Chapter 497: Incredible Team-Up
A moment later, Sengoku hung up the phone with a grim complexion.
"Borsalino, go to End Point. Zephyr is heading towards that Island."
After hanging up the phone, Sengoku looked at Kizaru.
As the name End Point appeared, everyone in the Office frowned, except for a certain young man who was still Dumbfounded.
"Oh~ End Point? What is Zephyr-sensei going there to do?"
Kizaru asked with some curiosity.
"It's not clear yet, but according to the Report from the Surveillance Ship monitoring that area, Zephyr's destination is that Island!"
Sengoku frowned, constantly pondering why Zephyr would go to End Point.
Kizaru sighed and stood up from the Sofa.
"Alright, alright, I'll go take a trip. Staying at Marine Headquarters is indeed the life of an errand boy."
Saying this, he stood up directly and walked outside.
Coming outside, Borsalino looked up at the clear blue sky and couldn't help but click his tongue. "Zephyr-sensei, what are you going to End Point for? Or is there something you want there?"
Kizaru also knew something about Zephyr's affairs, but sometimes when people experience too much, they inevitably have some messy Thoughts.
"I hope it's not what I'm thinking."
"Navy Admiral Kizaru!"
At this time, a Marine rushed over, took out an Eternal Pose, "This is the Eternal Pose ordered by Fleet Admiral Sengoku. The Branch in the New World has prepared Ships, please take Action as soon as possible!"
"Got it, got it."
Kizaru took the Eternal Pose and said helplessly.
After putting away the Eternal Pose, his whole Person directly turned into a Light and flew towards the Horizon.
"End Point?"
Sabo murmured, repeating this word, obviously he had never heard of this Place.
Garp explained in a serious Tone, "End Point has a total of three Islands, with 3 terminals connected. If Terminal Three Islands are destroyed, then the Earth Veins of the entire New World will start to move as a whole, causing underground Volcano eruptions in all Sea Areas of the New World, triggering the destruction of the New World."
Hearing Garp's explanation, Sabo exclaimed in surprise.
"Ah!?"
Obviously, he didn't expect that just three Islands could destroy the New World.
"Don't listen to this old geezer Garp talking nonsense. Those are just conclusions drawn by some experts. No one can really be sure of the actual Situation. After all, it's a bit too exaggerated that the survival of three Islands is related to the Safety of the New World.
Just like everyone in the World says Whitebeard is a Man who can destroy the World, have you seen him destroy the World?"
Tsuru said to Sabo with a smile.
…
End Point, if these three Islands could really destroy the New World, the World Government would never leave it alone.
The reality is that among these three Islands, except for one with a Navy Base, the other two are a Town on one Island and a Deserted Island on the other.
On one of the End Point Islands where a Navy Base is built.
"Stop them from landing!"
On the Shoal of the Island, a large number of Marines gathered together and charged towards the Ocean, led by a Navy Colonel wearing a Cloak, shouting loudly.
On the other side, Soldiers wearing black Uniforms and Steel Helmets were also charging towards the Beach, fighting fiercely with the Navy.
Shouts of killing filled the Ground.
Bang!
The Navy Colonel who had shouted earlier parried a Long Sword that was slashing at him with his Sword, and shouted, "Hey, hey, weren't you also a Marine before!? Why!?"
The Soldier also pressed down hard on his Sword and said, "Pirates in this Sea can no longer be eliminated by Normal Means! We are doing this to restore Peace to the Sea!"
"You say Peace!?"
The Navy Colonel roared, "Don't you know what's on this Island!? Do you think destruction will bring Peace?"
"Enough nonsense! I will defeat you and then exterminate all Pirates!"
Two people clashed again.
On the Shoal, in a Ship remodeled from a Warship, the Gate of the Ship Cabin was opened, and a large number of Neo Navy rushed out. Among these People, a Figure about three meters tall gradually appeared.
And with his appearance, all the Marines on the Beach fell into Despair.
"How could it be!?"
"Zephyr-sensei, why are you doing this!?"
"Teacher Zephyr!"
Thump!
Zephyr rushed straight out from the Warship, instantly breaking into the Navy's ranks. Armament Haki instantly enveloped his arms, and with every move, he unleashed an Air Wave, sending all the Marines around him flying.
Bang bang bang!
Distant Marines raised the Guns in their hands and fired Bullets at him.
Zephyr didn't even look, swaying his Form left and right, dodging the Bullets, while raising the Fist in his hand high and smashing it straight forward.
Boom!!
The Air Wave brought out by the powerful Power instantly caused the Marines in front to be thrown off their feet.
Bang!!
Armament Haki Envelopment on his Arm blocked a Weapon of a Giant Race Marine, and the terrifying Power of the Giant Race made the Ground under Zephyr's Foot sink noticeably.
Facing this Attack, Zephyr Corner of Mouth curled into a smile, then directly used force to flip away the Giant's Weapon, and at the same time exerted force Underfoot, leaping high, the Fist enveloped in Armament Haki directly struck the Giant Marine's jaw.
