Time was merely an abstract concept people used to understand things. As Shin's own strength and realm improved, the way he viewed the world had changed greatly from before.
At the very least, as far as he knew, many species born in multiverses perceived time in ways utterly different from humans.
Shin had yet to comprehend the true nature of it all, but he knew that fate was by no means immutable. The future held countless branches and possibilities; the only difference lay in the laws governing them and the limits of what one could grasp.
Before he knew it, he had reached the center of the island. From far away, he could hear uninhibited laughter coming from the tavern.
Though it was called a tavern, it had clearly been built only recently. Who knew who had found such a place? Old friends reunited beneath a sky full of cherry blossoms, drinking and bidding farewell—there was a certain sorrow and grandeur to it.
Whitebeard probably would never have found a place like this. Only Roger, knowing that his time was near, would have chosen it.
"Drinking without inviting me?" Shin chuckled as he pushed the door open. The three men inside all froze and turned to look at him.
Roger was the first to react. Letting out his trademark hearty laugh, he said, "Hahahaha, it's Shin! Come on, come on! I've been saving this stuff for ages. It's no worse than your collection. Want a taste? Of course, you'll have to trade some of your liquor for it!"
Amid Roger's laughter, Shin took a seat.
Whitebeard grinned. "Gurararara... Where the hell have you been, brat? There hasn't been a trace of you anywhere in the world. By pirate rules, latecomers have to drink three cups as punishment first!"
As he