Edd War Encounter

Marine Headquarters, Fleet Admiral's Office.

The heavy wooden door had not quite closed, and the air still held the heat of the last argument.

Kong stood behind his desk, hands braced against it. He watched the figure walk away without a moment's hesitation, veins bulging one by one at his temples.

"I wasn't finished talking—!!!"

His voice echoed through the office.

At the doorway.

Garp had already pulled the door open. With one foot outside, he waved without looking back.

"I've heard enough, though~"

Bogard stood nearby, cold sweat running down his back.

Almost by reflex, he snapped to attention and bowed deeply to the Fleet Admiral.

"Excuse us, Fleet Admiral."

He immediately turned and hurried after Garp, walking faster than usual for fear the Fleet Admiral's fury would catch him.

Bang—

The office door slammed shut.

Kong stood motionless for three seconds.

His shoulders sank slightly, and he let out a long sigh.

"...That bunch of troublemakers."

The port at Marine Headquarters.

The sea wind whipped across the harbor, where two large Marine warships stood ready to depart.

White sails hung high, cannons lined the decks, and the Marines stood in disciplined ranks. The air was taut with the anticipation of battle.

"Is it confirmed?"

"Roger and Shiki are about to meet in the Edd War Waters?"

Dressed in a black suit with a coat bearing the word Justice draped over his shoulders, Garp strode toward the port.

The coat billowed behind him, adding to his imposing presence.

Beside him walked Kuzan in a black overcoat and sunglasses.

Young Kuzan kept his hands in his pockets and walked with a lazy gait, yet never fell behind Garp.

"The intelligence is confirmed."

"The Flying Pirates are approaching Edd War from high above."

Kuzan turned toward Garp with a faint smile.