Her voice was waxy, more delicate and cute than little Camie's, causing Arias to feel like his heart was melting.
"My name is Arias," he said to Shirahoshi with a smile.
"Wow! Big brother, is your surname also Ari? Shirahoshi's surname is Ari too!" Shirahoshi exclaimed, leading to confusion for Neptune.
Arias laughed, teasing Shirahoshi, "Yes, both of our surnames are Arias!"
"Then, can I call you Brother Ari?" Little Shirahoshi asked, delighted. The big human brother in front of her was not only good-looking but also very easy-going.
Witnessing the interaction, Princess Otohime, who was chatting with Hancock, remembered her children and introduced them: "These are my children, Shark Star, Emperor Star, Kari Star, and Shirahoshi! Don't be fooled by how big Shirahoshi has grown; she is only three years old!"
Without the disruptions caused by Hody Jones and Vanderdeken IX, their trip to the Dragon Palace proceeded smoothly without any accidents.
While the group was chatting, a waiter approached Neptune, announcing, "King, the banquet is ready!"
At the banquet, Hancock sat next to Arias, opting to sit on Salome, curled up instead of a chair. Mermaids danced and sang, and the atmosphere was filled with food and wine.
The singing and dancing mermaid girls flirted with Arias, drawing jealous hums. Feeling the attention, Arias focused on the Sea Kings' meat, known for its pure energy.
During the meal, little Shirahoshi sat beside Arias, pouring him wine. After eating, she suggested, "Brother As, let me take you to visit The Fish Men Island!"
Amused by her innocence, Arias smiled and questioned her about knowing her way around the island. Everyone laughed, causing Shirahoshi to blush.
The right minister acted as a tour guide, leading them through various parts of The Fish Men Island. However, when approaching Fishman Street, the right minister changed directions, avoiding a dark street.
Arias, suspecting Hody Jones might be on Fishman Street, kept a thoughtful demeanor. Suddenly, he exclaimed, "Ah! My ring is missing!"
Hancock checked and confirmed their wedding ring was gone. Panicked, she questioned how it could be lost. The right minister offered assistance, but Arias, pretending frustration, suggested searching for the ring himself.
Despite offers to help, Arias insisted, "I am very fast. I'll go back along the road. If I don't find it, I'll be back soon!"
After saying that, without waiting for anyone's reply, Arias ran back alone.
Hancock and the others had no choice but to wait for him where they were.
Out of sight from the group, Arias swiftly headed towards the Fishman Street in his memory.
Before reaching Fishman Street, he encountered three fishmen who blocked his way.
"What are you doing?" Arias feigned panic and fear.
"Humans are the lowest race in the world! Anyone who dares to come to The Fish Men Island will die!" Their eyes reflected deep-seated hatred for Arias and humanity.
"I am a distinguished guest of King Neptune! If you hurt me, you will all be punished!" Arias shouted, but the fishmen showed contempt.
"Look at these humans, a cowardly and inferior race! Why should they occupy the richest place?" Armed with Short Swords, they charged at Arias.
Arias feigned panic, turning around and fleeing. Pretending to be frightened, he dashed into a dark street.
As he entered the street, a curious little mermaid peered out from a corner, remarking, "Isn't that a handsome big brother? How come you are in a place like this?"
The three fishmen chasing him laughed at his predicament, proclaiming, "Dare you run here? It seems like today is your day to die!"