Lorne looked at the gray at his mother's temples, and his gaze softened in a rare display.
"Don't worry, Mom."
"On these seas, the person who can hurt me hasn't been born yet."
Lorne said.
"Always bragging."
Masha gave him a light swat.
"Go on. I know you still have official business to handle."
"Kuina will stay here for dinner. I'll make her something nice."
"All right. Kuina, rest for today. Report to the Training Ground at six sharp tomorrow morning."
Lorne told Kuina.
"Yes, sir!"
Kuina immediately stood at attention and answered.
Lorne turned and walked out of the Small Western-Style House. The softness on his face vanished instantly, replaced by cold severity.
Ethan was already waiting outside, his expression somewhat grave.
"Rear Admiral, Fleet Admiral Sengoku sent word that you're to report to his office as soon as you return."
Ethan said quietly.
"What's the old man in such a hurry for?"
Lorne snorted.
"Let's go see what he has to say."
The two walked side by side toward the Marine Headquarters building.
The Marine Officers they passed looked at Lorne with a hint of wariness and awe.
After all, an eighteen-year-old Marine rear admiral was unprecedented in the entire history of the Marines.
They passed through the spacious corridors and reached the door to the Fleet Admiral's Office on the top floor.
The two guards immediately stood at attention and saluted when they saw Lorne approaching.
"Rear Admiral Lorne!"
Lorne was just about to push the door open when he heard an extremely noisy argument coming from inside.
"Garp!"
"You bastard!"
"You stole my Senbei again!"
Sengoku's furious roar carried through the thick wooden doors.
"Hahaha, Sengoku, don't be so stingy! It's just a few Senbei. At worst, I'll have Lorne bring you some local specialties from