Morning came with the usual racket. Baby Dragon was snoring like a dying sea king, and I was wide awake as usual, plotting my future pirate life.
That's when I heard a new voice.
"Oi, Garp, these brats are yours?"
I peeked through the bars of our crib. Standing by the doorway was a tall, broad-shouldered man with short, dark hair, dressed in a Marine recruit's uniform. No beard — thankfully — just a cocky grin like he owned the place.
I recognized him instantly.
Sengoku.
Future Fleet Admiral, but right now? Just a 24-year-old rookie hanging around Garp like some overeager puppy.
Garp came in from the kitchen, carrying a plate of steamed buns.
"GWAHAHAHA! Yeah, meet Dragon and Iron. Little monsters, both of 'em."
Sengoku stepped closer, peering down at us.
He pointed a finger at Dragon, who immediately sneezed in his sleep.
Then at me.
I met his gaze with my best baby glare.
"Huh. This one's got fire in his eyes," Sengoku muttered. "You sure they're not half-animal, Garp?"
I clenched my tiny fist. If only I wasn't a baby right now…
"GWAHAHAHA! That's my boy, Monkey D. Iron! Tried to crawl out the window last night."
Sengoku snorted. "Kid's got guts."
If only he knew. One day, I'd be a pirate with the power of the moon itself. My strength growing with each phase. From a powerless weakling at new moon… to an unstoppable force under the full moon's glow.
I sensed it even now — the moon was in a waning phase. My power low, but not gone.
Patience, Iron. Patience.
Sengoku leaned in a little too close for my liking.
"Bet this one's trouble. You watch him, old man."
You better watch yourself too, Sengoku. Someday I'll make a name bigger than yours.
He turned away, stretching.
"Well, I'm heading back. Don't let these brats wreck the place."
Garp laughed as Sengoku left.
"GWAHAHAHA! Like I could stop 'em!"
He dropped a bottle of milk into my hands.
"Drink up, ya tiny menace."
I stared at the bottle. Then at Garp.
One day, old man. One day.
For now… I drank the milk. Gotta grow big, after all.