While Carl and Marco were away securing supplies, the Straw Hat and Whitebeard crews took the opportunity to deepen their camaraderie. Swordsmen like Zoro and Tashigi engaged in spirited spars with the Whitebeard commanders, while other crew members sought out veterans to gain insights into the New World. Usopp spent his time gathering stories about his father, Yasopp, from those who had encountered the Red-Haired Pirates, while Nami busied herself exchanging navigational techniques with the Whitebeard crew's experts. Sanji was in his element, bonding with the other chefs who were fascinated by his culinary skills and his experience at the Baratie.
Meanwhile, Marie remained settled on her mat, sipping tea and eating biscuits with her usual retired demeanor. Curiosity drew Whitebeard to her side. After Marie calmly poured him a cup of tea—which appeared tiny in the hands of the massive pirate—Whitebeard smiled and asked if the rumors were true: had she really helped defeat an Admiral candidate and a Sweet General of the Big Mom Pirates? Marie modestly claimed they had simply let her go because she was small. Whitebeard laughed, having heard from Usopp that she had displayed remarkable powers, even manipulating reality to use the effects of his own Gura Gura no Mi.
When Marie addressed him as "Grandpa," Whitebeard was visibly moved. Having spent his life being called "Father" by his subordinates, the term "Grandpa" softened his heart, and he insisted she say it again. He was so delighted that he asked her to become his granddaughter, dancing with joy while his crew gathered around in shock. The Whitebeard commanders debated the implications, wondering if they were about to become "uncles". Whitebeard, ignoring their chatter, kicked several of them aside—including Ace—to ensure no one bothered his prospective granddaughter.
Luffy, Usopp, and Chopper joined the circle, curious about the development. Luffy, picking his nose, remarked that while Whitebeard had no grandchildren, his own grandfather, Garp, had four: Luffy, Sabo, Ace, and Carl. Whitebeard felt a pang of irritation realizing that Garp was "one generation ahead" of him. Determined to have his way, Whitebeard tried to coax Marie, promising her protection and a endless supply of "uncles" she could call upon for money or assistance whenever she needed.
To the surprise of everyone, Marie simply nibbled her biscuit and stated that she was "not very interested". The Whitebeard crew collapsed in disbelief at her nonchalance. When Whitebeard asked what she was interested in, she replied, "Draw pictures, drink tea, and eat biscuits". Whitebeard immediately commanded his crew to bring her every famous painting, fine tea, and biscuit available on their ships, throwing the entire island into a chaotic frenzy of activity. When Carl and Marco returned, they found the island in a state of total disarray, mistaking the commotion for an attack by the Marines. Luffy greeted them with a grin, explaining that Whitebeard had decided he wanted Marie to be his granddaughter..
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