New Shining Star |『 Male Reader 』• One Piece

Cover Story 2: The Future of the Marines - Part 3

Usagi, her excitement practically radiating, stepped forward after confirming it was Koby. Her wide grin showed no signs of fading. "I've heard so much about you!" she exclaimed, practically bouncing on her feet. "The Hero of the Rocky Port! The way you saved everyone there! I-it's incredible!" she said.

Hearing this, Koby scratched the back of his head, a sheepish smile crossing his face. "Ah, Rocky Port..." he murmured, his voice humble. "I only did my duty to intervene. Nothing more," he said, but Usagi still beamed at it.

"But still!" Usagi said, her enthusiasm unwavering. "You stepped up when it mattered, right? That's the kind of thing I want to do!" she said, her eyes gleamed with admiration as she spoke. Koby chuckled softly, his demeanour modest but warm.

"I'm glad to hear that, Hono-san," he said. "But what about you? You're here at G-88 now. That's a big step," he said. Usagi tilted her head, curiosity sparking in her expression. "You know who I am?" she asked, making Koby nod.

Then, Usagi tilted her head. "Speaking of which... why are you here, Koby?" she asked. At this, Koby's smile turned a bit wry. "Garp-san wanted me to come to G-88 to meet Masaru-san," he explained.

Hearing her father's name, Usagi blinked in surprise. "To meet my father?" she asked, making Koby nod. "That's right. I introduced myself to him earlier, but he told me I should go meet you since you would be arriving today," he revealed.

"He thought I would be a good guide to show you around a bit," Koby added with a chuckle. "Ah! That's great! Alright, let's go!" Usagi declared, her energy as bright as ever. Koby chuckled again, nodding as the two began to explore the base.

Then, as Koby led her through the base, Usagi took in the sights around her with wide-eyed wonder. She saw marines of all ranks moving about with purpose, sparring in smaller training grounds and manning various posts. The buzz of activity was infectious, filling the air with a sense of camaraderie and discipline.

"This place is amazing," Usagi murmured as they passed a massive obstacle course, where young recruits leapt over towering walls and dashed through narrow corridors. "It's not just the facilities," Koby said, gesturing around them.

"Everyone here works hard to push themselves past their limits. Masaru-san makes sure of that. At least based on what Garp-san said," he said. Usagi nodded, a spark of determination lighting in her eyes. "Yep! That's sound like dad," she confirmed. "I'll do the same," Usagi said quietly, clenching her fists.

*Clang*

*Clash*

After a while, the pair reached the main training grounds, where dozens of marines were locked in fierce combat drills. The clang of swords and the crackle of haki-infused strikes echoed through the air.

Usagi's gaze swept across the scene, her awe growing with every moment. "Where's my father, though?" she asked, turning to Koby. "He mentioned being at another training ground," Koby replied. "It's a bit farther out, but he usually trains there. I think that's where we need to go," he said.