Everything Was for B
The second half of the Grand Line.
Beneath a cloudless sky, the Oro Jackson sailed slowly across the sea.
The ship was lively.
The air was rich with the scent of wine and all kinds of food, and filled with the sounds of revelry.
"Haha! The captain's become the Pirate King!"
"The World Government sure is eager. Lately, they've been doing nothing but smearing our name."
"Drink!"
"We're the Pirate King's crew!"
Everyone on deck was laughing. Some were already passed out and snoring, while others had their arms around each other, dancing some bizarre dance.
Happiness, joy, and delight filled the air.
But at the stern, two figures stood side by side, gazing out at the sea in silence.
"Glug, glug!"
He took the flask Rayleigh handed him and tipped it back for several long gulps.
"You're really leaving tomorrow?"
Rayleigh looked troubled. Even though he'd sensed it coming long ago, when the moment to part finally arrived, he still found it hard to accept.
"Yeah."
Roger grinned silently. After a brief pause, he continued, "I might have a year left, or maybe not. So I want to spend this time thinking things over on my own."
"Before you leave, let's visit the Richest Group together!"
Rayleigh gazed calmly at the sea and sighed. "Maybe the BUG Representative under the Golden Emperor really can cure your illness. Even if he can't, he should at least be able to buy you a few more years."
"The World Government is probably discussing how to wipe us all out right now."
"There's no need. If I live too long, you'll all be in even greater danger." Roger furrowed his brows and couldn't help coughing before continuing, "We came too early. This isn't the right time for this era.