"Armament Fist!"
Bang!!
The Giant Marine groaned, then spat out a mouthful of Blood, his eyes rolled back, and his massive Form directly leaned back and smashed towards the Ground.
With Zephyr's joining, the Navy gradually began to Rout.
Soon Zephyr and others entered the deepest part of this Navy Base.
Boom!!
The Iron Door made of steel was smashed open with a Fist.
Then Zephyr walked in and pulled out a Transparent Jar from a row of Test Racks glowing with purplish-red Radiance.
"This is it."
Zephyr looked at the Explosive Rock in his hand, a smile appearing on his Face, "With these, we should be able to wipe out those guys in one fell swoop."
"Is this your Purpose, Teacher Zephyr?"
When the People came out of the Navy Base, a Figure blocked their path.
"Navy Admiral, Kizaru!"
The blue-haired Beautiful Women beside Zephyr exclaimed.
Zephyr looked at Kizaru and said Calmly, "I didn't expect it to be you, Borsalino, but considering the Time, I'm afraid only you could make it in time."
"Ah, no way, I'm always the one doing errands. But Teacher Zephyr, you still haven't told me, what exactly do you want to do!?"
Zephyr said to Kizaru in a deep voice, "Of course, it's to exterminate Pirates!"
"Exterminate Pirates?"
Kizaru frowned deeply upon hearing these Words.
Being in the New World for so long has changed Zephyr's Mentality.
But thinking about it, three years after three years, anyone placed in an environment like the New World, their Mentality will change.
A moment later, Kizaru stood helplessly on the Island in a mess, watching the retreating Warships, took out a Den Den Mushi from his pocket, and sighed.
"Borsalino, how did things go?"
"Sorry, I couldn't stop him."
Before Sengoku could get angry, Kizaru continued, "I got News from Zephyr-sensei that Kaido and Bullet have joined forces, and there are Shadows of the World Government behind it. And their Target is the Final Island. As for Zephyr-sensei's Purpose in seizing the Explosive Rock, it is to eliminate all those guys!"
The News was brief, but full of shock.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 498 Zephyr's Choice
After separating from Zephyr in the New World, Kizaru flew directly back to Marine Headquarters, arriving near evening.
Upon returning to Marine Headquarters, Kizaru went straight to Sengoku's Office.
"Oh~ I already understand the general situation with Borsalino," Sengoku said. "The rest, we'll talk about it after the meeting."
Saying this, he stood up and walked towards the Conference Room.
When Kizaru returned, he noticed that the Port of Marineford was suddenly filled with many more Warships, almost all of them Flagships of Elite Headquarters Vice Admirals.
"They've all come, huh? This is really troublesome."
Kizaru shrugged, and then followed Sengoku to the Conference Room together.
In the Conference Room, many people had already arrived, and almost everyone had a serious Complexion.
Staff Officer Tsuru sat in the first seat on the left, arms crossed, and nodded as a Greeting when she saw Kizaru and Sengoku enter.
Sitting opposite her was Garp, who clearly had a serious Face, lacking the previous unrestrained manner in Sengoku's Office. Behind him, Sabo and Bogart, wearing Navy Uniforms, stood there.
And beside the Projection Den Den Mushi in the Conference Room, Brannew with green hair and Sunglasses was standing there with his arms crossed.
"Yo."
After Kizaru entered, he raised his hand to give a Greeting to everyone, and then directly found his seat and sat down.
Soon, other Vice Admirals also arrived one after another.
A man wearing a light purple striped Suit and a dark blue shirt, with a tie, a mohawk, and a beard, his hair and beard both dark purple, walked in with a cold Face, nodded to the people inside, and sat down not far below Tsuru. The Base Chief of the G-1 Branch, Vice Admiral Momonga.
And after Vice Admiral Momonga, Vice Admiral Stawberry, Vice Admiral Doberman, and Onigumo and other Vice Admirals also arrived one after another, and soon the huge Conference Room was filled.
Soon, a Navy officer with the rank of Rear Admiral distributed the pre-prepared copied Data to everyone.
At this time, seeing that everyone had basically arrived, he gestured to the Navy officer at the door to close the Gate of the Conference Room, and then sat down in the main seat and said to the Navy High-Level seated, "Brannew, since everyone is here, let's begin."
And as Sengoku's words fell, under Brannew's operation, images quickly appeared on the screen. The images on the screen were of the Navy Base that had been attacked by Zephyr before, and the images almost filled the entire screen.
"Brannew, introduce the Situation."
And Brannew cleared his throat and said, "End Point, Terminal Three Islands, three Islands related to the Safety of the New World. According to expert Research, if these three Islands are destroyed, then the Earth Veins reaction caused will destroy the New World.
"And Zephyr attacked one of the three End Points, but the other side did not destroy it, but instead hijacked the High-Risk Item Explosive Rock stored on it, so it is inferred that the other party's main Target is the High-Risk Item Explosive Rock. In addition, according to special Channels, we know that in the New World, Kaido of the Beasts and Bullet, as well as a large number of dangerous elements who escaped from Impel Down Level 6, have formed an Alliance, and their Target is the Final Island."
