A few days later, the returning warship slowly sailed into Marineford's harbor.
Gern stood on deck, Black Blade: Eight Desolations still wrapped in White Bandage and hanging quietly at his waist.
His calm gaze rested on Marine Headquarters as it drew ever closer.
Countless Marines had already gathered at Marineford's harbor, all turning their eyes toward Gern's warship.
Quiet murmurs and exclamations rippled through the crowd, curiosity shining in every pair of eyes.
After all, in this age of legends, the man who had gravely wounded Golden Lion with a single slash now stood before them.
"Anyone who recognizes your sword will recognize it, and anyone who doesn't won't. Why keep it wrapped in bandages?" Zephyr frowned at Black Blade: Eight Desolations on Gern's waist.
"Instructor Zephyr, you don't understand." Gern glanced sideways at him and said slowly, his expression solemn,
"Because... it looks cool!"
Zephyr: "..."
As the warship eased alongside the dock, Gern descended the gangway with steady steps and a composed expression, silently maintaining his image and paying no heed to those burning gazes.
Yet the moment he stepped onto the harbor pavement, a tall figure suddenly rushed out of the crowd and blocked his path.
"Are you 'Heavenquake' Gern?" a clear female voice asked. Gern looked up to find a young female Marine staring intently at him.
She had black hair and a tall figure, wore shorts, and carried a slender sword at her waist.
Several young officers followed behind her, with Onigumo, Momonga, and the others gathering around as well.
Gern gave a slight nod. "That's me."
"I'm Gion, a sergeant under Commodore Tsuru," Gion introduced herself, a hint of fervor in her voice.
"Lieutenant Gern, I heard you gravely wounded Golden Lion with one slash. Is that true?"
Before Gern could answer, Onigumo could