As he watched the three leave, Sengoku glanced to either side.
"Keep a close eye on this pirate from the South Blue named Etalgar. Unless something unexpected happens, he'll make a name for himself soon."
"Let Kuzan know. As long as he doesn't stir up trouble, there's no need to interfere."
Sengoku gave the orders to those beside him.
This young pirate named Etalgar had now come to the attention of many in the Navy High Command.
Today was a special day, too.
Another young pirate was about to rise.
With Mobius backing him, there was no doubt about it.
And all they could do was watch.
"Actually, this isn't so bad. If we waited until this young pirate made a name for himself and arrested him, only for the Kronos Kingdom to demand his release, that would be a real headache."
Tsuru spoke calmly, her gaze turning to the photograph on the table. "Once he reaches the New World, we won't owe Mobius anything."
"Being able to repay a favor so easily is a blessing."
"Tsuru is right."
Sengoku tapped the table in agreement. Suddenly, a gleam flashed in his eyes, as though a particular idea had occurred to him.
"Could we make him a Shichibukai?"
The proposal for the Shichibukai had been around for several years. Although it had yet to be finalized, many in the Navy High Command already knew about it.
So Sengoku had no need to hold back and asked outright.
"He isn't hostile toward the Navy, so he would be a fairly suitable candidate, provided he's willing."
"If all he wants is to make a name for himself at sea, his strength and potential are more than enough. In that case, becoming a Shichibukai wouldn't really mean much to him."
The Shichibukai would be