The ship approached, its ripples seeming to break the long-standing stillness and bring the place to life in an instant.
Even the pitch-black seabed began changing color rapidly, as though welcoming its visitors.
The inky blackness gradually faded.
"Something's wrong!"
At the Freedom's bow, everyone had just made it through a stretch of sea no
less fierce than the waters outside Wano Country—no, even fiercer—so the Ahua Trio and Brook were now sprawled on the deck, exhausted.
Even Robin leaned against the railing, panting heavily.
Only Kuta and Kuina, who had had nothing to do, could stand leisurely on deck and enjoy the calm after the storm.
Of course, Issho, who had been practically invisible ever since boarding, had also remained quietly seated at the bow. A tea table stood before him, holding a teapot and a steaming cup of tea.
Anyone who knew him would understand that this was simply his nature. Anyone who didn't might have thought he was here on vacation!
"Uncle Issho, did you sense it?"
Just then, Kuta turned toward Issho, a serious look on his face.
"Yes." Issho nodded, lifted his cup, and took a small sip. Then he raised his head toward the sea ahead, as though he could truly see something, and said quietly, "It doesn't seem as peaceful up ahead as it is here. I think I sensed a presence with power like that fellow you killed outside Wano Country, yet fundamentally different."
"Though I can't sense it clearly, I can still tell that whatever lies ahead is probably asleep."
At this point, he turned toward Kuta. "Well? Shall we go over?"
"Given our strength, even if you can conceal yourself, Kuina and I can't. Going over might wake it."
After hearing Issho's words, Kuta remained silent for a long time.