HPDBC Chapter 122: Huh? The "Second Sister-in-law" Becomes the Sister-in-law?
Chapter 122: Huh? The "Second Sister-in-law" Becomes the Sister-in-law?
Chapter 122: Chapter 122: Huh? The "Second Sister-in-law" Becomes the Sister-in-law?
Inside Claudius' palace in Mariejois, Claudius was staring at the little girl standing before him with an expression of surprise.
After dealing with the mess involving Charros, Claudius had decided he'd had enough of the slave market and returned directly to his palace, accompanied by his "trophies" and the newly purchased Hancock and her sisters.
As for Charlos, the expected retaliation never came. It seemed even his father, Saint Rosward, had accepted the reality of the situation. Facing Claudius' wrath again was not worth the trouble, and the last thing Rosward wanted was for Claudius to go on another rampage.
Claudius hadn't given it much thought. What was a Celestial Dragon anyway? Just another obstacle to kick out of his way.
After returning, he had instructed Nia to have the newly acquired subordinates cleaned up. They were filthy after their ordeal and needed fresh clothes and care. The four young children he had picked up were the first to be attended to, as they required less time and attention. Most of them were simply regular kids, but one of them stood out to Claudius.
The little girl standing in front of him was unexpectedly familiar. At first, Claudius hadn't noticed anything unusual; she looked just like an ordinary, albeit unusually cute, little girl. But as he questioned her, Claudius began to realize why she was different.
This girl's name was Koala. It might not have meant much by itself—names repeated often enough across the world but the fact that she was captured and sold from an island called Foolshout Island made Claudius take a closer look.
"What's with today? It's like the slave market is full of hidden treasures," Claudius thought, mildly amused.
First, he had stumbled upon Fisher Tiger, locked up in a cage, then the Boa sisters. Not long after, he had encountered the tragic couple, Tesoro and Stella. Now, while looking for a few playmates for Ace, he had unintentionally discovered Koala.
If Claudius' memory was correct, this Koala would grow up to be an important figure in the Revolutionary Army, known affectionately as "The Second Sister."
As for Sabo, well, if he found himself without a partner because of this twist of fate, it was just as well that Ace gained a valuable companion. Claudius felt no guilt over it.
Koala stayed silent, the nervousness still etched on her face despite Claudius's attempts to reassure her. After a few more moments of comforting words, he dismissed her to rest.
With that taken care of, Claudius stepped into the courtyard for a walk. Nia followed closely behind, ready for whatever task might be needed.
"It's customary to mark them, isn't it?" Claudius remarked.
"Yes, Your Highness," Nia replied. "The three sisters, Tesoro, and Stella already bear the mark of the Celestial Dragon's hoof. It's the common branding, of course."
Claudius touched his chin thoughtfully. "Hmm... Koala will have to bear a mark as well. But branding is too cruel. Let's use a tattoo instead. Something elegant that symbolizes she's under my protection."
Nia's lips curved in a small smile. "She might not understand the significance now, but when she grows up, she'll know what an honor it is."
Claudius nodded. "And as for the others, have the hoof of the Celestial Dragon covered with the crest of the Donquixote family. It's time they bore my name instead of that symbol of oppression."
"Yes, Your Highness," Nia replied, already mentally arranging the task ahead.
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