Toritoma's death sent shockwaves through Amazon Lily.
"The Empress is dead! What are we supposed to do?"
"Who will lead the Kuja Tribe?"
"Will the Marines take this chance to attack us?"
Faced with her people's panic and unease, Gloriosa was anxious as well.
She knew all too well how dangerous the current situation was.
Without an Empress, Amazon Lily was like a toothless tiger.
Any force could take advantage of this opening.
Yet, she maintained her composure on the surface.
"Everyone, now is not the time to panic. We must choose a new Empress as soon as possible and stabilize the people's hearts."
Her aged yet authoritative voice echoed through Snake Palace.
"Starting tomorrow, we will hold a selection tournament for the new Empress!"
At those words, all of Amazon Lily erupted.
Nearly every young female warrior flexed her muscles, eager to try.
The Gorgon sisters were secretly competing with each other, both wanting to show their abilities in the selection.
"This time, I'll definitely let everyone see how strong I am!" Marigold said, clenching her fists.
Her older sister, Sandersonia, frowned. "Strength isn't the most important thing. Leadership and wisdom are what matter."
However, during the selection the very next day, one person's performance stunned everyone.
That person was Hancock!
She stood on the arena stage, her entire body radiating an intimidating aura.
The intensity of her Haki far surpassed that of ordinary Kuja warriors.
Every challenger fell before her, and some could not even get close.
"Th-this... is Haki?"
"How is that possible? How long has Hancock even been learning Haki?"
"She's too strong! Her Haki has already surpassed Toritoma's!"
Even Gloriosa revealed a shocked expression.
She knew Hancock's former strength better than anyone.
Just days ago, Hancock had only been a beginner who had barely gotten