Chapter 74: Chapter 74: The Birth of Valoria
The next day, after their arrival in Skypiea, William gathered the Shandia Chief and Gan Fall in Upper Yard. They stood amidst the sprawling jungle and ancient ruins as William spoke confidently.
"Chief, Gan Fall, I need you two to begin constructing a palace for me here. This will be the capital of our kingdom, and it needs to reflect strength and unity. Let's make it grand, but not over the top—simple yet elegant. Do you understand?"
Both men nodded, agreeing without hesitation. Gan Fall offered. "We'll use the resources of both Angel Island and Upper Yard to make it a place worthy of a king."
William smirked. "Good. I trust you two to handle it. Now, I have other matters to attend to."
William turned to Marigold with a playful grin. "Marie, I think we deserve a break. Let's go somewhere fun today. Just the two of us."
Marigold's eyes lit up with excitement. "Where are we going?"
"You'll see." William said, opening a shimmering space portal with a wave of his hand. Taking her hand, they stepped through and emerged in the bustling city of Water 7. William could open a portal here because they passed above water 7 on their way to Skypiea.
The day was filled with joy and laughter. William and Marigold explored the city, visiting its famous shops and buying matching trinkets. They rode water chariots and spent hours at a water park, laughing like carefree children.
As the sun set, they shared a romantic dinner by the canals, the warm glow of lanterns reflecting on the water. William looked into her eyes and said. "I love you, Marie."
Marigold blushed deeply, her heart racing. "I love you too, William."
William leaned in and kissed her gently on the lips. The world around them seemed to fade away in that moment.
Later that night, they found a luxurious hotel, where they spent the night together, deepening their bond. The next morning, William woke up with Marigold nestled in his arms. He smiled and said, "Good morning, sleepyhead. Let's have breakfast and head back to Skypiea. But… maybe we should have some fun first."
Marigold laughed and playfully screamed as William pulled her close for another round of love-making. Afterward, they shared a shower, enjoyed breakfast, and returned to Skypiea through William's portal.
Back in Skypiea, Hancock pouted when she saw William return. To cheer her up, he kissed her, and then gave Robin a quick kiss as well. Turning to Sandersonia, he said, "Sonia, get ready. Today, I'm all yours."
Sandersonia grinned, her excitement barely contained. "Where are we going?"
"Let's find out." William replied with a wink, opening another portal to Water 7.
Just like with Marigold, William made sure the day was unforgettable. They shopped, laughed, and explored the city, ending their evening with a candlelit dinner. Under the soft glow of the lights, William took her hand and said. "Sonia, I love you."
She blinked, her cheeks turning red. "I love you too, William."
William leaned in and kissed her, sealing the moment. That night, they stayed at a luxurious hotel, where they shared their love. In the morning, after a playful shower and breakfast, they returned to Skypiea.
The next day, William called a meeting in Shakky's bar. Hancock, Robin, Marigold, Sandersonia, Shakky, Rayleigh, Gan Fall, and the Shandia Chief were all present.
Hancock broke the ice. "Before we discuss the laws, what are we going to call our kingdom?"
William leaned back in his chair, arms crossed. "I want to create a kingdom that stands for equality, justice, and freedom. A place where people can live with dignity. A kingdom of valor. How about we call it Valoria?"
Robin smiled. "I was thinking of something like Darkhaven or Doom Kingdom, but I love the name Valoria."
Hancock beamed. "As expected from my husband! I love it too."
Everyone nodded in agreement, their excitement growing.
William continued. "Now, about the laws. Let's keep them simple and fair. Here's what I propose:
1. Equality: Every person, regardless of race, gender or origin, is equal under the law.
2. Freedom: No slavery or oppression will be tolerated.
3. Education: Every child has the right to education.
4. Healthcare: We will care for the elderly and the sick.
5. Justice: Crimes will be punished fairly under the law.
6. Taxes: A fair tax system will be established to support the kingdom.
Shakky nodded approvingly. "These are solid laws, William. They'll set a strong foundation for our kingdom."
The group spent hours refining the details, discussing the economy, governance, and other aspects. By the end, Valoria's laws were complete.
The following day, William summoned all the residents of Skypiea to Upper Yard. Curiosity and excitement in their eyes. Standing tall on a platform, William addressed the crowd.
"People of Skypiea!" he began, his voice booming with confidence. "Today marks the beginning of a new era. This land will no longer be divided by war or oppression. From this day forward, we are united as one kingdom—a kingdom of freedom, equality, and justice. Welcome to Valoria!"
The crowd erupted in cheers, their voices echoing through the skies.
William raised his hand for silence. "Upper Yard will be our capital, and I name it Volaris. Here, we will build a palace, schools, and hospitals. Everyone will have the chance to live with dignity. I promise to protect you from all threats, be they pirates or anyone else. And one day, Valoria will be so strong that it will rule the world!"
The crowd's cheers grew louder, tears streaming down many faces as they chanted, "Long live King William!"
William grinned and said. "Now, let's celebrate!"
The rest of the day was filled with joy and festivities. The people of Skypiea—or now Valoria danced, sang, and feasted in celebration of their new kingdom. Fireworks lit up the skies, and the golden bell rang out, its sound carrying the promise of a brighter future.
As William watched the celebrations with his friends and loved ones by his side, he felt a deep sense of pride. Valoria was born, and it was just the beginning.