"They want every hand they can get against you," Jinbe said, as Dave chuckled. "Will you fight against me?"
"No, you've freed the Fish-Man slaves; why would I fight against you?" Jinbe laughed lightly, a hint of camaraderie in his eyes. "But I may have to act—just don't kill me when the time comes."
Dave nodded with a grin. "Of course. I'll just knock you out. That way, no one will complain about you not taking action against me."
"Fair enough," Jinbe agreed, nodding as they continued toward the palace.
As they moved through the bustling city, Dave felt the watchful eyes of the Fish-Men and merfolk on them—some curious, some wary, and a few even filled with admiration. They had all heard of his recent exploits, and while some feared the consequences, others saw him as someone willing to challenge the injustices of the surface world.
Soon, they reached the grand palace gates, where guards stepped aside to let them through, acknowledging Jinbe's status and his esteemed guests. Inside, they walked through towering halls of coral, glowing with bioluminescent flora embedded in the walls, casting soft, vibrant light across their path.
Finally, they arrived at the throne room, where King Neptune stood to greet them. His towering frame and regal presence were undeniable. Behind him, his children watched with interest—especially Shirahoshi, who glanced at Dave with a mix of curiosity and nervousness.
"Welcome to Fish-Man Island," Neptune greeted them in a deep, resonant voice. "We've heard much about you, Dave. Few have dared to challenge the Celestial Dragons so openly."
Dave inclined his head respectfully. "Thank you for your hospitality, Your Majesty. I assure you, we're here only to enjoy your island's beauty and will leave peacefully."
Neptune studied him, his expression thoughtful. "It's rare to see a human who shows our people such respect," he replied, gratitude clear in his tone. "But remember, Fish-Man Island is still don't believe in humans. Tread carefully here."
Dave nodded, understanding the weight of Neptune's words. "I have no intention of disturbing the peace. But know that should anyone, Yonko or otherwise, threaten those under my care, I will respond accordingly."
Neptune's gaze softened, and he gave a slight nod of approval. "Then please—enjoy our island and its offerings. But remember, the New World awaits, and it won't be long before you find yourself facing its storms."
With that, they took their leave, and Dave's crew dispersed to explore the vibrant underwater kingdom. Yet, even as they wandered the colorful streets, they knew each moment brought them closer to the trials of the New World. Fish-Man Island was a beautiful respite but only a brief pause before the challenges that lay ahead.
As Dave's crew ventured deeper into Fish-Man Island, they marveled at the vibrant coral buildings, bustling markets, and the oceanic beauty of the undersea world around them. The streets were filled with Fish-Men and merfolk, most eyeing them with a mix of curiosity and apprehension. Dave's recent actions had created a reputation that followed them even here, and whispers of "The Hell Prince" drifted through the crowds.
Dave walked beside Jinbe, noticing the wary glances from some of the older Fish-Men. They had suffered greatly at the hands of humans, and despite Dave's actions against the Celestial Dragons, old wounds were slow to heal. But it didn't take long before some of the younger Fish-Men approached the crew, curiosity overtaking fear.
"Are you really as strong as they say?" one young Fish-Man asked, eyes wide.
Dave gave a slight smile and nodded. "I do what I need to, especially when it comes to protecting my own."
The young Fish-Man grinned, satisfied with the answer, and ran back to his friends, spreading the tale of their meeting. Jinbe chuckled, his usual seriousness softening as he saw his people's reaction. "You've made a bit of an impression already," he noted, a trace of intrigue in his voice.
Just then, a group of mermaids giggled and whispered among themselves, pointing in awe at Tony, whose advanced tech armor and Hulk-like form made him a sight to behold. Enel, ever the proud god-like figure, was preoccupied exploring the electrical currents flowing through the island's natural light sources.
Tony even waved at them, and if not for him already dating the Pepper, he might have already decided to break from the group and taste the mermaids.
As they continued, Jinbe led them to a serene part of Fish-Man Island—a memorial built to honor the Fish-Men and merfolk lost to the cruelty of the surface. Dave paused, understanding the weight of its presence. He reached out and placed his hand on one of the memorial stones, his expression respectful.
"This place holds many of our darkest memories," Jinbe murmured, his voice low. "Your actions may give some hope here, but there is still much to mend."
Dave nodded, solemn. "This world is on the edge of change, Jinbe. Those responsible for the suffering of others... will see their reckoning."
Jinbe looked at him, the ghost of a smile on his face. "Then perhaps there's hope, even in these dark times."
A soft, melodic voice interrupted them. "Forgive me... are you the human who challenged the Celestial Dragons?" Turning, Dave saw Shirahoshi standing nearby, her presence both gentle and shy. She had heard the stories, and while she seemed nervous, there was an undeniable admiration in her eyes.
"Yes," he replied simply, meeting her gaze with a reassuring smile.
Her large, tearful eyes reflected the admiration of her people. "Thank you," she said softly, her voice barely a whisper. "For doing what so many others couldn't..."
Dave nodded but another question came into mind that , why she is roaming freely , at this time she should be in the Sea Stone tower hiding yet she is roaming freely.
But at the end he didn't asked, but what he didn't know was that it was his working that resulted in Shiroshi freedom, after Jinbe returned he hunted the bastard who was torturing Shiroshi allowing her to roam freely.
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