New World, Ettol Sea.
Dark clouds blotted out the moon, and muffled thunder rumbled through the sky, giving the impression that a storm was about to break.
Upon the rolling sea, the Moby Dick, with its white whale figurehead and billowing sails, steadily forged ahead, continuously cutting through layer upon layer of white waves.
Moby Dick, Second Division's communal quarters.
"You're planning to nominate me as captain of the Second Division?"
Ace, who had just finished bathing and was preparing to go to bed, froze for a moment after hearing several Second Division members discussing it.
"That's right! That position has been vacant all this time.
If you take it, everyone will definitely accept you...
After all, not only do you possess the Clay-Clay Fruit, but you've also mastered both types of Haki...
Most importantly, you actually have Conqueror's Haki!
That's talent found in only one person out of a million!
We heard that Kozuki Oden, the former captain of the Second Division, also possessed Conqueror's Haki. He was incredibly strong and could rival Pops.
We believe you'll reach those heights in the future too!"
"Yeah! You can do it, Ace."
"Uh... I've only been with the crew for a year. I'm still a newcomer... Isn't that inappropriate?" Ace scratched his head and said with a smile.
"That's right! You haven't been here long, but you've accomplished plenty of great deeds since coming aboard. You're more than qualified to be captain."
"Yeah! In terms of strength, aside from Marco, Jozu, and Flower Sword, the only three captains you still can't beat, the other captains are already no match for you.
If you keep being an ordinary crew member, wouldn't that make them pretty awkward?"
"Yeah! Several captains have been wondering when you'll become the captain of the Second Division, Ace!"