Fortunately.
Because of the angle, Luffy had not seen it yet.
Noah discreetly tugged at his sleeve, looked down at Luffy, and laughed. "It's nothing, Luffy. It's only an arm. It'll grow back soon enough."
"You're lying!!!"
Luffy cried even harder. "Waaah... H-how can someone grow an arm back after losing it? I'm not a kid anymore... Waaaaah!!!"
"If you're not a kid, then stop crying, Luffy!"
Noah rubbed Luffy's head and smiled. "Take this as a lesson and remember it well. It's fine even if you don't become a Marine in the future, but... no matter what you do, don't forget the three things I taught you, okay?"
"Mm, mm..."
Luffy nodded desperately. Looking at Noah's gentle smile, he had so much he wanted to say, but in the end, all the words that reached his lips turned into loud sobbing.
"Waaaaah!!!!!!"
A few hours later.
Under the setting sun.
At the harbor stood the warship that was about to depart, truly about to leave, while onshore, reluctant villagers had come to see them off.
"Mr. Noah, you have to come visit again when you have time!!" That was Miss Makino, waving with a smile.
"Make sure to tell us in advance next time~! I'll make my specialty, beef and tofu stew, for you!" That was Aunt Louise, holding a scallion.
"Hey, what are you standing around for? Hurry up and say goodbye, Luffy." The village chief quietly gave Luffy a push.
"..." Luffy fought back his tears as he stared at Noah's back without saying a word.
Noah was wearing a white coat of justice at the moment, so Luffy could not see what was underneath. Luffy knew Noah was doing this so he would not see his severed arm and be reminded of it.
It was