Chapter 499: Before the Conference
"The scale of this World Conference seems a bit exaggerated."
At Fish-Man Island, Brett had two Den Den Mushi set in front of him as he spoke with his friends. He said casually, "The Government seems to have sent invitations to every single member nation."
"In 800 years, I don't think that's ever happened before."
Although the Government hadn't announced this publicly yet, with Brett's intelligence network, he'd easily detected that invitation fleets had been dispatched to all member nations.
"Looks like the Government has also begun preparations for the final battle," came Teacher Zephyr's calm voice from one of the Den Den Mushi. "They probably want to gather the entire world's forces for this ultimate war against us."
"It's not completely incomprehensible," Dragon's voice came from the other Den Den Mushi, sounding rather amused. "Even if they have to use coercion, the Government will want to expand their military strength to the limit before the decisive battle with us."
"Doesn't really matter," Brett said indifferently. "No matter how many ordinary soldiers they gather, they can't play a decisive role in the war's outcome."
"Exactly right."
Teacher Zephyr sighed in complete agreement. "In front of that kind of weapon, numbers mean absolutely nothing."
The last confrontation with the Government's ultimate weapon was something Zephyr would never forget for the rest of his life.
Before such a world-destroying weapon, troop numbers were simply a joke.
What difference would even tens of millions of soldiers make? How many shots from that floating fortress could they withstand?
It would only increase casualties unnecessarily.
Although that floating fortress wasn't on their side, they had an ancient weapon of their own. The very thing that had opposed that flying ship 800 years ago.
What would ultimately determine victory or defeat would be the clash between these ultimate weapons.
"However, even so, there's no need to let the World Government drag more people into this war."
Dragon spoke up. "Our strategy is swift victory. We'll completely dismantle the Celestial Dragon ruling group in the shortest time possible. There's no need to wage fierce battles with them across the entire world."
"Oh? Dragon, what are you thinking?"
Teacher Zephyr asked with a smile.
"This will be an excellent opportunity," Dragon said. "After the kings of each country have left the lands they rule, the contingencies our Revolutionary Army has planted will be ready to activate."
"Oh?"
Brett raised an eyebrow, then said with interest, "That's quite a good idea!"
"If they're formally declaring war, then it's time to reveal that sealed history."
"In that case, this truly is the best timing."
Teacher Zephyr agreed. "People shocked by the truth will be at the perfect moment to lead them in rising up."
"That's exactly what we envision!"
Dragon laughed. "Since the World Government wants to mobilize the entire world's forces, let's compete with them to see who can gain more support!"
Dragon's bold declaration made both Brett and Zephyr laugh.
At this point, there should be no more fear. Whatever enemy came next, they only needed to face them boldly.
"I'm guessing the Government plans to declare war on us at the World Conference. In that case," Brett said with a smile, "I'd like to join the excitement too!"
"Brett, are you serious?"
Teacher Zephyr sounded somewhat shocked. "You're going to run straight into the enemy's stronghold? Isn't that too dangerous? It's practically suicide!"
"Well, it's a critical moment after all. I should probably respond in person."
Brett laughed. "No need to worry too much about safety. I'll have a certain someone accompany me."
"Besides, I'm not comfortable putting all the pressure on Chaton for the Navy situation."
If Caesar and his Science Division base really were near Mariejois, then as soon as he arrived there, he could easily find them.
"I see."
Teacher Zephyr sighed softly. "But it's still very risky."
"Just let Brett go, Teacher Zephyr."
Dragon spoke up with a laugh. "I've never heard of Brett failing, and I never dare imagine what it would look like if he did."
"You're right."
Teacher Zephyr laughed heartily. "If it's Brett, then there's definitely no problem!"
After all, Brett was the one who'd led them to survive being pursued by that thing!
"Thanks for the trust!"
Brett laughed. "But I'm not omnipotent either, so don't let your guard down against the enemy because of me!"
"As if we would!"
In any case, now they just had to wait for the World Conference.
And during this waiting period, over a hundred kings from around the world also began converging on Mariejois under Navy escort.
"Father, why won't you let me accompany you to Mariejois this time?"
In Alabasta, Princess Vivi, who had grown into a charming young woman, questioned her father in confusion.
"The world's situation is in violent upheaval."
Compared to four years ago, King Cobra had aged considerably more. He looked worried. "NEO Navy, the Revolutionary Army... war might break out at any moment."
"This World Conference might be a turning point for the entire world situation!"
"Vivi," the king, no longer young, looked solemnly at his daughter, "you must stay in Alabasta. Even if something happens at the World Conference, you must continue to lead this country!"
"Father..."
The young princess's eyes widened.
In Dressrosa, a large ship had also set sail from the harbor under Navy warship escort.
"The World Conference..." King Riku stood at the bow, somewhat moved. "That was already four years ago."
Brett, Neptune... so much time had passed, yet I still remember clearly that brief but moving friendship.
"Violet, after we arrive at Mariejois, remember to stay close behind me," he instructed his daughter, who was attending the World Conference with him for the first time. "That place has never been safe!"
"Don't worry, Father!"
The beautiful woman in her dress, outstanding in charm, answered with a smile. "I know!"
King Riku nodded, then turned back to gaze at the sea once more.
Who knew what would happen at this World Conference.
He had an ominous premonition.
In any case, the World Conference was nearly upon them.