Chapter 152: Jinbe's Resolve

"Indeed, if not for your reminder, Mr. Wright, we might have been unprepared and pushed to the forefront against the Revolutionary Army," Queen Otohime said, a sudden realization dawning on her.

"We would have become pawns for the World Government and its allied nations to test the Revolutionary Army. And the fate of a pawn… is often tragic."

Even for someone as adept at diplomacy as Queen Otohime, the lack of information and the need to seek aid would leave her helpless in such circumstances.

"That's why I believe Fish-Man Island should present its demands at the World Summit—but we must not appear too eager," Wright replied.

Queen Otohime nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. With the implications clear, communication became much easier.

"I may only be a Vice Admiral, so my understanding of the bigger picture is limited. However, these pieces of information should help you navigate potential pitfalls.

"As long as Fish-Man Island's migration to the surface doesn't infringe on the interests of other member nations, and with proper handling, we can likely remain neutral in the Revolutionary Army discussions.

"Now, let's address the fundamental issue—how do you plan to handle the location, steps, and safety of the migration?"

"For smaller-scale migrations, the Sun Pirates and I, as a Warlord of the Sea, can ensure safety," Jinbe said, though his expression darkened. "But large-scale migration… is beyond our capacity."

"In that case, we should focus only on expressing our intent to migrate for now. Once we gain the World Government's approval, we can discuss the details later!" Queen Otohime declared firmly.

Neptune and Jinbe were taken aback. "But…"

"If the Revolutionary Army weren't a factor, perhaps we could push for interim settlements. However…"

Queen Otohime turned to Wright. "Mr. Wright, your information has clarified much for me."

"Pushing too hard will only provoke alarm among the allied nations and endanger Fish-Man Island. This is a matter of survival for our entire race—it cannot be approached idealistically.

"This requires a long-term strategy. The next Reverie (World Summit) will be the time to propose temporary settlements.

"As for full-scale migration… it must be carefully planned. If the people of Fish-Man Island can truly unite, we will face any challenge without fear!"

Wright smiled and nodded. "Your Highness, since you've understood this, I believe there's little else for me to add."

"If you can establish alliances with a few member nations during this summit, all the better."

Neptune, Queen Otohime, and Jinbe bowed deeply to Wright. "Thank you for your assistance!"

"No need for formalities," Wright said with a wave of his hand. "Our Fleet Admiral has been nagging me to recruit some Fish-Men and Merfolk into the Navy."

"I've been making monthly trips here, and he hasn't stopped pestering me. Once Fish-Man Island migrates successfully, you'll have to let me know if anyone is interested."

"If Fish-Man Island settles on the surface and coexists peacefully with humans, I would gladly join your command, Mr. Wright!" Jinbe suddenly declared. "If that day comes, my life is yours to command!"

Neptune remained silent for a moment before speaking solemnly. "If that day does come… Jinbe, I'll leave it to you."

"That day will surely come!" Queen Otohime said confidently.

"Hahaha! Well, there's still time. Besides, if Jinbe joins the Navy, he'd be on par with me in rank." Wright feigned shock, prompting laughter from the trio.

"I'll have to work harder to advance further… to live up to your expectations, Jinbe!"

"Mr. Wright, you've grown even stronger since your last visit. Advancing further shouldn't be an issue for you!"

"Thanks for the vote of confidence! Now that we've wrapped up the serious matters, let's talk about something personal."

"Please, go ahead."

"Fish-Man Island's wine and desserts are some of the finest I've ever tasted. I'll be visiting a friend after this trip, so could you prepare some top-quality items for me?"

"Hahaha!" Neptune laughed heartily. "No problem. I'll have the finest royal wine and desserts prepared—you can take as much as you want!"

"Thank you, Your Majesty!"

...

"How about it, Mihawk? This is top-tier stuff!"

After leaving Fish-Man Island with its finest wine and desserts, Wright stopped by Mihawk's castle, bringing along a Lightforged Beacon Crystal.

"I did leave some for Sengoku. Hopefully, he won't scold me for skipping out on work."

After an epic duel lasting a day and a night, Mihawk confirmed Wright's growth as a swordsman.

"You've reached the level of a Great Swordsman. My attacks can no longer suppress you as they once did," Mihawk admitted, impressed by Wright's mastery of combining Devil Fruit powers and swordsmanship.

"This flavor… it's unique," Mihawk remarked, sipping the wine and sampling a dessert. His hawk-like eyes betrayed a rare hint of satisfaction. "Far better than the casual beer Shanks always offers."

"So, you're installing this… Lightforged Beacon Crystal here?" Mihawk sighed. "Are you planning to challenge me more frequently now?"

"Don't be ridiculous," Wright said with a grin. "I'm still far from matching the three Admirals. They've been training for over a decade longer than I have."

"But having the world's greatest swordsman here… how can I not challenge you often?

"Shanks would be an interesting opponent, but that slippery bastard is hard to pin down… and I'd probably still lose."

"Oh? If Shanks knew, he'd probably welcome the duel. By the way, could your ability restore his arm?" Mihawk asked suddenly.

"No chance," Wright replied. "Restoration requires the original limb. I'm not capable of regrowing limbs—at least not yet."

Mihawk nodded, finding such a power too extraordinary.

"Brrr… brrr… brrr!"

Wright's Den Den Mushi rang, and he sighed as he answered it. Sengoku's voice roared, "Wright! Where are you now? Do you think some wine and desserts will excuse your absence?"

The Den Den Mushi's features twisted into a comical laugh as Sengoku's tone softened. "But these desserts are amazing!"

"…You've been mooching off Sengoku again, haven't you, Garp?" Wright quipped, ignoring Mihawk's amused expression.

"Damn it, Garp! Get out of here!" Sengoku bellowed before regaining his composure. "Listen up, Wright. I have an important mission for you!"

"Understood!"

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