Marineford.
Life here went on as calmly as ever, but ripples had already begun to form beneath that calm. A faint worry showed on the faces of people in the streets.
Koby walked down the street, looking at the lifeless scene around him, and could not help but sigh inwardly. Though nothing had yet been announced to the world, the residents, being families of Marines, had already heard a few rumors from their relatives.
To his rear left stood a newspaper office. It had already closed its doors despite it being broad daylight, with a squad of Marines stationed outside.
Every place in all of Marineford capable of sending information to the outside world had been sealed off. Even the Den Den Mushi on the island had been temporarily confiscated. Before preparations were complete, certain matters absolutely could not be leaked.
The sights that met him along the way made Koby sigh again.
A major incident!
This operation was undoubtedly the greatest event since the death of the Pirate King. And no one could stop it—not even Vice Admiral Garp, much less an insignificant little soldier like him.
Even Brother Biao had left Headquarters after dropping the words, "I'm still too weak." Recently, news had arrived every few days. Over the past half month, no one knew how many pirates Wu Biao had killed.
The entire Grand Line had been thrown into turmoil, with people everywhere wondering whether the Marines were planning some major operation.
"Koby, aren't you a little too late?"
After making his way to Vice Admiral Garp's residence, Koby had barely pushed open the gate when Helmeppo's voice came from within. Koby waved slightly. "Morning, Helmeppo."
"Morning? Look what time it is. You really are lazy," Helmeppo said teasingly.
Koby smiled and closed the courtyard gate behind