The sea breeze stirred gently, and Marineford's flags snapped in the wind.
Standing outside the Marine headquarters building, Gern looked up at the flags and gave a helpless smile.
"Gern." Sakazuki's low voice came from behind him as he, too, left the elevator.
Then a heavy hand clapped his shoulder. "Remember our agreement. I'll go make preparations."
Gern turned to see Sakazuki's stern, unsmiling face.
"Of course." Gern nodded.
Sakazuki said nothing more, merely giving a cold snort in acknowledgment.
Then his gaze swept over Kuzan and Borsalino, who were still standing by the elevator. His brow furrowed almost imperceptibly before he strode away.
Only after Sakazuki was far away did Kuzan breathe a sigh of relief and stretch lazily.
He stepped forward and slung an arm around Gern's shoulders, a grin tugging at his lips. "Haha, Borsalino looks downright miserable!
"I didn't know you had that trick up your sleeve. You'd better not screw me over next time!"
With that, he winked at Gern, then turned toward the Training Camp, beckoning to Lipo and Tesoro as he went.
"Come on, fluffy bunny and gold brat! Instructor Zephyr can't wait to put you through your paces."
"Afro-head." Lipo pursed her lips and reluctantly followed. Before leaving, she turned back and waved her little fist at Gern. "Gern! Make sure you're careful!"
Tesoro merely nodded in silence, a trace of frustration in his eyes, but ultimately followed Kuzan away.
As Kuzan's figure receded into the distance, Gern suddenly felt a subtle shift in the air around him.
He slowly turned his head and met a pair of resentful eyes.
That was right-our king of slackers, Kizaru, was staring straight at him.
The corners of his mouth drooped slightly, and his whole body radiated a slacker's listless air.
"Gern..." Borsalino drew out