Wano Island.
The Flower Capital beneath blue skies and white clouds.
The breath of spring always filled the entire city.
The fragrance of pink-white cherry blossoms permeated every corner of the air.
Men, women, old, and young flowed through the streets, and a deep breath was enough to catch the rich floral scent.
The majestic towers of Shogun Castle stood atop giant trees, with towering Mount Fuji forming the backdrop behind them.
Inside the banquet hall on the top floor of Shogun Castle, Mihawk was hosting Shanks.
Gion, dressed in a pink kimono, sat quietly beside the former and listened to their conversation, occasionally refilling her husband's wine and serving him more food.
Sitting beside Shanks were Qin Su and Susanoo, who had just participated in the Top 100 Tournament.
As for the Eight-Tails, Gyuki had gone to Nine-Tails Island to catch up with Kurama.
"I'm glad you came around."
After hearing Shanks's thoughts, Mihawk smiled with delight.
What mattered most was protecting everything they had now, rather than pursuing the truth of history or excessively demanding absolute freedom. The current World Government was also worthy of his service.
As for Captain Roger's dream, he would apologize to him in the Underworld after he died!
Listen to that—those were the words Shanks had just said to him.
He had truly figured it out!
"Yes, I came around. I don't want to remain a bystander anymore." Shanks nodded, then gave a bitter smile. "I just don't know whether Lord Imu will allow me to return, or whether he's willing to use me."
Mihawk fell silent, because he did not dare guarantee what Imu's attitude would be.
After all, Shanks had previously left the Land of the Gods without permission.
However...
"Lord Imu definitely knows about what you've been doing at the