Everyone who wanted to head out was gone, leaving the rest to rest aboard.
Karl returned to his cabin, pulling out a Den Den Mushi—it had been too long since he'd checked in with home.
"Brru-brru-brru~"
Click—
"Karl? What a surprise, you actually called today."
"Yeah, yeah, I know, my bad, sis. How's everyone at home? Are you and Mom and Dad taking the medicine Ellie made for you?"
The "medicine" wasn't anything mystical—just one of Ellie's tonics that strengthened the body over time, perfect for family too old to train and unwilling to eat Devil Fruits.
"Everything's fine here. We've all been taking it. Dad and Mom look healthier than ever. But Karl, Captain Dylan brought back your bounty posters! Why did the World Government put prices on your heads?"
Hearing that they were all doing well eased Karl's shoulders.
"Oh, that. Some spoiled Celestial Dragon tried to abduct Ellie and the others back on Sabaody. So I… solved it."
"You killed one?!" Rouge's voice cracked with panic.
"It's fine, sis. We fought an Admiral, Karp showed up, and even he didn't push it. The Marines won't chase us seriously unless we waltz into Marineford. Ann's fine too—getting strong. She's out shopping with Ellie and Daphne right now."
Rouge sighed. "Just… stay careful, alright?"
"I will."
"…Karl, any word of Ace? Did Karp say anything?"
Karl's eyes softened. "He didn't, but Ace will be okay. He's Roger's son, he's tougher than he looks. By the way, how's the Tiger Roar Island Guard doing?"
"I'm not sure, but last I heard, there are three hundred of them now. Uncle Daren said they've all learned the Six Styles already."
Karl nodded. "Good. I'll head back soon and pick twenty. Daphne's plan for Swiftwind Express needs site leaders for ten islands—two per station."
Rouge chuckled. "You and your grand ideas. Alright, take care, little brother."
"Love you, sis. See you soon." Click—
Karl leaned back, satisfied. Daphne's plan was brilliant—start with ten key islands in Paradise, build reputation first, expand later. He just needed to find someone worthy of the Bee-Bee Fruit. Maybe one of the Tiger Roar guards would do.
Meanwhile, the streets of the Rainbow Kingdom bustled with color and music. The three women—Ellie, Ann, and Daphne—were enjoying themselves immensely.
They hadn't bought much, but they had wandered into every boutique that caught their eye. Karl would've lost his mind following them.
"Daphne-sis, that cheongsam looks amazing on you!" Ann's eyes sparkled. "Uncle's too lucky—three gorgeous women like you? I'm jealous!"
Daphne covered her lips with a shy laugh. "You think so? I've never worn one before. It feels… exotic."
"Seriously! But tell me, how did you fall for my uncle? Ellie-sis loved him because he saved her, and Hancock loved him after he freed her. But you—I saved you!" Ann huffed, half-pouting.
Daphne almost laughed. What am I supposed to say? That we're both from another world?
"Our story's… complicated. But come on—he's handsome, strong, mysterious… what's not to like?"
Ann puffed her cheeks. "Hmph!"
Ellie stepped in with a grin. "Alright, Miss Future Swordswoman, try this dress. You'd look adorable."
"No way! I'm going to be the world's number one female swordmaster! Dresses aren't cool!" Ann hugged her sword Hanyue tightly.
"Fine, fine, Lady Swordmaster," Ellie teased. "Let's eat instead."
"Now that I'll agree to!"
They made their way toward the port, where restaurants lined the waterfront. But before they arrived, they saw soldiers lining the streets, civilians forced to the sides, nobles bowing low.
A massive ship was docking—escorted by Marine vessels and CP agents.
Daphne froze. No… it can't be.
A chill ran through her. "Ellie… that's a Celestial Dragon's entourage."
"Welcome, Saint Topman Fedra, to the Rainbow Kingdom!" the trembling king announced.
Kneeling nobles echoed him; the commoners fell to their knees.
From the ship emerged a man in a bubble helm, face twisted with arrogance. "You're this kingdom's king?"
"Yes, Lord Fedra! The palace awaits your arrival!"
"Good. Move."
He walked down the carpet, flanked by CP0. But then—his eyes fell on Daphne. The silk cheongsam clung to her figure in all the right ways. Desire flashed behind his glass dome.
"That woman… bring her to me. She'll attend tonight's banquet."
"Yes, my lord."
A CP0 agent vanished in a blur—Soru—and appeared before the three women.
"By order of Lord Fedra, you'll accompany him to the palace."
Ann's body temperature plummeted; frost whispered across her shoulders.
"Get lost," Ellie snapped, stepping in front of them.
"Impudent girl!" The CP0 agent lunged.
Steel rang out. Ellie blocked the strike, sparks bursting, while Ann's blade flashed in blue arcs of cold light—clashing against the black suits of other CP agents.
Daphne pulled out her Den Den Mushi with shaking hands. "Karl—help!"
A storm gathered above the city.
Everyone stopped and looked up as the sky blackened.
The air turned heavy—suffocating.
"That's him—Blood Sword Karl!" the CP0 screamed, face draining of color. "Run! Protect Lord Fedra! That's the man who killed Saint Vilar!"
The Celestial Dragon's smug composure shattered into panic. "W-what?! That demon—here?!"
"Back to the ship, now! Hurry!"
But it was too late.
Thunder rumbled. The sea churned.
Karl's crimson aura exploded across the port, tearing clouds apart—rage blazing in his eyes.
Twice.
They dared, twice!
"Those damned pigs…"
And for the first time in weeks, the entire Rainbow Kingdom felt the killing intent of a man truly furious.
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