"Only the Roger Pirates know the Coordinates of the Final Island, how do those Kaido guys know?" Onigumo said in a deep voice.
"Regarding this Problem, we have also received News." As Brannew's words fell, on one side of the screen, an Eternal Pose that was placed in a box appeared instead.
"This is the Eternal Pose to the Final Island that Bullet showed."
"Last time before Bullet was captured, didn't he also claim to have an Eternal Pose to the Final Island? Is this a Script planning to be used twice?" Yama Kaji, with a Cigar in his mouth, exhaled a puff of Thick Smoke and said with a frown.
"If the Information is correct, then it can be confirmed that Bullet had already left the Ship before Roger arrived at the Final Island, so where did he, who had never been to the Final Island, get the Eternal Pose pointing to the Final Island?"
"The Problem now is not the authenticity of the Eternal Pose, but the purpose of those Kaido of the Beasts guys. As for the authenticity of the Eternal Pose, it is no longer important in the face of this Thing. This News will definitely attract a large number of Sea Rogues to flock here."
"Alright, stop arguing, have you all finished watching!" After Sengoku spoke, the Conference Room suddenly became quiet.
And Tsuru, who had been silent all along, also spoke, "Those of you present here all have connections with Zephyr, you probably don't want that Man to do such an irrational Thing, do you?"
These Words made all the Navy in the Conference Room fall into Silence. Just as Tsuru said, many of the People here were taught by Zephyr.
"In any case..." Gumir said, "The Explosive Rock must be taken back, that Thing is too dangerous."
Vice Admiral Momonga also said in a deep voice, "That's right, no matter whether Zephyr's purpose is those Pirates or Anything else, the dangerous Thing like Explosive Rock must not be in the hands of anyone other than the Navy!"
... Meeting, adjourned.
Borsalino sighed, stood up and walked outside.
"Borsalino, wait a moment." Suddenly, Tsuru spoke from behind and called out to Kizaru.
"Hmm?" Kizaru turned around and looked at Tsuru, "Staff Officer Tsuru? Is there anything else?"
"After you go to that Town, someone will contact you, pay attention to his recent Movement, if there is any Abnormality, remember to report it, and this Mission is considered a secret Mission, don't let others know."
Tsuru also said meaningfully, "Although I don't know which side you are really on, I think you should also Hope that this chaotic Era will come to an end, right?"
"Ah, Staff Officer Tsuru, what are you talking about?" Borsalino said somewhat confused, "Why do I not understand a bit?"
"It's okay if you don't understand, you'll know when you get to the Place." Tsuru smiled, walked past Borsalino, and walked towards the Distant Place.
Watching Tsuru's back, Borsalino touched his Chin, and muttered, "Could it be that my Acting Skills have a Flaw? No way."
"Master, are we going to arrest Admiral Zephyr this time?" In the Captain's Room of the Warship, Sentomaru, who was tall and carrying an Axe, asked Kizaru.
"We can't call him Admiral now. After all, he has already defected from the Navy. This time we are not only going to find Zephyr, but also to see what those two guys, Kaido and Bullet, are planning to do. Kuzan, Sakazuki, and Issho have also set off, and we will meet up in the New World then."
Kizaru crossed his hands, rested his arms on the table, and then asked Sentomaru, "By the way, why do you suddenly have time to come back? I remember you should be over there protecting Vegapunk's Safety, right? And is the Report I asked you to write finished?"
"Mr. Vegapunk has been taking a vacation recently, so the World Government side let me take a vacation too. Also, I've already asked my subordinates to write the Report, it should be finished, right?" Speaking of the Report, Sentomaru's Tone was also a bit uncertain, after all, after Kizaru arranged it for him, he directly threw it to his subordinates, and he really didn't know if the Report was finished or not.
"Vacation?" Then Kizaru changed to a more comfortable posture and said, "Try to get the Report done as soon as possible. Although those World Government guys are annoying, the procedures that should be followed still need to be followed."
In the Navy Marshal Office.
"Zephyr, you guy, what are you thinking?!" Sengoku said in a somewhat low voice to the Den Den Mushi, and the Den Den Mushi in front of him looked very much like Zephyr.
"Sengoku, I'm a bit tired of it..." Zephyr's low voice came from the other end of the Den Den Mushi. And Zephyr's Words made Sengoku and Tsuru, who was listening nearby, both frown.
"But didn't we make an Agreement at that time? As long as..." "Sengoku, do you know? At the beginning, I was also constantly admonishing myself in my heart to prioritize the overall situation, but as Time passed, I found that as long as those Pirates standing at the top of the Grand Line still exist, as long as those Pirates are not completely made to Fear, then the Pirates on the Grand Line will never disappear. In the New World, I have seen too many Cruel Things that Pirates do to Ordinary People. Although I have tried my best to combat Pirates, they are like cockroaches with tenacious Vitality. If you clean up a batch, another batch will quickly appear. The Justice I uphold in my heart is questioning me every day, I can't wait any longer."
