Chapter 10: ROGEN'S DEPARTURE

In the ensuing days, Rogen became aware that the ship's objective was to reach Nansi Island in the East Blue, where Hina's family conducted their business. Despite being only sixteen, Hina held significant responsibility as the eldest daughter of her family. The crew had immense faith in her power and nobility, as her kindness was evident to all.

During their month-long journey at sea, the ship made three stops to refuel and restock supplies. Rogen developed strong bonds with the entire crew, particularly with Hina. Their meeting seemed like a miraculous event, marking the beginning of a potential great love story. Their relationship held limitless possibilities for the future, though no one knew when they would progress and truly be together.

On a particular day, after completing their refueling, the ship slowly departed from the port. The sailors were taking a lunch break, basking in the warmth of the sun. Suddenly, a group of seagulls flew overhead, carrying peculiar packages and dropping newspapers as they passed over the ship. Among the flurry of activity, a colorful paper landed on the face of a crew member who had been sleeping, rousing him awake. He picked up the paper and read its contents in shock.

"What is this!?"

"Gol D Rogen, wanted with a reward of 110 million!"

"Attention, this person is extremely dangerous. If you find him, immediately inform the Marines or eliminate him. The reward is irrespective of his life or death!"

As the crew members read the words on the paper, fear and horror filled their eyes. For ordinary people, a reward of 10 million would be significant, but this was an astounding 110 million belly. The temptation of such a vast sum of money ignited a greedy desire within them.

"In the name of justice, assist the Marines and apprehend the world's most notorious criminal, the brother of Roger!"

Eyes sparkled with anticipation as everyone exchanged glances, sharing the same sentiment. Hant, seizing the opportunity, made his way to the ship's basement where Rovi was occupied with his tasks.

"Huh, what is it now?" Rovi, a middle-aged man with blond hair, furrowed his brow upon seeing Hant's arrival.

"Rogen, do you know about him!?" Hant inquired with an air of intrigue.

Rovi, uninterested in Hant's antics, replied, "If you have something to say, say it directly. I don't have time to waste with you."

"That guy is a criminal with a 110 million belly bounty!" Hant declared, tossing the wanted poster to Rovi.

"Oh? And what of it? What do you intend to do?" Rovi halted his work, displaying a glimmer of curiosity.

"Are you planning to go after him? Become a bounty hunter?"

Hant shrugged and admitted, "Not really. Although the boy appears innocent and lacks any discernible strength, he has managed to acquire a hefty reward from the Marines. It's not something we should concern ourselves with."

Rovi frowned and inquired, "Does Hina know about this?"

Hant grinned and replied, "Of course she does. I discussed it with her before she sent me to find you."

Rovi cast a disdainful look at Hant, his tone filled with mockery. "Cease your foolishness. If Hina wants something, she will come directly to me. You seeking me out only means trouble."

A flicker of anger flashed across Hant's face, but Rovi quickly quelled it. He continued, "I consulted with the others, and we have decided to report Rogen to the Marines. Let them come and apprehend him. While we may not receive the entire reward, we will certainly get a share for the information."

"Hehe!" Rovi chuckled, finding amusement in the situation.

"Very well thought out plan, but Rogen is a good lad."

"Yet the allure of money is stronger."

With a swift motion, Rovi handed Hant a Den Den Mushi before tearing up the wanted poster. A smile formed on his face.

"Rest assured, we won't be left empty-handed."

Hant accepted the Den Den Mushi without hesitation and immediately dialed the nearest Marine base.

"Marine division 73102, please respond."

A clear, masculine voice responded on the other end.

Hant cleared his throat and spoke sternly, "Hello, Marine. I am Hant from the East Blue Chamber of Commerce. I have information regarding Rogen, who has recently become wanted."

"Rogen? Which Rogen!?" Doubt tinged the Marine's voice.

"Yes, the brother of the Pirate King, rewarded with 110 million belly."

"Gol D Ro..."

Before the Marine could finish his sentence, the connection was abruptly cut. Another voice came through the Den Den Mushi, exuding a strong air of authority.

"Hey, I'm Osaki, the department's chief executive. Quickly report your location."

"And don't let him slip away. Keep a close eye on his movements."

Osaki's voice resonated with a commanding presence. Hant was taken aback by his assertiveness but assured him that he would comply.

