The Tragedy That Befell Dressrosa Overnight, Ten Years Ago

Several days later, everyone listened intently as the Toy Soldier recounted this unknown story:

"I failed to protect Rebecca's mother. I have never forgotten what happened that day. Though that child no longer remembers me after I became a toy... I am, in fact... Rebecca's biological father."

It was so quiet that one could have heard a pin drop. In such silence, the sound of flowing water seemed especially loud. Everyone gazed solemnly at the Toy Soldier, never having expected him to possess such an identity. Every face was grave.

"You're..." Usopp was stunned.

"You said you're her biological father. If that's true, then that girl is King Riku's granddaughter. Which means before you became a toy..."

Before Usopp could finish, the Toy Soldier interrupted him. "It all began that night."

"Answer my question, hey! You're one of King Riku's—!" Usopp frantically grabbed at his hat.

"No, perhaps it had been brewing even earlier. Ever since that woman called Monet entered the palace to serve. Over ten years, the country underwent earth-shaking changes, both in its scenery and its people."

"During the Riku royal family's eight hundred years of rule, this country had never known war."

"That truly is remarkable."

"That's right. As a nation, it could be called a miracle. Though poor, humans and fairies lived in unity and mutual support, their hearts peaceful and fulfilled. Dressrosa was such a peaceful country. But then..."

"A nightmare suddenly descended upon the palace. One night, Donquixote Doflamingo suddenly appeared there and said to King Riku, 'Return this country to me. I will give you two choices now. Either gather ten billion Beli for me, or watch the entire country be stained red with blood.'"

"The king had no choice at the time but to gather ten billion Beli. Yet he chose