The guard soldier maintained a polite demeanor, assuming Chiga and Shirahoshi were visitors from outside. He explained respectfully that the Royal Family's residence required authorization for entry.
However, the moment Chiga removed his sunglasses, the soldier froze as if struck by lightning and immediately knelt, shouting "King!" with reverence. In today's One Piece World, very few failed to recognize Chiga.
The commotion quickly drew more attention, and another group rushed from the Royal Palace. Leading them was a familiar figure to Chiga—Cyrus, whose leg he had healed in the past.
Cyrus had been patrolling when he heard someone shouting "King!" outside. Initially suspicious, he rushed out with his men, only to kneel and shout "King!" upon seeing Chiga.
Chiga raised a hand, signaling them to rise, and asked calmly,
"Is Gion inside?"
Cyrus replied with respect,
"Yes, Gion-sama is off duty today, in the back garden with the two Princesses."
"Good, you're dismissed. I'll find her myself."
Cyrus had the soldiers form two lines as Chiga and Shirahoshi walked into the Royal Palace.
Along the way, Shirahoshi sighed in admiration,
"Chiga-sama is truly amazing. He's respected everywhere. Is this what being a real King feels like?"
Chiga smiled,
"You're not far off yourself. People on the street could hardly move when they saw you."
Shirahoshi hugged his arm tighter, whispering,
"I don't like that. I feel unsafe. It's better to stay by your side!"
The two reached the back garden entrance, where the sound of a melodious piano drifted through the air.
Chiga recognized the music immediately—Conis must be inside. Entering the garden, he saw Conis playing a golden harp, eyes closed, while Violet, Rebecca, and Gion lay on a pink rug, completely absorbed.
Quietly, Chiga brought Shirahoshi behind them, listening.
When the performance ended, Conis slowly opened her eyes, a distant look in them. She seemed to sense someone familiar, her gaze widening in shock,
"Chiga…?!"
Her hand trembled on the strings, producing a loud chord that startled Violet and the others.
Gion quickly approached, waving a hand before her eyes,
"Conis, what's wrong?"
Conis pointed behind Gion, stammering,
"Chiga…Chiga-sama!"
Violet and Rebecca turned immediately. Chiga smiled,
"You're enjoying yourselves, I see. Don't forget to pay Conis for her performance!"
Shirahoshi, more relaxed than when meeting Hancock, waved politely,
"Hello everyone, I'm Shirahoshi. It's a pleasure to meet you."
She even bowed, displaying her graceful figure. Gion and the others quickly returned greetings, and introductions followed.
Gion then walked to Chiga, taking his arm playfully,
"You finally remembered me! I heard from Karifa that you even manipulated the sunset when you returned. Truly overbearing!"
Shirahoshi tilted her head curiously,
"What bad thing? Did it involve the sun?"
Chiga coughed, and Gion quickly reassured her,
"Nothing, your sister was joking."
Violet's gaze remained fixed on Chiga, burning with intensity, while Rebecca looked at him with reverence. Chiga's actions—restoring Dressrosa and healing Cyrus—had left an indelible impression.
Feeling slightly awkward, Chiga placed Shirahoshi in front and said,
"Shirahoshi is a Princess too. You two should get acquainted."
Violet nudged Rebecca forward,
"You two are about the same age, you'll have much in common. Get to know each other first!"
The pink-haired girls met, unsure how to begin.
Conis, understanding the situation, stepped forward, held their hands, and smiled,
"Chiga-sama, I'll take these two Princesses for a walk. We won't disturb you any longer."
She led them away like butterflies, leaving Gion standing with arms crossed.
Gion had long known of Violet's feelings for Chiga. The local culture encouraged boldness and passion, and Violet fully embodied that.
Chiga reclined while Violet lay beside him, resting her head on her hand, simply watching him.
After a pause, Chiga asked,
"How long do you plan to keep staring?"
Violet leaned close, whispering into his ear,
"I can't get enough of you. I fear you'll disappear again. Gion said the places you go are special, and only you can find them."
Gion gave Chiga a reproachful glance. He raised his hands in surrender,
"Alright, that won't happen again. You can visit those places too."
Gion lightly poked his chest, smiling softly,
"It doesn't matter where we go, as long as you're by my side."
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