"We will arrive within half an hour. Stay in contact."

Osaki swiftly concluded the conversation and terminated the call.

Hant could hear the hurried footsteps on the other end of the Den Den Mushi. It was evident that the Marines had already mobilized quickly.

With the arrival of the Marines, a hefty reward would follow. While 110 million belly may not be an astronomical sum, it would ensure a comfortable life for a long time. Roving the seas, one could drift with the wind and rain whenever money was needed.

In this world, there were three types of individuals at sea. The first were hardworking sailors struggling to survive. The second were ruthless pirates relying on theft and plunder. And the third were the Marines.

Of the three, the Marines were the weakest and faced the least risk.

In this unfair world, they lived in the most destitute conditions and experienced the harshest realities.

After hanging up the Den Den Mushi, Rogen approached Hant, who seemed troubled.

"Rogen, I have something important to tell you. You need to be prepared," the ship's doctor, Fred, spoke with a grave expression on his face.

"What's wrong, Fred? You look quite serious," Rogen replied, his eyes glinting with curiosity.

"Your identity has been exposed to everyone, and you must leave this place immediately. The entire crew has been discussing reporting you to the Marines. Once they arrive, it will be the end for you," Fred explained, his concern evident.

"My identity?" Rogen's body tensed, and he spoke with a sense of urgency. "Do they all know?"

"Your wanted status has become public knowledge. Everyone is aware of it," the old doctor confirmed.

"What about Hina?" Rogen bit his lip, his heart heavy with worry.

At that moment, a peculiar sensation washed over him. Despite the fear and doubt surrounding his identity, he couldn't help but wonder how Hina felt about it.

Throughout their time together, he had found Hina to be cheerful and optimistic. She always greeted him with a bright smile. From every perspective, Rogen knew he wasn't a bad person.

"He came at Hina's request," Fred said, meeting Rogen's gaze. "She wanted me to tell you to take care of yourself."

Rogen felt a weight lift off his chest, and a sense of relief washed over him. It was comforting to know that amidst the chaos, there were still those who believed in him and were willing to help.

"She said she will always believe in you," Fred added, patting Rogen's shoulder.

Rogen's shoulders slumped, and conflicting emotions swirled within him. Leaving behind the captivating Hina would be incredibly difficult. Yet, he knew he had to make a decision.

Without further delay, he took a deep breath and made up his mind.

"Alright, I'll go. If I linger, they will catch me," Rogen declared, his voice filled with determination.

As the crew plotted against him, he knew he couldn't stay aboard the ship any longer. It was time for him to embark on a new journey, one that would lead him away from those who sought to harm him.

Rogen left Fred's side and began to prepare himself for the inevitable departure. He gathered his few belongings and made his way to the ship's deck.

Hina stood there, her eyes filled with worry and sadness. She had overheard the crew's conversation and knew the truth about Rogen's wanted status.

"Rogen..." Hina's voice quivered, her heart heavy with conflicting emotions. "I... I can't believe they would do this."

Rogen approached Hina, his expression a mix of determination and sadness. He reached out and gently cupped her face in his hands.

"Hina, please understand. I don't want to cause you any trouble or put you in danger. Leaving is the best choice for both of us," Rogen explained, his voice filled with sincerity.

Tears welled up in Hina's eyes as she nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. She knew that allowing Rogen to stay would only bring harm to him and those around him.

"Promise me, Rogen," Hina whispered, her voice trembling. "Promise me that you'll stay safe and come back to me one day."

Rogen's gaze softened, and he spoke with unwavering determination. "I promise, Hina. No matter what happens, I will find a way back to you. Our story isn't over yet."

With those words, Rogen turned away, his heart heavy with a mixture of sadness and hope. As he descended the gangplank, he cast one last glance at Hina, etching her image into his memory.

The crew watched in silence as Rogen disappeared from sight, their hearts heavy with conflicting emotions. Greed had clouded their judgment, causing them to betray someone they had come to know and care for.

As Rogen set foot on solid ground, he knew that his path had diverged from the one he had envisioned. The future was uncertain, but he was determined to clear his name and return to Hina's side.

With a resolute spirit and a heavy heart, Rogen walked away, leaving behind the ship and the crew who had turned against him. His journey to reclaim his identity had only just begun, and he would stop at nothing to prove his innocence and protect those he held dear.