Watching Roger's Execution at the Start of My Life as a Pirate

The old man speaking before her wore a traditional Wano Country kimono. His thick hair was tied in a ponytail, his eyebrows met in the middle, and his face had an unusual look. He was nothing like the kindly, ever-smiling Koshiro. Instead, he had an intimidating air that seemed to warn people away even when he was calm.

"That's right. How did you know, Marine brat?"

Kozaburo was surprised. Had the Marines taken an interest in an old man living in seclusion in a little East Blue village? Was their intelligence network that formidable? He had smuggled himself out of Wano Country over thirty years ago and come here.

"I studied under Mr. Koshiro for a while. I was fortunate enough to hear him mention you."

"The Marines..." Kozaburo looked thoughtful. After a moment, he asked, "Kanos Atlas? The exceptionally talented Marine Koshiro told me about?"

Koshiro had indeed mentioned a Marine with outstanding swordsmanship talent a few years ago. It had been long enough that Kozaburo had not connected the two at first.

"You're more than just talented!"

A knowing smile crossed Kozaburo's face.

As a swordsmith who had forged countless Famous Swords, he believed age had done little to dull his eye. This Marine's presence was scarcely weaker than that of the powerhouses renowned across the seas.

"You flatter me."

Atlas answered calmly, then turned to Zoro, who still looked utterly confused.

"Let's keep our promise, Zoro."

"Huh? What promise?"

"Join the Marines and pursue your own path with the sword. I hope to see you at Marine Headquarters someday! I believe in you, so don't let me down."

"It's a promise between us!"

Seeing how serious Atlas was, Zoro muttered, "The Marines...? That doesn't sound bad."

Then he nodded firmly!

Smack!

In the solemn atmosphere, Sandai Kitetsu