East Blue, Shimotsuki Village, Isshin Dojo.
Koshiro held a newspaper in his hand, with a brand-new wanted poster lying on the tatami beside him.
The photograph on it was none other than Zoro's.
He walked outside as he read the newspaper. Watching the children training in the courtyard, he was suddenly flooded with memories:
That day, a little boy with green hair had come to Isshin Dojo and immediately challenged them.
Zoro: "Anyone here? Anyone here? I've come to challenge your dojo! Send out someone strong and fight me!"
Koshiro: "Oh, a dojo challenge? We don't get many of those these days. I'll accept, then."
Zoro: "If I win, I'm taking your signboard."
Koshiro: "And if you lose?"
Zoro: "If I lose... if I lose, I'll become your student."
Koshiro: "Hahaha! Then it's settled."
"Teacher, please give me that sword. I'll grow stronger for her sake, too!!"
"Ha! Ha!" The children's synchronized shouts brought Koshiro back to reality.
"Ah..."
He sighed softly. He hadn't expected time to pass so quickly. Zoro had gone from a child who was always getting lost to a pirate renowned throughout the world.
Whether Zoro became a pirate or a Marine, he would support him as long as he stayed true to himself.
East Blue, Foosha Village.
"Let's drink to Lott!"
"Our East Blue has produced someone incredible!"
"Let's see who still dares to call the East Blue the weakest sea!"
"Exactly! Someone amazing came from our East Blue!"
"Quiet, the mayor's here."
At that, everyone turned to look at the old man in the doorway.
Surprisingly, however, he didn't scold them this time. Instead, he quietly found a seat, picked up the drink on the table, and took a couple of sips.
Everyone couldn't help wondering: had the old man changed his ways?