Along the way, Queen appeared exceptionally excited, his plump face beaming with smiles: "Boss Kaidou, I've long heard the Red-light district of Flower Capital is famous. This time we must stay longer, let me properly experience the charm of the Red-light district." He rubbed his hands together, eyes sparkling with anticipation.
"You fat fool, if you delay Boss Kaidou's business, I'll definitely cut you into eight pieces," King coldly stated, his low voice emanating from beneath the black mask, carrying an undeniable threat in his tone.
Hearing this, Queen immediately jumped up, angrily waving his arms: "Bastard King, don't think just because Boss Kaidou is here that I won't teach you a lesson!"
"Enough, Queen," Kaidou'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 Flower Capital as long as you want." He paused, a shrewd glint flashing in his eyes.
Queen immediately broke into a wide grin upon hearing this, triumphantly patting his round belly: "Great, thank you Boss Kaidou. Mmmahahaha!" His signature laughter echoed through the procession, startling nearby birds into flight.
As the procession advanced, the outline of Flower Capital gradually came into clear view.
The prosperous capital city glittered brilliantly under the sunlight, its towering walls and exquisite architecture forming a magnificent skyline that stood in stark contrast to Kuri's ruggedness. Kaidou gazed at the distant city walls, a thoughtful expression flashing in his eyes.
"Mr. Kaidou," Denjiro stepped forward, bowing respectfully, his sharp eyes carrying vigilance. "After entering Flower Capital, I must ask you to observe some basic etiquette. After all, this is the Shogun's residence."
Kaidou nodded slightly, his deep voice carrying unquestionable authority: "I understand." He paused, his gaze fixed directly on Denjiro. "But I also hope you remember that Oden has entrusted Kuri to me."
Denjiro's expression turned somewhat complicated. He tightened his grip on the sword at his waist but still responded respectfully: "Of course, we haven't forgotten Lord Oden's command." His voice carried a barely detectable hint of bitterness.
The procession continued forward, passing through the bustling streets. Residents of Flower Capital stopped to watch, casting curious glances at the unfamiliar tall figure.
Kaidou noticed that while some people's eyes held awe, many more showed confusion and unease.
In the shops lining the streets, merchants paused their work, whispering among themselves about this suddenly appearing giant.
"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 perfect?" Queen grinned, revealing his golden teeth. "Let these country folk see what real strength looks like." He deliberately puffed out his chest, showcasing his increasingly rotund figure - the present Queen looked exactly the same as he would decades later.
Kaidou paid no attention to their conversation, his gaze drawn to the magnificent architecture of the distant Shogun Palace. It was a massive complex of palaces blending traditional Wano Country architectural styles, gleaming with golden light under the sun. Between the upturned eaves and corners, the figures of patrolling Samurai could be vaguely seen.
"Is that the Shogun Palace?" Kaidou asked.
"Yes," Denjiro replied, his gaze also turning toward the structure symbolizing power. "Lord Sukiyaki is awaiting your arrival there."
Kaidou gave a slight nod, already calculating his next moves. He knew this meeting would determine the future course of Wano Country. Regardless of the outcome, he was prepared. His large, calloused hands unconsciously clenched and unclenched, betraying his inner turmoil.
The procession finally halted before the Shogun Palace.
The towering vermilion gates slowly opened, revealing two rows of samurai standing at attention in perfect formation. These warriors wore matching uniforms, with exquisitely crafted samurai swords at their waists, their expressions stern yet respectful.
Kaidou took a deep breath and stepped into the building that represented the highest authority in Wano Country. His footsteps echoed dully against the bluestone pavement, as if heralding the arrival of a new era.
"Welcome, Mr. Kaidou," an elderly attendant said respectfully, bowing deeply. "Lord Sukiyaki has been waiting in the reception hall for quite some time."
Kaidou nodded and followed the attendant through a long corridor. Portraits of successive shoguns lined the walls on either side, their imposing faces seeming to watch this outsider. Sunlight filtered through paper windows, casting mottled patterns on the floor. Kaidou's footsteps reverberated through the silent corridor, each step feeling exceptionally heavy.
Soon, Kaidou and his entourage met the current shogun of Wano Country, Kouzuki Sukiyaki. The reception hall was spacious and bright, decorated with exquisite screens depicting Wano's landscapes.
Not only Sukiyaki was present—surrounding him were the Daimyo of Kibi, Fugetsu Omusubi; the Daimyo of Udon, Uzuki Tempura; the Daimyo of Ringo, Shimotsuki Ushimaru; the Daimyo of Hakumai, Shimotsuki Yasuie; and Kurozumi Orochi, who currently resided in the Shogun Palace. These daimyo sat formally in their respective positions, their expressions serious and vigilant.
"So this is Mr. Kaidou. Quite imposing indeed," Sukiyaki remarked directly upon seeing Kaidou's oppressive presence. As the shogun of Wano Country, though lacking in combat prowess, his years of privileged life had endowed him with an air of natural authority.
"Wororororo! You must be Oden's father. Oden and I are life-and-death friends—just call me Kaidou, Your Excellency," Kaidou addressed Sukiyaki, his booming voice echoing through the reception hall, causing the screens to tremble slightly.
"Do not mention that rebellious son Oden to me! I thought he had matured during his years in Kuri, but instead he openly defied Wano's ban by going to sea. I have severed ties with him—Kouzuki Oden is no longer my son," Sukiyaki responded immediately, his face darkening instantly with veins bulging on his forehead. "Please, sit!" He gestured toward the seat before him, barely containing his anger.
Kaidou promptly took his seat, his massive frame causing the specially made cushion to sink deeply. Meanwhile, King, Queen, and the others stood behind him, forming an intimidating barrier.