Seeing Neptune's bewildered expression, Claudius smirked internally. Without giving the king a chance to interject, he continued, "Of course, the safety of Fish-Man Island is a top priority for the World Government. This is something we must address with utmost seriousness. A place as vital as Fish-Man Island should never have to rely on a pirate's flag for protection. Such a thing would be unacceptable."
Sengoku couldn't help but admire Claudius in this moment. His Highness was truly a masterful speaker. Without needing prior discussion or preparation, Claudius had subtly reframed the narrative. Neptune's removal of Whitebeard's flag, even if temporary, was now being portrayed as a conscientious act of cooperation.
Sengoku couldn't help but think, your Highness, you're incredible. Without breaking a sweat, you've turned the tables and forced Neptune's hand.
Claudius, seemingly oblivious to Sengoku's thoughts, turned to him and said, "Sengoku, this situation does point to some serious negligence on Marine's part, doesn't it? Isn't it Marine's duty to ensure the safety of World Government territories? Shouldn't we protect member nations from pirates without forcing them to rely on paying tribute to lawless criminals? Isn't this your failure as Admiral?"
Sengoku nodded solemnly, playing along perfectly. "You are absolutely correct, Your Highness. This is our failing, and it's a point of deep shame for me."
Claudius nodded approvingly, as if Sengoku's admission of guilt had satisfied him. "Good. At least you understand the weight of your shortcomings. Recognizing your mistakes is the first step toward improvement. Just like King Neptune here, he has seen the error of his ways and acted promptly to address it. That's something to be commended."
Turning back to Sengoku, Claudius added, "Well then, let's rectify this situation immediately. I want you to make a public commitment to the safety of Fish-Man Island right now. What's your plan, Admiral Sengoku? How do you intend to make up for this gross oversight?"
Sengoku's eyes gleamed with understanding. He knew exactly where Claudius was steering this conversation. "Your Highness, we in Marine fully acknowledge our failings. I propose that we establish a Marine base directly on Fish-Man Island. This base will be staffed with capable personnel, dedicated solely to protecting the island from any external threats. What do you think?"
Claudius clapped his hands together, a pleased smile spreading across his face. "Now that is a solid plan. Fish-Man Island pays taxes to the World Government every year, not to mention the heavenly tribute paid to the Celestial Dragons. They deserve proper protection in return. I'll approve this initiative. In fact..."
He paused for a moment, as if struck by a sudden idea, and then continued, "I'll personally allocate two billion berries to assist Marine in constructing this branch. Once you return to Naval Headquarters, Admiral Sengoku, visit CP-X to collect the funds. I'll have the authorization papers ready for you."
Sengoku bowed his head slightly. "Thank you for your support, Your Highness. We are deeply grateful."
While Sengoku played his role perfectly, Neptune was silently fuming. He felt completely sidelined. Claudius and Sengoku were casually discussing the establishment of a Marine base on his island as if it were already decided, without even consulting him properly.
What's worse, Neptune knew Whitebeard's protection had cost him nothing, he and the pirate shared a personal friendship. Building a Marine base here wasn't just unnecessary; it felt invasive.
Summoning his courage, Neptune cleared his throat, ready to voice his objections. But before he could get a word out, Claudius waved him off dismissively. "No need to thank me, King Neptune. This is simply the duty of the World Government. It's our responsibility to care for our member nations. Any negligence in the past will be corrected starting now."
Before Neptune could protest further, Claudius pressed on. "I understand that placing a Marine base here might not be enough to ease all your concerns. After all, this era of piracy is more chaotic than ever, and Fish-Man Island sits on a crucial route to the New World. That's why I propose we go one step further. CP-X will also establish a station here to assist Marine in ensuring the island's safety. With the combined forces of Marine and CP-X, you can rest easy knowing that Fish-Man Island will be thoroughly protected."
At this point, Neptune felt completely helpless. His thoughts were in turmoil. Marine and CP-X? What is this? Are they planning to turn Fish-Man Island into some kind of military outpost?
Claudius wasn't done. He smiled reassuringly at Neptune and said, "You don't need to worry about the financial burden either. I know building such a base usually involves contributions from the host nation, but given the unique circumstances here, I promise not a single berry will come from the Dragon Palace treasury. Everything will be funded by Marine and CP-X."
Neptune felt like crying. He didn't need their money. He didn't even want the base in the first place! But how could he say that aloud without offending Claudius?
While Neptune struggled to find the right words, Claudius leaned forward slightly, his tone becoming more commanding. "So, King Neptune, what do you think of the World Government's sincerity? Everything I've proposed here is not mere talk, it will be done. And I assure you, I never go back on my word."
The weight of Claudius' words, combined with the intensity of his gaze, left Neptune speechless. The king felt trapped. On the surface, Claudius' proposals sounded reasonable, even beneficial. But beneath that polished veneer, there was an undeniable sense of pressure, an unspoken threat that rejecting these plans might have dire consequences.
Is this what they call "sincerity"? Neptune thought bitterly. It feels more like an ultimatum.
At that moment, Claudius' expression softened, and he smiled as if to dispel the oppressive atmosphere. "After all, King Neptune, isn't it better for Fish-Man Island to stand under the protection of the World Government rather than a pirate's flag? Surely you see the wisdom in that."
He raised his wine glass, taking a leisurely sip, as if he had already secured Neptune's agreement. For Neptune, the message was clear: whether he liked it or not, change was coming to Fish-Man Island.
***
For every 500 PS = 1 extra Chapter. Support me on patreon to read 45+ advanced Chapters: .