The next major event was, of course, the recruitment of Nico Robin. She appeared mysteriously on the deck, requesting to join the crew. While the others were suspicious (especially Zoro), Luffy made the decision instantly.
Kenji watched the scene unfold with an internal sigh of satisfaction. This was the moment the original tragedy was officially averted.
Later, while Robin was below deck, discussing archaeology with the others, Kenji stepped away to the stern, focusing his Omniscience Haki. He knew of the clandestine meeting taking place near their location.
A black ship, unmarked but clearly Marine, suddenly emerged from the fog. On the deck stood a cloaked figure, his silhouette unmistakable: Aokiji, Kuzan, one of the three current Marine Admirals.
Kenji smiled faintly. Perfect. An Admiral-level power set was exactly what he needed for the next leap in strength.
"You knew I was coming," Aokiji's voice drifted over the water, deep and slow.
Kenji didn't turn. "Your heat signature has been steadily increasing for the last hour, Admiral. You make too much noise for a shadow."
Aokiji stepped onto the Going Merry as if the water were solid ground. He regarded Kenji, his signature sleep mask riding up his forehead. "Kenji 'Apex' Tanaka. Your bounty poster is a headache for Headquarters. Not because of the number, but because we don't know why the number exists. You're an anomaly."
"I am a pirate," Kenji replied simply.
"You're a guardian," Aokiji corrected, his eyes drifting toward the cabin where Robin was currently laughing with Chopper. "And you have taken a dangerous woman into your care. I know the Straw Hats defeated Crocodile, but I also know you rendered him powerless. I came here for one reason: to confirm if the Demon Child of Ohara is truly a threat to the balance of the world."