One Piece: I am the Empress, and the more sycophants I have, the stronger I become.

While drinking with Ace, Hancock subtly maintained her passive charm aura in a gentle, subtle way.

This is not forced manipulation, but rather like the finest incense.

It creates a relaxed atmosphere that makes it easier to open up.

It is complemented by fine wine and expansive sea views.

Even someone as determined as Ace couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and a decrease in vigilance.

After a few drinks, they gradually started talking.

Hancock skillfully steered the conversation.

"Speaking of which, it seems your Whitebeard Pirates have some connection to Wano Country?"

Hancock asked casually, his fingertips lightly tracing the rim of his wine glass.

Ace nodded, his eyes filled with trust in his comrade.

"Yes, Izo is from Wano Country. It's a very closed-off but also very powerful country. Unfortunately, it seems like Kaido has made things quite chaotic for it now..."

His tone carried a hint of indignation at the injustice, which was also part of his character.

Hancock nodded slightly to indicate that she understood, and then steered the conversation in a more relaxed direction.

"Your brother Luffy has caused quite a stir in the East Blue. His declaration, 'I'm going to be the Pirate King,' was heard throughout the entire Baratie."

As she spoke, a faint smile played on her lips, as if she were recalling a funny child.

When Luffy was mentioned, Ace's expression instantly softened with pride, and he laughed heartily.

"Hahaha! That's right! That kid's always said that since he was little! Looks like he hasn't changed at all!"

He tilted his head back and took a big gulp of wine, his eyes shining with a warm light.

"He also has an older brother named Sabo, and the three of us were always together when we were little..."

Ace stopped mid-sentence, his eyes dimmed for a moment, and he shook his head without saying anything more.

Sabo's "death" is a pain that will never fade in his heart.

Hancock keenly noticed his momentary dip in mood.

But she didn't press him further; instead, she poured him another glass of wine, expressing her understanding through silence.

This perfectly timed thoughtfulness, enhanced by a passive allure, made Ace feel a sense of being respected and understood.

Then, Hancock turned the conversation to the important matter that Ace cared about most.

"About Blackbeard Teach..."

She lowered her voice, making sure only the two of them could hear her.

"I have received some unconfirmed information. He seems to be inquiring about a place called Magic Valley Town near Sky Island. It is said to be one of the entrances to Sky Island, and a gathering place for many dreamers... and outlaws."

Ace's expression immediately turned extremely serious as he carefully considered the place name.

"Magic Valley Town...Sky Island..."

This seems to match some of the fragmented clues he had previously followed.

"What is he doing there?"

"Perhaps, there's something he wants there, or... he wants to avoid being seen by certain people."

Hancock said meaningfully, while subtly hinting at something else.

"Furthermore, I have heard that the three scars on Shanks' left eye were not caused by swords, but by some kind of stranger and more vicious weapon. Teach was able to injure him, probably not just because of luck and hiding his strength."

This news shocked Ace to his core!

Shanks' facial injury was actually caused by Teach?

And it uses special weapons?

This gave him a completely new and deeper understanding of Teach's level of danger and his scheming.

Seeing Ace's solemn expression, Hancock changed the subject, her tone carrying a hint of respect for an elder.

"Edward Newgate the Whitebeard, the charisma and character of a man like you who would willingly follow him and hunt down a traitor who harmed his comrades at all costs is truly admirable. The strongest man in the world may refer to more than just strength."

This compliment to Whitebeard precisely touched the softest and most loyal spot in Ace's heart.

He suddenly looked up at Hancock, his eyes filled with the emotion of being understood and a sense of recognition as if he had found a kindred spirit.

He always believed that his father was the greatest pirate in the world.

Hearing the Empress of the Seven Warlords of the Sea, one of the three major powers, give her such an evaluation, his favorability towards her instantly soared!

[Ding! Target 'Portgas D. Ace' has developed a strong resonance and deep affection for the white-bearded man due to the host's high regard for him, infatuation value +3! Current infatuation value: 22/100, beginner simp!]

However, amidst his emotions of being moved and agreeing, a thought struck Ace like a bucket of cold water, instantly bringing him back to his senses.

Wait a minute! How does the Empress know so much?

Information about Teach's whereabouts, Shanks' injury, Luffy and Sabo... is kept extremely secret!

Why did she tell me?

He couldn't help but ask, his eyes filled with confusion and wariness.

"Your Majesty, why...why are you telling me this?"

When asked his question, Hancock simply raised his glass gracefully.

She took a small sip, and a profound, enigmatic smile appeared on her exquisite face, as if she knew everything yet remained elusive.

She didn't answer, but simply gazed at Ace quietly with her beautiful eyes, which were filled with a hazy, alluring charm.

This silent, amused attitude is more impactful than any direct answer.

Ace gazed at her breathtakingly beautiful profile under the moonlight and lamplight, feeling the silent ambiguity and mystery flowing within.

My heart started pounding uncontrollably, and countless chaotic thoughts flashed through my mind in an instant:

Was she... trying to help me on purpose?

Is it because you admire your father?

Or is it because of... me...?

That can't be... but...

He blushed and became flustered by his sudden thought, and quickly lowered his head to take a big gulp of wine, trying to cover up his embarrassment.

Such ambiguous speculation is more likely to disturb a person's peace of mind than direct hostility or a deal.

[Ding! Target 'Portgas D. Ace' has developed a strong curiosity and self-control tendency due to the host's mysterious attitude, causing his infatuation level to waver. Current infatuation level: 25/100!]

[Ding! The quest "Fire Fist's Favor (Revised Version)" has been successfully completed! Final infatuation level: 25/100! Rating: Excellent!]

[Ding! Mission Reward: A three-month intensive training experience pack has been issued and can be redeemed and used at any time!]

Feeling the experience package in my mind become more solid and substantial.

With the already considerable and stable energy flow provided by Ace, Hancock was filled with the joy of success.

This drink was totally worth it.

She knew when to stop, realizing that continuing might backfire.

So she slowly stood up, her skirt trailing on the ground, and spoke to Ace, who was still somewhat unsettled.

"The drinking is over, and the conversation has ended. Fire Fist Ace, go do what you need to do."

Ace quickly stood up, the blush on his face not yet completely gone.

He pressed his hat down hard and gave Hancock a complicated look.

There was gratitude, confusion, and a ripple of emotion that he himself couldn't quite explain.

"Thank you for your hospitality, and... thank you for telling me all this, Your Majesty."

He thanked them solemnly, then without hesitation, turned and transformed into a flame, soaring into the sky.

They sped off towards Mogu Town, their hearts filled with the exhilaration of having obtained crucial information.

And the chaotic thoughts that made it impossible to calmly look at that mysterious and beautiful empress.

Hancock watched Ace disappear into the horizon, feeling the energy within her body representing three months of arduous training, and a satisfied smile curved her lips.

Step one, successful.