Chapter 50 Donald's experiences on Fish-Man Island
Donald operates as a businessman, albeit one who does not establish his ventures in a single location.
He serves as a maritime trader who acquires goods at lower prices from one location and sells them at elevated prices in another.
This sector proves to be exceptionally lucrative in Paradise.
Given the challenges of transport, significant communication deficits among various islands, and the inconsistent allocation of resources, items that are inexpensive on one island can hold significant value on another.
This situation grants merchants the chance to capitalize on the differential in prices.
However, pursuing a career as a maritime trader in this segment of Paradise entails considerable risks.
The sea has perpetually posed dangers, compounded by the prevalence of pirates. It is commonplace for traders to face robbery and violence at the hands of these pirates.
Moreover, Donald persists in his trade along the Grand Line.
The perilous weather conditions, erratic sea currents, and the strength of pirates far surpassing other regions transform this area into a nightmarish environment for merchants.
Nonetheless, Donald manages to thrive in this setting.
On one hand, he possesses considerable strength, and on the other, he remains unscathed during the extensive routes he undertakes.
Donald frequently traverses the distance between Fish-Man Island and Sabaody Archipelago.
He procures various essential goods from the Sabaody Islands, transports them to Fish-Man Island, and markets them at elevated prices. He then acquires unique coral pearls found exclusively in the depths of Fish-Man Island and profits significantly upon his return to Sabaody.
While the profits may not be enormous, he still earns a substantial sum after accounting for the coating expenses.
Ultimately, Fish-Man Island is relatively close to Sabaody.
Were it not for the inherent dangers and the exceedingly high fatality rate along this route, Donald would likely face a multitude of competitors.
He comfortably navigates the deep sea.
His fear of financial instability eclipses his fear of death.
On this occasion, Donald once more completed a purchase of a vessel brimming with goods. After finalizing the coating, he plunged into the deep seas en route to Fish-Man Island.
He had undertaken this journey innumerable times. Provided that misfortune did not strike, manifesting as an attack from a creature akin to a Sea king, Donald felt assured of a safe passage.
Indeed, this held true. He successfully reached the hollow beneath the Red Continent, proceeded forth, and soon arrived in a region that, despite being submerged, emitted a radiant glow.
Donald could not suppress a sigh of relief.
Once again, he had evaded danger.
If there were not a genuine affinity for profit, who would willingly traverse such perilous waters?
However, Donald soon observed the presence of an additional ship ahead of him.
He removed his telescope and focused on the object in the distance.
"Is that a pirate vessel? "
Donald promptly instructed the crew to reduce their speed.
Indeed, that is a pirate ship visible from afar.
He even recollected the pirate flag from his memory.
The notorious pirate with a bounty of 34 million, the ship belonging to Sethi the Great Axe!
Although it is challenging for them to venture into the treacherous deep sea to mount any form of attack, they should exercise caution while navigating the ancient ship.
The merchant vessel purposefully maintained a certain distance, yet it was gradually drawing nearer to Fish-Man Island.
Then.
"Um? "
Donald suddenly noticed a dark shape approaching rapidly.
His expression shifted abruptly.
It is a sea beast!
An adult sea lion measuring over fifty meters in length!
The apex predator of the seas, second only to Sea kings.
Before fear could completely engulf his thoughts, he observed the sea lion—
"Fishmen? "
There were numerous Fishmen encircling the sea lion. They were clad in identical uniforms.
'Is this a newly formed fish-man pirate crew?'
Donald was aware that there were indeed pirates among the fish-men, operating around Fish-Man Island, either targeting human vessels or plundering the island's residents.
"Do not act impulsively! "
Donald shouted to pacify the frightened crew members who had armed themselves.
There was no possibility of victory in a confrontation with fish-men in the deep sea.
Furthermore, the opposing side also had sea beasts, providing them with a formidable numerical advantage.
Donald attempted to regain his composure.
At least fishmen were preferable to sea beasts, as they might communicate.
The sea beast and the fish-men halted not far ahead, and then one of the fish-men paddled over, passed through the coating, and boarded their ship.
"Mr. Fishman, what is your business here? "
Donald recognized that many fishmen harbored animosity towards humans, so he endeavored to project friendliness.
The fishman glanced at him and replied, "We are part of the patrol force for the Fishman Island Exit and Entry Administration, tasked with inspecting all vessels arriving and departing from Fish-Man Island. We request permission to search your ship to ensure that nothing detrimental to Fish-Man Island occurs. "
Brett would certainly have been pleased to witness this scene. It is no small feat for these individuals to articulate this calmly in front of humans.
Donald paused momentarily, "Exit and Entry Administration? Apologies, Mr. Fishman, as a businessman who frequently travels to and from Fish-Man Island, I have not previously encountered this agency. "
Could it be that a group of fish-men is planning a robbery while disguised as a legitimate authority of Fish-Man Island?
