"Welcome aboard the Gran Tesoro, gentlemen! Are you here for the Auction? If so, your food and lodging aboard the Gran Tesoro will be free of charge."
A young attendant in his twenties approached Werther and the others.
Before he could reach them, however, the White-Clad Steward, who was somewhat older, stopped him.
"Stand back. These two are Yasha Doflamingo and the Thunder Swordsman Werther. They're important men, not people you're qualified to serve."
With that, the steward called out loudly.
"Welcome aboard the Gran Tesoro, honored guests! Please enjoy our welcoming ceremony: the golden fountains!"
At the steward's gesture, several golden jets of water burst from around the circular dock where Werther stood. They shot high into the sky, then broke into glittering golden droplets that drifted slowly down.
It was worth noting that even the seawater in the Ark Maxim's interior harbor was golden.
Sugar looked up at the golden spray and curled her lip.
"That's so lame."
Werther chuckled. She was right. The welcome was a little ridiculous.
"Don't focus on the fountains. There's ten times as much gold dust in the air as usual."
The Ark Maxim only sprayed its golden fountains when important people came aboard.
Or rather, it did so whenever powerful people arrived, ensuring that gold dust entered their bodies.
Only a handful of people knew about the gold dust. Even the Marines knew nothing about it.
Doffy knew only because the Ark Maxim had an unusual relationship with the Underworld.
"This way, honored guests."
The White-Clad Steward bowed to welcome them, his face covered in a fawning smile.
“Stupid Bird, go find somewhere to play. Don't fly too far. I'll be leaving in a few days.”
The King of the Sky let out an eagle's cry, spread his wings, and soared upward.