Watching Roger's Execution at the Start of My Life in One Piece

—The Navy's newly appointed Admiral! The man who knocked Whitebeard off the throne of World's Strongest!

"It's Mr. White Hou!"

Tashigi's face lit up with admiration. Her small hands tightened around the newspaper without her realizing it.

"Huh?! You know Atlas too?"

"Of course! Mr. White Hou is the Marine I admire most. He's also the person I want to be like someday."

Tashigi scratched her head, looking a little embarrassed.

"When I grow up, I want to become a powerful Marine swordswoman and take back every Famous Sword that's fallen into the hands of evildoers!"

"I'll risk my life to take all twelve Supreme Grade Swords, twenty-one Great Grade Swords, and fifty Skillful Grade Swords back from those villains!"

"That really is... a wonderful dream."

Kuina's smile shone brilliantly in the sunlight.

Old Acquaintances

Marine Headquarters, Marineford.

The red sun rose, and a salty sea breeze carried its hazy light across the world's foremost fortress.

After days of repairs, Marineford had finally regained its former appearance.

The destruction of the Whitebeard Pirates had lent the Iron Fortress an even graver air of authority.

And today, on Marine Headquarters' vast Training Ground,

rows of Marines stood in perfect formation. The sea breeze snapped their white Justice coats, but their upright figures did not waver. Every face was solemn.

Today was the Navy's Collective Promotion Ceremony.

The Medal Ceremony was scheduled to begin at eight sharp. It was now seven thirty, leaving half an hour until it started.

A few minutes later,

Atlas arrived in a pure white suit, with a matching Justice coat draped over his shoulders. Its white sleeves swayed as he walked.

He strolled to the front of the assembled Marines, where rows of chairs stood neatly arranged.

Finding his assigned seat, he dropped into it.

Akainu sat