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Chapter 51 Business
Not far from Fish-Man Island, within a certain abyssal region, the water was clouded with sediment, and the tumultuous undercurrents had yet to stabilize following a vigorous Battle.
"Hahahaha! Even though I do not fully understand the situation, engaging in battle with you is enjoyable, my friend! "
The boastful sea king warrior shrimp chuckled.
Brett was seated upon the large pincers that Alexander had elevated. He had been exceedingly occupied in recent days. Although he operated as a mostly hands-off proprietor, as the supreme leader of the Exit-Entry Administration, all matters ultimately required his approval and signature.
He could only find a measure of relaxation while venturing out to pursue sea beasts and spar with Alexander.
"It is not enough to simply derive pleasure from fighting. "
Brett flashed a smile, stating, "Strive to enhance your strength, and you will encounter more thrilling and intense battles! "
"You are absolutely correct, my friend! "
Alexander enthusiastically concurred, "A true warrior is one who continually becomes stronger! Hence, I, Alexander, must strive to be the most formidable deep-sea warrior! "
Brett could not help but smile, replying, "Do not be overly confident, Alexander; I am the one who aims to be the strongest. "
"That is indeed the right mindset, my companion! "
The Warrior Shrimp responded with joy rather than anger, exclaiming, "Consistently sparring with friends, fostering growth, and ultimately determining the victor—this is the path of a warrior! "
"Let us continue this contest! Together, we shall grow in strength! "
After spending some time frolicking with Alexander, Brett made his way back to Fish-Man Island.
It is anticipated that Alexander will soon unlock his haki; however, it is likely to require some time. His intelligence is commendable, particularly in combat scenarios, where his IQ could be described as exceptional.
Brett proceeded directly to the office building of the Immigration Administration located in the port area.
This is merely a six-story structure. In fact, many of the rooms are currently unoccupied, yet Neptune believes the Exit-Entry Administration will undoubtedly expand in the future. It would be more prudent to undertake a comprehensive expansion now rather than in stages later.
Upon returning to the modest building, a fishman civil servant approached him.
"Director, here is today's newspaper; please ensure you review it."
He presented the newspaper.
Brett accepted it and glanced through its contents.
The front page boldly displayed a headline emblazoned in dark, large letters.
"Disaster from the Deep Sea from Fishman Island! ! ! ! ! "
Five exclamation points emphasized the urgency.
He looked up towards the top.
World Economic News.
That was acceptable.
Brett returned to his office and scrutinized the newspaper thoroughly.
It is important to note that Brett was not illiterate.
Although he had previously been involved in gang activities on Fishman Street prior to his memory awakening, Shyarly could not tolerate Brett's lack of knowledge, thus she took him to receive fundamental education.
Of course, this was just basic learning. What kind of superior education could one expect to receive on Fishman Street?
In essence, what caliber of elite education can one acquire throughout the entirety of Fish-Man Island?
Regardless, Brett found no difficulty in perusing a newspaper.
The publication provided a thorough account of the developments on Fish-Man Island, particularly the formation of the Immigration and Entry Bureau, detailing how they impeded and scrutinized immigrants and executed those who dared to resist.
Subsequently, the dialogue shifted, and the article began to contemplate the future of the route linking the New World and Paradise.
The author expresses a rather bleak outlook on this matter. He asserts that this vital route will henceforth be under the dominion of Fish-Man Island, necessitating that pirates wishing to navigate this path yield to Fish-Man Island.
At the conclusion of the article, the author mourns that this era dominated by powerful pirates may encounter challenges owing to the resilience of Fish-Man Island.
Throughout the entire reading, Brett wore a frown.
'This Author is definitely stoking the flames.'
This sentiment aligns perfectly with Morgans' avian persona.
The newspapers conveyed such notions. Considering the volatile nature of the pirates at sea, what repercussions might follow?
It is possible that many pirates would relish the opportunity to breach the defenses of Fish-Man Island.
Similar to how numerous pirates intentionally commit misdeeds to augment their own bounties.
However, this situation may not be entirely negative.
The Immigration Bureau needs to establish its reputation.
Disregarding the Pirate Emperors and the Warlords, Brett aspires to instill a sense of trepidation among ordinary pirates across the seas whenever they hear the name of the Immigration Bureau.
Achieving this clearly necessitates a display of rigorous strength and bloodshed to legitimize its authority.
This newspaper could potentially pave the way for opportunities.
'Perhaps I should extend my gratitude to Morgans. In return, when the occasion arises to capture him, I will merely remove half of his hair.'
After setting the newspaper aside and before taking a moment to rest, a knock echoed on the door.
Brett replied, "Enter," and a female mermaid stepped inside.
"Director, another battle has just occurred in the port area."
The woman, Miss Kayla, Brett's secretary sent from Dragon Palace, and possessing a curvaceous figure with developed legs, stated earnestly, "This marks the sixth incident in recent days. "
Brett gave a slight nod in acknowledgment.
The reason for this frequency stems from the fact that the Immigration Bureau has only recently commenced operations, and many pirates who had previously disembarked remain unaware of its formidable power, constantly resisting inspections.
"The pirates involved this time are considerably strong,"
Kayla noted, "Mr. Aladdin has intervened. "
Brett's frown deepened.
Fishmen indeed display little fear in aquatic environments.
However, the dynamics shift on land.
Most of the pirates capable of traversing from Paradise to Fish-Man Island possess considerable skill.
"I understand,"
Brett responded.
There is a pressing need to expedite advanced training.
Relying solely on the Sun Pirates is not a sustainable strategy, after all.
