On the deck of the Going Merry, which had just slipped beneath the water, everyone sat in a circle and shared what they had experienced over the past two years.
As the ship gradually descended, the sunlight overhead could no longer penetrate the depths, and boundless darkness followed them like a shadow.
Tap—tap—tap.
Having just finished cooking, Sanji emerged from the second-floor restaurant, his expression dark as he looked down at the people below.
"Everyone, food's ready."
"Coming!"
Luffy leaped up in delight, stretched out his arm to grab the second-floor railing, and flew upward.
"Food, food!"
The others also got up and followed, some hurriedly and some at a leisurely pace. Only Reiner, locked under Sanji's gaze, remained seated, giving an awkward, guilty laugh.
Okama Island had been Kuma's choice, not his, but just as expected, Sanji still held a grudge against him.
"It's time to settle this, Reiner." Sanji lowered his head and lit a cigarette. White smoke drifted slowly upward as he said in a deep, measured voice,
"...Do you know what kind of feelings I had while flying through the air for those three days after being sent flying?"
The moment he thought of becoming the only man on that island, every time he closed his eyes, countless scenes of clouds and rain filled his mind.
A full three days of fantasies!
And what did he get?
Reality dealt him a vicious blow! It mercilessly struck him right in the family jewels, robbing him of one of the most precious feelings a man could possess!
"Don't bother giving me reasons or excuses."
"One kick. Just one kick!"
Volcanic fury burned in Sanji's eyes, and even the cigarette between his lips twisted under his bite. "As long as you take this kick, we'll call it even."
Behind