On this point about Harald being considered a friend, it’s worth remembering that Xebec himself wanted to use him to eat a Devil Fruit. This shows that their relationship wasn’t simply one of unbreakable respect — Xebec saw utility in him and had plans involving that. Moreover, Kaidou’s plan in this regard always had flaws, since Harald could simply refuse to obey and even die in the process, which would dismantle any attempt at forced “use.”
And I insist again: even if there’s another clash or small skirmish between Xebec and Harald, that’s not enough to say they are equals. The example of Luffy against Kaidou makes this clear — base, Gear 4, Snakeman, all required time and effort, even with Kaidou being superior. True equality of level is only proven in an extreme confrontation, with real exhaustion, or a statement.
And I insist again: even if there’s another clash or small skirmish between Xebec and Harald, that’s not enough to say they are equals. The example of Luffy against Kaidou makes this clear — base, Gear 4, Snakeman, all required time and effort, even with Kaidou being superior. True equality of level is only proven in an extreme confrontation, with real exhaustion, or a statement.
