Chapter 69 Today's Fishman Island
The facility referred to as Fishman Island Steel Works, established by Neptune, has commenced its operations.
'I wish to extend my gratitude to Tesoro at this point. Without his contributions, including the factory design plans and essential equipment, there would not have even been a minimal workforce.'
The fish workers currently employed at the factory have gradually attained proficiency in their tasks under the mentorship of skilled laborers provided by Tesoro.
However, it can only be asserted that their employment is at a basic level, and their abilities do not reach the standard of experienced technicians from the surface.
Naturally, the prevailing standard in the steelmaking industry at sea is rather similar. Brett does not perceive the disparity as substantial, particularly when contrasted with the scientific might associated with Vegapunk.
At this juncture, achieving self-sufficiency for Fishman Island is satisfactory.
Beyond this, Brett's primary concern revolved around whether it would be excessively strenuous for fishmen to operate in the high-temperature conditions typical of a steel mill; nevertheless, this issue has also been addressed through bubble technology.
The specialized single-person coating available at sea affords humans considerable protection against the extreme cold and temperature fluctuations of the deep ocean, thus it is entirely reasonable for fishmen to utilize it to withstand the elevated temperatures within the steel mill.
Bubble technology is indeed remarkable, and Brett recognizes its significance fully.
Fishman Island has discovered a coal deposit on the ocean floor, enabling the development of its steel industry; however, an issue arose concerning the management of exhaust emissions.
Given the limited expanse of the sky above Fish-Man Island, directly releasing exhaust into the atmosphere would be perilous.
Ultimately, this challenge was resolved with bubble technology. A substantial bubble was created adjacent to Fish-Man Island, and a factory was constructed within it. The exhaust gases were directed into the bubble and allowed to drift along the ocean currents to an unspecified location in the sea.
While human activities are capable of polluting the environment in this world, it should not be inferred that the fishmen are exempt from contributing to pollution.
Even the challenge of not being able to use seawater directly for cooling purposes was mitigated through bubbles. By modifying the composition of the bubbles, temperature transfer was made more efficient. Introducing a layer of bubbles between the seawater and the equipment simplified what would otherwise be a cumbersome process.
In addition to the steel mill, a variety of ancillary factories were also constructed concurrently.
Following the discovery of the coal mine, a coal washing facility and a coking plant were established promptly. Various processing plants were initiated after the decision to establish the steel plant. A weapons factory was even included, primarily engaged in the production of swords and other bladed weapons at present.
Furthermore, numerous industries related to daily living were developed during this timeframe.
The pharmaceutical sector is the first to experience significant challenges. Historically, this industry on Fishman Island was confined to various land-based recipes that relied on marine medicinal resources. However, presently, through persistent exploration of seabed flora and the analysis of their constituents, alternatives are being sought. With technology provided by Tesoro, along with appropriate materials and equipment, Fishman Island is now capable of producing fundamental medications independently.
Numerous other transformations have occurred. During this interval, Fish-Man Island has undergone substantial developments.
After accompanying Neptune around the busy factory, Brett returned to Fish-Man Island.
"Director, you have returned. "
Upon their arrival at the Immigration and Entry Administration building, the staff warmly welcomed Bright.
The entire community of Fish-Man Island recognizes that it was him who played a pivotal role in driving the current changes on the island.
Brett responded with a smile and a nod.
As Fishman Island became increasingly vibrant and a growing number of merchants arrived, the capacity of the Immigration and Entry Administration began to prove inadequate, particularly following news that the island was generating considerable profits from mining. Following this development, more pirates were poised to attack after emerging from the sea.
Brett has already initiated an expansion, increasing the personnel in the Exit and Entry Administration to 30,000 in a single move, thereby placing even greater strain on the already limited resources of sea beasts.
Currently, the total number of sea beasts stands at just over seventy, which is still significantly short of the initial target of one squadron.
However, this is a temporary measure. To keep pace with the advancements on Fish-Man Island, adaptation is essential.
Brett returned to his office and, as usual, gazed out the window at the harbor in the distance.
Compared to several months prior, the port has undergone a comprehensive expansion, becoming much larger, albeit still congested.
Notably, behind the mining company's building, the vessels of human traders were clustered so tightly that they seemed to almost collide with one another.
"Very impressive. "Brett stretched.
Fishman Island is undeniably evolving.
An increased flow of wealth into the island is noted, alongside a greater volume of goods and a rising number of human visitors.
The quality of life for residents is improving, with significant enhancements in their material conditions and a marked improvement in their relations with humans, attributed to more frequent interactions.