"You guy, do you really think that Explosive Rock can kill Kaido and Bullet, those Monsters?"
Zephyr, on the Warship in the New World, lowered his head, looked at the Den Den Mushi and said in a deep voice, "I never expected to kill that kind of Monster with Explosive Rock. What I want to do is to kill all the followers of those Monsters! I want everyone to know that being a Pirate is a dead end!!!"
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 499 Meeting
"We are going to Fish-Man Island!?"
Bonney was dumbfounded when she heard the next destination.
Brook, who was beside her, introduced, "Fish-Man Island is one of the Captain's allies. Now that the Captain has returned, naturally we have to go to Fish-Man Island. Moreover, Vistad and the others are waiting for us there at Fish-Man Island."
Hearing Brook's words, Bonney couldn't help but be slightly stunned and said, "Is your Captain's Force very large?"
It's no wonder Bonney would think so. After all, Mr. Nicholas has been silent for many years, and many people have even forgotten about him.
Just like Rocks, who once dominated the Grand Line, after disappearing for decades, many people have even forgotten his name.
At the same time.
Fish-Man Island.
Vistad, who had come to Fish-Man Island, after receiving a Phone Call from Nicholas, went directly to Dragon Palace.
"Is Nicholas coming to Fish-Man Island?"
Neptune looked at Vistad, who had suddenly arrived, with a face full of surprise.
Vistad calmly said, "Yes, the Captain said he will arrive at Fish-Man Island soon. Neptune, you should be clear that for you, this is undoubtedly your best Opportunity to go to the Sea Surface, so... prepare to gather all the Combat Power of Fish-Man Island."
Vistad had also developed a good Impression of Neptune, Jinbe, and others during their time together.
"Rest assured, we at Fish-Man Island are always prepared."
Neptune said Seriously, obviously he also knew that being an Ally was not just lip service.
Before long, Nicholas and his group arrived at Fish-Man Island.
And King Neptune of the Dragon Palace Kingdom personally came to the corridor to greet them.
This self-deprecating approach aroused the dissatisfaction of a small group of Civil Official in Fish-Man Island.
After all, as the Power of Fish-Man Island gradually grew stronger, in their Inner Thoughts, the King of Fish-Man Island should not lower his posture so much.
Of course, their dissatisfaction was only dared to be kept in their hearts, after all, neither Neptune nor Nicholas were people they could provoke.
Compared to those pedantic Civil Official, the Guards and Military General of Fish-Man Island looked at Nicholas, who had arrived at Dragon Palace, with Awe.
After all, they had experienced the Dark Years of Fish-Man Island and clearly knew how the current Situation of Fish-Man Island came about.
This is also the Root Cause of why these Soldier of Fish-Man Island have Awe for Nicholas.
"Mr. Nicholas, this way please."
Neptune greeted them with a Smile and led the way, while Queen Otohime followed beside him.
Nicholas, walking beside Neptune, was a little unaccustomed to the Enthusiasm Neptune showed.
In fact.
Since Fish-Man Island's Strength was strengthened back then, and after forming an Alliance with Nicholas, Fish-Man Island once again ushered in Stability.
Although they still could not freely move on the Sea Surface.
However, all the Pirate who came to Fish-Man Island from Sabaody Archipelago became well-behaved, and as for the Human Trafficking that Fish-Man Island deeply hated, it directly disappeared.
The stable Environment, coupled with Fish-Man Island's special Position as a place to go to the New World, made many Business on Fish-Man Island Prosperous.
Not only that, but even many large Human Merchant Guild have established Branch here. Fish-Man Island has increased many Shop in a short Time, and its Prosperity even faintly has a trend of catching up with Sabaody Archipelago.
And the current Situation of Fish-Man Island was the Fish-Man Island they had fantasized about in their hearts for Neptune and even Queen Otohime.
It can be said that the current beauty of Fish-Man Island was brought by Nicholas.
How could Neptune be negligent?
In order to welcome Nicholas, Neptune also specially prepared a Banquet in Dragon Palace City.
Nicholas and his group followed Neptune to the Banquet Hall.
The long Dining Table was filled with a dazzling array of Delicacy. The three princes and Shirahoshi, who had already taken their seats, stood up one after another when they saw Nicholas arrive.
"Lord Nicholas."
Shirahoshi and the princes greeted Nicholas one after another.
Compared to the princes' natural greetings, Shirahoshi seemed a little timid, or rather curious. Her Eyes secretly sized up Nicholas, but she didn't dare to look directly at him.
Nicholas glanced at Shirahoshi.
At this time, Princess Shirahoshi was secretly looking at Nicholas with those bright, clear green Eyes.
After noticing Nicholas's Gaze, she immediately lowered her Head and pretended not to know anything.
