Rocks Band: I have 48 Imperial Arms.

"died?"

"Is he dead..."

Astonishment and confusion alternated on everyone's faces.

The death of Rocks.

This marked not only his personal demise, but also the end of an era. Standing at this turning point, everyone couldn't help but feel a sense of melancholy.

Though dead, Rocks still possessed formidable fighting prowess, his tiger-like might undiminished even in death.

It is an existence that evokes even more complex emotions than flames.

but……

Compared to the mixed feelings of everyone else, Locke's feelings were more complicated.

Pupils shrink.

The whole body is tense.

His boiling blood and qi had not yet calmed down when he tensed up again.

Beneath that seemingly relaxed exterior lies the potential for a devastating attack.

Chapter 163: Crisis! Real danger has arrived!

Rocks is definitely dead.

But Locke knew all too well that his death was merely the beginning of the battle.

It's far from being a complete end.

And they...

As remnants of the old era, now that Rocks is dead, their true crisis has only just begun.

Even now!

The crisis is far greater than the countless ones we just witnessed.

If it's not handled properly...

death!

Right in front of you!

Rocks' death will indeed bring true freedom to those bound by the Black Pearl, but in return, those who have lost the protection of this top-tier powerhouse and have been stirring up trouble at sea, even repeatedly attacking member states of the World Conference, will definitely face the most severe crackdown from the World Government.

and……

here!

It’s the Valley of the Gods! !

Before him stood countless naval officers, guards, and powerful generals.

If you don't leave in time.

Once the World Government's reinforcements arrive and complete the encirclement, they will be trapped like turtles in a jar!

Locke dared not gamble his life on the World Government's higher-ups, wondering if they would release him as easily as they had with Whitebeard and the others. After all, he had personally killed Marine Admiral Snow!

And underground, there was the destruction that caused the earthquake...

Even if the World Government has no intention of killing.

Locke couldn't bring himself to entrust his life to the whims of others.

Get started first!

Those who act last will suffer the consequences!

"The real test... is only just beginning..."

Arthur sighed softly.

His lips twitched, and he let out a low sigh.

"Your Highness?"

Esdeath, who is most sensitive to change, looked at Locke, her cold eyes carrying a concern that she only showed to him.

"Prepare to make a move."

Locke didn't speak, but simply gave everyone a wink.

The Teigu users, who worked together seamlessly, instantly understood Locke's meaning.

Let's do it—

Big commotion!!

【One-Hit Kill - Murasame】

Cang!

There was no sign at all.

Before even a flash of sword light could be seen, a streak of blood-red streak shot out from the shadows.

When someone discovers the attack.

Akame, wielding a demon sword, had already attacked and reached him.

"when--"

Moans' pupils contracted.

The attacks from Akame were indeed nothing to him. Even if he wasn't at his peak, as long as he could hide in time with smoke and avoid being cut, he posed no threat to him at all.

but!

Even if there is no threat, it cannot withstand this blow, which once killed Snow, whose strength and status were even slightly above his!

His face was filled with horror, and a chill ran down his spine.

Having repelled Akame with his black blade and quickly retreated to a safe position, his heart was still pounding.

Panic!

With a power that can potentially cause instant death, what high-ranking official wouldn't be wary?

"He dodged it, he dodged it."

Moans breathed a sigh of relief, followed by a furious outburst.

"Locke!"

"It's you--"

"What on earth do you want to do!"

a little!

Just a little bit closer!

It would be strange if Moans, who was on the verge of death, wasn't furious at such a terrible attack.

just now!

Rocks is dead!

But they have the advantage!

"of course……"

Let's liven things up!

Locke's lips curled into a smile, yet a chilling glint appeared in his stark white teeth.

as if!

The mortal serpent opened its terrifying, abyssal maw at them.

"you……"

Moans was furious.

"Don't rush! This is just the beginning!"

Locke's voice had barely faded when...

boom--

A towering flame suddenly exploded on the battlefield.

【Beast Frenzy - Undying Flame Lion】

The transformed Imperial Arms erupted on Leone, with undying flames spreading out over her golden fur, but without harming her in the slightest. Instead, they transformed into powerful life forms, filling her body.

Like an elf emerging from flames.

Anyone who harms His Highness must die!

In order to prevent His Highness from being harmed by bad people, all she needs to do is eliminate all the bad people.