The Ninth Private Car

Eternal Federation, Dressrosa District, Royal Palace.

A crystal chandelier hung from the dome, scattering refracted specks of light from countless facets across the long table covered in a snow-white tablecloth.

The pan-seared Sea King steaks still sizzled, their rich aroma filling the air as golden oil slowly dripped from their edges;

Fruit tarts piled high on ornate silver platters, dotted with berries of every color, like exquisite works of art;

Steam rose from the thick soup, green herbs floating on its surface. Its rich fragrance mingled with the scents of the other dishes, forming an irresistibly tempting spread.

Lucas sat at the head of the table, his fingertips resting casually on its smooth edge. Two buttons of his black shirt were undone, revealing the defined lines of his collarbones and giving him a lazy, unruly air.

His gaze swept over the maids standing nearby. The young women's eyes kept drifting toward him, carrying a hint of shyness and admiration.

"Everyone, leave. There's no need to wait on us here."

The villa on Yulo Peninsula had been destroyed in the previous battle, leaving him nowhere to stay for the time being. Fortunately, his father-in-law had been generous enough to give him the entire royal palace, providing him and his women with a place to settle down.

The maids could not hide their disappointment, but they still curtsied respectfully and quietly withdrew. The heavy wooden doors slowly closed behind them with a dull thud.

Only after the maids had left did Lucas relax and invite his women to sit down.

Chair legs dragged softly across the carpet as the women took their seats one after another, instantly bringing life to both sides of the long table.

His gaze passed over each of them, and a gratified expression gradually appeared on his face.