One Piece: Conquering Wanokuni at Start

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After overturning Katakuri and dealing with the chaos surrounding him, Alex turned his attention to Mermaid Cove.

This unique coastline, so often celebrated in stories, was now a shadow of its former self.

Though it was Alex's first time here, the bay was unrecognizable from its reputation. The once-beautiful corals along the shore were damaged, and even the vibrant underwater landscapes had lost much of their brilliance. The bustling presence of Fish-Men and Merfolk was absent.

This desolation was not without cause. The World Government's influence over member nations, coupled with a few well-placed decrees, had left scars even here.

Of course, the presence of pirates had played its part as well. Many mermaids were forcibly taken away by the human traffickers, leaving the surrounding area unnervingly empty.

"This is far from the fantastical kingdom described in the stories," Robin commented, her eyes scanning the bay as she stood beside Alex.

"It seems things have changed significantly," she continued. "This time, our chances of success are high."

As Wanokuni's manager, Robin had access to crucial intelligence, including the factors behind the shifts on Fish-Man Island.

"We don't need to dwell on success or failure," Alex replied calmly. "The most critical matter on this trip is Poseidon—who has already been born."

Hearing this, Yamato glanced curiously at Alex. She tilted her head slightly and asked in a quiet voice, "But Alex, isn't Fish-Man Island something you hold in high regard? Isn't that why Catarina pressured it?"

"There's a difference between attention and importance," Alex said, shaking his head. "Especially now that our mechanical army is taking shape."

Yamato seemed puzzled, but Robin nodded in understanding.

Attitudes and priorities evolve as one's resources and goals change.

As Alex's personal strategist, Robin knew exactly what his research facilities in the restricted zones had been working on these past few years.

Compared to the advanced technologies and innovations that transcended generations, a Fish-Man army—while powerful with their natural strength, tenfold that of humans, and unmatched agility in the sea—was now only a supplementary force to Alex. Where such a resource might once have been coveted, it had now been relegated to a mere reserve.

Meanwhile, the pirates subdued by Conqueror's Haki had been rounded up by reinforcements. With today's human trafficker problem thoroughly resolved, the situation was well in hand.

However, Neptune knew there was more at stake than just cleaning up pirates.

As Alex, Robin, and Yamato descended to the shores of the bay, Neptune, who had been anxiously awaiting their arrival, stepped forward hurriedly. His brow glistened with sweat, and his demeanor betrayed his unease.

"Welcome, Shogun Alex," Neptune said, bowing respectfully. "I've arranged the highest level of hospitality for you in Ryugu Palace."

Despite his effort to appear calm, Neptune's smile was strained and uneasy.

From Katakuri of the BIG MOM Pirates to the emperor of the sea, the stark difference in status and the extreme emotional fluctuations made it difficult for him to smile freely at this moment.

"Lead the way," Alex said simply.

Neptune exhaled in visible relief at Alex's short and direct response. Bowing respectfully, he gestured for the royal entourage to guide Alex and his companions to Ryugu Palace.

As they ascended toward the palace, the grandeur of Fish-Man Island's royal residence became more apparent. True to Neptune's word, the magnificent halls had been transformed into a banquet fit for their esteemed guests.

Large, ornate tables were laden with delicacies unique to Fish-Man Island—fresh seafood, expertly prepared sashimi, and fine wines.

At the center of the feast, graceful mermaids performed a mesmerizing dance, their movements fluid and enchanting, reminiscent of the celebrations Neptune had heard were popular at Wanokuni.

Neptune had been meticulous in his preparations. Given Alex's reputation and preferences, he had taken extra care to adjust the banquet offerings, even replacing certain desserts with those he knew would suit Alex's tastes.

Seated comfortably, Alex watched the performances with mild interest, sipping the fine wine while the dancers twirled elegantly.

Raising his own glass, Neptune addressed Alex and his companions, his tone a mix of formality and nervousness.

"It is an honor and a pleasure for Fish-Man Island to host a figure as distinguished as yourself, Shogun Alex."

Alex took another sip of his wine, brushing aside the pleasantries. "Spare me the formalities. I'm here with a purpose."

Neptune's smile faltered slightly, though he quickly composed himself. He waved a hand, and the mermaids, along with the gathered courtiers, retreated from the hall. Soon, only Neptune, his wife Otohime, Alex, and his companions remained in the vast chamber.

The tension grew palpable as Neptune stepped forward.

"I don't know what business brings you all the way to Fish-Man Island, Shogun Alex, but I am listening."

Alex chuckled softly, his voice carrying a hint of menace. The sound sent a shiver through both Neptune and Otohime, who feared the nature of his coming demands.

"It seems Fish-Man Island has endured hardship recently," Alex said, his tone casual, yet the weight of his words hung heavy in the air.

Neptune and Otohime exchanged uneasy glances. They could feel this was no idle observation—it was the prelude to something more.

Alex continued. "The World Government, which claims to offer you protection, has proven unable—or unwilling—to fulfill its promises. You've even been excluded from their most recent Reverie, have you not? Tell me, Neptune, have you ever considered aligning yourselves with a different power?"

Neptune's eyes widened in alarm, his thoughts racing.

"A... different power?" he stammered, hesitating as he tried to find the right response.

Before Neptune could elaborate further, Robin stepped forward, her voice calm and measured.

"It wasn't just an exclusion from Reverie," she interjected. "According to our intelligence, several Celestial Dragons have openly suggested the complete destruction of Fish-Man Island. This notion has already gained traction among allied nations eager to strengthen their ties with the Celestial Dragons."

Robin's words left Neptune stunned. He looked at her, his face pale, his composure slipping.

"I am Nico Robin," she continued. "I serve directly under Shogun Alex as his chief intelligence officer. The information I've shared comes from our extensive investigations."

Otohime, with her innate ability to sense the truth in people's hearts, focused intently on Robin. What she heard confirmed the sincerity of Robin's words.

However, when Otohime turned her attention to Alex, her ability faltered. She couldn't read him. It was as if his presence alone silenced the voices she was so accustomed to hearing.

At that moment, Alex's eyes flicked toward Otohime. She immediately averted her gaze, shaken by the intensity of his glance. Her hand instinctively gripped Neptune's arm, urging him to pay attention.

The signal was clear. Neptune swallowed hard, his growing dread evident.

Robin, ever attuned to timing, pressed forward with her argument.

"Furthermore," she continued, "hasn't Otohime spent years advocating for the Fish-Men and Merfolk to rise from the depths and live beneath the sun? Your people dream of a brighter future, but the World Government offers only empty promises and looming threats."

Her voice softened slightly as she pivoted. "The New World can offer a real chance for that future. Shogun Alex has the power to reshape the terrain, to create new land for your people—a sanctuary under the open sky."