirate took a deep breath, then looked solemnly at the man before him. Judging by the cape on his back, he was a Marine.
Thud!
He dropped to both knees, pressing his forehead against the ground.
"You saved my life. From this day forward, you are my master!"
"I, Zanbu, am willing to follow you. All I ask is that you give me a chance to return home."
At this, the pirate Zanbu began to sob again.
"To see my child, who has never met their father!"
"Boo-hoo-hoo!"
River looked down at the man on the ground, his expression calm. "Get up. I'll give you that chance."
Zanbu trembled at his words. Gratitude spread across his face as he raised his head and slowly stood.
The surrounding civilians breathed sighs of relief as well. Whatever the case, it seemed this tragedy had been averted.
"Whoa,