Chapter 150: Change Is Inevitable!

Chapter 150: Chapter 150: Change Is Inevitable!

Seeing Neptune's bewildered expression, Claudius smirked internally. Without giving the king a chance to interject, he continued, "Of course, the safety of Fish-Man Island is a top priority for the World Government. This is something we must address with utmost seriousness. A place as vital as Fish-Man Island should never have to rely on a pirate's flag for protection. Such a thing would be unacceptable."

Sengoku couldn't help but admire Claudius in this moment. His Highness was truly a masterful speaker. Without needing prior discussion or preparation, Claudius had subtly reframed the narrative. Neptune's removal of Whitebeard's flag, even if temporary, was now being portrayed as a conscientious act of cooperation.

Sengoku couldn't help but think, your Highness, you're incredible. Without breaking a sweat, you've turned the tables and forced Neptune's hand.

Claudius, seemingly oblivious to Sengoku's thoughts, turned to him and said, "Sengoku, this situation does point to some serious negligence on Marine's part, doesn't it? Isn't it Marine's duty to ensure the safety of World Government territories? Shouldn't we protect member nations from pirates without forcing them to rely on paying tribute to lawless criminals? Isn't this your failure as Admiral?"

Sengoku nodded solemnly, playing along perfectly. "You are absolutely correct, Your Highness. This is our failing, and it's a point of deep shame for me."

Claudius nodded approvingly, as if Sengoku's admission of guilt had satisfied him. "Good. At least you understand the weight of your shortcomings. Recognizing your mistakes is the first step toward improvement. Just like King Neptune here, he has seen the error of his ways and acted promptly to address it. That's something to be commended."

Turning back to Sengoku, Claudius added, "Well then, let's rectify this situation immediately. I want you to make a public commitment to the safety of Fish-Man Island right now. What's your plan, Admiral Sengoku? How do you intend to make up for this gross oversight?"

Sengoku's eyes gleamed with understanding. He knew exactly where Claudius was steering this conversation. "Your Highness, we in Marine fully acknowledge our failings. I propose that we establish a Marine base directly on Fish-Man Island. This base will be staffed with capable personnel, dedicated solely to protecting the island from any external threats. What do you think?"

Neptune felt like crying. He didn't need their money. He didn't even want the base in the first place! But how could he say that aloud without offending Claudius?

While Neptune struggled to find the right words, Claudius leaned forward slightly, his tone becoming more commanding. "So, King Neptune, what do you think of the World Government's sincerity? Everything I've proposed here is not mere talk, it will be done. And I assure you, I never go back on my word."

The weight of Claudius' words, combined with the intensity of his gaze, left Neptune speechless. The king felt trapped. On the surface, Claudius' proposals sounded reasonable, even beneficial. But beneath that polished veneer, there was an undeniable sense of pressure, an unspoken threat that rejecting these plans might have dire consequences.

Is this what they call "sincerity"? Neptune thought bitterly. It feels more like an ultimatum.

At that moment, Claudius' expression softened, and he smiled as if to dispel the oppressive atmosphere. "After all, King Neptune, isn't it better for Fish-Man Island to stand under the protection of the World Government rather than a pirate's flag? Surely you see the wisdom in that."

He raised his wine glass, taking a leisurely sip, as if he had already secured Neptune's agreement. For Neptune, the message was clear: whether he liked it or not, change was coming to Fish-Man Island.

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