"Oh?" Gern listened to Ryuboshi and, rather than declining this time, laughed heartily.
"Neptune is still as hospitable as ever, huh? Well, how could I refuse such a warm invitation? I'll gladly accept."
He had come with a few vague objectives in mind anyway, and he intended to rest during his return to Fish-Man Island. Surely he could spare time for a meal.
Besides, he wanted to see for himself how Fish-Man Island had changed under the "protection" of his flag.
So Gern and Mihawk stepped off the warship, one after the other.
The simultaneous appearance of two men who stood at the pinnacle of the world caused an enormous stir at Fish-Man Island's harbor.
One wore a Marine Admiral's Justice Coat, his face youthful despite his fearsome reputation.
He was Gern Reginald Sigma, the Marine Headquarters Admiral whose many names-"White Kirin," "Heavenquake," and "Calamity"-had shaken the New World.
The other carried the Supreme Grade Blade Yoru on his back, his gaze sharp as a hawk's: Dracule Mihawk, acclaimed as the World's Greatest Swordsman.
Together, they instantly drew every eye in the harbor.
Beautiful mermaids hid behind clusters of coral, stealing frightened yet curious glances and whispering about the two powerful humans.
The burly fish-man warriors looked on with reverence. Their gazes toward Gern, in particular, were filled with gratitude and admiration.
His flag had indeed brought Fish-Man Island a rare measure of peace.
But the pirates mingling in the crowds, trying to conceal their identities, were scared out of their wits. Cold sweat instantly soaked their backs.
"M-Marine Admiral White Kirin?! What's he doing here?!"
"And Hawk-Eye Mihawk! Why are those two here together?!"
"Q-quick, keep your head down! Don't let them notice us!"
"Damn it, weren't we told it was just his flag here? Why is that monster