Fate of Uchiha

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The atmosphere in the arena was thick with emotion, as Akira's words painted a vision of what their future could be.

The female warriors of Amazon Lily found themselves captivated by Akira. His calm, composed demeanor, combined with the overwhelming power he had demonstrated, and the tragic history of the Uchiha clan, stirred something deep within them. Sympathy, admiration, and perhaps even respect, blossomed in the hearts of those listening.

On top of that, they had all witnessed the sheer might of the Uchiha clan.

The three most powerful women of Amazon Lily, including their Empress, had been defeated—not by cruelty or force, but through honorable combat. It was clear that the Uchiha could easily conquer this place if they wanted to, yet they chose diplomacy and cooperation instead. That gentleness made Akira's words ring even more true and sincere.

The emotions displayed by the Uchiha clan also seemed authentic, as their faces reflected not just pride in their strength, but a deep bond with one another. The presence of women, children, and the elderly in their ranks was proof that they were not a war-hungry people, but one seeking refuge and a future.

Of course, the decisive factor lay in the extraordinary abilities of Itachi, Shisui, and Akira. Their mastery of power and skill had conquered the hearts of the Kuja warriors. In Amazon Lily's warrior culture, strength was synonymous with beauty. Akira, with his overwhelming might and commanding presence, became the embodiment of that beauty, admired and respected by all.

Some of the female warriors couldn't help but entertain the thought that had begun to take root in their hearts—taking a man of such power as Akira, and raising strong, formidable children. For many of them, it was a tantalizing possibility, as strength and lineage were prized above all. The idea of their future being intertwined with these powerful warriors became increasingly appealing.

---

Hancock found herself in a precarious position. Akira's power far exceeded her expectations, and the idea of continuing the conflict was no longer viable. If they clashed with the Uchiha, Amazon Lily might face ruin—something she couldn't afford to risk.

She decided to offer a temporary truce but remained cautious, her skeptical nature demanding answers. "The duel is over. Take the Uchiha clan to rest."

"Yes!" the Minister of Internal Affairs, quickly moved to carry out the order. As Hancock turned, she addressed Akira directly. "You, follow me."

Hancock shot Akira a fierce glare before walking toward the heart of Kuja City, and Akira followed without a word.

Once inside her royal chambers, Hancock's pet snake coiled itself into a throne, allowing her to sit regally. Her two younger sisters, Marigold and Sandersonia, flanked her, standing by with sharp eyes. Hancock didn't waste time on pleasantries.

"Tell me," she demanded, her gaze piercing. "What is your true purpose here? Don't feed me the same story you told the others. I'm not some naive girl you can deceive."

Akira met her eyes calmly, a small smile playing on his lips. "Most of what I said was the truth. My goal is simple—it's to strengthen the Uchiha clan. Amazon Lily is an ideal location for us. It's secluded, located in the Calm Belt, away from the world's constant chaos. My people need a place to settle, and your island offers the perfect environment."

He paused for effect, letting his words resonate before continuing. "You don't need to worry about us taking over. If that were our intention, we would have done it by now. The Uchiha don't thrive on piracy or domination. We've always lived by cooperation. As ninjas, we were hired by our village for missions and rewarded for our success. But due to political tensions, we've been forced into defensive roles—much like how your warriors protect Amazon Lily."

Akira's voice was steady, each word deliberate. "Taking this island by force would serve us no long-term benefit. A mutual alliance, however, would. If we make Amazon Lily our home, we will naturally defend it if it's ever threatened."

Hancock mulled over his words, torn between skepticism and reason. The Calm Belt was mostly safe, but not invincible. The World Government had technology that allowed ships to traverse it, and powerful Emperors from the New World could pass through with ease. While her status as one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea currently protected Amazon Lily, the World Government's loyalty was fragile. If they ever revoked her title, her island would be vulnerable overnight.

Suddenly, a voice broke the silence. "Promise him!"

An elderly woman, leaning on a snake-shaped cane, stepped into the chamber. It was Glorosia, the former empress and wise advisor to Amazon Lily.

Hancock's eyes narrowed. "Old woman? Why are you here?"

Marigold and Sandersonia looked equally surprised. "Granny, what's going on?" they asked in unison.

Glorosia's expression was stern. "This is a matter of survival for Amazon Lily. It's my duty to be here."

Hancock's irritation was palpable. As much as she respected the former empress, her pride resented the frequent meddling. "How irritating!" she snapped. "Your time has passed, old woman! Amazon Lily belongs to me now!"

In typical dramatic fashion, Hancock turned away, assuming her infamous 'Mero Mero' stance. "Even if this country falls because of me, everyone will forgive me. After all, I am so beautiful!"

Akira couldn't help but smile. Seeing Hancock's notorious arrogance in person was even more amusing than he'd imagined.

"What are you smiling at?" Hancock barked, clearly irked by his reaction.

"Nothing," Akira replied with a chuckle. "It's just amusing to watch you dismiss everyone like that."

Hancock huffed but didn't argue. Instead, she returned to her throne, sitting down with an air of superiority. After a long pause, she spoke again, her tone commanding.

"I can agree to allow the Uchiha to stay on Amazon Lily," she said, her voice full of regal authority. "But we don't tolerate idleness here. If you want protection, you and your clan must serve under my command."

Akira nodded, his expression calm. "Agreed."

Hancock's lips curled into a satisfied smirk. With such a powerful ally under her command, Amazon Lily's future felt more secure—at least for now.

...