Chapter 33 Dilemma, Star of Hope
This situation is certainly unacceptable.
While Fishman Island serves as the domain of fishmen and mermaids, it evidently lacks the means to regulate the human activities occurring within its borders.
There have even been instances where slavers have masqueraded as merchant vessels, arriving at Fish-Man Island to abduct mermaids and subsequently escape with ease.
Upon hearing Brett's inquiry, King Neptune paused momentarily, then gently stroked his beard with a touch of sadness, stating, "Undoubtedly, no one desires occurrences of this nature, yet continual surveillance over the humans who land on Fish-Man Island is not feasible, right? "
Fish-Man Island acts as a junction between the forward and rear segments of the Grand Line. Ultimately, only a limited number of individuals can opt to transfer ships and take the Mary Geoise route. The majority of humans wishing to navigate between Paradise and the New World must utilize the Fish-Man Island passage.
This implies that numerous vessels dock at Fish-Man Island daily.
Pirates, merchants, and individuals from the criminal underworld populate this area.
There are also many humans who have made Fish-Man Island their home.
"At the very least, we should enhance the management of arrivals and departures," Brett suggested. "Thoroughly inspect human vessels entering and exiting Fish-Man Island. This measure alone could significantly reduce the instances of trafficking occurring on the island. "
Ultimately, the regulation of entry and exit remains excessively lenient.
It is clearly a sovereign nation, yet it operates akin to a colony.
However, this is not an insurmountable challenge.
The geography of Fishman Island distinguishes it from other islands above sea level.
For humans seeking to enter and exit Fish-Man Island safely, the primary entrance is the sole option. In essence, safeguarding this main entry point could prevent 99% of kidnapping incidents from happening.
Neptune nodded slightly, stating, "I understand this, but enacting change is challenging. "
"Fish-Man Island links the leading and trailing ends of the Grand Route. Annually, countless pirates navigate through here to reach the New World. How can we expect these people to permit us to inspect them? "
Brett raised his eyebrows slightly, "The times have evolved. We are no longer in the era initiated by the Great Pirate era when humans wreaked havoc on Fish-Man Island. Brother Jinbei holds the title of Warlord. Even amidst the ranks of human pirates, few would dare to oppose a Warlord. "
"Particularly in these deep waters. "
'In my previous life, while reading the manga, I did not regard the Warlords as particularly powerful, but upon entering this world, I recognized that the Warlords indeed rank as the foremost powerful entities, surpassed only by the pirate emperors and admirals.'
The vulnerability of Fish-Man Island becomes apparent in comparison to the World Government and the Monster Pirates of the New World.
This evaluation must occur above the ocean surface. In this profound sea, one must consider creatures such as Kaido and Whitebeard.
Provided that Fishman Island adopts a firmer stance, what actions can the pirates undertake.
"That is reasonable. "
Neptune acknowledged with profound appreciation, showing no concern regarding the lack of respect in Bret's statements, "Otohime always emphasizes the importance of trusting humans, yet our faith is seldom returned. "
Notably, Princess Otohime embodies kindness, but her greatest flaw lies in her excessive trust in humanity.
"However, another issue exists," Neptune stated earnestly. "You may not fully grasp this, Brett. While we reside in the deep sea, our requirements mirror those of humans who dwell on the surface. "
"We are unable to fulfill these needs independently, thus we largely depend on passing merchant vessels, smuggling ships, and even pirates along with other aggressive entities. "
"However, we lack sufficiently appealing goods ourselves. Numerous humans engage in trade with us exclusively when we reach land, allowing us to acquire our necessities while selling our items. "
"If what you suggested is accurate, what implications will these trades face in the future? They may opt not to dock at Fish-Man Island and instead go directly to the opposite side of the Red Line. "
Since childhood, Brett has been aware that Fish-Man Island does not possess wealth.
While the island is indeed picturesque, its harsh geographical positioning, challenging transportation circumstances, combined with human discrimination, hinder the development of various industries.
Even within the most prosperous towns, crimes resultant from an inability to support families are prevalent; this is especially true in Brett's hometown of Fishman Street, where unemployment rates are exceedingly high.
What fate awaits this island should trade with humans cease?
Brett recognized that he had predominantly focused on the issue of strength; however, for Neptune, this is likely a crucial concern.
Indeed, this represents a significant challenge.
Ultimately, the self-sufficiency of Fish-Man Island, situated in the deep sea, is exceedingly inadequate.
Even the fundamental necessities of food, clothing, housing, and transportation cannot be sufficiently met.
After all, Fish-Man Island is devoid of abundant textile resources.
Otherwise, what accounts for the legendary mermaids' preference for shell attire?
This is aside from other essential daily provisions, medicines, and the like.
While there are human merchants who brave peril to reach the depths of the sea and trade at Fish-Man Island, they comprise only a small minority.
