Among the Six Powers of the Marines, the training method for Soru had been explained in Rowan's memories of the original story.
In an extremely short time, one had to step on the ground dozens of times in succession, using that force to propel the body forward at high speed.
It sounded ridiculous.
But in this world, it worked.
Once the body reached the required level, what was needed next was the mental control to precisely direct that power, allowing the legs to step on air itself.
At this moment, Rowan, who had leaped from the warship, easily avoided all incoming cannon fire and moved straight toward the deck of the pirate ship.
"The Marines are here!"
"Damn it, he is flying. Shoot!"
"Kill that Marine. That is Rowan, the executioner. He is back from Loguetown!"
"The one who executed Roger. If we kill him, we will become famous in the Grand Line!"
"Bang bang bang…"
Countless bullets were fired.
But Rowan, already landing on the deck, seemed to sense every trajectory, dodging each shot with minimal movement.
"People like you… even if you reach the Grand Line, you will only end up as fish food."
Before he finished speaking, Rowan grabbed a pirate by the head and casually threw him into the crowd.
Then came the slaughter.
Like a tiger entering a flock of sheep.
The difference in physical ability was overwhelming.
Observation Haki allowed him to sense every incoming attack, while each of his strikes left enemies unable to stand.
Soon, the entire deck was cleared.
Only the captain remained, collapsing to the ground, his legs trembling.
He had never imagined what kind of enemies awaited him at sea.
He only thought that setting sail meant chasing the treasure left behind by the Pirate King, wealth beyond imagination.
Reality was far harsher.
Growing up in a weak town, bullying others had made him believe that having a gun, a ship, and a crew made him a captain.
Out at sea, killing and plundering felt like freedom.
"Slash."
Blood splattered.
A rookie pirate, who had dreamed of freedom just an hour ago, was beheaded in an instant.
Half an hour later, all five pirate ships were wiped out.
Rowan returned to the warship, covered in blood.
The way everyone looked at him had changed.
Walking in the air with Geppo, destroying cannonballs barehanded with Armament Haki, and single-handedly clearing five pirate ships.
Those who had thought his fame came only from executing Roger now understood.
This was another monster-level force, destined for Marine Headquarters.
Perhaps even…
No.
They stopped that thought.
Admirals were on an entirely different level.
…
"Rowan, you have become this strong already."
"That was Haki just now, right?"
"Destroying cannonballs without injury… you are a monster now."
These were his longtime comrades.
After returning from crossing the Red Line, they were still equals in rank, so there was no real hierarchy.
Rowan smiled and pulled a logistics soldier closer, speaking in a low voice.
"Send our people over. Same rule as always. Do not let others loot everything and hand it in."
"Got it."
The soldier grinned and hurried off.
After a while, an officer approached.
"You are still the same. We are almost back at Rasgap. With Colonel Lomi around, who would dare take your spoils?"
Rowan glanced at him. "Just a habit. You know I have my own interests."
Rem teased, "You are already a regular at Rasgap's dance halls. After going to Loguetown in the East Blue, did you experience something different?"
"Clap."
Rowan laughed. "Oh, it is definitely different. You should try it sometime. East Blue and West Blue are completely different."
He slung an arm over Rem's shoulder and leaned in, ignoring the smell of blood.
"The West Blue has that urban lady style. Lace everywhere. But over there… they have dudou."
Rem tried to elbow him away but failed. "You got stronger after just one trip. Now you even know Geppo and Haki."
"Rowan."
"What? Want me to explain the beauties of the East Blue in detail?"
"Get lost. I do not understand how you got stronger without even training. That kind of talent is just unfair."
After sighing, Rem asked, "That ability to dodge bullets… that is not Paper Arts, right? Observation Haki?"
Rowan nodded helplessly. "Since you noticed, I might as well say it. Not just Armament. I have Observation too."
Now Rem was truly jealous.
As an officer stationed at the Red Line passage, he knew far more than ordinary Marines.
Compared to Iron Body or Paper Arts, Haki was the true foundation of strength in the Grand Line.
Without Armament Haki, one could not harm Logia users.
Without Observation Haki, one could not sense incoming attacks.
After a moment, Rem nudged Rowan. "Any tricks? Teach me."
Rowan did not respond, just smiled.
Rem immediately understood.
"As long as I can learn it, I will give you three years of salary."
Rowan shook his head.
"Five years. That is nearly eighty million Beli. And if I learn Haki, I will definitely get promoted. That is over a hundred million."
Rowan chuckled. "You always said you had no connections. How are you so sure you will get promoted?"
Then he glanced around.
Most people were looting pirate ships, while others were restoring the warship.
"This trip to the East Blue gave me more than just Haki. In Loguetown, I met a middleman from the Grand Line."
Rowan winked. "You know how it is. Once supplies are shipped over, they always sell."