The speeding Fearless cleaved through wave after wave, leaving the Red Hair Pirates' flagship far behind.
Carrot clung to the edge of the deck and turned to Lorne. "Lorne, are we really going to beat up that guy called Kaido?"
Lorne exhaled, the fine threads of golden lightning on his body sinking completely beneath his skin. "Yeah. That guy has a tough hide. He's just right for testing my new fists."
Ryan hurried over with a nautical chart in his hands and reported, "Rear Admiral, our course is set. We should reach the waters around Wano Country in five days."
Lorne patted Ryan on the shoulder and turned toward the cabins. "Good. Have everyone get some rest while they can. The battle ahead won't be easy."
Kuina stood nearby, gently stroking Wado Ichimonji's hilt, and said in a low voice, "Rear Admiral, fighting Red-Haired Shanks made me realize that my Haki is still far from enough."
Lorne stopped and turned to her, reassuring her. "Don't rush, Kuina. You've already grasped Ryuo. Now you just need to keep honing it in actual combat. Kaido's Beasts Pirates have plenty of powerful opponents for you to practice on."
Kuina nodded, her gaze growing firmer. "Yes, Rear Admiral. I understand."
Carrot bounced beside them, her two long ears bobbing. "Lorne, what about me? I want to get stronger too!"
Lorne smiled and pressed a hand on her head before walking into the cabin. "Learn how to combine Electro with Armament Haki first, little rabbit."
At the other end of the Grand Line.
The enormous Moby Dick floated quietly on the sea.
The waters of the New World churned with waves.
On deck, the pirates gulped down drinks, talking and laughing loudly.
Marco approached Whitebeard with a stack of the latest newspapers. "Pops, that Marine