It has to be said that Mermaid have been Beautiful Women since ancient times. Although Shirahoshi is not old, her Assets are already quite abundant. Her curvaceous Waist paired with large areas of snow-white Skin, plus her pitiful Face, made it impossible for anyone who saw her for the first time to take their Eyes off her.
It's hard to imagine that this is Poseidon...
Nicholas sighed in his Inner Thoughts and said Calmly:
"Nice to meet you for the first time, Princess Shirahoshi."
"Huh? You know me?"
Shirahoshi heard Nicholas call her name and immediately raised her Head curiously to look at Nicholas.
"Logically speaking, you should call me Godfather."
"Godfather?"
Shirahoshi looked at Neptune somewhat blankly, obviously wanting to know if what Nicholas said was true.
And Neptune also nodded, "That's right, Shirahoshi. Before you were born, Nicholas and I had already agreed to let him become your Godfather."
"Oh, I see, Godfather Lord."
Hearing Neptune's words, Shirahoshi showed Nicholas a sweet Smile.
At this moment, this Mermaid Princess, who possesses the Giant Power to destroy the World, has not yet Awakened her Ability.
After all, with the appearance of Nicholas, Queen Otohime was not Assassinated, and Shirahoshi, who was not Stimulated, naturally did not Awaken the Power of Poseidon Latent in her Body.
Soon, under the leadership of Neptune, everyone took their seats.
Neptune looked at Mr. Nicholas and asked curiously, "Mr. Nicholas, are we going to Battle?"
"Yes, so Fish-Man Island must be fully prepared to participate in the Battle at any Time, and also..."
Nicholas said, looking at Shirahoshi. It can be said that Shirahoshi is the real Trump Card of Fish-Man Island.
And Neptune's Eyes narrowed slightly upon hearing this.
On the other hand, the other princes were full of Fighting Spirit. Obviously, they also knew that this Battle would come sooner or later. For the Rights of Fish-Man Island, they were eager to try.
Only Shirahoshi looked blank, not understanding why the Atmosphere had become a little different.
Looking at the Reaction of Neptune and others, Nicholas calmly said, "Whether Fish-Man Island can strive for what you want in this World-sweeping Battle does not actually depend on the Military Strength of Fish-Man Island, but on Princess Shirahoshi."
Thinking of a certain possibility, Neptune showed Surprise and looked at Nicholas in disbelief.
Nicholas nodded slowly.
"That's right, only the Power of Poseidon is enough to determine the Direction of the Battle Situation and make Fish-Man Island stand in an Invincible Position."
His Tone was low and powerful.
"But, this child doesn't even know how to Battle."
Neptune said with a heavy Complexion. Obviously, although the Royal Family of Fish-Man Island has some Records of Poseidon left, there are not many. All he knows is that every few hundred years, a Princess of the Fish-Man Race will become Poseidon, but there is no Record of how to become or how to use the Power of Poseidon.
"Father, Mother... Shirahoshi wants to help everyone... Shirahoshi will Effort!"
Shirahoshi looked at the worried Neptune and said Seriously. Although she didn't know what had happened, it was obvious that she might affect the Thing of Fish-Man Island's Future, Shirahoshi still understood.
Neptune was stunned for a moment when he heard Shirahoshi's Words.
"Shirahoshi..."
"Father, Mother..."
Nicholas looked at the Neptune Family with heavy Faces and comforted them, "Don't worry, the Awakening of Poseidon is not that Terror. From tomorrow, let Jinbe and others take Shirahoshi outside Fish-Man Island."
Nicholas said, turning his Head to look at Shirahoshi, "Shirahoshi, at that Time, use your heart to feel the Voice of the Ocean and those Existence that exude Goodwill towards you. When you can hear those Voice of the Deep Sea and can respond to or even Order them, Fish-Man Island will have the Qualification to go to the Sea Surface again."
"Yes! Shirahoshi will Effort."
Although she was a little afraid of going outside Fish-Man Island, Shirahoshi still nodded vigorously.
(End of Chapter)
Chapter 500: Cultivating the Sea King
Night fell, inside the Guest Room of Dragon Palace City.
Nicholas suddenly opened his eyes.
It wasn't because he sensed danger, but because someone unexpected was hesitating at the door. The hand raised to knock was lowered several times, as if in doubt. In the end, timidity seemed to win out. The raised hand fell weakly, and the person seemed dejected, about to turn and leave.
"Come in. If you only choose to retreat when faced with things, you are not qualified to lead the Subjects of Fish-Man Island to the Sea Surface."
Nicholas turned his head towards the Room door, sensing the complex and conflicted emotions outside. He couldn't help but chuckle and speak.
"Eh..."
A gasp of surprise sounded from outside the door.
After a moment, the door was pushed open, and Shirahoshi's head peeked in, looking timidly at Nicholas, who was sitting cross-legged on the Bed.
"Mr. Nicholas, did I wake you?"
"Not really woken up, after all, your Life Aura is like a Torch in my 'Vision'. Speaking of which, what's with your timid Personality? Neptune and Otohime are not as timid as you."
