"I need someone by my side—a young person who is clever, capable, and has enough potential to be worth the effort of polishing—to be my direct adjutant, handle some affairs, and simultaneously undergo more systematic, high-intensity learning." Tsuru's gaze was like a physical substance enveloping Seraphilia. "Are you willing to follow me to Marineford?"
Marineford.
Marine Headquarters.
The center of the world, a place where the strong gather, and the place closest to the 'Gods' who set the rules.
The massive shock left Seraphilia's brain blank, her ears buzzing.
She knew this was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, a high-speed train toward her goal of 'gripping the hilt.'
Following the 'great staff officer' Tsuru meant the top-tier teaching, the fastest promotion channel, a broader vision, and... a powerful protective talisman that could deter countless lowlifes.
But at the same time, it also meant leaving the West Blue, leaving Black Iron Town, and leaving... Robin.
Separation.
This word, which she had been subconsciously avoiding but knew would eventually come, was now placed so clearly before her, with a cold and hard texture.
Countless thoughts spun in her mind: What about Robin? How would she survive alone in this peril-filled West Blue? After she left, who would bring her food and books? Who would use clouds to turn into little rabbits to make her laugh when she woke up from Ohara nightmares? Who... could protect her?
However, another voice was equally clear and cold: If she stayed in Black Iron Town and followed the routine, she might become an excellent Marine Lieutenant, but how long would it take to gain enough power to truly protect Robin or even change certain rules? Five years? Ten years? Or even longer? The World Government's pursuit net would only get tighter; could Robin survive on the run for that long?
But, in the original plot... Robin fled alone...
Following Tsuru to Headquarters, though a temporary separation, was the fastest path to becoming stronger.
Only by being strong enough and standing high enough could she, in the future, hold up a true sky for Robin that was not threatened by anyone.
Short-term separation was for eternal togetherness.
She understood this logic and fully agreed with it rationally.
But emotionally... those heavy two years, the temperature of their nightly embraces, the attachment of their connected hemlines, had long been etched into her marrow. To tear them away now caused a sharp pain that almost suffocated her.
Tsuru waited quietly without rushing. She had read countless people and could see the intense struggle in the young girl's eyes.
In that struggle was a thirst for opportunity, and even more so, a heavy concern far beyond her age.
It reminded her of some old friends.
After a long time, Seraphilia took a deep breath and then slowly exhaled.
All the struggle, pain, and reluctance were forcibly suppressed into the deepest part of her eyes, replaced by the determination and resoluteness belonging to a Marine private first class.
She stood up abruptly; because the movement was too sudden, the chair made a harsh scraping sound on the floor.
She stood at attention again and gave Tsuru the most standard and powerful military salute. Her voice trembled slightly from extreme restraint, yet it was crystal clear:
------------------------
I've posted 70+ chapters in advance on Patreon.
Webnovel updates will still be daily, as usual.
It might not seem tempting right now but who knows what the future holds?
[email protected]/SolyuraMT
"And If you're enjoying it, drop a Power Stone for me!"