58
Strictly speaking, the previous battle had ended without a victor, but to the residents of Dressrosa, holding off two legendary pirate crews at once was enough in itself to declare that the Family had joined the ranks of legends.
And legendary powers on the seas were entities that not only ordinary pirates, but even the World Government had to treat with caution.
That realization brought an irrepressible smile to everyone's face.
"Relax, Kyros."
At the very front of the docks, Riku patted his son-in-law's tense shoulder.
His beard trembled slightly in the wind. "Listen to those cheers.
The facts have proved that the Family is better suited to lead this country than I am."
He paused, his gaze passing over the excited faces around them. "Even I've made my peace with it. What is there that you still can't let go of?"
Kyros opened his mouth, but ultimately said nothing.
The former retainers of Dressrosa behind him were silent as well.
Although the Family had appointed Riku Doldo as a minister, these people of the "old era"
always felt somewhat awkward and restrained before their former king.
Still, perhaps only a Royal Family with such magnanimity would dare so openly appoint members of the former Royal Family as its ministers?
Amid a shower of flowers and roaring cheers, the ship shaped like a burning bird slowly docked.
The people on deck raised their arms to greet the crowd, immediately drawing an even greater wave of cheers.
Two figures, one cold and one warm, stepped onto the docks first, followed by the rest of the Family.
"Ha! Kyros!"
Diamante bent down and gave Kyros's shoulder armor a hearty slap, producing a crisp metallic clang. "I heard Scarlet had a daughter? Congratulations-the hero of the arena is a father now."
"With