The savage killing intent that spread from the wreckage of the Den Den Mushi lingered over Sin Island.
Lorne withdrew his right arm.
The lingering traces of the golden shock wave gradually dissipated in the air.
He lowered his head and looked at the utterly lifeless Den Den Mushi at his feet.
The snail that had been mimicking Doflamingo's expression just moments ago now had its eyes rolled back.
Lorne raised his bloodstained military boot.
He stomped down.
Crack!
The Den Den Mushi's broken shell was crushed into fragments.
Slime mixed with shattered shell seeped into the sand.
Lieutenant Commander Ethan stood at the edge of the crater, gasping for breath.
His eyes widened as he stared at the terrifying trench that cut through the island.
The trench was astonishingly wide, its bottom nowhere in sight.
The scarred veteran's legs went weak. Only by gripping a broken wall beside him did he barely manage to stay upright.
Five hundred Marines exchanged looks.
Even their breathing grew cautious.
Lorne turned around, his beast eyes sweeping over everyone.
He saw the trembling civilians.
He also saw the horror on his Marine subordinates' faces.
"Ethan!"
Lorne bellowed.
His voice pierced the still-raging wind and slammed into Ethan's eardrums.
Ethan shuddered and immediately straightened his back.
"Here!"
He took long strides across the rubble, rushing toward Lorne.
Lorne extended his left hand and pointed at the civilians gathered on the distant beach.
"Organize everyone immediately."
"Get all these civilians aboard the Fearless!"
Lorne's orders were clear and cold.
"Yes, Ensign, sir! What about you?"
"I'm staying here."
Ethan froze, his eyes flying wide.
"Ensign, sir, what did you say?"
He asked the question reflexively.
Lorne's brow furrowed sharply.
"Do you not understand my orders?"
"Have the warship weigh anchor immediately!"
"Leave Sin Island at