Time slowly passed, and Dressrosa quietly continued to develop.
The massive influx of funds made the waters around Dressrosa increasingly prosperous and lively. Merchant ships traveled between the islands almost every day.
"If we could get our hands on Water 7's Sea Train technology..."
"The islands would be more closely connected, and travel would be much easier."
River spoke thoughtfully.
But that was shipbuilding technology, and Dressrosa's shipbuilding industry was not particularly advanced.
In the blink of an eye, a year had passed since the Paramount War.
"News from the Marines says that Sakazuki has largely stabilized the situation within their ranks. The new Marine Headquarters is being built at a rapid pace."
"Also, Admiral Aokiji has left the Marines. He is suspected of deserting, and his current whereabouts are unknown."
"There is fresh news about former Admiral Zephyr. He appears to have suffered a surprise attack by a pirate, and nearly all the Marine Interns aboard his ship were wiped out."
"Surprisingly, the pirate who launched that attack and severely damaged former Admiral Zephyr's ship has become one of the new Shichibukai."
"It remains unclear whether this veteran admiral will make any new moves in the future."
Inside the magnificent, lavish palace, River sat on a sofa with his legs crossed while Freya stood before him, reading a summary of the latest intelligence.
"Instructor Zephyr?"
River narrowed his eyes.
His affection for Zephyr naturally ran deep. Hearing this news, he sighed inwardly, but he also knew very well what choice his teacher would make next.
"Tell Lucci to keep close track of my teacher's whereabouts. Once he finds him, he is to go and invite him immediately."
Freya froze for a moment. "Yes!"
Then she continued her work.
"As for the pirates, the latest report from the Intelligence Department