"Gern!" Shanks held Griffon across his body, Haki still lingering on its edge. "Even you are showing signs of exhaustion fighting two opponents at once."
"If we truly fight to the end and push you into a corner, you might force us back, but you'll pay a price even you can't bear!"
"So stop here and return to Marineford!"
"This sea is still a long way from being a place where the Marines have the final say!!!"
Shanks's words carried the confidence and warning of one of the Four Emperors, along with a barely perceptible note of persuasion.
In other words, he didn't want a fight to the death with the Fleet Admiral here either. That would only let their true enemies reap the rewards.
"Heh..."
A low chuckle drifted from the smoke-filled crater below.
At first, it was quiet, almost restrained. Then it grew louder and louder.
Finally, it became a wild, unrestrained laugh that sent chills down their spines!
"Haha... hahaha! Shanks!!!"
The laughter stopped abruptly, and then his voice exploded.
"Who do you think you are?!"
"Your captain, the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger?!"
"Whitebeard, Edward Newgate, who bore the title of World's Strongest?!"
"Or that Flying Pirate, Golden Lion Shiki, who once rivaled Roger and stormed Marine Headquarters alone?!"
Each question struck Shanks and Dragon like a hammer.
This wasn't merely a comparison of strength. It was a ruthless challenge to their standing, convictions, and resolve!
Above all, the men Gern named were the three who had truly driven him into desperate straits!
In other words, Shanks wasn't worthy!!
Shanks's expression instantly darkened, and Dragon's breathing caught slightly. They exchanged a glance, each seeing intense wariness in the other's eyes.
Something was wrong with Gern. There was no defeat in that laughter!
"You're not them!!"
"So..."