CHAPTER 259: A DATE
The counter-intelligence organization called the Web was already being established with meticulous preparation. Brett was convinced the World Government would never cease their espionage operations against Fish-Man Island. With direct military invasion currently difficult, they would likely spare no expense corrupting and recruiting Fish-Man Island's residents—especially the mid and upper-level echelons.
Brett was sentimental, but he also knew sentiment alone was insufficient. After all, it was unreasonable to expect every Fish-Man Islander to resist temptation and prioritize national interests. Testing human nature was foolish.
Since the honeymoon period with the government was over, preparations were essential. Leaving Ryugu Palace, Brett gazed upward at the sunlight filtering through the water, stretching lazily.
This would suffice for now.
Before acquiring Pluton, Fish-Man Island could only adopt strategic defense against World Government conflict. So defensive preparations had to be thorough first.
Should he expand Fish-Man Island's military forces?
The Immigration Bureau had only tens of thousands personnel. While perfectly adequate for island defense and monitoring human transit, expanding against the World Government seemed insufficient. The government had ruled for eight hundred years, their strength deriving not just from Mariejois' secrets but from foundational power—the Navy, one hundred seventy allied nations, essentially half the world supporting them.
If final war erupted, ancient weapons would be primary, but other battlefields demanded sufficient forces too, didn't they?
Brett contemplated military expansion, then began his day's work.
Though "work" was generous—he had little to actually do. The Immigration Bureau operated smoothly now; subordinates handled most matters independently. His presence served as Fish-Man Island's stabilizing force. So long as the Deep Sea Emperor remained here, no ambitious person dared act recklessly.
Afternoon brought Arlong to Immigration Bureau headquarters with a substantial personnel roster—the initial organizational structure for the Web that Brett had requested.
Arlong worked efficiently.
Though Brett recognized few names, no captains-level officials appeared on the list.
"Underground work requires inconspicuous people!" Arlong explained seriously. "Combat strength is secondary anyway. Adjustment is needed only when violence becomes necessary—the Immigration Bureau provides that support."
"These fellows earned reputations as well-connected operators during their Fishman Street days, and," Arlong lowered his voice, "like me, they despise humans!"
Brett nodded lightly.
He understood that anti-human sentiment remained widespread on Fish-Man Island even now. Since Fish-Man Island's strength increased, such ideology spread even more. Previously, this sentiment hindered development and Brett actively worked to suppress it. But now, its moment had arrived.
Fish-men following this ideology guaranteed strong resistance to human spies. Assigning them counter-espionage duties seemed ideal.
"Very well, handle this with full authority," Brett said. "I've discussed funding with Neptune—you have sufficient resources to work boldly."
"Excellent!" Arlong punched the air excitedly. "You'll see results quickly, Brett!"
Brett believed him. Within half a day, he'd produced the initial roster—Arlong was serious and efficient.
"One condition, though, Arlong," Brett said seriously. "I want your efforts directed solely at government intelligence operations, not exploiting this to persecute humans visiting Fish-Man Island."
"Of course," Arlong said solemnly. "Fish-Man numbers are too small. Building our fish-man empire requires countless humans as foundations!"
Though peculiar phrasing, this arrangement seemed acceptable.
After Arlong departed eagerly, Brett reviewed today's consolidated reports, approved them, and finished work.
With evening time remaining, he went as usual to Shyarly's mermaid café.
Before entering, he spotted two young mermaids outside playfully throwing small punches.
"Visiting Nana again, Shirahoshi?" Brett greeted the young mermaid princess warmly, though her massive frame contrasted with her age.
"Brother Brett!" The Ryugu Palace princess hadn't responded before the younger girl excitedly rushed toward him, waving small fists. "Let's duel! I'm stronger now!"
Brett smiled. Nana was transitioning from small child to young woman, though her personality remained unchanged. The biggest change was probably her obsession with martial arts class—constantly challenging Brett to duels.
"You're still far behind," Brett said casually, flicking her forehead gently, sending her tumbling backward onto her rear.
"Ow!" Nana clutched her forehead, sniffling loudly. "Shirahoshi! Attack now!"
"Um...?" The princess looked uncertain.
Brett laughed, gently ruffling her hair before entering the café.
"So, bullying small girls gives you satisfaction?" Shyarly's cool gaze greeted him.
"Don't say that," Brett smiled. "It was a duel."
"Hmph," Shyarly scoffed lightly.
"Speaking of which, Shyarly," Brett sat across from her, smiling, "Tesoro relocated his company to Fish-Man Island. To celebrate, he's hosting a public performance in three days. Want to go?"
"Sure," Shyarly nodded lightly.