"Say, Lord Austin, what story are you going to tell today?"
Hanging around Austin's neck, Yamato was brimming with excitement and anticipation. Even the way she addressed him had unconsciously changed to Lord Austin.
"I've already been drained dry by you, Yamato~"
Over the past few days, Austin had nearly talked himself hoarse. Even for places he had never visited, he had drawn on his memories of the plot to help broaden Yamato's worldview.
But this girl never seemed satisfied, pestering Austin every day to tell her stories.
"One day, you'll have your own journey too, Yamato."
Austin stroked her little head. "When that time comes, you can go see it all with your own eyes. That'll be much more interesting than listening to me talk about it dryly."
"But..."
Hearing that, Yamato pursed her lips, her eyes dimming slightly.
"Father won't allow it, and neither will the adults in the Pirates..."
Ever since she was little, Kaido had never allowed Yamato to leave the Beasts Pirates, which troubled her deeply.
And after Yamato declared to Kaido that she would become Austin in the future, that would undoubtedly become even more severe.
"That's because you're still young, Yamato."
Seeing how upset the little girl was, Austin stroked her small head and horns, wearing a confident yet gentle smile.
"When you grow up and want to set sail to see the world, if Kaido still tries to stop you, just call me.
I'm sure he'll give me that much respect."
"Ah..."
Feeling Austin's warm hand and hearing those immensely confident words, Yamato's eyes sparkled.
"Is this the dignity of a king? That's so cool!!!"
She was overjoyed.
Not only had she met such a wonderful friend as Austin, but he was even willing to stand against her father for her. She