Elder Nyon was perceptive; she quietly exited the main hall, leaving Hancock and the two others alone with Chiga.
Uchiha Chiga sat on the wide throne, while Hancock and Shirahoshi positioned themselves at his sides.
Hancock leaned against his arm and said,
"Chiga, I've wanted to go to Marineford for a long time, but so many things have been happening on the island recently that I couldn't find the time."
Chiga nodded softly,
"Yes, I understand. You are the ruler of this country, it's natural to be busy."
"But I truly don't want to be King anymore. It would be wonderful if someone could take over."
"Oh? You wish to abdicate already? How old are you now? Do you want Elder Nyon to take the throne again?"
"Her age is too advanced. I thought about choosing a successor from my younger sisters, but although they are skilled fighters, they are completely inexperienced in state affairs. Being King is out of the question for them."
"Then what would you like to do?"
"Originally, I considered having my child succeed me, but it seems a bit too late now…"
Hancock glanced shyly at Chiga, her meaning clear without words.
Chiga raised an eyebrow. Indeed, it was a bit premature. He would at least need to wait until Kaguya's child was born before contemplating a second successor.
After a moment of thought, he said,
"Investigate the country and see if there are any promising young people to cultivate. The seas are stable now, and a successor doesn't necessarily need exceptional combat ability."
"Understood, Chiga-sama. Let's stroll through the streets first. It's Shirahoshi's first visit here."
Shirahoshi waved her hand hurriedly,
"Don't worry about me, the urgent matters are more important!"
Chiga smiled, taking her hand,
"The urgent matters are resolved. Come, let's go enjoy the streets."
With a flick of his finger, Chiga tapped Shirahoshi's fish tail. A colorful light enveloped her, transforming her tail into a pair of flawless, white legs. He quickly conjured denim shorts for her as well.
Shirahoshi tentatively hopped, adjusting to the sensation of walking on legs. Merfolk women usually gain the ability to switch between tail and legs freely at thirty; Chiga had merely accelerated the process.
Once comfortable, she jogged around the main hall, giggling with joy before returning to Chiga's side. He raised a hand to brush away a few drops of sweat from her forehead, asking,
"Much more convenient to walk, isn't it?"
Shirahoshi nodded eagerly, replying with a crisp "Mm."
The three exited the Royal Palace. Women on the streets surged forward at the sight of Hancock and Chiga, but a simple wave from Hancock dispersed the crowd immediately. Her prestige was unquestioned; citizens obeyed her commands without hesitation.
Chiga glanced at the shops lining the streets. Amazon Lily had expanded greatly, trading more with the outside world. Yet, except for him, men still could not freely enter the island.
Stopping at a stall, Chiga purchased two cotton candies, handing them to Hancock and Shirahoshi. Shirahoshi stuck out her small tongue to taste hers, a satisfied expression spreading across her face. Hancock had yet to eat hers, but her heart felt equally sweet.
They continued walking until they passed a weapon shop. Chiga stopped suddenly, noticing the blonde-haired girl behind the counter, engrossed in her work. She was Margaret, whom he had met during his first visit to the Island.
Hancock whispered,
"It's Margaret's shop. She's very talented. Kikyo mentioned she participated in this year's national protection warrior selection and did excellently."
Chiga smiled,
"She's impressive. Running a weapon shop well while maintaining warrior skills isn't easy."
He stepped into the shop, Hancock and Shirahoshi following. Margaret looked up and froze,
"Hello, welcome… Eh? Chiga-sama!?"
She quickly set down her pen and stepped out, utterly stunned to see Hancock behind him. These were indeed the most distinguished of guests. Margaret could hardly believe her eyes.
Chiga smiled,
"You remember me. What, still going to tell me men aren't allowed here?"
Margaret hastily waved her hands,
"No, no, no! I was young then and didn't know your identity, please forgive me!"
She secretly glanced at Chiga, thinking, Still so handsome…
Shirahoshi examined the weapons on the wall. The styles were different from those on Fish-Man Island; one bow, pink and snake-like, seemed alive. As she touched it, the snake's head hissed and flicked its tongue.
Startled, Shirahoshi gasped and hid behind Chiga, pointing,
"Chiga-sama, look! That bow is alive, it even stuck its tongue out at me!"
Margaret ran over, gently patting the bow's head. The snake's eyes swirled, and it drooped, docile once more.
She bowed slightly to Shirahoshi,
"Sorry for frightening you. They're very gentle, you don't need to worry."
Looking closely at Shirahoshi's face, Margaret murmured,
"So beautiful…"
Indeed, Shirahoshi's beauty, paired with her delicate expression, captivated anyone, man or woman, who saw her.
---
(＾▽＾)Start the new year on a bright note by becoming a patron today and enjoy an exclusive 50% off membership prices. Don't miss this special opportunity to support my work and unlock amazing perks along the way!
Wishing you a wonderful start to the New Year in advance, may it be filled with joy, creativity, and endless inspiration! 🎉
Join here: Patreon.com/Zphyr_