A cool sea breeze stirred the waves and swept across the emerald grass, carrying the scent of plants and trees. Soft sunlight fell comfortably on their bodies, filling them with blissful ease.
On the Going Merry's grassy deck, a picnic blanket had been spread beneath the shade of a tree. Everyone sat around it, leisurely enjoying afternoon tea as they chatted and played.
Robin leaned quietly against the tree trunk, reading with a smile. The noise beside her didn't bother her; if anything, it helped her concentrate, as though the sounds brought her peace of mind.
Nami sat demurely to one side, her two fair, slender legs stretched out at an angle.
Lina lay on the grass with one leg crossed over the other, her head resting on Nami's shapely thigh. Eyes closed, she basked in the warmth of the sunlight.
Nami took a small sip of black tea, set down her teacup, then picked up a little cake and took a bite. With her other hand, she casually flipped through the newspaper.
"Hm? What's this?"
She suddenly spotted some unbelievable news. Her brows furrowed slightly, and a hint of confusion appeared in her eyes.
Hearing her, Lina couldn't help opening one eye and glancing over curiously.
Nami turned the newspaper around for her to see and asked,
"Lina, do you remember him? Clown Buggy? This guy's become pretty incredible. Look at this—these are all people we know."
Nami didn't need to explain. The moment Lina saw Buggy's picture, she understood what was going on.
The newspaper featured a large poster, with two crossed swords forming an 'X' that divided it into four sections.
On the left and right were portraits of Hawk Eyes Mihawk and Crocodile, with Moria below them. At the very top, occupying the largest space, was—