Chapter 49 The Blade of Fish-Man Island
In the training area of the Forest of the Sea, Brett was perched on the head of a massive sea tiger, surveying the large group of people gathered on the training ground below.
The training session had concluded, and the Exit-Entry Administration was set to commence operations officially.
All personnel donned the newly issued uniforms and carried freshly acquired weapons.
The attire consisted of blue military uniforms. Fish-Man Island lacked the capacity to manufacture these garments, prompting Neptune to procure two sets for each Fishman from human traders.
The armaments included sharp knives and spears, with only a handful of individuals equipped with firearms. The usefulness of such weaponry in the sea is non existent, it'll only be useful on Fish-Man Island.
Following over a month of training, the appearance of the fishmen had transformed remarkably.
Everyone stood tall and exuded energy, a far cry from their previous appearance as unruly gangsters just over a month prior.
Brett let out a sigh of relief. Initially, he believed he had much to say at this moment, yet upon contemplating his words, he realized he had little to express.
Ultimately, a smile appeared on his face as he declared, "From this day forward, the Exit-Entry Administration will officially commence its duties. "
All eyes turned toward him.
No one verbally responded, but Brett perceived many sentiments.
"The safety of Fish-Man Island rests in your hands. Always bear in mind that we are the protectors of this island and we must Kill all invading foes. "
A brief silence enveloped the training ground.
Then came the response.
"Yes! ! "
The unified shout resonated powerfully, creating a breeze in the air, and Brett distinctly heard the various emotions conveyed: pride, anticipation, enthusiasm, and affection.
Such sentiments were truly uplifting.
The eleven sea beasts encircling the training ground were momentarily startled by the sudden clamor but quickly swelled with pride.
Their status here was elevated. They received dedicated care and were treated exceptionally well, vastly contrasting their previous hunting experiences in the sea.
"The schedule has been distributed. "
Brett raised his right hand to quiet the soldiers, and their voices promptly ceased. He continued, "From this point onward, we will be on duty according to this arrangement. "
"Yes! "
Another chorus of affirmations followed.
The mandate of the Immigration Bureau is to oversee the personnel entering and exiting Fish-Man Island.
The objective is to keep potentially hazardous elements away from Fish-Man Island.
Consequently, patrol duties were prioritized. Brett positioned half of the five brigades outside Fish-Man Island. Their responsibility was to intercept all foreign vessels, conduct searches, or engage in combat.
One brigade was assigned to the gates of Fish-Man Island to execute a second round of inspections and complete the registration process.
Four brigades have been stationed on the island to provide patrol assistance, concentrating on the port area, while simultaneously screening individuals preparing to leave the Island.
Although it may not yet be ideal, Brett believes it should suffice for the moment.
"Report! "
A loud exclamation rang out.
Brett turned his attention downward to see Hyouzou.
He does not appear intoxicated, but Brett still feels uneasy in his presence.
"Speak. "
Brett commanded.
"If humans refuse to undergo inspection, they will be denied access to Fish-Man Island. What if they attempt to land forcefully on Fish-Man Island? " Hyouzou could not conceal the smile on his face.
Brett responded calmly, "Then let them fully experience the formidable nature of Fish-Man Island! "
"Yes! ! ! "
The response was thunderous.
All Brett perceived was eagerness.
Subsequently, the soldiers were deployed, advancing toward their designated locations under the direction of the captains.
It is time to assume the defense of Fish-Man Island.
"Let's head to the headquarters for an inspection. "
Brett stretched his body.
During the training at this location, Neptune constructed a building in the port area to serve as the Immigration Administration's office.
The civil servants requested from Neptune will also be present shortly, establishing a preliminary framework.
Additional facilities, such as dormitories, are currently being constructed urgently. Given the construction pace in this world, they should be completed soon.
"So, Brett," Arlong exclaimed in surprise, "are we simply going to do nothing? "
"How can you say there is nothing to do? "
Brett replied earnestly, "The work of ideological education must continue. The soldiers' animosity toward humans may easily lead them to make erroneous decisions. "
"I mean, I also wish to go to the front line! " Arlong shouted, "Do not assign me any more monotonous tasks! "
He had grown weary of dealing with report figures each day.
"Do not worry, Arlong. "
Jinbei approached and patted Arlong on the shoulder with a smile, "Did I not mention that I would train you previously? The time for that has arrived. "
"What? "
Arlong's expression shifted dramatically, as the memory nearly slipped from his mind.
Brett chuckled softly.
Arlong remains excessively radical, and it may be too hazardous to allow him to lead a team. Instead of a leader, it is better for him to contribute as a combatant.
