Sabaody, Shakky's Rip-Off Bar.
Behind the counter, Shakky rested her chin on one hand, studying with keen interest the pink-haired beauty who had just walked in.
If she wasn't mistaken, the cloak draped over the woman's shoulders looked like standard Marine issue.
Judging from the conversation among the group, this Marine beauty also seemed to be one of Leno's romantic interests!
Her gaze drifted to Leno, who was surrounded by beauties, a hint of admiration flashing in her eyes.
This kid really had some impressive skills—his reach even extended into the Marines!
If those big shots up top found out, who knew what kind of uproar it would cause.
And judging by the rank insignia, this beauty didn't seem low-ranking at all!
"Yo~ already a Rear Admiral, huh? Pretty capable, Hina!"
Just as Shakky was still marveling, Leno's teasing voice rang out at the perfect moment.
Hina, who was being surrounded by several sisters, rolled her eyes unhappily when she heard him. Facing everyone's curious looks, she spoke helplessly:
"Isn't that because I benefited from you? The Alabasta incident last time caused way too much impact!"
"To cover up the truth and save face, the higher-ups pinned the credit on me. That's how my rank got promoted."
After saying that, Hina didn't forget to look apologetically toward the princess of Alabasta.
"I'm sorry, Vivi. If we'd discovered the situation earlier, your country wouldn't have suffered so much."
"Hina, it's already in the past. Besides, that wasn't your responsibility at all." Vivi smiled brightly, then glanced around.
"And thanks to that incident, I was able to meet all of you, wasn't I?"
"Vivi~"
Nami couldn't help but wrap an arm around her shoulders, a touch of tenderness appearing in her eyes.
This princess was always so understanding—sometimes to the point of making people's hearts ache.
Seeing the atmosphere grow a little heavy because of herself, Hina quickly changed the topic. She looked at Leno and asked softly:
"After this, you're heading to the New World, right?"
"Yeah. From then on, seeing you will be pretty difficult."
Leno felt a bit helpless inside. He wanted to persuade her somehow, but didn't know what to say.
Hina had her own dreams and convictions. He had no right to make her give up her current life.
Meanwhile, Nami, Uta, and the others beside her looked a little gloomy after hearing Leno's words.
Even though they hadn't spent that long together, they really liked this Marine big sister. Being with her felt comfortable.
Thinking about how hard it would be to meet again in the future, several of them couldn't help wanting to persuade her:
"Hina…"
"Alright, don't worry too much. Once my rank goes up a bit more, Hina might head to the New World too, you know!"
Knowing what the sisters were about to say, Hina interrupted them, not wanting to let them down.
In truth, she felt the same way. Once her strength improved, she would go to the New World as well!
For no other reason than that the pirates there were simply far too rampant.
Seeing how firm Hina's attitude was, the sisters couldn't bring themselves to say more. The reluctance in their eyes only grew stronger.
After that, everyone held a banquet at Shakky's bar, the lively atmosphere dispelling much of the sorrow of parting.
When the banquet ended, the girls tacitly left the time to Hina.
Before leaving, Nami and the others didn't forget to throw Leno a few glares, telling him to properly keep Hina company.
Once everyone had left, Leno stepped forward, took Hina's soft hand, and said with a lecherous grin:
"Well, Hina… it's getting late. How about we go rest too…"
"…Mm~"
... (a short chapter)