Punishment Decision!

Hero?

What a tragic word.

Rather than praising a "hero's" great deeds, people were more likely to remember how that "hero" met their end.

"Iron Fist" Garp had died, buried at sea with the bearing of a true Hero of the Marines!

When the news broke, the entire world was shocked!

Marine Headquarters, Admiral's Office.

"Then... what about the documents in my hands?"

"Pretend none of this ever happened..."

Ron puffed on his cigar and said calmly, "That old bastard didn't let us down in the end. The living shouldn't pin their mistakes on the dead."

Masked Zero fell silent.

This was against the rules!

But he knew Ron did not care about that. Zero could hear Ron's resolve in his tone, an iron will burning amid roaring magma, allowing no objection.

At a time like this, it was best to do as he said.

"Besides... I don't hold any official post anymore. Why should I worry about that?"

Zero gave a self-mocking laugh and nodded.

"I understand."

"The funeral will be held in five days. If you have time, come see him off."

"I will... Azure Dragon Admiral."

"Hmm?"

"Take care of yourself!"

"Heh! Nonsense!"

New World, Red Force.

The Red-Haired Pirates were no longer as boisterous as before. There was only deathly silence and solemn heaviness.

The previous battle had dealt Shanks too great a blow. Though it had not utterly broken him, the deaths of Beckman and so many other companions had left him devastated.

Holding a bottle in his arms, Shanks sat on the deck and stared expressionlessly at the newspaper.

Legend Falls, Hero Immortal!

"Drink less, Captain. It's not time for us to leave the stage yet."

Hearing the voice beside him, Shanks snapped back to his senses. "Ah, I know, Beck... Yasopp."