Perhaps he had been puzzled by the sight of Zoro burying Yubashiri in his previous life, but now he could understand how Zoro had felt...
"Knock, knock, knock..."
The sun was slowly sinking beneath the sea, yet a knock came from the room that should have fallen silent.
"Come in."
Barn remained in the same position, cradling his sword as he spoke softly.
The door slowly opened, and a figure in a crisp suit appeared in the room.
"What is it, Adam?"
Perhaps his years as the Guild's president had helped Adam mature. He was no longer the rebellious boy who called Barn an old geezer. He had become much more composed; at the very least, he could now calmly and respectfully address Barn as his master.
"Master, someone from Mr. Shiki's side has arrived. He says he wants to see you."
At Adam's words, Barn stood, still gripping the sword tightly. As he walked behind Adam, he stopped and spoke.
"Seeing how much you've grown these past few years makes me proud. Lia... I'll leave her in your care."
He spoke with the tone of an elder.
Although Barn now looked younger than Adam, Adam merely smiled. He showed none of the embarrassment that mentioning Lia might once have caused; he was simply happy to have earned his master's approval.
"Thank you, Master."
Adam did not turn around, perhaps out of reserve. Barn merely nodded lightly, gave a word of acknowledgment, and left.
"Mm."
Barn came to the largest room on the second floor. A man in a loose kimono sat inside, still holding that enormous sword, Long Light, another Supreme Grade blade...
It was an old friend he had not seen in a long time: Oniwood, the great swordsman known as "Ouma Toki," who had escaped prison with