"Uh."
Hearing Nicholas mention Neptune and Otohime's names, Shirahoshi couldn't help but shrink her Neck.
"Alright, come in. You don't want to be discovered by those Guards, do you?"
Nicholas said.
Having received Nicholas's permission, Shirahoshi cautiously entered the Room and then sat down on the Carpet of the Room. After all, with her size, apart from Nicholas's Bed which she could barely sit on, the other Tables, Chairs, Sofas in this Room were like toys for playing house in her eyes.
Sitting cross-legged on the Bed, Nicholas tilted his head to look at Shirahoshi and asked, "Do you have something to talk about coming to me so late?"
"Mr. Nicholas, I want to… I want to talk to you."
"Talk?"
Nicholas was a little surprised and said, "Talk about what?"
Shirahoshi took a deep breath and mustered her Courage, "I, I still don't know what to do… Although I don't know what kind of Power I have, I know that if everyone on Fish-Man Island wants to go to the Sea Surface, this Power must be very important.
But I… I'm afraid I can't do it, I know…"
"Slow down, let me sort things out."
Nicholas raised his hand, signaling Shirahoshi to speak slower. She had said so much in one breath that Nicholas was a little confused.
Shirahoshi looked down at Nicholas, her Eyes filled with Entanglement, "I'm afraid I can't do it, afraid of letting down everyone's expectations…"
After speaking, tears fell like broken strings of pearls, constantly streaming down. Clearly, she was under a lot of Pressure in her Heart.
"Huh?"
Nicholas looked up at the constantly crying Shirahoshi, and said with some helplessness, "Just this? Don't cry."
"It's, it's… I, I…"
Shirahoshi's Tone was a little choked, her lips moved, but she couldn't say what she was thinking in her Heart.
But Nicholas understood what Shirahoshi wanted to express from her Words.
He looked at the Mermaid Princess in front of him who was crying and unable to say a complete sentence, and slightly shook his Head.
It was truly hard to imagine that such a seemingly weak-Personality Mermaid Princess possessed the Ability to summon and Order Giant Sea Kings.
But in the end, although she possessed this Ability enough to destroy the World, she was still just a simple little girl who was well-protected by Neptune, Queen Otohime, and her three Older Brothers.
Perhaps the Poseidon born in each generation of Fish-Man Island were Mermaid Princesses of Shirahoshi's Type.
Otherwise, they wouldn't have been driven from the vast Sea to Fish-Man Island, Ten Thousand Meters Below, only able to Enjoy the Sunlight transmitted through the Eve Tree Root.
Nicholas looked at the humiliated Shirahoshi and sighed.
At the same time, he got up from the Bed and walked towards Shirahoshi. As he walked, Lightning surrounded him, and Nicholas's Body kept increasing in size.
Looking at Nicholas, who was inflating like a balloon, Shirahoshi was immediately dumbfounded, looking in a daze at Nicholas walking towards her.
Nicholas came in front of Shirahoshi.
Looking at Shirahoshi who was looking up at him, Nicholas stretched out a large Hand towards Shirahoshi.
Looking at Nicholas's outstretched Hand, the extremely Nervous Shirahoshi's subconscious Reaction was to close her Eyes.
And Nicholas's large Hand was placed on Shirahoshi's Head just like that. With a slight rub, he messed up Shirahoshi's Hair a bit.
"Naive Princess, don't have too much Burden. Those Sea Kings in the Deep Sea, just treat them like Megalo and be Friends with them. When you become true good Friends, that will be the day you lead all the Subjects of Fish-Man Island to the Sea Surface."
Nicholas lowered his Head and Gaze at Shirahoshi, speaking gently.
And a blush quickly rose on Shirahoshi's Face, her hands nervously pinching the corners of her clothes. After all, as her Body grew larger and larger, very few people made such intimate Actions anymore.
"Alright, go back to Bed early. Tomorrow is your first time leaving Fish-Man Island to go outside, keep your spirits up."
"I, I know, I will work hard."
Shirahoshi said, biting her lip. Obviously, Nicholas's Words had relieved her Nervousness a lot. Treat those Giant Sea Kings as Friends like Megalo, very Simple, very Simple.
Shirahoshi kept cheering herself up in her Heart.
But is it really that Simple? Shirahoshi thought of Megalo's size, and the size of those Giant Sea Kings she had occasionally seen, and suddenly became a little uncertain.
Breakfast Time.
King Neptune could be said to have put in a lot of Effort to entertain Nicholas and the others, putting out all kinds of Delicious Food from Fish-Man Island.
In the Breakfast, there were also Desserts specially made by the Sweets Factory of Fish-Man Island, which cooperated with the Human Merchant Guild.
Nicholas picked up a Chocolate Mousse Cake and took a bite.
It melted in his mouth, the Taste and Flavor were impeccable.
After Breakfast was finished, it was time to get down to Serious Business.
King Neptune, Mermaid Princess Shirahoshi, Shirahoshi's three Brothers, Jinbe, Tiger, and Nicholas walked together towards Outside Dragon Palace City.
