Chapter 58 Tesoro
Brett stood atop the head of a sea tiger, observing the final stage of the battle with composure.
All pirate vessels had been annihilated, leaving the surviving pirates devoid of the capacity to mount a defense.
Despite the presence of numerous pirates bearing bounties surpassing ten million, there were also several pirate captains with bounties nearing one hundred million.
The deep ocean serves as a paradise for both fishmen and mermaids.
Upon hearing the cacophonous symphony of laughter, screams, and pleas emanating from all directions, Brett shook his head.
This conflict holds no relevance for humans and fishmen. It has now evolved into a struggle between soldiers defending their homeland and ruthless, tyrannical pirates.
There exists no opportunity for leniency, nor is there a necessity for compassion.
"You're incredibly powerful, Director. "
A voice emerged from behind, as Hyouzou approached with a smile. "I witnessed the recent battle. "
Brett turned to face him. His attire was entirely stained with blood, an indication of the lives he had taken at sea. One could speculate on the quantity of individuals he had just slain.
"Those two pirates should be deemed weak on the sea, right? " Hyouzou inquired.
Brett's lips slightly lifted in a smile, as he perceived that Hyouzou had finally recognized his limited perspective.
"Precisely, there are numerous people who surpass their strength. Several humans even exceed both me and Brother Jinbei. "
Whether human or fish-men, the most tragic aspect is their confinement within their own understanding, remaining oblivious to the realities of the broader world.
Only upon witnessing mountains can one contemplate climbing them.
"That is indeed valid. "
Hyouzou did not appear disheartened by Brett's remarks. Instead, he displayed enthusiasm. "Director Brett, when will the next training phase begin? "
Such a mindset is commendable.
'I feared he might resemble Brother Arlong from the original, who, despite having recognized the enormity of the world, still chooses to hide and bury his head in the sand like an ostrich.'
Not everyone is as fortunate as Buggy.
"Immediately after this. " Brett replied.
The ten captains from the Immigration and Entry Administration Bureau possess commendable strength. They also represent the most capable individuals on Fishman Street. With diligent effort, they might learn Haki.
Upon mastering Haki and subsequently acquiring the exceptional Fish Body Technique under Jinbei's guidance, it would constitute a preliminary and valuable skill set.
"It's quite thrilling. " Hyouzou beamed.
Brett cast another glance at him, but it was likely that Hyouzou was unaware of how to master the fish body techniques.
"Hyouzou, are you familiar with initiating a flying slash? "
"Flying Slash? "
Hyouzou was momentarily taken aback. "It is purported to be a unique move for swordsmen capable of cutting iron. "
Implying that he would not possess such an ability.
The foremost swordsman on Fish-Man Island cannot even cut through iron.
It is no surprise that Zoro would later describe himself as a frog in a well.
"Since you are familiar with it, let's attempt it," Brett stated.
"A person who is unable to cut anything can nonetheless cut anything. As long as you can perceive the essence of all things, you can attain this state," he explained.
Although Brett lacks a comprehensive understanding of swordsmanship, he is acquainted with it through the manga and is aware of how Koushiro instructed Zoro.
"The essence of all things? Unable to cut anything yet able to cut everything? " Baozang expressed confusion.
"Simply practice swordsmanship in this manner," Brett responded cryptically.
Another concept he understood regarding swordsmanship was the black sword, a level that Hyouzou would likely never achieve in his lifetime.
"Everything is done!" Arlong exclaimed joyfully as he swam over. The blood on his body was nearly as substantial as Hyouzou's. "Hahahaha, I haven't felt this exhilarated in a long time! "
He was highly animated. During his time with the Sun Pirates, Tiger forbade them from taking human lives, even those of enemies, except in cases of dire necessity.
However, at this moment, no humans remained alive in this ocean depth.
Brett directed a glance at Arlong and remarked, "Brother Arlong, killing is merely a method, not a purpose. These pirates are enemies, so there is no need for leniency. "
Brett genuinely feared that Arlong might rush out to sea and instigate a massacre.
Arlong's grin persisted. "I understand, but as we pursue our objective, we will undoubtedly encounter numerous human obstacles, right?"
Brett merely shook his head.
It would be ideal if he could always sustain such a mindset when confronted with foes.
"Begin to clear the battlefield, aid the injured, and search for any valuable spoils," Brett instructed.
"Understood," came the response.
The concluding cleanup commenced methodically.
Another voice was heard, prompting Brett to turn around with a smile.
From the opposite direction, several sea vessels were rapidly approaching.
'More?'
Brett chuckled, believing it to be the second wave of pirates.
He lifted his foot and pressed down on the sea tiger's head, announcing, "Go towards them. "
"Ghaaa." the massive creature replied in a low tone, turning its head in that direction.
