The waters of the East Blue were far calmer than those of the Grand Line.
Lorne stood at the bow, both hands resting on the railing. Looking out across the sea, he could already see the familiar Nameless Island.
The island was small, but it held the person who mattered most to him since his rebirth.
Ethan stood behind him, a roster in hand, his voice ringing out.
"All hands, prepare to dock and welcome Ms. Masha, former major of Marine Headquarters!"
The marines on deck straightened in unison, their leather boots striking the deck with a synchronized sound.
The Scarred Veteran personally inspected the honor guard's posture, even checking whether their epaulettes were crooked.
"Stand straight, all of you! This isn't an ordinary mission today. The rear admiral is bringing his mother home!"
The marines wore solemn expressions, but they could not hide the excitement in their eyes.
They had fought their way back from Sin Island alongside Lorne. They had seen this young rear admiral crush a member of the Shichibukai while drenched in blood, and they had seen him stay behind alone to hold off the Heavenly Yaksha for the sake of civilians.
Now they were about to meet the woman who had raised such a monster.
Ethan strode up beside Lorne and said earnestly, "Rear Admiral, the salute cannons are ready. The medical team, attendants, and galley are all standing by. Once Major Masha boards, she'll move straight into an upper-deck officer's cabin."
Lorne glanced back at him and smiled. "Don't make it too overwhelming. My mom isn't in good health. Don't frighten her with the cannons."
Ethan nodded at once, then turned and bellowed, "Halve the salute and keep the noise down! Anyone who frightens Major Masha can expect to be thrown into the sea