"Three conditions, huh."
Shano weighed the Radio Snail in his hand and said leisurely, "That's quite generous, let's hear them."
"First, as you previously heard, all military actions by the Navy Headquarters regarding Dressrosa will be canceled. If you wish to take it as your territory, both the navy and the World Government will agree by default, promising no interference."
So this means...
Giving Dressrosa to me?
Shano smiled enigmatically, "Continue."
"Second, as of now, whether in terms of strength or influence, you already have the qualification to dominate a side in the New World. The World Government is willing to actively promote you in media, elevating you to the so-called 'Sea Emperor' status."
"In other words, the Fifth Emperor?"
"You could say that."
Saturn said solemnly, "The current four Emperors are all figures standing at the pinnacle of the world. I think even if I don't emphasize it, you should know the weight of this title."
"Continue." Shano remained unfazed.
"The third, and final condition, Shano, you're renowned as a Great Sword Master famous for your pure Body Techniques and Swordsmanship, correct?"
Saturn paused slightly, not waiting for Shano to respond, then continued:
"It just so happens that there's a treasured Supreme Great Blade among the Twelve Supreme Great Blades here in the Holy Land, named 'Spring Blossom'. Currently it has no owner. If you're interested, I'd be willing to grant... gift you this invaluable weapon."
"Finished?"
Upon hearing these three conditions, Shano couldn't help but laugh heartily:
"Interesting, truly interesting! It's quite rare for you old geezers to soften to this extent!"
His laughter chilled, a hint of mockery flashed in his eyes, "However... maybe you've misunderstood something?"
"Dressrosa is already under my protection; whether the navy withdraws or not makes no difference to me. Remember, it's you who were defeated this time! If you want to reclaim this territory, send more people here, but consider the cost... before making that decision!"
"As for that title of Fifth Emperor..."
Shano sneered, "Too unpleasant, I don't like it!"
The Four Emperors are the Four Emperors, the Fifth Emperor is the Fifth Emperor.
Adding a number may not seem much different, but it inexplicably gives a feeling of... a small fry getting knocked out.
"Besides, my title was earned step by step. Why would I need you old geezers to crown me?"
"Lastly, about that sword..."
He glanced behind him:
"Supreme Great Blades are indeed precious, but my Masamune feels very comfortable to use, I have no plans to switch swords temporarily."
Kuina likely doesn't either.
The Wado Ichimonji is a sword passed down from the deceased Kozaburo, carrying significant meaning, Zoro wouldn't abandon it, nor would Kuina.
Saturn on the other end of the Radio Snail was silent for a moment, his voice turning even gloomier:
"What do you want then?"
"Simple."
Shano raised his index finger:
"First, concerning Dressrosa, I want more than just your navy's withdrawal but also for you to publicly reveal all events of the past four years!"
"Doflamingo's crimes, the suffering of the Tokushima Island citizens, the horrifying terror of Toy Country... and the apology owed by your World Government!"
"I want these matters written clearly and transparently in the newspapers, so that people around the world know the truth!"
Shano grinned, revealing his sharp white teeth:
"Did you hear me? None of you Five Elders have the surname Donquixote, right? If you intend to shield him because that Flamingo is a descendant of your Heavenly Celestial Dragon bloodline, then we have nothing more to discuss!"
In the original timeline, six years later,
It was Fujitora who stood up and, under the gaze of countless eyes, represented the Navy Headquarters and the World Government, apologizing and kneeling before the citizens of Tokushima Island.
He simultaneously broadcasted the truth to the world, causing a sensation across the seas, embarrassing the World Government and infuriating the newly appointed Marshal Akainu.
Now it's six years earlier, and in the Grand Admirals, there isn't a person named 'Issho'.
That's alright.
If that's the case, then I'll take on being this Fujitora!
"..."
The Radio Snail remained silent for a long time, seemingly because the Five Elders were deliberating after muting the line; after some time, Saturn finally spoke slowly:
"Alright."
"The World Government will disclose the truth about the Dressrosa incident, but only regarding Doflamingo's crimes, without mentioning his background or any details concerning the Holy Land."
"That's sufficient; I didn't expect you to expose your own scandals."
Shano raised his second finger:
"Second, I want you to return all the Celestial Gold sent from Dressrosa over the past four years to this country as their initial funds for revival. Naturally, you must also send me an equivalent sum."
"You want money too?"
The Radio Snail raised a brow, "Truly unexpected... Shano, based on your past actions, we thought you were the type who styled himself as a chivalrous figure, indifferent to wealth and treasures..."
"Nonsense!"
Shano smirked coldly, "I'm planning to expand my territory in the New World! Isn't that what you expect of me? With more people, more territory, how could it work without money!"
The past is the past.
The crew on the Endgame ship was small, so the expenses weren't large. There was never much worry about money.