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Almost all the women aboard had either bows and arrows on their backs or spears in hand.

In this pirate world moving toward modernization, their weapons may appear primitive, but their true power would only be known once put to the test.

As the two ships drew closer, the crew aboard the Tempest showed no signs of worry.

Many had gathered on the deck, ready to seize the other ship when the time came.

There were about 80 people on Anos's ship, including 20 members of the Royal Guards.

Each of them was highly skilled, with the power to use Haki. Only those with such ability could serve directly under Anos; otherwise, they'd be of no use.

Anos lay back on a deck chair, observing the ship ahead. He had already sensed its presence and was surprised it wasn't every day he encountered the Kuja Pirates in such an inhospitable place.

"Your Majesty, as this is the first battle, may I request to take action?" Abona asked respectfully, standing beside Anos's chair.

Before Anos could respond, Daiki interjected with a touch of displeasure, "Abona, you just joined the kingdom. Some roles aren't up for competition. As captain of the Royal Guards, tasks like these fall under my responsibility."

"Captain Daiki, just this once. His Majesty saved me I have to prove my worth!" Abona replied, resolute.

"Enough, both of you," Anos interrupted, his tone relaxed. "How about staying still and watching quietly? On that ship sails the most beautiful woman on the Grand Line. I'll handle this myself."

Daiki raised an eyebrow. "Your Majesty, how do you know she's beautiful? I haven't heard anything like that before!"

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"Quit asking so many questions," Anos replied calmly. "Just stay back, and protect yourselves. These women aren't as simple as you might think."

"Do you know this person, Your Majesty?" Abona asked, curious.

"Know her? Hardly. But listen up: do not provoke them. We may need to rely on their ship to get us somewhere safe."

Anos reclined back on his chair, hands tapping lightly on the armrests as he spoke in a measured tone.

His crew exchanged glances, wondering if their King was this captivated by beauty.

"Your Majesty, the ship ahead belongs to the Kuja Pirates the only Grand Line crew ruled by women. And… they despise men," Suzu explained, holding a notebook and adjusting her glasses.

Anos smiled slightly. "That news is a bit late, Suzu. I've known from the start. That ship belongs to Boa Hancock, Captain of the Kuja Pirates and Empress of Amazon Lily."

"She's got all three types of Haki Conquerors, Armament, and Observation, and she wields the power of a Devil Fruit that turns people to stone."

His words left his crew speechless. How did their King know so much? They spent most of their time together, yet somehow, he had knowledge that left them all baffled.

"All right, everyone, prepare to meet the saviour who might just help us get to where we need to go," Anos said, grinning. Rising from his chair, he strolled to the guardrail, watching the approaching ship with keen interest.

Meanwhile, aboard the Kuja Pirates' ship, the crew was puzzled. Why were these strangers coming straight toward them, showing no hesitation?

"Sister Hancock, shall we open fire?" Marigold asked, ready for combat.

"Hold off for now," Hancock replied. She had a feeling they weren't approaching with hostile intent. Something about the other ship seemed… different.

The two ships were now only about a mile apart. Those with keen eyesight could just make out the figures aboard each ship.

On the Tempest, Anos's crew had received their orders. Instead of preparing for battle, they leaned against the rails, curiously watching the all-female crew on the Kuja ship.

"Abona, as a swordsman newly joined to our side, you haven't yet received a proper welcome gift. Take this," Anos said, tossing a long, gleaming blade to him.

This was no ordinary sword; it was one of the Supreme Grade swords in the One Piece world.

The sword had been a significant purchase, costing over 200 million Beris, but Anos was a wealthy king. With his fortune in gold and jewels, he could afford to arm his new allies well.

It wasn't just to show Anos knew that loyalty required tangible rewards.

He wanted Abona well-prepared for whatever might come next. After some time together, he slowly started to trust Abona, but time will tell if he will live or die.

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