CHAPTER 260: REGARDING THE SHICHIBUKAI/WARLORDS
Tesoro had decided to stage a grand public performance. Though he knew the headquarters relocation stemmed from government fear—essentially fleeing like a stray dog—he couldn't present it that way publicly.
Tesoro wanted the world to believe this relocation resulted from shrewd business calculations, a wise and correct decision.
A grand celebratory performance was essential for that image.
Brett received an invitation as a matter of course, given both their friendship and his standing on Fish-Man Island.
"Will you go too, Brother Brett?" Princess Shirahoshi asked happily between bites. "We're going too! Finally, we'll see Mother perform again!"
The idol group featuring Queen Otohime would naturally perform at this event.
"How nice," mermaid girls nearby said enviously. "You all received invitations? We'd like to see that performance too."
Brett smiled. "Don't worry. There are plenty of tickets for everyone."
Tesoro's attentiveness was no joke—he'd provided Brett with stacks of tickets.
"That's wonderful! Brett, we love you!" the mermaids cheered, barely restraining themselves from embracing him. The café owner's cold gaze alone kept their enthusiasm in check.
Brett smiled at Shyarly. She turned away.
"We'll finally hear Uta sing up close!" the mermaids said excitedly.
"Yes, I've been looking forward to it!"
"Even watching the broadcast, her voice moved me deeply. I wonder what hearing it in person will be like!"
Though Queen Otohime's singing was equally moving, the mermaids had attended every Fish-Man Island talent show and were more anticipatory about hearing the world-famous Uta.
"Uta visited Ryugu Palace yesterday!" Shirahoshi announced happily. "Mother brought all of All Stars there! She said Uta is my big sister now!"
"Is that so?" the mermaids said, astonished.
"I heard Uta's an orphan. Did Queen Otohime adopt her?"
"How wonderful!"
While they discussed this, Shyarly shot Brett a questioning look.
Brett nodded lightly. "Queen Otohime and Uta's relationship is indeed very close."
Confirmed, the mermaids grew even more amazed.
"Is this what they call mutual appreciation between excellent singers?"
Three days later, Tesoro's performance began. The venue was naturally The huge Square—the island's only space capable of accommodating such crowds. Image snails were already set up for worldwide broadcast.
Audiences began arriving two hours early.
"Ah! Donald! You came to watch another performance!"
"Of course! I'm a devoted All Stars fan!"
"But honestly, quite a crowd showed up despite recent news about Kaido. I thought there might be some impact."
"Don't be silly. This is Fish-Man Island—ten thousand meters beneath the surface. What could Kaido possibly do about it?"
Most humans visiting held similar thoughts. What could the strongest creature do? What could an emperor do? Could he even reach this deep sea and challenge the emperor ruling the dark depths?
At Mariejois atop the Red Line, in the Castle's power chamber, the Five Elders watched the broadcast.
The telephone bug's screen showed darkness suddenly torn by light from above as Gild Tesoro took the stage. The roaring crowd's excitement was audible even through the snail.
"Completely unaffected, as if nothing happened," Saint Ju Peter sighed. "I expected at least some security measures on Fish-Man Island. Apparently neither we nor the Beast Pirates hold much deterrent value."
"That bastard Brett acts fearlessly," Saint Saturn grunted displeasingly. "He's certain we won't attack the deep-sea island directly."
Yet frustratingly, the World Government truly couldn't attack Fish-Man Island. The Five Elders could only feel helpless.
"Then let's contact Kaido!" Saint Ju Peter suggested coldly. "That man should be equally furious with Brett!"
"We need more power," Saint Mars said. "The Shichibukai position still exists, but Jinbei has already stood against the government alongside Brett."
"Indeed, the Shichibukai was already understaffed, and now we've lost another member," Saint Warcury nodded in agreement. "Whether for Brett-specific countermeasures or general purposes, we should recruit. Any recommendations?"
"What about Wang Zhi?" Saint Ju Peter suggested. "There aren't many pirates qualified for Shichibukai status on the seas currently."
"Wang Zhi?" Sant Nusjuro frowned hesitantly. "He was formerly part of Rocks. While he hasn't caused significant disturbances like Whitebeard, occupying Beehive Island means he won't easily submit to the government."
"Then we provide him compelling reasons to rely on us," Saint Saturn said. "I have another candidate."
"Who?"
"Edward Weevil! That man has clashed with Brett and possesses considerable strength—an ideal choice!"
"Him? You're joking! Don't forget Zephyr's arm was severed by him! The Navy won't allow this!"
"When did the Navy gain authority to refuse? They understand the government's current situation. Making small sacrifices serves justice—isn't that Navy doctrine?"
Silence filled the chamber of power.
On Fish-Man Island, the performance continued. Carefully selected representatives from various races comprised the idol group, now performing on stage. Singing, dancing, beautiful music flowing to every corner of the world, thunderous cheers echoing through the plaza.
Brett and Shyarly sat in the front row, Neptune and Jinbei beside them at the highest echelon.
"Listening to her voice makes one truly sigh in wonder," Shyarly complimented Uta's singing. "But what's remarkable about this child isn't only her voice, is it?"
Brett startled slightly. "Shyarly, did you foresee another future?"
He knew nothing of Uta's abilities.
"It's unclear, but perhaps in some future moment, she'll significantly influence the world's direction."
Is that so?
Brett watched the girl on stage, smiling brilliantly, singing melodiously.
Well then, Queen Otohime, keep working hard. Truly make this girl your daughter.
"This isn't the time for your wandering thoughts," Shyarly murmured, linking her arm through his, resting her head on his shoulder.
Brett caught her intoxicating fragrance and smiled. "You're right."
This was date time.
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