"In comparison, you say Zephyr has fallen from grace? He understands things better than you. He knows there are some things he can't do, so he focuses on the younger generation and cultivates one outstanding navy after another."

"Although you are now a hateful pirate, it must be said, who are you relying on to create such a high level of threat?"

Hearing Kuro's words, Hernando became excited: "That's exactly why! That's exactly why! Teacher Zeffa can't be allowed to fall into depravity. I must help him pull himself together. Only then will he be worthy of the Teacher Zeffa in my heart!"

"oh."

Kuro raised his Shusui, his eyes cold. "It seems you're not only a freeloader, but a rather selfish one. The world doesn't change according to your wishes. If you don't even understand this, you're indeed prone to falling into depravity."

"Let me give you some dignity. Zephyr can't kill you, but I can. As a pirate, you'll be just like that Hugh Tica. Being killed by me, a Marine, won't be a disgrace to your own ambitions."

You can't...

laugh!

Hernando's eyes widened, and just as he was about to speak, Qiu Shui fell down, piercing his heart from behind.

He opened his mouth, blood spilling from the corner of his lips, his eyes blazing with intense resentment. His hand slowly moved toward the direction from which the stone had flown, his fingers spread as if trying to grasp something.

“Zeffa…”

"teacher..."

Kuro drew Shusui, flicked out the blood, and sheathed the sword.

“What a pathetic man,” he sighed.