The Going Merry safely splashed back into the waters of the Grand Line, eventually arriving at the magnificent water metropolis of Water 7. Canal routes crisscrossed between towering stone buildings, and the air was filled with the sound of bustling shipwrights and water transportation. The crew was in high spirits, eager to convert their Skypiea gold into cash and repair their battered ship.
However, as soon as their boat docked at the lower canal, the protagonist felt a cold chill run down his spine. The system's passive perception skill triggered, highlighting several invisible markers in the surrounding crowd.
"We are being watched," the protagonist whispered to Robin as they walked along the stone walkways toward the Galley-La Company headquarters.
"Water 7 is a major hub for the World Government," Robin replied calmly, though her eyes scanned the rooftops nervously. "It's natural for them to monitor incoming pirates."
"It's not just standard Marines," the protagonist noted, using his pen under his cloak to draw a subtle, invisible tracking rune on the ground behind them. Through the system's feed, he caught sight of several figures in dark suits blending seamlessly into the crowds—members of CP9 operating under cover as shipwrights and city officials. The shadow over Robin was growing closer, and the protagonist began secretly preparing combat pages specifically tailored for urban warfare.