"Shimotsuki Village?"
Ethan looked at Lorne, who had given the order, his face full of confusion.
"Rear Admiral, that's just an ordinary village. Why are we going there?"
Lorne adjusted the Justice Cloak draped over his shoulders and turned toward the azure sea.
"There are plenty of things on the seas that aren't in Headquarters' records, Ethan."
Ethan took a nautical chart of the East Blue from inside his coat and carefully checked it with his finger.
"According to Headquarters' records, Shimotsuki Village has no pirate presence. It hasn't even had a notable wanted criminal."
"If we're reorganizing the Independent Suppression Force, heading to Loguetown or returning straight to the Grand Line would both be better choices."
Lorne patted Ethan on the shoulder, a meaningful smile appearing on his face.
"We're not going to catch pirates. We're just visiting a friend and taking care of some personal business along the way."
Ethan's expression grew solemn.
"If it's your personal business, Rear Admiral, I'll arrange for the warship to dock immediately."
"Wait."
Lorne stopped him.
"Keep the warship offshore. Don't approach Shimotsuki Village's harbor."
Ethan looked somewhat surprised.
"Rear Admiral, this is a large Headquarters warship. If we stay offshore, you'll have to take a small boat to the island."
"Then prepare a small boat."
Lorne's tone was calm.
"We're Marines. We're not here to frighten civilians."
"If we sail a warship this big over there, the villagers will think a war has broken out."
After hearing this, Ethan immediately stood at attention and saluted.
"Yes, sir! Understood. I'll arrange it right away!"
Before long, an unremarkable little wooden boat was slowly lowered from the massive warship's side.
Lorne wasn't wearing his heavy armor, only a loose black training outfit with the conspicuous Justice Cloak over it.
Ethan and two elite