The administration of the Exit and Entry Administration maintains stringent regulations. They even procured a large X-ray machine from the government at a high cost and installed it at the entrance to inspect incoming and outgoing ships. Approximately 90% of vessels allowed entry into Fish-Man Island are without issues.
This has also resulted in a notable increase in interactions between fishmen and humans, which not only fosters the growth of the island's service and tourism sectors but also greatly enhances mutual perceptions.
Individuals who arrived with the objective of conducting business visited Fish-Man Island multiple times and came to the realization that, aside from their outward appearance, fish-men are fundamentally similar to humans, sharing the same range of emotions.
The fish-men and mermaids uncovered that not all humans are malevolent.
Naturally, various forms of propaganda regarding the necessity of being cautious during peacetime continue to circulate. Brett harbors doubts about the ethics of businessmen. He is concerned that the current climate might mislead the mermaids and fishmen, leading them to overlook potential threats posed by humans.
Nonetheless, Otohime, known for her emotional nature, was so exhilarated that she made a visit to Brett's office one time and offered him a thumbs-up, tears in her eyes.
However, her remarks remained unacknowledged.
At present, the inhabitants of Fish-Man Island exhibit even less enthusiasm regarding the prospect of migrating to the surface. They believe that Fish-Man Island should remain submerged for the nation to thrive.
After concluding his office duties, Brett proceeded to the Mermaid Cafe.
The establishment appeared much like it always had, but the influx of customers had noticeably increased. Fish-men, mermaids, and humans alike were drawn to this most popular cafe on Fish-Man Island, particularly as the overall prosperity of Coral Hill had expanded significantly.
Shyarly had previously expressed to Brett her frustrations with the large number of patrons every day, nearly overwhelming her.
Brett recommended that she consider expanding the cafe and hiring additional staff.
Shyarly was contemplating this suggestion.
After dining at the cafe, Brett shared his observations of the day with Shyarly. As it was growing late, Brett took the water route back to Fishman Street.
Though it was the same waterway as before, the scenes observed were markedly different.
Numerous areas remained brightly illuminated at this hour, and the coral jungle that had previously obstructed Fishman Street and the central city had been cleared away, replaced by newly constructed buildings.
This could be categorized as development.
Brett reflected on this notion.
Eventually, Brett reached Fishman Street.
Exiting the waterway, he arrived on the streets of this community.
"Boss Brett! "
Even at this late hour, warm greetings abounded.
Fishman Street is Brett's home, once regarded as the most impoverished area on Fishman Island. It may be considered self-serving, but Brett has diligently worked to instigate change here.
Now, it appears that the outcomes are indeed rewarding.
The initially disorganized area was transformed into an orderly space due to Brett's initiative as the leader of Fishman Street, who specifically hired a group of elderly people in need of employment to carry out sanitation tasks.
Numerous deteriorating structures have undergone reconstruction. The mining sector demands a substantial workforce, with many employees being sourced from Fishman Street. Wages remain quite high, and with financial gains, people naturally aspire to enhance their living conditions.
Various types of shops that were previously scarce have now emerged abundantly. The situation remains consistent; when financial prosperity arises, so does consumer demand.
The prevalent gangsters along Fishman Street have increasingly faded from view. Engaging in gang activities does not yield significant monetary rewards, whereas legitimate employment offers a different scenario.
Brett held this perspective.
"Oh! Director Brett has returned? " A voice called out from the side of the road.
Brett turned to find Mark, who was dressed quite formally. "Foreman Mark, finished for the day as well? "
"Hahaha, we ought to finish before you do," Mark replied with a laugh. "Would you like to grab a drink? My treat. "
"I certainly wouldn't pass up Foreman Mark's invitation," Brett responded cheerfully. "But is there something to celebrate about today? Did you receive a promotion? "
"It's not that straightforward. You refuse to help me out," Mark complained.
"Weren't you promoted to junior cadre right from the beginning? " Brett asked with a smile.
"I'm aiming for something more significant, alright," Mark asserted. After a brief pause, he added with a smile, "I truly appreciate it, Brett; you're quite impressive. "
Brett rolled his eyes, "So, what's going on? "
"Well,"Mark seemed a bit shy, "I'm getting married. "
"Oh, really? "
Brett expressed surprise, "When did this happen? "
He was aware that with increasing wealth, the eligible bachelors of Fishman Street had started to gain more attention rather than being overlooked.
"We've been in discussions for a while, and both of us felt it was the right time, so we decided to tie the knot," Mark mentioned with a smile. "Brett, please be my witness when the time comes; it would bring me pride as well. "
"Alright. "Brett agreed without hesitation.
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