For Safety, it could be said that only a few people knew about this Action.
At the Entrance of Fish-Man Island, the Sea God Army, which had been ready to go, surrounded everyone, vigilantly looking around.
The Deep Sea could be called a forbidden zone for Humans, but it was equally dangerous for them. It was still alright around Fish-Man Island, but once they got too far away, even they might be Attacked.
"Mr. Nicholas, is it really okay?"
"Don't worry, don't underestimate those Sea Kings who have existed in the Seabed for who knows how long. The only thing to worry about are those Beasts who may not have much reason, but with Jinbe and the others, and the Strength of the Sea God Army, it should be fine."
"Your Majesty Neptune, this humble one will ensure the Safety of Princess Shirahoshi even at the cost of my Life."
Jinbe said seriously. As the strongest Combat Power in the Water among the group, it could be said that everyone's Safety was entirely in his hands.
Neptune nodded upon hearing this. He trusted Jinbe very much.
"Then, let's set off!"
King Neptune looked around and said in a deep voice.
Soon, the group marched mightily towards the Darkness of the Deep Sea. Obviously, as they moved further and further away from Fish-Man Island and the Eve Tree Root, the Light also became dimmer and dimmer.
The group had just walked a short Distance when they saw a Fish Swarm with Bodies emitting Radiance and a size as large as Ships rushing towards them mightily.
Seeing this Scene, Neptune's expression suddenly became solemn, and he gripped the Trident in his Hand tightly. At the same time, the surrounding Sea God Army and their Mount Companions all entered a Battle State.
"Father, don't!"
Just as Neptune was about to give an Order, Shirahoshi suddenly spoke to stop Neptune.
Faced with Shirahoshi's stop, Neptune raised his Hand to signal the Sea God Army to stand guard, and then looked at Nicholas in the Coating Bubble beside him.
"Since Princess Shirahoshi has spoken, we should choose to believe her. After all, she is no ordinary Mermaid."
Hearing Nicholas's Words, Neptune and Jinbe beside him all looked at Shirahoshi.
And the Fish Swarm, which seemed to be not easy to mess with at first glance, originally planned to have a good Meal, but when they approached within a few miles of Shirahoshi, all the Fish lost their Attack instinct and instead wandered around Shirahoshi, their Manner seemed to be paying homage to their King.
"It seems we were overthinking it."
"Uh."
Neptune was stunned for a moment, looking at the ferocious Fish Swarm playing with Shirahoshi, then smiled helplessly and nodded.
And Jinbe and Tiger who accompanied him showed expressions of disbelief on their Faces.
Obviously, although they had some psychological preparation for Shirahoshi's Poseidon Status, they did not expect it to be so Terror-inducing.
"A big guy is coming!"
Just then, Nicholas suddenly spoke with a solemn expression. In his Observation Haki, a Sea King with a body length of over three thousand meters was rapidly approaching.
Moments later, watching the several Giant Sea Kings looking at Shirahoshi with doting expressions, Jinbe's face was completely numb. As for the Sea God Army who had come with them, they looked worriedly at their Mount partners who had broken free from their control. They frolicked and wandered around Shirahoshi.
"Is this the Sea King Poseidon's Power?" King Neptune said, dumbfounded. As the King of Fish-Man Island, he clearly knew the terror of those Giant Sea Kings.
If ordinary Sea Kings are a disaster for ships, then the existence of Giant Sea Kings is undoubtedly a disaster that can pose a terrifying threat to Islands. Yet, these beings, who could be called mobile Natural Disasters even in the New World, were now living together harmoniously, surrounding Shirahoshi in the very center.
"Shirahoshi, can you communicate with them?" Nicholas asked, ignoring the horrified gazes of Neptune and the others, and came to Shirahoshi's side. Almost immediately following Nicholas's action, all the Sea Kings around who had seemed harmless were now staring intently at Nicholas, and at the same time, the Aura of top predators from the Deep Sea filled this Sea Area.
"Who is this Weapon?" "Should we get rid of him?" "But he seems to know the King?" "We will never allow anyone to harm the King." Hearing the Inner Thoughts of the surrounding Sea Kings, Nicholas felt a bit helpless. Although he could directly talk to these guys, they probably wouldn't pay him any attention. After all, he, Nicholas, wasn't Poseidon.
"Mr. Nicholas." Hearing Nicholas's words, an embarrassed expression immediately appeared on Shirahoshi's Face. "Um, um, not yet." When she said "not yet," Shirahoshi's Face also inadvertently turned a little red. After all, everyone had placed such high hopes on her, but she still hadn't achieved it. How useless she was.
"My lovely Princess, if you don't tell those guys that I'm your Friend, they might eat me." Nicholas said with a Smile, uttering Words that frightened Shirahoshi.
"No, Mr. Nicholas!" Shirahoshi said in alarm, and suddenly grabbed Nicholas and placed him in front of her chest, protecting him tightly with her arms. Watching this sudden Scene, Nicholas was a little dumbfounded, and the Giant Sea Kings around, who had been faintly releasing hostility, also fell into confusion.
