Under a monopoly on transportation, the profits from trade could be astonishing.
The Grand Line was isolated by the Calm Belt. For the Four Seas to enter it, aside from risking everything by climbing Reverse Mountain, the only option was the special channels that lifted ships up and lowered them down.
Meanwhile, the Grand Line's climate was chaotic. Islands often had only one season all year round. The differences in climate created massive price gaps between islands, while in the Four Seas, where the weather was stable, prices were mostly consistent.
So…
This was a business.
But clearly, the uniqueness of the Grand Line meant the World Government had blocked this path.
Rem immediately stepped back. "Your guts are getting bigger, Rowan."
Rowan shook his head slightly. "What if I can guarantee that you master Haki? In this world, only strength gives you the right to speak. When I went to Loguetown, I met the monster genius from the Headquarters elite class six years ago. Now he is already a Vice Admiral, Rem. That kind of promotion speed… is too fast."
Rem frowned and said nothing.
That "monster" from six years ago was Kuzan. Six years later, he had already become one of the candidates for Admiral.
Admiral…
The highest combat power of the Marines.
Rowan did not rush him. He simply smiled, patted Rem's shoulder, and walked toward the bow.
Mastering Haki depended on willpower, but using it required physical strength. Rem already met the physical requirements. The reason he could not awaken Haki was simply because his spirit was not strong enough.
His long-term duty guarding the special passage had made his heart too calm.
And because of that, he would never make it to Headquarters.
…
The death of the Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, began to show its impact on the world.
In the West Blue alone, the number of pirates attempting to pass through Rasgap Town into the Grand Line had increased more than fourfold.
Marine branches across the West Blue became busy. The 80th Branch was constantly deployed for support. Countless pirates were captured the moment they raised their flags.
On Dragon's side, one thousand tri-pronged kunai had been forged.
After Rowan used the Flying Thunder God Technique to place spatial markers, those thousand kunai were distributed across many parts of the world.
From that day onward, besides Rowan, the executioner in Rasgap Town who tirelessly hunted pirates…
A masked figure calling himself "Spark" began appearing in poor nations across the Grand Line and the Four Seas.
…
Half a year later.
South Blue, Sorbet Kingdom, southern town church.
"Let's get married, Kuma."
"Huh? No, I cannot."
"Why not, you idiot? You clearly love me, don't you? I will make you happy."
"I know…"
Kuma's eyes showed a trace of longing, but memories quickly brought him back to reality.
He picked up a newspaper, trying to change the subject.
At that moment, a voice sounded.
"Well, well, well. What did I just hear? Ginny, are you proposing to Kuma?"
Both Kuma and Ginny froze.
A figure walked in from outside the church.
Kuma smiled and reached out to pat Rowan's head, only for Rowan to dodge.
"I am not a kid anymore, Uncle Kuma."
After a brief hug, Rowan continued, "What a coincidence. Does that mean I can attend your wedding?"
Kuma looked awkward. "Don't say that, Rowan. I…"
Ginny quickly changed the topic. "You brat, calling me by name? I am four years older than Kuma. Shouldn't you call me Aunt Ginny?"
Rowan shook his head firmly. "Uncle Kuma saved me. You just tagged along for free food."
"Ah, you little brat."
Ginny kicked at him, but Rowan easily dodged.
With a quick turn, he tripped her, sending her into Kuma's arms.
Rowan raised a finger. "I told you, I am not a kid anymore. You cannot beat me now, Ginny."
Furious, Ginny pointed at him. "You brat. I bought your baby formula by collecting scrap, and now you bully me? Kuma, help me beat him."
Kuma, watching the two argue and fight, could only sigh. Since Rowan turned six, this had been their daily routine.
Even though Rowan had started helping out at five, it never stopped their constant bickering.
"Hahaha. Looks like you all are doing well."
A loud laugh echoed as Ivankov and Dragon arrived at the church.
Kuma and Ginny were both surprised.
"Big brother?"
"Iva, who is that beside you?"
Ginny was shocked by Ivankov's appearance, while Kuma, who had been paying attention to the Freedom Fighters, was even more shocked by Dragon.
Rowan, no longer low-key like in Rasgap Town, stepped forward proudly.
"This is the important figure I brought. The leader of the Revolutionary Army, Monkey D. Dragon. The Freedom Fighters you have been following are now the foundation of the Revolutionary Army."
Dragon nodded and stepped forward, extending his hand.
"Half a year ago, the Freedom Fighters officially became the Revolutionary Army. I have been searching for like-minded companions. Ivankov and Rowan both recommended you… all."
Kuma quickly shook his hand. "I have always wanted to help others, but my strength is still weak."
Ivankov immediately said, "The Paw-Paw Fruit is not weak at all, Kuma. We want to change this world. Join us."
It was a simple invitation.
No grand speech.
But Kuma, who had long understood the Freedom Fighters, immediately grasped Dragon's hand.
At that moment, Ginny nudged Rowan. "Tell me honestly. Was I just an extra in what he said?"
Though her voice was low, Dragon clearly heard it.
He quickly responded, "I apologize for that. Before coming here, Ivankov told me you are highly skilled with communication Den Den Mushi and are also a strong fighter."
"The Revolutionary Army needs all like-minded companions. To change this world, my strength alone is not enough. I need your help."