Along the journey, Queen seemed particularly excited. His round face was wreathed in smiles. "Boss Kaido, I've heard the Pleasure District of the Flower Capital is quite famous. This time, we absolutely have to stay for a while. Let me properly experience its charms." He rubbed his hands together, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.
"Fatso, if you delay Big Brother Kaido's business, I will cut you into eight pieces," King said coldly, his low voice coming from behind the black mask, his tone carrying an unquestionable threat.
Hearing this, Queen immediately jumped up, angrily waving his arms. "Bastard King, don't think just because Boss Kaido is here, I won't teach you a lesson!"
"Enough, Queen," Kaido's deep voice cut through their argument, his tall figure casting a long shadow in the sunlight. "After I finish my business, you can stay in the Flower Capital as long as you like." He paused, a shrewd gleam flashing in his eyes.
Queen immediately beamed upon hearing this, patting his round belly proudly. "Alright, thank you, Boss Kaido. Muhahaha!" His trademark laughter echoed within the group, startling nearby birds into flight.
As the procession advanced, the outline of the Flower Capital gradually became clear.
This prosperous capital city glittered under the sun. Its towering walls and exquisite architecture formed a magnificent skyline, a stark contrast to Kuri's ruggedness. Kaido gazed at the distant city walls, a thoughtful look flashing in his eyes.
"Mr. Kaido," Denjiro stepped forward, bowing respectfully. His sharp eyes held a note of wariness. "After entering the Flower Capital, please observe some basic etiquette. After all, this is the Shogun's residence."
Kaido gave a slight nod, his deep voice carrying unquestionable authority. "I understand." He paused, his gaze directly meeting Denjiro's. "However, I also hope you will remember that Oden has entrusted Kuri to me."
Denjiro's expression grew somewhat complicated. He tightened his grip on the hilt at his waist but still responded respectfully. "Of course, we have not forgotten Lord Oden's command." His voice held a trace of barely detectable bitterness.
The procession continued, passing through bustling streets. The residents of the Flower Capital stopped to watch, casting curious glances at this unfamiliar, towering figure.
Kaido noticed that some people's eyes held reverence, but more held confusion and unease.
In the shops lining the streets, merchants paused their work, whispering about this suddenly appearing behemoth.
"It seems our arrival has caused quite a stir," King said quietly, his eyes hidden behind the mask scanning the surroundings warily.
"Isn't that just perfect?" Queen grinned, revealing his gold teeth. "Let these country folk see what a real powerhouse looks like." He deliberately puffed out his chest, displaying his increasingly rotund physique. The present Queen looked almost identical to his future self decades later.
Kaido ignored their conversation. His attention was drawn to the magnificent structure of the Shogun's castle in the distance. It was a vast palace complex that blended traditional Wano architectural styles, glowing golden under the sun. Between the upturned eaves, the figures of patrolling samurai could faintly be seen.
"Is that the Shogun's castle?" Kaido asked.
"Yes," Denjiro replied, his gaze also turning toward that symbol of power. "Lord Sukiyaki is awaiting your arrival there."
Kaido gave a slight nod, already beginning to calculate his next moves. He knew this meeting would determine Wano Country's future course. Whatever the outcome, he was prepared. His large, calloused hands unconsciously clenched and relaxed, betraying the inner turmoil.
The procession finally stopped before the Shogun's castle.
The tall vermilion gates slowly swung open. Two rows of samurai stood in orderly formation to greet them. These samurai wore uniform attire, exquisite katana at their waists, their expressions solemn and respectful.
Kaido took a deep breath and stepped into this building that symbolized Wano Country's highest authority. His footsteps made dull echoes on the blue stone slabs, as if announcing the arrival of a new era.
"Welcome, Mr. Kaido," an elderly attendant said respectfully, bowing deeply. "Lord Sukiyaki has been waiting for you in the reception hall for some time."
Kaido nodded and followed the attendant through a long corridor. Portraits of past Shoguns hung on the walls on either side, their stern faces seeming to watch this outsider. Sunlight streamed in through the paper windows, casting dappled light and shadow on the floor. Kaido's footsteps echoed in the silent corridor, each step sounding exceptionally heavy.
Soon, Kaido and his group met the current Shogun of Wano Country, Kozuki Sukiyaki. The reception hall was spacious and bright, with exquisite folding screens placed around it depicting Wano's landscapes.
It wasn't just Sukiyaki. Surrounding him were the Daimyo of Kibi, Kazuki Mitsuyoshi; the Daimyo of Udon, Ugetsu Tempura; the Daimyo of Ringo, Shimotsuki Ushimaru; the Daimyo of Hakumai, Shimotsuki Yasuke; and Kurozumi Orochi, who currently resided in the Shogun's castle. These daimyo each sat in their own positions, their expressions serious and alert.
"So, this is Mr. Kaido. You truly are... imposing," Sukiyaki said directly upon seeing Kaido's overwhelmingly oppressive physique. He was the Shogun of Wano Country. Though lacking in personal strength, years of privilege and authority had given him an aura of natural, unspoken intimidation.
"Wororororo! So you're Oden's father. Oden and I are life-and-death friends. You can just call me Kaido, Your Excellency the Shogun," Kaido said to Sukiyaki. His booming voice echoed in the reception hall, causing the screens to tremble slightly.
"Do not mention that unfilial son Oden to me. I thought he had matured these years in Kuri. Who would have imagined he would openly violate Wano Country's ban and go to sea? I have severed all ties with him. From now on, Kozuki Oden is no longer my son." Sukiyaki's face instantly darkened upon hearing this, veins bulging on his forehead. "Please, sit!" he said, forcibly suppressing his anger and gesturing to the seat before him.
Upon hearing this, Kaido directly sat down in the position facing him. His massive frame caused the specially made cushion to sag deeply. King, Queen, and the others all stood behind him, forming an intimidating barrier.
***
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