After all, this Human seemed to have a relationship with their King. "Everyone must not harm Mr. Nicholas." Just as the Giant Sea Kings were in Entanglement, a gentle but firm Sound suddenly appeared in their minds.
"King!" "King." "I heard the King's Sound!" "I heard it too." And with Shirahoshi's Sound, an invisible Wave rapidly spread along the Seabed towards the surrounding Sea Area.
... East Blue. On a cliff not far from Windmill Village, Luffy, wearing a Straw Hat, was hugging his legs and looking at the Distant Sea Surface. Obviously, the Thing that had happened in the Goa Kingdom not long ago had left this teenage boy feeling lost.
The Royal City of the Goa Kingdom, he had gone there many times with Sabo and Ace when he was a child. But when he went again, it had become Ruins. The restaurant where the three Brothers used to have Free Meals together had also been burned to Ruins.
Even because of those Attacks, the vast Goa Kingdom didn't even have people to collect the Corpses. Corpses were scattered everywhere among the broken walls and ruins. Packs of Wild Dogs and Wild Wolves roamed in the originally bustling Town. A large number of Crows and Vultures perched on the dilapidated Architecture. The abundance of Food meant that these Beasts had no intention of fighting.
"Shanks, is this the true face of a Pirate?" A Wind came from the Distant Sea Surface. Luffy held his Hat and murmured.
Suddenly, he looked towards a certain direction. There, on the originally Calm Sea Surface, a Giant suddenly broke through the Sea Surface and leaped high into the air. Even Luffy could clearly feel its Inner Thoughts of joy.
New World. "Oh, has Poseidon awakened?" After saying this, the Figure continued to walk towards the Dense Forest. In the Dense Forest, a huge Mountain Peak stood tall.
Fish-Man Island. "I would like to invite you to join my Nicholas Pirates, Jinbe." Nicholas directly extended an invitation to Jinbe, who was showing him around Fish-Man District.
Jinbe looked at Nicholas, who was sincerely inviting him to join, and a look of surprise slowly appeared on his Face. Honestly, he wanted to stay on Fish-Man Island and become a part of protecting Fish-Man Island. But with the terrifying appeal Shirahoshi had shown towards Giant Sea Kings, Jinbe already knew that Fish-Man Island already had the Power to truly protect itself.
Originally, he planned to properly protect Shirahoshi. But he didn't expect Nicholas to extend an olive branch to him. "It would be an honor for this old one to become a member of the Nicholas Pirates." Coming back to his senses, Jinbe accepted the olive branch extended by Nicholas.
He also learned from King Neptune about the Agreement between Nicholas and Fish-Man Island, and that the other party had shown great kindness to Fish-Man Island. Now that the other party needed him, what Reason did he have for Refusal? Nicholas smiled when he saw this.
In Nicholas's view, inviting Jinbe to join the Pirate Crew shouldn't be too difficult. But he didn't expect it to be this smooth. Jinbe's Strength was that of a Powerful Figure rarely seen even in the New World. In the Sea, he could even briefly contend with Four Emperors-level Powerful Figures. In addition, there was the Fish-Man Race's affinity for the Sea, and their terrifying steering Talent.
With his joining, it greatly compensated for the team's weakness in naval battles. It could be said that with Jinbe's joining, the Nicholas Pirates' overall Combat Power would be improved by a large margin. This would undoubtedly be good Assistance for the upcoming War.
And Jinbe was also Seriously thinking about what Benefits his joining the Nicholas Pirates could bring to Fish-Man Island. Undoubtedly, his joining the Nicholas Pirates could make both sides closer. Also, because of his Existence, he could build a bridge of communication between the two sides. This was also the Reason why he agreed to Nicholas's olive branch without hesitation.
After touring Fish-Man District, Jinbe also went to Dragon Palace City. Before leaving Fish-Man Island with Nicholas, Jinbe needed to inform Neptune and Tiger about this Thing.
In a side hall of the Great Hall of Dragon Palace City. The three princes and Princess Shirahoshi were lying on the windowsill, secretly listening to the conversation in the Great Hall.
"Mr. Jinbe is going to join Mr. Nicholas's Pirate Crew..." Hearing the movement inside, Princess Shirahoshi and the princes looked at each other, each showing a shocked expression.
For the three princes, they actually didn't want to see Jinbe, this Powerful Figure with reliable Combat Power, leave Fish-Man Island. After all, having experienced the dark times of Fish-Man Island, they understood the importance of a Powerful Figure to Fish-Man Island. But they also felt that Jinbe joining the Nicholas Pirates would be a Good Thing for Fish-Man Island. Because this could deepen the connection between Fish-Man Island and the Nicholas Pirates.
But Shirahoshi didn't think so much. Perhaps on a whim, she came directly out of the side hall. "Mr. Nicholas, I also want to join you!" (End of Chapter)