Marine Base G4, commander's office.
After the call connected, Sephiroth immediately said in a slightly teasing tone:
"Commander-in-Chief Kong, I should have returned the Butcher Blade to you decades ago, shouldn't I?"
At that, the Den Den Mushi fell silent for several seconds before Steel Bone Kong's steady, powerful voice came through:
"Mm, that's right! Have you returned?"
"Yes! I went on a very interesting journey and came to understand many things..." Sephiroth said with inexplicable emotion.
Then, his tone shifted.
"So, can I resign now?
I've worked diligently for the Marines for so many years. It's about time you let me leave, isn't it?"
Hearing that, Steel Bone Kong's tone suddenly became somewhat strange.
"Yes! Mr. K has worked for the Marines for so many years. You've certainly worked hard..."
"..."
Sephiroth fell silent for a while before speaking again.
"What exactly are you trying to say...?"
"I started investigating you many years ago!
Since you were quite active in the Sabaody Archipelago, it didn't take much effort to look into you...
However, when you enrolled in the Military Academy and Zephyr placed your file before me, I was truly shocked.
The same name, a somewhat youthful face—it made me think of certain things...
At first, I didn't quite believe my own speculation. But after you picked up the Butcher Blade before me—a blade that no one had been able to wield for decades—I finally believed that absurd idea of mine.
Afterward, I had people keep a close watch on your movements. I even knew about how you went out to kill pirates for bounties while attending the Military Academy, as well as how you started your own company."
"..."
Sephiroth narrowed his eyes slightly. Countless thoughts flashed through his mind, and his feelings were incomparably complicated as he