As the fleet drew nearer, Donald swallowed hard.
"They are all dead." he exclaimed in disbelief, voicing the shock of his business associates.
What lay before them was chaotic.
Wrecked vessels littered the area.
Floating bodies filled their line of sight.
The surrounding water was tainted red with blood.
"Are we in hell? " One businessman's legs buckled, causing him to collapse, muttering weakly.
This truly was a hellish spectacle.
Tesoro pressed his lips together, eyes wide with astonishment.
'The battle concluded so rapidly, only lasting half an hour?'
This was a pirate fleet comprising dozens of ships and tens of thousands of pirates in total!
Even the victory was accomplished without Jinbei and the Sun Pirates.
The Fish-Man Island Entry-Exit Administration Bureau is remarkably powerful!
Tesoro experienced a profound sense of curiosity, fixating his gaze on the fish-man approaching on a sea beast outside the barrier in front of him.
'Could it be him?'
"Brother Jinbei, I appreciate your hard work. "
Brett leaped lightly, traversed through the membrane of the ship, and gently touched down on the deck. He greeted Jinbei with a warm smile.
"I have nothing to attend to," Jinbei chuckled, "Everything seems quite lively on your end."
"Indeed. " Brett remarked, "It is somewhat easier than I had anticipated. "
"Hahahaha, your words align perfectly with your character! "
Tesoro examined Brett closely.
Is this man the head of the Immigration and Entry Administration?
It appears that, contrary to initial assumptions, he is not a mere pawn of Jinbei.
"Mr. Director! "
Donald exclaimed in astonishment.
Brett turned to him, "Mr. Donald, it seems you arrived as agreed. "
"Yes! "
Donald responded with a grin, "I would never violate an agreement with you, Mr. Director, under any circumstances! "
"After returning home, I quickly sought out many like-minded allies. Upon learning of the impending pirate attack on Fish-Man Island, I hastened over to offer my assistance! "
Donald proudly puffed out his chest, declaring, "Regrettably, it seems I am unable to contribute. Mr. Director, you are exceptionally strong! These pirates pose no threat to Fish-Man Island at all. My concerns were unfounded. "
"Please excuse my foolishness, Mr. Director. "
Brett smirked slightly. 'This guy...'
"Indeed, it is truly remarkable, Mr. Director! "
"Those pirates were clearly looking for death! "
Other merchants on the vessel echoed similar sentiments.
There is no course of action they can take, other than to appease them. The formidable Fishman army has already drawn near, and they are reluctant to engage in discussions over life and death at this moment.
Brett, with a smile, stated, "I appreciate Mr. Donald's sincerity, and therefore, let us proceed with our collaboration. "
In any event, if this guy has the audacity to approach with a group at this juncture, it clearly demonstrates his commitment to partnership.
There exists no valid reason to reject this offer.
"Indeed! "
Excitement sparkled in Donald's eyes.
The partnership has truly been established!
The chance to achieve significant wealth is imminent.
Moreover, the influence wielded by this Mr. Director surpasses his initial expectations!
In these profound depths of the ocean, who could disrupt his enterprises?
"Please rest assured that it will be handled by me."
Donald stated earnestly, "We will ensure that Fish-Man Island remains unharmed. "
"Absolutely!" The merchants repeatedly nodded in agreement.
Encountering such an adversary in the deep sea would be terrifying, but having such a companion would be a delightful experience.
"We shall discuss the specifics further upon our arrival at Fish-Man Island. For now,"
Brett turned his attention to the individual concealed behind, "Sir, you exude a rather extraordinary presence. "
Although he has never witnessed the person directly, with the distinct green hair, pink suit, and the oversized doll nearby, there can be no mistake about his identity.
Gild Tesoro, the antagonist from the movie version, an enormous figure in the underworld commanding Doflamingo, the man destined to be recognized as the Golden Emperor in the future.
'What is he doing here?'
"Hm? "
Jinbei immediately became vigilant and observed Tesoro with suspicion.
The merchants may possess some degree of power, but they would never allow Brett to speak carelessly.
'He is exceptionally perceptive!' Tesoro was taken aback.
'Is it an observation or intuition?'
Indeed, he is not an ordinary person.
He responded with composure, "There is nothing of concern, merely taking precautions to safeguard myself. "
"Mr. Director, this is Tesoro. He has accompanied us to Fish-Man Island to pursue collaboration. "
Donald, showing loyalty, added with a smile, "He may lack other qualifications but is notably affluent! "
"That is correct. "
Brett smiled gently, "Then let us return to Fish-Man Island. I believe we ought to engage in a substantial discussion. "
Tesoro furrowed his brow slightly. 'Is it merely an illusion or is this man actually observing me?'