Most participants engage in trade merely as a secondary pursuit.
As Neptune articulated, Fish-Man Island lacks goods that are sufficiently enticing.
If stringent entry and exit regulations are enforced, what will become of these merchants, who are likely not well-intentioned?
Brett exhaled deeply.
Fishmen and mermaids confront numerous challenges.
"This is the crux of the issue. "
Neptune exhaled, "Although I am quite hesitant to do this, our existence is dependent on humans. "
"However, I will take your proposal into consideration," he replied.
Neptune stated, "Regardless of the circumstances, I cannot observe the suffering of others and remain apathetic. "
This is the benefit of a small nation with a limited populace. The distinction between the elite and the common folk is not excessively pronounced.
Neptune possesses a profound capacity for empathy towards the denizens of Fishman Island.
"What is your opinion regarding my invitation? " Neptune inquired with anticipation.
Fish-Man Island initially had a scarcity of gifted individuals, yet considerable effort was invested in nurturing the future talent that Jinbei referred to. He believed it was essential to foster this talent vigorously.
It is precisely because they experienced oppression that they have grown more united.
"Let us discuss this matter later," Brettt said without outright rejecting the idea. "My current focus is on training. "
Being a senior figure within the Dragon Palace certainly provides certain advantages.
However, it is clear that achieving true strength holds greater significance.
"That is the case. "
Neptune remained undeterred, stating, "Indeed, although it may be inappropriate to say, strength is the paramount factor in this world. "
"Then, young man, please have Jinbei reach out to me if necessary. "
"Lastly, I would like to express my gratitude once more. "
After sincerely thanking Brett, the King of the Dragon Palace departed.
There remain numerous issues he must address during this upheaval.
"Do not worry, Brett," Jinbei assured him with a pat on the shoulder, "Take your time. The historical course of centuries cannot be altered in a brief period. "
Brett acknowledged with a nod.
It is, in fact, a significant challenge for fish-people and mermaids to achieve a brighter future.
"Let us return to Shyarly's place first," Jinbei suggested with a smile. "She must be concerned about you. I will take care of Arlong and the others. "
"Alright. "
Brett was resolute in his acceptance.
Although he suspected Shyarly would not be anxious. She is someone who has already foreseen the future.
As they made their way back to the Mermaid Cafe, Brett became lost in thought.
'Indeed, if there is a desire to transform the conditions of Fish-Man Island, should the nation not rise from beneath the sea to the surface?
To reach waters abundant with supplies and resources.
In this world that suffers from scarcity of resources—
Oh?
Resources are limited?'
An idea suddenly struck Brett's mind.
'Undersea resources are lacking? What genius reached this conclusion? '
A grin appeared on Brett's face.
'In this instance, will the issue be resolved?'
Brett revisited the Mermaid Cafe with a sense of exhilaration.
"Shyarly, I have returned. "
Brett opened the cafe door.
"Thank you, Lady Nana! "
Upon entering, he immediately noticed little Nana standing confidently on the table with her hands on her hips.
Numerous mermaids encircled her at the table, each holding different kinds of food.
The mermaids' faces were filled with bright smiles, "Yes, this is all due to Nana. "
"If it were not for Nana, the sisters truly would not have known what to do."
"Nana rescued us, it's impressive! "
'Are they the abducted mermaids?'
"Hum hum! "
After receiving so much gratitude, the young girl's nose nearly lifted towards the sky as she unapologetically accepted the food from the mermaids.
"Honestly, do not spoil her excessively," Miss Miriam remarked, exasperated.
"Nana is our savior. "
One mermaid stated with a smile as she turned back.
"That is correct, without Nana, we genuinely do not know what might have occurred. " Another mermaid added, her smile slightly waning, as if she remained shaken.
"It appears that Nana has accomplished something impressive. "
Brett approached the counter and addressed Shyarly.
"Yes, it's amazing."
Shyarly lifted her gaze and looked at Brett, "You too."
Brett smiled gently.
Observing the joyful expressions of the mermaid ladies, it is difficult to fathom the fear they experienced just a few hours earlier.
Though they were rescued, throughout history and in the future, how many others will be rescued?
"Brett, do not hesitate, simply pursue what you desire to achieve. "
Brett heard Shyarly's voice, "I will always support you."
…
Fishman Street.
After Aladdin's intervention, the injuries sustained by Arlong and his companions have stabilized, but their dwelling is truly no longer livable and is already falling apart.
While discussing their next place to stay outside the house, some fishmen approached.
"Brother Arlong, what happened? There was such a commotion here moments ago! What caused that thunder to rise from the sky? "
The fishmen remain unaware of the events that unfolded.
Arlong's lips curled into a smile.
"It is frightening! That thunder signifies the arrival of Fish-Man Island's Star of Hope! "
"…Star of Hope? "