Marine Calendar 1508, June 1st, a little after nine in the morning.
Whiskey Peak Island, located in the first half of the Grand Line.
As a summer island, it was bathed in blazing sunlight year-round, with scorching temperatures.
But at this moment, it had become a massive vortex ignited by fervor and dreams.
The air trembled with the clamor of tens of thousands of visitors from different races, professions, and even worlds.
Mixed in were the salty tang of seawater, the aroma of food, and inexplicable body odors.
From high above, one could clearly see it.
Dense streams of people, like colorful ants, continuously poured out of the enormous Natural Portal.
Ships in the sky and on the sea converged from every direction.
"Woooah—"
"There are so many people here, even more than on Wano Island and Water Seven!"
Lala's violet eyes widened round as her pink hair swayed.
The bizarre and bustling sights around her were reflected in her gaze.
With her lovely face, tall figure, exotic style of dress, and peculiar tail,
she likewise drew many strange looks from nearby people.
But she remained completely unaware, wholly immersed in the novelty of it all.
"Hmph, the scale is passable."
At that moment, a childish yet overly mature voice sounded.
The speaker was a little boy wearing a fashionable black top with matching jeans.
When he grinned, he revealed a mouthful of sharp teeth, while his tail swished back and forth.
With both hands tucked into his top's pockets, he stood beside Lala.
It was Chido, who had spent four days sightseeing on Sea Star and had just left Water Seven.
Behind them,
Sastin, Puwats, Maru, and Quintus of the royal guard occasionally scanned the surroundings and passing pedestrians.
Though there was absolutely no need for vigilance.
"Your Majesty,