"Furthermore, King Neptune just reached out. The initial arrangements of the mining company have been finalized. "
The secretary adjusted her glasses with a composed demeanor and stated, "He would like you to begin the recruitment of workers as soon as possible."
Brett's expression brightened.
' It's finally starting!'
Both strength and wealth must be augmented before Fish-man island can be deemed robust.
"Alright, please respond to Neptune for me, and I will initiate the work immediately. "
"Understood. " Miss Kayla acknowledged this and departed from the office.
Brett couldn't help but think that the capable bureaucrats from Dragon Palace were indeed effective. Without their assistance, he was uncertain about how overwhelming his workload would be.
Now, let us return to Fishman Street to begin the recruitment process for workers.
However, at that moment, a knock sounded at the office door once more.
Miss Kayla entered again, her expression peculiar, and said, "Director, a human has requested to see you."
"A human? "
Brett raised his eyebrow in interest.
"Yes, he mentioned that he has matters to discuss with you."
'Intriguing.'
At this point, shouldn't human traders be steering clear of them? Even if a human pirate were to approach him, it would likely be with hostile intentions.
"Allow him to enter. "
Brett opted to see what this human has to say.
Shortly thereafter, Miss Kayla arrived at Brety's office accompanied by a middle-aged gentleman.
Miss Kayla discreetly exited and shut the door from outside. Brett focused his attention on the individual before him.
The man had thinning blond hair and was attempting to project a smile despite his rugged appearance. He was tall and relatively robust, indicating he was not a person easily dismissed.
As he observed, Brett activated his observation haki.
He detected a tone in the man's voice. There was an air of unease mixed with anticipation and excitement.
It appeared that the man had arrived with significant intentions.
Brett gestured toward the sofa opposite his desk, stating, "Please have a seat. "
Donald refrained from making any noise.
This marked the second day since his arrival on Fishman Island.
During this period, he had been meticulously assessing the agency known as the Immigration Administration.
He soon realized that their influence on the island was so remarkable that even the military of the Dragon Palace had to collaborate with them.
Furthermore, in the current dispute with the pirates, the vice-captain of the Sun Pirates had intervened.
At that moment, Donald understood that the genuine authority on Fish-Man Island, Warlord Jinbei, was affiliated with this organization.
There was no room for indecision.
He gathered his resolve to visit this location.
He encountered the head of the organization with unexpected ease, at least on the surface.
Donald endeavored to quell his apprehension. Despite not knowing the fishman seated before him, he was aware of the formidable Warlord backing him.
Respectfully sitting on the sofa, Donald inhaled deeply and began, "Esteemed Mr. Director, I have come to engage in business discussions. "
"Oh? "
Brett raised an eyebrow. The man appeared earnest, and his tone grew increasingly intrigued.
"Please provide further details. "
Donald exhaled in relief. The seemingly formidable director of the Exit-Entry Administration was proving to be more approachable than he had anticipated.
"Esteemed Mr. Director, my name is Donald. I have been engaged in trade on Fish-Man Island for an extended period. This can be verified; numerous fishman merchants can attest to my presence. "
Donald initiated his self-introduction, establishing he was well-acquainted with the residents of Fishman Island, and continued, "I comprehend your foundational purpose for creating the Entry and Exit Administration, which is aimed at safeguarding this island. "
Brett remained neutral in his response.
Noticing Brett's silence, Donald felt emboldened. He asserted, "However, you are also aware that such a stringent strategy may yield adverse effects. Numerous merchant vessels that would typically dock here are likely to be dissuaded. "
"Fishman Island is heavily dependent on international trade; thus, many essential goods will remain unobtainable. "
Brett responded with a smile, "Are you suggesting that you would be willing to address this shortfall? "
The immigration bureau's restrictions were hindering merchants from disembarking.
This certainly diminished competition.
"Precisely. "
Donald nodded thoughtfully and remarked, "While I may not be able to handle this alone, I can connect with other businessmen, and I am confident that I can fill the vacancies following developments at Fish-Man Island. "
Brett offered a slight nod in acknowledgment. Prior to the advancement of the core industry on Fish-Man Island, it will indeed need to depend on external trade.
"In that case, it is unnecessary to approach me. Provided there are no illegal items in your merchandise, we will not hinder your efforts. " Brett chuckled.
He sensed that this person harbored ulterior motives.
Donald paused momentarily before finally stating, "However, you are aware that it is quite perilous for us humans to traverse between the sea and Fish-Man Island, thus I hope, some assistance from you."
"Assistance? "
Brett raised an eyebrow in skepticism.
Donald replied seriously, "I wish to seek protection from Fish-Man Island while navigating the deep waters. "
"Of course" a sycophantic smile crossed Donald's face, "The soldiers' efforts will certainly be substantial. "
Brett wanted burst into laughter.
'This guy wants to bribe me?'
The notion of having Fish-Man Island soldiers provide protection is quite audacious.
Donald gazed at Brett with considerable anxiety.
'Would the director acquiesce, or would he erupt in anger?'
Whether he strikes gold or faces dire consequences rests entirely on this moment.
Brett contemplated for a brief period, then remarked, "I need to think this over. "
Donald clenched his fists tightly.
'Does this mean he will seek instructions from Warlord Jinbei?'
Though not yet a success, it is partially attained.
"Well then, I shall take my leave now."
Donald bid farewell, and as he exited the premises, he inadvertently dropped a small parcel that was meticulously wrapped in paper.
Brett smirked slightly.
This certainly presents an opportunity.
Merely extracting the ore is insufficient; it must be sold to generate revenue and acquire technology.