All of that forced Doflamingo to suspect that Vergo's death was because Marine Headquarters had discovered something.
Or was Marine Headquarters, or even the World Government, preparing to move against him?
Thus, he still had not acted against Grado.
He continued to have the family's intelligence network investigate the retired Lieutenant.
If he were truly just a retired Marine lieutenant, he could crush him with one finger.
But if Marine Headquarters or the World Government was behind him, then he needed to proceed with caution.
Yet unexpectedly, those guys went to North Blue as well?
Doflamingo frowned, pondered for a moment, then smiled ferociously.
"Investigate what those guys are doing in North Blue. Fufufu… just what could be attracting the Tyrant from the South Blue and the underworld king at West Blue?"
However, just as he finished speaking, a figure rushed in anxiously.
"Young master! We've found out the reason the Tyrant from the South Blue came to the North Blue!"
"You found it?"
Doflamingo raised an eyebrow and took the document from his underling.
He lowered his head to scan it, and upon reading it, his brows furrowed and he snorted coldly, "The Tyrant from the South Blue... is cooperating with Grado from West Blue? Looks like we really underestimated that retired Marine Lieutenant."
He didn't understand why the Tyrant of South Blue would cooperate with Grado, but admittedly, it was quite shocking news.
Good thing he hadn't acted recklessly against that Marine Lieutenant.
But just what secret or background did that retired Lieutenant have?
For the first time, Doflamingo became very curious about that retired marine Lieutenant.
While he was lost in thought, "Young master, look, below, below!"
The underling spoke excitedly, "Look at the intel below!"
"Is there more important intel than the Tyrant teaming with the underworld king at West Blue?"
A curious smile tugged at Doflamingo's lips as he looked further down.
But the moment he lowered his head and saw the information, his pupils contracted violently, and he suddenly shot up from the throne.
"Fufufu… What a delightful surprise! Trebol, prepare a ship. I'm going to North Blue personally to retrieve our rebellious family member!"
…
Bonney's illness had already been treated.
Although not completely cured, things were improving.
As long as Law periodically eliminated the disease to suppress the worsening of Sapphire Scales Disease, she would be fine.
Thus, Ian decided it was time to return.
As for Karakuri Island, Kuma and Gini would go.
With Kuma there, there shouldn't be any major danger.
When Ian returned, Kuma would head to Karakuri Island and use his Devil Fruit's ability to empty Vegapunk's laboratory there.
Gini would stay temporarily, and once everything was handled, he would return with Kuma.
"Ian."
"That's enough, no need to say more. Karakuri Island will be in your hands."
Ian spoke to Kuma, who wanted to say something but held back.
Then he looked at Ace.
"And you? Are you really coming with me to West Blue?"
"Of course. I've already decided."
Ace grinned widely.
Ever since learning from Ian and Kuma that Sabo might still be alive, he had been in a great mood.
He couldn't wait to see Sabo.
He had so many things he wanted to say, but thinking about it, he decided to wait.
He believed that he, Luffy, and Sabo would definitely meet again, just like back then.
Ace lowered his hat slightly and looked at Ian.
"I'll be counting on you from here on, Mr. Ian."
"Whatever you want."
Ian waved his hand dismissively.
He just wondered, after arriving in West Blue, would Ace still encounter the Flame-Flame Fruit?
Perhaps he still would.
After all, Devil Fruits choose their own owners.
Looking at everyone standing before him, Ian couldn't help but feel emotional.
He had gained a lot from this journey; he opened markets in East Blue and the first half of the Grand Line.
Crocodile didn't need mentioning.
As for East Blue… even though Garp was unreliable, his reputation and Nami's cunningness would secure that market.
Plus Skypiea's gold, and Karakuri Island's technology.
Thinking about the adventures during this period, a surge of emotion rose in his heart, but he quickly calmed himself.
Looking at Kuma, he said, "Send me back."
It was time to go back to accompany his wife and daughter.
…
In a remote house somewhere in Sibia Village.
At this moment, the sun was setting, and the sunlight poured into the living room through the window.
Robin held a steaming cup of black tea in her left hand, her eyes focused on the book before her. Her right hand gently slid down the page, flipping it.
Beside her... was an exquisite baby stroller.
Only, for some reason, two fair and smooth hands appeared on the baby stroller. As the hands gently rocked it, the little baby inside kept waving her chubby hands and feet, as if playing with the gentle hands, or perhaps entertaining herself.
Sunlight, the sound of pages turning, and the baby's noises made everything appear peaceful and quiet.
With the movement of the sun, time passed little by little.
No one knew how much time had gone by.
When the sunlight faded and the sky dimmed, Robin finally closed the book and stretched lazily.
Just one movement was enough to show off her now fuller and more voluptuous body, radiating the unique charm of a mature woman, both captivating and alluring.
After a soft sigh escaped her lips, she casually arranged her long black hair so that it fell loosely over her shoulders.
She turned and looked at the baby, who had fallen asleep without her noticing.
The corners of her lips curved into a smile as she bent down slightly, resting her chin on her hands, quietly watching her child.
No one knew how much time had passed.
Feeling that it was about time, Robin finally stood up. Since it was only her alone, she planned to keep dinner simple.
She also knew Ian would still be busy for a while before returning.
Although she understood he was working hard for the sake of their family, for some reason, even though she was once someone with no ties and wandered alone, now she had someone to miss and to worry about.
"Hmm…"
Robin rested her right hand behind her chest, her left hand supporting her chin while tilting her head as she pondered.
The corners of her lips curved into a grin, and she muttered to herself, "Should we have Mr. Kuma send Ian over in a few days? Just say that Aria misses her daddy?"
However, right as her voice fell…