Kuzan stared at Kong in shock.
He knew Kong was a man who pursued the absolute pinnacle of strength.
But in the eyes of the Marines and the public, he was an amiable man who cared for his subordinates and the people.
He used to say often, "With great power comes great responsibility. Our great strength exists to protect the weak and safeguard world peace."
He had never expected this universally respected Fleet Admiral to say something like that now.
It completely overturned his worldview.
Was this still the Fleet Admiral who had protected the weak?
If he told anyone, they probably would not believe him.
"It's hard to believe Fleet Admiral Kong would say something like that."
Kong withdrew his fist and turned his gaze toward Kuzan.
"Didn't expect an old man like me to say something so extreme, did you?"
Kuzan said nothing, merely nodding.
Kong said, "Haven't you heard? It's better to teach a man to fish than to give him a fish. Blindly protecting the weak will only make them grow worse, refuse to better themselves, and enjoy the fruits of others' labor."
"It might be fine at first, but over time, they'll only come to think that locking the doors to protect them is something they're entitled to."
"Just like those pigs up above."
Kuzan was shocked again.
He had no idea what sort of inhuman treatment Kong had endured in the years since becoming Commander-in-Chief.
Or what he had experienced to turn the once incredibly gentle Fleet Admiral Kong into such an extreme old man.
He asked tentatively, "Then what is your view on this war, Fleet Admiral Kong?"
Kong's expression was utterly calm. "This world has been peaceful enough. Over these hundreds of years, it has already grown accustomed to the World Government's