In Marineford's plaza.
Marines from Headquarters, all of different ranks and positions, stood ramrod straight, their eyes brimming with excitement as they watched the familiar figure before them.
Some belonged to the Recruit Corps, while others were soldiers who had once admired and revered River. All had come here of their own accord.
"You're all holding important positions now!"
"Go on, get back to your duties!"
River drew a light breath and spoke to the Marines before him with a smile.
Twenty years had passed, yet so many people still remembered him. It stirred something in his heart, but he soon regained his composure.
"Yes, sir!"
Their shout rang out, and then they spontaneously parted down the middle to clear a path.
Understanding their intent, River smiled and walked through the passage toward the Headquarters Building.
A while later, the Marines left and returned to their posts. Yet the excitement in their hearts had not subsided.
The former Admiral Daytime Tiger had returned today. Without a doubt, this was news that would shake the world.
As he approached the steps leading up to the Headquarters Building, a field-grade officer hurried over.
"Admiral, your Justice Cape!"
At the softly spoken words, River turned his head. The man looked familiar, but he could not recall his name.
"Thank you!"
After River nodded his thanks, the officer, looking thrilled and excited, carefully draped the Justice Cape over his shoulders.
Whoosh!
A breeze swept past, making the white Justice Cape flutter and revealing the word "Justice" clearly across River's back.
With his loose black robe, the sword at his waist, and the billowing Justice Cape, River now exuded an air of solemn dignity.
He also looked far more like a Marine who upheld justice.
His lips curved into a smile as he climbed the