Waves roared and surged.
Though the ship rocked violently, Zoro stood firm at the bow, staring straight ahead.
"Captain, I'm here to save you."
Dark clouds gathered overhead. A low rumble of thunder rolled across the sky.
At the front of the Marines' formation stood elite troops summoned from around the world. Behind them was a long row of Rear Admirals, with the Vice Admirals farther back.
Three chairs stood before the Execution Platform, occupied by the Marines' current Three Admirals.
This time, the Marines had been smarter. They had not summoned the Shichibukai.
The Paramount War had taught them a lesson. Apart from a select few who loved a fight, the Shichibukai had done little more than stand around.
And now the Marines did not dare summon the one Shichibukai who loved a fight.
He had grown into a monster. If he switched sides, the Marines' losses would not merely be enormous. They would be catastrophic.
Aokiji stood on the Execution Platform with at least three Den Den Mushi tucked against his chest, ready to contact several key departments at any moment.
Black shackles bound Luffy to the Execution Platform.
As if sensing something, Luffy lifted his lowered head and spotted the green-haired swordsman in the distance.
"Zoro."
Luffy's heart tightened at the sight of Zoro. He scanned the area for his other crewmates.
Finding none, Luffy breathed a sigh of relief.
If Zoro had come alone, Luffy was not too worried. Zoro was strong, almost his equal.
"Luffy!"
Zoro's shout rang out from afar. He leaped from the bow and landed on the island alone.
"Attack! Capture Roronoa Zoro!"
"He came ashore alone? Does he think so little of us?"
As soon as Zoro landed, swarms of Marines rushed forward and surrounded him.
"Three-Sword Style: 1080 Pound Phoenix!"