13 Lieutenant Adrian

"Listen up! With the situation in the East Blue stabilizing, it's time we focus on the bigger threats. Intelligence reports suggest increased activities in the Grand Line that could threaten peace across the seas. We're being redeployed to address these emerging threats directly," Garp announced, his gaze sweeping over his troops, instilling a sense of urgency.

Adrian listened intently, absorbing every detail. His mind raced with the implications of moving into more dangerous waters. The Grand Line was notorious, known as the graveyard of ships and dreams, yet it was also the place where legends were born.

As the meeting concluded, Garp pulled Adrian aside. "Adrian, you've shown excellent progress. I want you to lead one of the reconnaissance teams. It's a risky job, but your unique skills make you the perfect candidate for this."

Adrian felt a surge of pride mixed with apprehension. "Thank you, sir. I won't let you down."

Garp clapped him on the back, his look serious but encouraging. "I know you won't. Just keep your wits about you. The Grand Line is unlike anything you've experienced before."

With his new orders in hand, Adrian prepared for the journey ahead. He thought about the Straw Hats, wondering how their paths might cross in the future now that he was heading into the heart of the pirate world. His role could change the course of events in ways he hadn't imagined when he first arrived in this world.

As Adrian and the Marines began their preparations to set sail for the Grand Line, the base buzzed with activity. Ships were being outfitted, supplies loaded, and strategies discussed. Adrian took a moment to look out over the sea, the horizon wide and daunting.

"This is it," Adrian thought to himself. "A new chapter, not just for me, but perhaps for the whole world. Time to see what the Grand Line has in store for Adrian the Marine."

As Adrian and Garp strolled through the bustling corridors of the G-8 Marine Base, their steps echoed against the stern, imposing architecture of the facility. Nezumi, now a disgraced former captain, languished in a cell not far from their path, a constant reminder of the corruption Adrian had helped uncover.

Adrian had planned to discuss his future with Garp, mulling over his role and responsibilities with his newly gained powers and position. However, before he could broach the subject, Garp, with his usual straightforwardness, cut to the chase.

"Adrian, it's only been three months since you've joined us, but I've been watching your progress closely," Garp began, his voice serious but imbued with a hint of pride. "Your determination and the way you've handled yourself in operations—it's impressive. I want to appoint you as a lieutenant in my team."

Adrian stopped in his tracks, momentarily taken aback by the swiftness of Garp's decision. Although he felt a surge of pride, a part of him wasn't surprised. With the Shadow Monarch System at his disposal, he had swiftly managed threats like Nezumi, showcasing a level of competence and strategic thinking that was rare among newcomers.

"I... Thank you, sir. I'm honored," Adrian managed to say, his mind racing with the implications of this new role. Being a lieutenant under Garp wasn't just a title; it was a responsibility that could significantly shape his path in this world.

Garp clapped him on the back, almost knocking the wind out of him with his formidable strength. "Don't thank me yet, lad. With great power comes great responsibility, and you'll find that the challenges we face as we head into the Grand Line will test you like never before."

Adrian nodded, his resolve firming. He knew that the adventures ahead would be fraught with danger and that his actions would have far-reaching effects on both his future and the broader narrative of the world around him.

"And don't get too comfortable," Garp continued, his tone lightening with a chuckle. "Being a lieutenant means you can't just throw your weight around. You'll need to be a leader, someone the other Marines can rely on."

Adrian smiled, appreciating Garp's mix of humor and seriousness. "I understand, Vice Admiral. I'll do my best to live up to the expectations."

As they resumed walking, Adrian's thoughts turned to the Shadow Monarch System. He had kept his unique abilities hidden from everyone, including Garp. Managing this secret power responsibly while adhering to his duties as a Marine would be a delicate balance.

The base was alive with the energy of preparations for their upcoming deployment. Marines rushed about, securing supplies and weaponry, their faces set with determination. Adrian felt a kinship with them, his fellow soldiers, as they all worked toward a common goal.

His new role as lieutenant would surely bring new challenges, but Adrian was ready. Each decision, each action taken from this point forward, would not only define his character but also potentially alter the path of the world he had grown to respect and fight for.

As they approached the docks, where ships were being readied for departure, Adrian took a deep breath, feeling the weight of his new insignia on his uniform.

"We're heading to the Grand Line, but our first stop will be to intercept a notorious pirate group that's been causing trouble along the route. I expect every officer, especially you, Lieutenant, to be prepared for tough battles ahead."

Nodding, Adrian absorbed every detail, understanding the gravity of their impending tasks. With a firm "Yes, sir," he exited Garp's office, stepping back into the bustling hallway of the marine base.

Outside, Koby and Helmeppo were on their knees, scrubbing the floors. They looked up as Adrian emerged, their expressions changing from fatigue to awe as they spotted the tall, imposing figure of Hero Garp behind him. The mixture of fear and admiration was palpable on their faces.

Adrian stopped, turning to Garp and then back to the two young marines. "Sir, if I may," he gestured towards Koby and Helmeppo, "these two showed a lot of spirit when we spoke last. I believe they have great potential."

Garp's gaze shifted to Koby and Helmeppo, scrutinizing them for a moment. The young men stiffened under his stare, but their determination did not waver. Garp's face broke into a wide grin, and he let out his iconic, booming laugh.