Sabaody Archipelago, untouched by the flames of war.
The families who had taken refuge from Marineford, along with spectators gathered from all over to watch the battle, made the place even livelier.
Out at sea not far away, more than a dozen ships approached in a mighty formation.
Whitebeard's corpse lay on the Going Merry's bow deck, with several figures standing beside him.
At the bow, Luffy asked, "Are you guys going ashore, Pineapple Head?"
"No. This place is too close to Marineford."
Marco shook his head, his voice low. "Just in case, we won't dock. We'll send a few people ashore to buy supplies, then head straight back to the New World."
He was clearly despondent. Every member of Whitebeard's crew wore a mournful expression, their hearts heavy.
The gloomy sky made the scene seem all the more sorrowful.
They had been through far too much that day, and Whitebeard's death had dealt them a devastating blow.
Jozu carefully lifted Whitebeard onto his back, nodded to Reiner in thanks, then turned and left the Going Merry.
"Thank you for bringing back Pops' body."
Marco stepped forward with several commanders and bowed to him again. Raising his head, he said to Luffy, "We really have you to thank this time. Otherwise, Ace probably would have..."
"He used to talk about you, his little brother, all the time. Now that I've met you, you really are just like he described."
At that, Marco forced a faint smile. "We owe you one. If you ever come to the New World and need anything, just say the word."
"Eh, no need."
Luffy grinned. "We were going to save Ace anyway. He's my brother."
"Don't say that. All of you risked your lives to help us." Marco looked toward Reiner as he spoke.
Luffy