"Keep this kunai close to you, Hancock..."
In an instant, Hancock's whole body trembled. Through the layers of mist, she noticed that gentle smile and the figure as pure and bright as moonlight.
"H-Hanazuki, that kunai is..."
"Ah, a teleportation formula is engraved on its handle. Compared to a few years ago, you've grown quite a bit taller—and prettier too."
"R-Really? I... Hanazuki praised me..."
Bang! The door was kicked open, followed by an elderly voice and the hurried attempts of a group of people to stop her.
"Wait, Grandma Flame Flower! Elder Sister is still bathing..."
"The war engulfing the entire world won't stop just because she's taking a bath! Move aside! Hurry up and make Hancock agree to the Navy's summons and head to Marineford!"
In the blink of an eye, a crowd had gathered at the bathroom entrance, instinctively peering inside.
Hancock, who had instinctively submerged herself in the water, and Hanazuki, who remained calm beside her, struck everyone's eyes and nerves at once.
"B-Benefactor!"
"Uchiha Hanazuki?! You bastard, are you trying to run off with Hancock again? You actually dared to show up directly in her bathroom, you old fossil—"
Before she could finish, a peach-shaped heart shot through the water's surface and landed squarely on Flame Flower.
"Who are you calling an old fossil?! Flame Flower, hurry up and drag her out!"
"Yes, Elder Sister..."
With a miserable cry, Flame Flower collapsed to the floor and was carried out by the Boa sisters. Hanazuki smiled gently.
"I'll wait for you outside."
"W-Wait!"
Watching helplessly as the back she had longed for walked out the door, Hancock clenched her pearly teeth, hastily dried the water from her hair, and hurried out of the bathroom.
"Flame Flower!"
Inside Hancock's chambers in Kuja City, a pair of almond