"Don't worry," Lorne said seriously.
"She's my crew member. Of course I'll keep her safe."
Early the next morning, sunlight spilled across the giant elephant's back.
The Fearless had already been lowered to the sea by cable and waited quietly at the giant elephant's feet.
Lorne stood at the cliff's edge with his subordinates, bidding farewell to Duke Inuarashi and Boss Nekomamushi.
"Safe travels, Lorne!" Duke Inuarashi shouted.
Boss Nekomamushi grinned broadly.
"Meowhahaha! Kid, if you can't beat Kaido, retreat to Zou anytime. Zunesha will help you!"
"Thank you both. Farewell." Lorne cupped his fist toward the two, then turned to his subordinates.
"Let's go!"
Everyone quickly descended along the cable and returned to the Fearless.
"Everyone, assemble!" Ryan stood in the middle of the deck and roared.
Fifty Elite Marines swiftly lined up on deck, their heads held high and chests out as they gazed fervently at Lorne at the bow.
Lorne stood at the bow, the sea breeze stirring his long platinum-blond hair and making the cape behind him snap in the wind.
He turned to the subordinates who had sworn to follow him to the death and announced loudly.
"Brothers, our next strategic objective is Wano Country!"
The name caused a slight stir among the Marines, but it was soon replaced by a feverish eagerness for battle.
"Wano Country is the Beasts Pirates' stronghold." Lorne's voice echoed across the deck.
"Kaido calls himself the 'Strongest Creature' and acts with arrogance and tyranny," Lorne continued.
"But one of his Calamities, Jack, is locked in our hold right now!" Lorne pointed below.
"The Beasts Pirates' strength has already been damaged, and Kaido is so full of himself right now that he won't expect us to take the fight straight to his doorstep," Lorne said loudly.
"We'll seize this chance