Enveloped by Sakazuki's shadow, Robin felt the relief she had just found give way to uncontrollable fear. Her mind went blank.
Beside her, Rolka supported Robin and said with a smile:
"Sorry, Marine sir."
"She's just feeling a little unwell. She's been like this since she was little."
"It's an old condition."
As soon as he finished, Robin played along, her face pale as she "collapsed" against him.
Sakazuki looked at Robin slumped against Rolka.
"Oh?"
"Is that so?"
He stared at the two of them for a few seconds, then turned and left without another word.
After walking a short distance, he said to Bullet:
"Follow them."
Bullet grinned savagely, then turned and left.
Meanwhile, after supporting Robin through several twisting turns, Rolka shoved the bundle on his back into her arms.
"Hurry up and hide."
"I'll lead them away."
Robin jolted in alarm.
"Mr. Rolka-"
But Rolka had already vanished. Robin sank to the ground, at a loss for what to do.
Boom-
An explosion in the distance snapped her out of it.
Forcing her body to move, she slipped into the crowd and concealed herself as she ran toward the fighting.
At the entrance to Rain Dinners in Rainbase.
Bright red flowers adorned the entrance, and countless residents gathered around.
Crocodile wore a respectful expression, his underlings lined up on either side behind him to welcome Sakazuki.
Sakazuki glanced at the deferential Crocodile.
"Quite the grand reception."
Crocodile said with a smile:
"Only fitting. It's all to welcome Admiral Akainu."
Sakazuki chuckled.
"Is that so?"
As he spoke, he raised his right hand and tightened his glove.
Smack-
Boom!
A red blur flashed past. Crocodile, who had been smiling just a moment earlier, was slapped into the ground by Sakazuki, leaving a large crater.
Crocodile lay