"Kuro, you are a Marine, don't forget your duty."

Smoker got on his little motorcycle, gave Kuro one last look, and headed straight out to sea.

My duties?

My job is to ensure safety!

Kuro opened his mouth, watched Smoker's figure recede into the distance, and sighed, "What a nuisance."

“Mr. Kuro, what should we do?” Tashigi asked, standing beside her.

"Cold salad".

Kuro replied, "What else can we do but go to Albana? Tashigi, you'll lead the team."

“Me? No, no, I don’t have that kind of strength yet, and Colonel Smoker specifically named you…” Tashigi waved her hands repeatedly.

“If I’m told to lead a team, then lead a team. You’re also a naval officer, and a sergeant major at headquarters. I’m just a branch warrant officer, not as prestigious as you. Just follow your own sense of justice.”

Kuro's expression was serious: "I need to act alone and make some preparations."

"I see. I misunderstood you, Mr. Kuro. I thought you were just being lazy. I'm so sorry!" Tashigi apologized sincerely.

No, you've got it right.

Why is he interfering with the plot?

Logically, Luffy would definitely defeat Crocodile, and the Navy would finish the job.

If something goes wrong because he interfered in something that was going so smoothly, he couldn't just stand by and watch his colleagues get hurt. It seemed like he was the only one who could stop Crocodile.

And then he became famous.

Last time he used Chloe as a shield, but if something unexpected happens this time, who will he use as a shield?

Even if he defeated the Seven Warlords of the Sea, it wouldn't be acceptable if he held back and was forced to retreat by them.

Those are, after all, the Seven Warlords of the Sea, and the oldest ones at that. Isn't it common for them to defeat you? It's already a miracle you survived.

If headquarters takes a look at him later and finds him to be quite capable, they might promote him and then call him to the Marineford War. Wouldn't that go against Kuro's original intention?

The best way is to split up, with Tashigi taking care of the rest while he just wanders around.

Safe, reliable, and absolutely unknown!