Chapter 125: Peace of Mind
Brett's transponder snail crackled to life, the distinct voice of Perospero, Big Mom's right-hand man, filling the air. "Mom says you should work hard on your own," he conveyed, "but if you need help, the Charlotte family will definitely assist you."
Brett's eyes widened slightly at the unexpected offer. "Of course I won't refuse," he replied immediately. "There are many raw materials unavailable on Fishman Island. I was hoping the Charlotte family could provide those, to further the island's development and improve the lives of the citizens." A small smile played on his lips. "That way, the people will naturally be on my side."
Perospero readily agreed, the connection crackling as he promised the Charlotte family would supply the necessary resources. Brett leaned back in his chair, deeply aware of the benefits this alliance could bring. Though far inferior to the World Government, the formidable Charlotte family - now dubbed the 'Emperor of the Sea' - could provide immense convenience to Fishman Island.
'Perhaps I could even request their communication technology,' Brett mused, though he felt a tinge of embarrassment at the idea. 'No need to ask just yet. That can wait for another time.'
In the end, it was a win-win situation for all involved. Now, Brett's focus shifted to the crucial task of stabilizing Fishman Island. Queen Otohime's speech had certainly helped, but more was needed to truly allay the people's lingering fears.
As the sun began to set, Brett made his way to the Mermaid Cafe. The usually enthusiastic mermaid waitresses greeted him with furtive glances, their eyes darting away nervously.
'What a headache,' Brett thought, spotting the ever-calm Shyarly at her usual spot.
"As usual, let's have some food," Brett said, taking a seat. "I'm already hungry."
The words had barely left his mouth when Miriam hurried out of the kitchen, a laden tray in hand. "The food's been ready for a while, Brett," she said with a bright smile. "Shyarly said you'd definitely come, so we prepared extra."
Brett eyed the generous portions, then turned to Shyarly. "It's much richer than usual, though I won't give you any money."
"Just think of it as my invitation to you," Shyarly replied without looking up from her work.
Brett chuckled and dug into the meal, savoring the familiar flavors. "So, did anything interesting happen while I was away?" he asked between bites.
Miriam's eyes lit up. "Nana's become friends with Princess Shirahoshi! She plays with the princess every day and even brought her here yesterday."
Brett nearly choked, brow furrowing with concern. Nana, with her disinterest in anything beyond martial arts, befriending the young princess - one of Fishman Island's greatest hopes for the future?
'Shirahoshi won't be led astray, will she?' he worried.
Sensing his unease, Miriam hurried to reassure him. "Shirahoshi is the princess! If Nana can maintain this friendship, the future will be so bright."
Brett sighed inwardly. "Then you might as well let Nana please me now."
Miriam's expression shifted to one of surprise. "Ah, that's right! Brett, you're a big shot who can be on par with King Neptune now."
Brett raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to continue.
"Nana admires you so much," Miriam explained, a touch of unease in her voice. "She keeps saying she wants to protect Fishman Island like you do. So, you really -"
"No," Brett interrupted firmly. "There will be no changes from the past to the future. This is my promise."
Miriam's face lit up with relief. "That's it! We were so scared today, afraid a civil war would start on Fishman Island."
The other waitresses chimed in, their moods visibly lifted. Brett understood their anxiety all too well, knowing the lingering fear still weighed on their hearts. 'That's why this work is the top priority right now,' he thought.
As the mermaid ladies departed for the day, Brett and Shyarly were left alone in the cafe. Brett ate in comfortable silence, his enhanced appetite allowing him to quickly finish the generous portion.
"I'm full, " he sighed contentedly, leaning back in his chair. "Miss Miriam's cooking is still as delicious as ever."
"Remember to clean up after eating," Shyarly reminded him, not looking up from her work.
"I know, you don't need to remind me every time," Brett grumbled, though without any real irritation. He gathered the dishes and headed to the kitchen, humming a tuneless tune as he washed them.
Sensing Shyarly's presence at the doorway, he spoke without turning around. "Have you come to see if I'm being lazy?"
"Are you feeling a little confused, Brett, because of what happened today?" Shyarly asked calmly, her gaze fixed on his back.
Brett paused for a moment, then smiled. "Are you here to comfort me? Shyarly, you're so gentle." The soft smile reached his eyes. "You've been like this since I was a child."
"But you're wrong this time, Shyarly," Brett said, his tone brisk. "I won't have any hesitation, and I won't have the slightest regret, because I just did what I should do!"
He knew he was still too weak, far from being able to truly do as he wished. 'I have to become stronger, more powerful - strong enough to face any situation, strong enough to say no to anyone.'
Suddenly, he felt a pair of slender arms wrap around him from behind, Shyarly's forehead resting against his back.
"I still say the same thing," she murmured, her voice soft and dreamlike. "Go ahead and do what you want to do, Brett. My prediction will never go wrong."
"Of course I know," Brett replied, feeling as if his heart was filled with a warmth he couldn't quite describe. "You are the world's number one prophet, your predictions will never be wrong."
"So you have to face it confidently and bravely, and overcome all difficulties and obstacles." Shyarly's embrace tightened slightly. "Then, at the end, you'll have happy life."
"Happy life?" Brett echoed, momentarily taken aback. "Wait a minute, I've never heard of this prophecy..."
"Fool," Shyarly breathed, her tone affectionate. "Didn't I say it? It's the best future."
Brett chuckled, the tension in his shoulders easing. "Okay, Shyarly, do you want some coffee? I suddenly feel more confident."
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