Another Encounter with the Heavenly Tribute Fleet

Half a month later.

South Blue.

A dense, strange cloud bank moved at an unnatural speed. Within it lay the outline of a medium-sized sailing ship.

It was a converted slave ship. The shackles and bloodstains were long gone from its deck, replaced by an almost peculiar calm.

Beside the railing, three girls of different ages and temperaments leaned over to peer outside.

At the bow, Dawn sat cross-legged with his eyes closed.

His Observation Haki spread outward from him like spilled mercury. For him, it was both a lookout and a form of training.

Working Observation Haki into daily life until it became as natural as breathing was a slow way to improve, but also one of the best ways to build a solid foundation.

Yesterday, he had introduced Hawkins, who had volunteered to join, to Lafitte and asked Lafitte to take him along for experience. Dawn then set off on the return journey with the three girls.

Suddenly, an unusual ripple entered the range of Dawn's Observation Haki. His eyes snapped open, a sharp glint flashing through them.

It was a powerful presence unlike any he had felt before. Like a beast lurking in the deep sea, it could not conceal its immense power even while holding back.

Its owner seemed relaxed, yet his strength far surpassed that of anyone Dawn had faced.

Following the sensation, Dawn looked through a gap in the clouds and saw the scene below.

Five Government Ships flew the World Government flag as they sailed in an escort formation. On the deck of the largest ship at the center, a tall man with a black eye mask and a mass of curly hair lounged on a deck chair, seemingly enjoying a rare bit of South Blue sunshine.

The presence that had unsettled Dawn