He had sent word, days before his arrival, to the head of the 80th branch. That he would be coming specifically to take those back with him. Back to the Grand Line. It didn't matter what rank they were or if they've proven themselves to be strong Marines, he just wanted people. Anyone would suffice, as they would be forced to become strong once they leave with him. Not by Derous, as he won't teach anyone, but they will be faced with things that they wouldn't face here within any of the Blues. Foes of all kinds litter the Grand Line; and there waters are different than the Blues.
At this moment, arriving just hours ago. Derous would be standing at the docks, awaiting for the escort he called to come and retrieve him and his new crew. Though, he knew it wouldn't come probably tomorrow morning; the escort coming from some base near the Grand line. That didn't stop him from staying at the docks though, as he had many memories here. And he also hasn't even selected anyone to join him, or anyone wanting to go with him. People still deciding if they still wish to go on this treacherous journey, or wrapping up loose ends. He didn't care what it was. Whoever was going to go with him had till the morning to board the ship, this message also being posted on other Marine Bases within the Blue. As Derous wanted anyone to come with him.
"I see you are still out here, isn't it late?"
"Not really, it's around nine. Not late at all."
"You've changed."
"Hmm?"
"You appear to have changed. But I still see what I saw years ago in you."
"Some things don't change."
"I guess so."
The two that spoke was the man in charge of the 80th Branch(Rear Admiral Daichi), and Rear Admiral Derous. Both having a long history together. Both at this moment thinking about the last time they spoke, the last battle they were involved in.
"Well, this may be the last time I speak with you Derous...no. Thomas. So, I will say my peace. I was the reason you were never able to obtain the rank you have now. Yes, I used all my power to stop them from ever approving you. Even when you showed the qualities and abilities of someone above a Rear Admiral, I didn't want you to reach any higher than you were. Though I was the one to teach you everything. About what it means to be a Marine and what Justice really is, I don't. I don't think that you will be the best for this world. Not saying you aren't one of the finest Marines i've been able to personally watch grow. But because I sense that hidden agenda that you have, and I don't like it. You aren't one of the Kings of the world, but a harbinger of something I wish not to see. But, seeing despite my efforts you were able to reach Rear Admiral, I can't stop you. Besides i'm on my last legs anyway, so someone else will have to worry." With that the other Rear Admiral would walk away from where Thomas was, no more words being exchanged. Thomas would turn his head to watch the old man walk away, and have a stoic look on his face.