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Now, none of the pirates were treated politely, each one seemed to have returned to their ship.
Hancock observed this quietly but said nothing. Although she detested these men, she couldn't act on it.
Meanwhile, her two sisters, Sandersonia and Marigold, were engaging in a pleasant conversation with Anos, showing no hostility whatsoever.
However, most of the Kuja Pirates remained on the ground.
Only three members were able to engage in conversation.
Hancock stood on the deck, her giant snake mount lying peacefully nearby.
She watched as the crew on the Tempest moved toward her ship one by one, showing obvious disdain. But there was little she could do.
Onboard, Daiki was still cautious of Hancock, while the others busily transported supplies.
Although the Tempest wouldn't sink immediately, the crew treated it as if it was about to.
They began moving their belongings one by one to the Kuja Pirates' ship.
After the last person boarded, Daiki took inventory, then approached Anos, who was still chatting with Sandersonia and Marigold, and reported, "Your Majesty, everything is ready, and the crew is accounted for."
"Good, then let's set sail!" Anos replied with a smile.
At that moment, the fainted Kuja Pirates began waking up one by one.
Though still unsteady, they immediately went on guard, gripping their weapons, ready to defend themselves.
If Hancock hadn't still been on deck, the tension between the two sides might have escalated.
"Why are you giving orders on my ship? We're on the Kuja Pirates' ship, so please don't presume to command here!" Hancock strode up to Anos, having overheard him instructing Daiki, and angrily spoke up.
"Why make such a fuss? For now, we're sharing the same vessel. Your ship has ample space, and once we reach our next stop, both parties can go their separate ways," Anos replied with a slight smile.
Hancock hesitated, wanting to say more, but ultimately kept silent.
"Sister, King Anos means no harm. Besides, they've promised to compensate us once they reach their destination. I think this arrangement is fair," Sandersonia added.
"Sandersonia, what did he offer you in return? Don't forget we're all in this together!" Hancock countered.
"There's no need for such distinctions. If your Amazon Lily could provide us with a ship, we'd manage on our own. Under these circumstances, our options are limited," Anos replied calmly.
"There's an island just two miles from here. We'll drop you off there, and you can handle things on your own," Hancock stated coldly.
Daiki glared back at her and said icily, "Do you think this is a negotiation? Please don't presume to be on equal footing. Speak to our King with respect, or I won't hesitate to claim this ship for the Tru Kingdom!"
"Daiki, these are all women here. Don't be so harsh. We'll be sharing this space for a while, and who knows, I might even make an alliance with Hancock for our Tru Kingdom!" Anos added though it was clear he was humorously teasing Daiki.
Despite the words sounding like a reprimand, his tone was relaxed, and his demeanour cheerful.
Anos then directed, "Have Barlow navigate towards the nearest island, ideally one with a ship nearby. If that doesn't work, we'll head to Water 7."
"No, we don't have time for detours. Water 7 is too far. Don't push it," Hancock snapped coldly.
"That's right, King Anos. It'll take at least half a month to reach Water 7 from here, and our people back in Amazon Lily are awaiting our return. Delaying too long could worry them," Marigold added.
"Then how about we head to your Kingdom?" Anos replied with a thoughtful grin.
"But men aren't allowed near Amazon Lily. If we brought you, my sister would be furious," Marigold replied.
"Your Majesty, why bother with pleasantries? If it comes to it, we can simply force our way through," Daiki suggested.
All the Kuja Pirates who were now awake glared in anger, especially upon hearing that Anos wanted to visit their Kingdom. Their hostility was directed toward Hancock.
"Are they being a bit too noisy? Should I make them sleep again?" Anos suggested to Hancock with a grin.
Caught between her loyal crew and the unshakable Anos, Hancock clenched her fists, frustrated yet restrained.
"Daiki, have Barlow steer toward the nearest island. If any ships appear, we'll dock nearby. Let's not escalate things too much," Anos instructed.
"As you wish, Your Majesty."
"And remind everyone of the boundaries. They're guests on the Kuja Pirates' ship, so let's respect the customs here," Anos added.
Daiki nodded, following the orders.
"Happy now?" Anos asked Hancock with a sigh.
For the first time, Hancock seemed uncertain, showing no resistance.
She understood the strength of Anos' crew and reluctantly accepted the situation for the sake of her people.
"Do you have something that could erase the scars on our backs?" Hancock asked cautiously, her voice soft, almost as if fearing anyone else might hear.
A shy look crossed her face as she awaited his response.
Asking this showed a rare vulnerability, as it was a topic she usually avoided at all costs.
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