Using snakes as bows was a unique cultural practice of Amazon Lily. Shirahoshi had never seen a bow like this before. She stepped forward bravely and touched it. The little pink snake felt cool and smooth, surprisingly comfortable.
After a while, Shirahoshi realized that the snake was quite docile. Its eyes, however, seemed to hold a slight mischief, pupils sticking to one side, giving it a surprisingly wise expression.
Seeing Shirahoshi's interest, Margaret carefully took down the pink snake bow and held it out,
"This bow is for you. It would be an honor to have it as yours!"
Shirahoshi hesitated, feeling she couldn't accept such a gift freely. She fumbled through her belongings, trying to find some Berries. Only a few pretty seashells remained, picked up in her hurry.
Her azure eyes turned to Chiga with a pleading look. Without a word, Uchiha Chiga placed a gold coin on the counter and said generously,
"Even a King shouldn't take something for free. I'll buy this."
Margaret was momentarily stunned by the gleaming coin. Coming back to herself, she waved her hands,
"Chiga-sama, you don't need this much! This coin could buy ten bows like this!"
She reached to return it, but Hancock interjected calmly,
"Margaret, since Chiga has offered it, just accept it."
Margaret nodded silently and put the coin away, cheeks tinged red.
Chiga stroked his chin, thinking that if it were Orochimaru, the bow he created should have been of higher quality. Yet Orochimaru had reformed and now excelled as Minister of Konoha's Science Department. Chiga's idea remained untested.
At the counter, Chiga examined Margaret's notebook. Every material and price was meticulously recorded, displaying a keen professional mind. Margaret blushed under his gaze, lowering her eyes, unable to meet Chiga's golden stare.
Hancock observed and whispered to herself,
"Chiga seems interested in Margaret?"
Chiga smiled softly,
"Margaret may be young, but her work is precise and methodical. She deserves attention."
Hancock's eyes widened slightly.
"Do you intend to train her as your successor?"
"Yes, she is suitable. Participating in the national defense warrior selection proves her combat capability, and she is also quite beautiful."
Hancock hesitated at the last point, but Chiga continued,
"All successive empresses of Amazon Lily have been selected for both beauty and skill. Average appearances would not gain acceptance here."
Hancock considered this and realized he was correct. Each empress had been stunning, unmatched even among thousands elsewhere. Even Elder Nyon, who appeared plain now, had been breathtaking in her youth.
Chiga's thoughts shifted to other figures—Shakky still running a bar on Shambles Island, and Silvers Rayleigh, with whom he had once sparred. At that time, it had been a friendly match during his growth stage.
He asked Hancock,
"You know Silvers Rayleigh, don't you?"
Hancock nodded without hesitation,
"Yes, after I was rescued, he guided me briefly in mastering Haki."
Chiga nodded, satisfied. With Hancock's Haki level strong, there was no need for him to interfere further. Rayleigh could enjoy a quiet retirement on Shambles Island.
For several days, Chiga and Shirahoshi remained on Daughter Island. Hancock called Margaret into the Royal Palace, entrusting her to Elder Nyon for training. Margaret absorbed knowledge of statecraft and administration, unaware that she might one day become the next empress.
With Margaret's guidance secured, Hancock felt her burden lifted, looking forward to a future in Marineford.
After finalizing these matters, Chiga departed with Shirahoshi for Dressrosa, where Gion and Conis were staying.
Compared to Amazon Lily, Dressrosa was bustling and colorful. Couples strolled hand-in-hand, and goods lined the streets in dazzling abundance.
Shirahoshi glanced at Chiga with a blush, captivated by the lively scene. He noticed her gaze, gently holding her small hand,
"Come, I'll show you around."
Shirahoshi's smile blossomed with joy. The vibrant energy of Dressrosa emboldened her, and she impulsively pressed her lips to Chiga's on the street.
Passersby stopped, stunned. Some young men were so mesmerized by her beauty that they ignored their female companions, whose faces darkened in irritation.
Chiga, wearing brown sunglasses, remained unrecognized. Even those who felt a familiar aura wouldn't suspect his identity.
By the time Chiga and Shirahoshi disappeared at the end of the street, the stunned onlookers regained their senses, exclaiming,
"What a beautiful girl! She's like a fairy-tale princess!"
Seeing their companions' furious expressions, the young men shivered.
"Slap, slap, slap!"
The sound of continuous slaps echoed through the street as women vented their anger. Without some physical release, it seemed impossible to appease them.
Meanwhile, Chiga and Shirahoshi arrived at King's Heights, halted outside by the guards on duty.