"The night sky of this world… is deeper than the one I left behind."
"The stars shine brighter, too."
Yuichi Tsugakuko's thoughts loitered on the night sky, unaware that Zephyr was far from resting. Tonight, he had an important meeting—one that concerned both him and Yuichi.
In the Marshal's office, Kong Ganggu sat behind his desk, surrounded by stacks of information. Vice Admiral Tsuru and Admiral Sengoku stood on either side, leafing through the documents with careful attention.
A sudden knock knock knock echoed through the office.
"Come in!" Ganggu's voice boomed.
The door opened, and Zephyr entered, cloaked in the aura of justice. He closed the door behind him, strode to Ganggu's desk, and asked solemnly,
"How is the investigation progressing? Any issues?"
Ganggu didn't answer immediately. He kept his eyes on the documents, flipping through them carefully. Zephyr's pupils narrowed at the sight, preparing to press further—until Crane raised a hand, stopping him.
"Sit. Let's not rush," Crane advised.
"From what we've seen, there are some questions—but nothing alarming," Crane continued.
Zephyr moved to the sofa, sitting down. "What questions?" he asked, voice low and measured.
Sengoku spoke before Crane could reply:
"Tsugakuni Yoriichi… his real age is likely 12 years old. According to survivors from Longyin Island rescued by Garp, Yoriichi has indeed lived there."
"His parents arrived on the island twenty years ago, but their origins cannot be verified. His father died when he was two, and his mother passed when he was eight. He grew up with neighbors' help, disappeared two years ago, and only recently reappeared with Garp, wiping out pirates."
Zephyr frowned, listening carefully.
"Then where is the doubt?" Zephyr finally asked, his tone tinged with irritation.
"His life path seems clear," Zephyr continued. "He disappeared, likely got lost in the forest, maybe faced large beasts… then Garp found his cave. His sword is a family heirloom, his skill stemming from both talent and parental guidance. Why the doubts?"
Zephyr's words defended Yoriichi. He had grown fond of this child—impressed by the maturity the boy had displayed earlier that day.
Crane nodded understandingly. "Four years ago, Sengoku adopted a child named Rocinante, unaware he was actually a Celestial Dragon from the Donquixote family. That news was suppressed, known only to the office and Garp. Likewise, Yoriichi's background may hold mysteries—but Zephyr has already treated him like family."
Zephyr snorted, arms crossed. "Speak, then."
"The concern lies in his weapon," Zhan Guo explained. "And Garp mentioned he awakened Conqueror's Haki."
Zephyr's expression tensed.
"The sword Yoriichi wields is high-quality—though not one of the supreme blades. The skill to forge such a weapon is rare. His aura… it is bossy, kingly. If I said it had no origin, would you believe me?"
Zephyr shook his head. "I despise this reasoning. Yoriichi is Yoriichi. His origin is irrelevant. He grew up in the East China Sea, lived an honest life, and shows immense talent despite early tragedy. Are you calling that a flaw? Suspicion is nonsense."
At this, Zephyr rose, his mind made up. He had all the facts he needed.
As he reached the door, Kong Ganggu spoke:
"You're right. He's just a child who lost his parents early. But because he's young, he must be guided carefully. He will not leave Marineford for at least five years. No secrets of the Navy—intelligence, supremacy techniques, or Six Styles—are to be revealed. He must first build a foundation, train physically, and learn necessary knowledge."
Zephyr stopped, smirked, and snorted: "I know that without your lecture."
Bang! The office door slammed as Zephyr left.
Zhan Guo threw down his documents. "Nothing more for me here. I'll return to Rocinante—he's waiting."
After both departed, Kong looked to Crane. "Your thoughts?"
"It's a clear background. The child is a blank slate. Zephyr will guide him well. Zephyr is reliable—though Garp…" Crane rubbed his forehead, thinking of the unpredictable Dragon. A sense of foreboding lingered.
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(End of Chapter )