Chapter 194: Hancock: I Will Become the Pirate Empress

At the illegal port of the Sabaody Archipelago, Claudius stood near the docks, speaking with Hancock. Gloriosa had already arrived, and upon reuniting with the three sisters, her face lit up with joy.

Sandersonia and Marigold had already boarded Gloriosa's ship. Rayleigh, true to his word, had decided to accompany them on their journey back to Amazon Lily. His presence was reassuring, ensuring the sisters' safe return to their homeland.

Watching them prepare to leave, Claudius couldn't help but feel a twinge of reluctance. The sixteen-year-old Hancock, no longer a child, had grown into a young woman. Though still blossoming, her extraordinary beauty and regal air were already beginning to shine through.

As he prepared to send her off, Claudius felt a complicated mix of emotions. This departure, he knew, might mean it would be a long time before they crossed paths again.

"Well," Claudius began, his voice soft, "every banquet must come to an end. You've finally gotten what you wanted, you're going home. You must be thrilled." He reached out, gently brushing his hand over Hancock's smooth black hair.

Hancock didn't flinch at the gesture, but instead nodded slightly. "When I return, I will become the empress. It's better than being a slave here with you, isn't it?" she said, her tone laced with her usual haughtiness.

Claudius chuckled at her response. "You make it sound like I've mistreated you. That hurts, you know. Here I am, feeling reluctant to see you go, and yet you seem so eager to leave."

Hancock paused, a flicker of hesitation crossing her face before she murmured, "I… I feel conflicted too. There are things I'll miss."

Hearing that, Claudius laughed. "That's more like it. At least I know I didn't completely mess up raising you."

"I suppose I can understand why Mero and Lenny stayed loyal to you," Hancock admitted quietly, her tone softening.

Claudius nodded and smiled. "When you get back, you must work hard to become a good ruler. And don't forget what we discussed. This isn't just about you, it's about securing Amazon Lily's future. The Calm Belt development will benefit your people as much as it benefits me. Together, we'll ensure Kuja Island becomes stronger than ever."

"You don't need to remind me," Hancock replied with a hint of her usual arrogance.

Claudius grinned at her tsundere demeanor and turned his gaze toward the calm sea. "It's a good day to set sail, clear skies, calm waters. We might not see each other for a while, so let me wish you a safe journey, Boa Hancock."

Hancock didn't respond immediately. Instead, she turned to walk toward Gloriosa's ship. But just as she was about to board, she stopped abruptly. Without warning, she turned around and rushed back to Claudius.

Claudius was caught off guard. What's this? he wondered. Is she coming to yell at me? Or maybe slap me? His mind raced briefly, recalling past moments where he might've inadvertently upset her, including that one awkward bath incident at Mariejois. That was just bad timing! How was I supposed to know she'd be there without putting up a sign?

But before he could dwell on it further, Hancock threw herself into his arms, wrapping her slender arms around his waist. Her voice trembled slightly as she said, "Claudius… thank you. Thank you for everything. I'll never forget your kindness."

For a moment, Claudius was stunned. Then his expression softened. He gently patted her on the shoulder, speaking in a calm, reassuring tone. "Take care of yourself out there. The sea breeze is cold, don't catch a cold. I know you like incense, so I'll send some your way."

Hancock nodded silently, her face pressed against his chest.

"The nightmare is over," Claudius continued softly. "From now on, you'll be free to live as you choose. You'll grow to become the most dazzling woman in the world. So don't dwell on the past. Look forward, and face the future with courage.

"And remember this: no matter what, you bear my mark. You're under my protection. Anyone who dares to harm you will have me to answer to."

Hancock tightened her grip slightly, her voice a near whisper. "I will become Amazon Lily's empress. And the Pirate Empress too."

Claudius smiled, stroking her hair. "I've already thought of your title. How does Pirate Empress Boa Hancock sound? Perfect, isn't it?"

Hancock buried her face deeper into his chest, her voice filled with determination. "I will become the Pirate Empress and the Seven Warlords of the Sea. Give me two years, I'll make it happen."

"I believe you," Claudius replied sincerely.

Hancock hesitated for a moment before asking, "You never told me, but… you're going to change the world, aren't you?"

Claudius's smile faded into something more serious. "Yes, I will."

"I hate Mariejois," Hancock said softly. "I hate the Celestial Dragons. But because of you… I might also…" Her voice trailed off, her words too faint for Claudius to catch.

"What was that?" Claudius asked, tilting his head.

"It's nothing," Hancock said quickly, pushing herself away from him. She wiped her eyes and smiled—a radiant, tearful smile that seemed to brighten the entire world around her.

Claudius found himself momentarily stunned by the sight.

"Goodbye, Your Highness," Hancock said, waving at him before running back to the boat.

Gloriosa and Rayleigh didn't delay their departure. The ship set sail swiftly, carrying the three sisters away.

Standing on the deck, Hancock looked back at the shrinking figure of Claudius. She whispered softly to herself, "But because of you… I might even like a Celestial Dragon."

---

Claudius remained on the docks, watching the ship fade into the horizon. A faint smile tugged at his lips as he murmured, "Was that the first time she called me 'Your Highness'? She usually just calls me by name."

With the Hancock sisters gone, everything regarding Amazon Lily had been settled. The agreements were in place, and Claudius's plans for the Calm Belt could proceed without issue.

Although Claudius and Sengoku were spearheading the Calm Belt project, neither of them planned to be directly involved in its execution. Their high profiles would only draw unnecessary attention. For now, it was best to keep the development low-key to avoid the World Government catching on and interfering.

After the sisters left, Claudius found himself with fewer companions by his side. Fortunately, Kuina had joined him recently, though she wasn't at Sabaody Archipelago at the moment. She had gone to Naval Headquarters with Mihawk.

Mihawk, who had taken a liking to Kuina, often gave her pointers on swordsmanship during their journey. Their relationship had grown close, almost like mentor and student. When Mihawk decided to head to Naval Headquarters to challenge swordsmen, Kuina had eagerly followed him.

Claudius wasn't worried. With Naval Headquarters practically aligned with him these days, the two of them were in safe hands.

Standing alone on the beach, staring at the endless sea, Claudius felt an unusual emptiness. For years, he had been meticulously building his foundation, but now that it was solid, he wasn't sure what his next step should be.

"Maybe it's time for something big," Claudius mused. "But what's the next move?"

A sudden thought struck him, and he chuckled. "Should I head to Little Garden and resume my dinosaur hunting adventure?"

Before he could entertain the idea further Nia, approached with a Den Den Mushi.

"Your Highness," Nia said, "a major announcement has just been made. The Five Elders have issued an order."

Claudius raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"

"One week from now," Nia continued, "Marine's current fleet admiral, Kong, will be promoted to Commander-in-Chief of the military. Naval Headquarters will undergo a major restructuring."

***

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