"What about me, Brother Brett? " Fukaboshi inquired anxiously.
"You as well. "
Brett replied casually, "Although basic training has been completed, advanced training is about to begin. "
Basic training focuses on discipline and loyalty.
Advanced training aims to enhance strength.
The specific training components include fish-body techniques and haki.
The instructional staff will comprise Jinbei, with Brett also participating as a guest instructor. The teaching format will be small-group instruction.
The captains will take turns attending classes with Jinbei, and once they have attained a certain level of expertise, they will return to impart this knowledge to their subordinates.
The level of awareness regarding Haki on Fish-Man Island remains insufficiently low. Few individuals are familiar with it. Brett does not have high expectations, and each person who has the potential to awaken it is significant.
'Should I have the opportunity, a visit to Amazon lily is advisable. The understanding of Haki there is unexpectedly prevalent, indicating the existence of a specific training technique.'
"I understand. "
Fukaboshi acknowledged with a serious nod.
"Brother Jinbei, I will continue to rely on your assistance moving forward. "
Brett felt a twinge of guilt.
Technically, Jinbei is not an official member of the Immigration Bureau; his primary role is as the captain of the Sun Pirates, and he also carries the Warlord title.
In reality, he functions more as a supportive figure.
However, his assistance has been considerable.
"Not at all,"
Jinbei replied with a broad smile. "It's all for the benefit of this nation! "
"Indeed. "
Brett nodded emphatically.
The greatest reward for Brother Jinbei lies in transforming this country into a better environment.
'Consequently, I must exert greater effort and aspire to accomplish the modest aim of one sea beast per squadron at the earliest opportunity.'
On that day, the inhabitants of Fish-Man Island were astonished to witness the arrival of an unfamiliar army who presented themselves with impressive authority on the island.
Clad in uniforms distinct from those of the soldiers of Dragon Palace and wearing confident expressions, they spread out across various regions of Fish-Man Island.
"Who are they? "
The uninformed residents engaged in speculation.
"It appears that King Neptune has authorized the formation of a new division to address external threats following the recent abduction incident," remarked some knowledgeable individuals.
"Is that so? That sounds fantastic! I've long thought that the Dragon Palace soldiers were ineffective. "
"However, it has been reported that the leader is the new head of Fishman Street! All members are from Fishman Street. "
"Is that true? Doesn't that pose a significant risk? "
To the residents of Fish-Man Island, Fishman Street remains a dangerous and off-limits area.
At the Mermaid Cafe.
"Shyarly! Shyarly! Did you hear the news? "
The mermaid ladies joyfully relayed the information they had gathered with Shyarly. "The department initiated by Brother Brett commenced operations today! The army directly took to the streets; it looks so impressive! "
"If any troublemakers dare to disturb us again, we will call for Brother Brett to come and apprehend them! " The mermaid ladies felt a newfound opportunity to assert their influence.
Shyarly rolled her eyes.
"We know that we shouldn't cause any troublefor Brother Brett," remarked the mermaid ladies with smiles. "However, Brother Brett is truly remarkable. He has fulfilled his ambition and has risen to a position of prominence that commands respect from all."
"Not everyone regards him with admiration. "
Shyarly countered, shaking her head.
"What do you mean? "
Shyarly turned to gaze out the cafe window. The artificial blue sky and white clouds of Fish-Man Island were visible outside. "He merely wishes for us not to have to look up to anyone else. "
Dragon Palace.
"It has officially commenced at last! "
Neptune inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly. "The subsequent steps are in your hands, Brett! "
"Is this truly advisable? "
Queen Otohime expressed her lingering concern. "I can already see that numerous conflicts will arise from this. "
Despite her agreement with this strategy, she remain apprehensive about the forthcoming outcomes.
"Brett is correct; dignity is not obtained through appeals. "
Neptune asserted earnestly to his wife, "To forge a connection with humans, it is essential to avoid approaching them defenselessly; instead, we must compel them to recognize our equality and our deserving of their respect. "
"And to facilitate this recognition, assertive measures are necessary. "
"Trust in Brett," Neptune remarked with a sudden smile. "I believe that it is fortunate he was born into this era."
Agents from the Entry and Exit Administration Bureau have taken control of the Fish-Man Island gate, while a sea beast patrols the waters outside the entrance unabashedly.
Further beyond the gate, five sea beasts were dispatched, forming five units centered around these beasts.
As each of the five teams advanced a certain distance, they divided into smaller squadrons.
Their next task will be to intercept all vessels destined for Fish-Man Island.
Hyouzou perched upon the head of a sea beast, with his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.
"Come on, do not keep me waiting too long for the moment the blade is drawn. "
"This is exhilarating. "