"We are a newly established agency. "
The fishman slightly furrowed his brow, his demeanor growing more impatient, "You simply must choose to comply or not."
Donald inquired cautiously, "What are the consequences if one chooses non-compliance? "
"If you refuse to comply, you will not be granted permission to land on Fish-Man Island. You may either retrace your route or proceed directly to the New World," The fish-man stated coldly.
Donald exhaled in relief.
'I thought I would face death had I declined.'
He then pondered this situation and cautiously asked, "What would occur if one were to attempt to land on Fish-Man Island without submitting to inspection? "
Donald witnessed a grin spread across the fishman's face.
"In that scenario, you will witness the repercussions of such an action firsthand," the fishman replied as he gestured towards the front of the vessel.
Donald glanced in the direction indicated.
In the distance, he observed the pirate ship he had seen earlier now engaged in a confrontation with a sea beast.
Moments later, the sea beast charged forward, effortlessly demolishing the pirate ship's coating, and created a significant breach in the hull with a single claw strike.
The sea beast required no further action; the membrane ruptured, allowing the deep sea water to surge in. Under the immense pressure, everything was crushed.
Donald fell into a moment of silence.
'Is this the fate that awaits those who attempt to force entry?'
"Please proceed with your search. There are merely ordinary goods in the cabin," Donald said promptly.
The fishman acknowledged him with a nod, waved his hand, and another group of fishmen descended onto the deck. They confidently walked past the visibly shaken crew members and entered the cabin to commence their search.
Donald inhaled deeply.
Fish-Man Island has become increasingly formidable. This deep sea is on the verge of transformation.
Humans attempting to navigate this route will likely encounter severe peril in the deep sea. What lies ahead for Fish-Man Island?
Donald was eager to set foot on Fish-Man Island and explore.
The fishmen swiftly finished the inspection as no illicit items were discovered; however, they confiscated the weapons, stating they would be returned upon departure from Fish-Man Island.
Following this, the fishmen posed further inquiries to Donald, seeking information regarding the purpose of his visit to Fish-Man Island, the identities of those aboard the ship, and the duration of his stay.
Once all inquiries were thoroughly addressed, the fishmen provided them with a receipt documenting the inspection's findings.
Donald felt at ease. It appeared that despite the increasingly stringent stance of Fish-Man Island, there was still no outright rejection of humans.
He was halted once again at the entrance of Fish-Man Island.
Fishmen dressed in identical uniforms to those encountered previously required registration.
Donald glanced at the sea creature languishing in the water at an angle behind him, yet he did not object.
A comprehensive examination had already been conducted, so what was the harm in registering?
The inspection documents were submitted, and each individual posed for a photograph. Ultimately, all members of the vessel received a time-limited pass that featured their attached photograph.
The fishmen informed that passage to Fish Man Island now necessitated a pass; failure to possess one would be considered illegal entry and would result in expulsion.
Being expelled from Fishman Island in such depths of the ocean——
Donald shivered and promptly instructed everyone to retain the passes.
He was then able to officially disembark. Following the maritime route, Donald navigated the ship to a familiar dock.
Just as he exhaled in relief, he observed numerous blue-uniformed soldiers patrolling the port's shoreline, with a sea beast floating above.
This was indeed a new establishment on Fish-Man Island.
Donald was taken aback.
After directing his crew to ready the cargo for unloading, he disembarked with two of his men, intending to locate an acquainted merchant from Fishman Island to transport the goods.
As soon as he set foot on the shore and inhaled the fragrant air of Fish-Man Island, he detected noise and commotion from afar.
There appeared to be much entertainment to witness, so he felt no reason to hesitate.
Donald proceeded toward the source of the noise with his crew.
On the opposite side of the dock, a crowd of humans had gathered.
Eventually, Donald managed to squeeze through and witnessed two factions clashing.
Soldiers clad in blue uniforms were encircling a group of humans.
The enormous sea beast was thrashing about, with every strike and slap producing a deafening outcry.
Donald held his breath.
"What occurred? What triggered the confrontation so abruptly? "
"It is rumored that this group of pirates was preparing to embark but resisted inspection, which led to the ensuing turmoil. "
"What are you hoping for from Fish-Man Island? If this continues, who would still wish to visit? It's merely a brief visit. "
"It might even provoke the pirates, and that would lead to significant complications. "
Having overheard this dialogue, Donald gradually withdrew from the throng.
One of his subordinates expressed concern, "Boss, the situation on Fish-Man Island seems to be quite dire. It appears no longer conducive for conducting business. "
Donald looked at him in astonishment, "What do you mean? Isn't this a tremendous business opportunity? "
"Eh? "
"Hahahaha! It's the perfect time to strike it rich! I must first consult the director! "