Time flowed on, and the years brought sweeping changes, yet some people remained untouched by it all.
Even after countless ages, they seemed as dazzling as ever, hanging high in the sky, never to fall.
In Kuzan's mind, River was undoubtedly one of those people.
He had kept an eye on River during his twenty years in Impel Down. The reports invariably described him sleeping, playing cards with prisoners and jailers, and otherwise amusing himself.
There had been no honing of his strength, no training whatsoever.
Under those circumstances, anyone would normally regress, let alone improve. Yet River remained so powerful that he sent shivers through people's hearts.
That unique transformation of his Taijutsu was enough to inspire shock and fear in the soul.
In terms of physical strength alone, that man had to be the World's Strongest!
"Let's leave him aside, Vice Admiral Garp."
"Let's talk about your grandson. He's done something extraordinary this time!"
Kuzan's voice grew slightly heavier, his gaze drifting toward the Straw Hat Pirates, who were singing and dancing around the bonfire nearby.
"Luffy?"
At those words, Garp fell silent too.
"The Navy won't just let him keep growing like this and become a source of chaos on the Grand Line!"
"What happened at Enies Lobby has already touched some people's sensitive nerves."
Kuzan spoke calmly.
An expression of distress and frustration gradually crept over Garp's face, and he began scratching his head incessantly with both hands.
"That little brat!!"
"I told him long ago to join the Navy!!"
Garp gritted his teeth and growled.
"Also..."
Kuzan suddenly spoke again, his eyes narrowing slightly as his expression turned serious.
"There's something else."
"What is it?"
Garp raised his head.
"A rumor."
Kuzan stared at the graying old man before him, the man he had admired