Scorched Earth Ravaged by the Four Emperors

A few days later, off the waters of Ohara, a lone Marine warship slowly approached.

"Wait, Dr. Vegapunk. That island is known to be frequented by the Four Emperors. Isn't it a little... dangerous to just go there?"

One of the accompanying Marines tried to dissuade him, his face full of concern.

If the greatest scientist in the world, a man five hundred years ahead of humanity in technology, came to harm in Ohara, what would he do if the Marine higher-ups held him accountable?

"Alright, alright. The life-sign radar hasn't detected anything. The Four Emperors who roam the seas wouldn't linger on a worthless patch of scorched earth."

"I'm only going to lay down some flowers. I won't be long."

Vegapunk, dressed in a black suit with his tongue seemingly hanging out beyond recall, spoke calmly. The Marine guards exchanged looks.

Left with no choice, the accompanying guards nodded. Once the warship docked at Ohara's shore, the Marines spread out to keep watch around the island.

Vegapunk headed alone toward the Tree of Knowledge. As he looked around, he could not help letting out a quiet sigh.

"To die in pursuit of knowledge and truth... that really was just like you, Clover..."

Just as Vegapunk approached the Tree of Knowledge, two mountain-sized figures at the edge of a nearby lake came into view, startling him badly.

"Giants? Why are there giants here?"

Without a second thought, he ducked behind a mound of dirt. Unfortunately, no matter how hard he tried to hide, his enormous head—nearly as tall as a giant—made it pointless.

Then a breeze brushed across his face, and a steady male voice sounded behind him.

"Why did you come to Ohara, Dr. Vegapunk? Though, you're still the same as ever!"

The next moment, the breeze took shape.