Chapter 347: Chapter 347: Jinbei?
Chapter 347: Chapter 347: Jinbei?
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Neptune's expression grew solemn, a sharp contrast to his usual composed demeanor. Previously, Kisame had subtly alluded to the possibility that the Ryugu Kingdom might be called upon to assist him in the future. Now, with the arrival of an official visit, the purpose of it was unmistakably clear, leaving Neptune with a growing sense of unease.
In the past, Kisame had been far less formal, often dismissing Neptune's thoughts and imposing his own will without regard.
Now, as all eyes in the hall turned toward him, Kisame casually placed his hand on the hilt of the Samehada, his fingers gently caressing it.
A brief, tense silence hung in the air before Kisame's slightly hoarse voice broke it: "This matter is of utmost importance. I trust King Neptune will treat it accordingly." Neptune nodded gravely, his heart pounding as he braced himself for what was to come. "In a few days, a distinguished guest will be arriving at Fish-Man Island," Kisame continued, his voice deliberate and infused with a sense of reverence. "This guest holds a position far beyond that of the Celestial Dragons."
Kisame paused for a moment, his gaze unwavering as he looked directly at Neptune.
"I trust that King Neptune will ensure Fish-Man Island is properly prepared to receive him with the highest level of respect."
Then, without warning, Kisame's eyes shifted to Shirahoshi.
His smile, though intended to appear friendly, held an unmistakable menace, revealing his true intent.
"And to further enhance this guest's experience," he added with a tone that sent a chill through the room, "Princess Shirahoshi should show him around during his stay."
Shirahoshi, visibly startled by his menacing presence, quickly swam behind Neptune, trembling as if she were a frightened child, seeking refuge in her father's protection.
The mention of a "distinguished guest" struck Neptune with a mixture of intrigue and apprehension.
Kisame, who had always exuded a sense of fearlessness-even in the face of formidable foes like Whitebeard's pirates-now spoke with a tone laced with a rare deference.
Neptune's mind raced, trying to comprehend the nature of this person who could command such respect from someone like Kisame.
Despite the growing concern, Neptune's protective instincts surged to the forefront.
He couldn't allow his daughter to be used in such a manner, no matter the circumstances.
"Kisame-san," Neptune began cautiously, his voice steady but laced with underlying tension, "may I ask, who is this esteemed guest you speak of?"
At Neptune's question, Kisame's expression darkened, his eyes narrowing into a sharp, piercing gaze. "If you already know it's a presumptuous question," he replied with a tone that was both cold and biting, "then don't ask."
Neptune's pride flared at the veiled insult, but he kept his composure, suppressing the urge to react.
He had to remain calm, for the sake of his kingdom and his daughter.
"Regardless of the guest's importance," Neptune said, forcing a smile that did little to mask his growing unease.
"Princess Shirahoshi is young and unfamiliar with much of Fish-Man Island. It would be unwise for her to serve as the host. As the King, I am better suited for this role and will ensure that every courtesy is extended to this guest."
Kisame let out a chilling chuckle, shaking his head in amused disbelief.
"You?" he asked, his voice dripping with mockery.
"That would only make things worse. I rather like Fish-Man Island and have no desire to see it ruined. Shirahoshi is far more appropriate for this task."
Neptune's frustration mounted at Kisame's dismissive tone, but there was no room for negotiation in Kisame's words.
The conversation had taken a dangerous turn, and Neptune realized that resistance was futile.
Kisame's focus shifted back to Shirahoshi, who was nervously peeking from behind her father's broad form, clearly frightened.
"Princess Shirahoshi," Kisame said, his voice firm and unyielding, "you wouldn't want Fish- Man Island to be destroyed because of you, would you?"
As he spoke, Samehada began to unravel its bandages, revealing its terrifying maw, its jagged teeth glistening in the light.
In a swift motion, the sword devoured the table before him, reducing it to splinters. Shirahoshi gasped in horror, her eyes welling with tears as she looked to Neptune for help. Yet, all she saw was his pained silence.
"No! Kisame-sama, please don't harm Fish-Man Island! I will gladly take the guest around!" she pleaded, her voice trembling with fear.
Neptune's fists clenched tightly, his rage boiling beneath the surface, but he remained silent.
His sons, equally furious at the blatant bullying, stood ready to protest, yet Kisame's cold, unyielding glare silenced them all.
"This is not a request," Kisame said, his voice sharp and commanding. "This is an order. Do not force my hand, or I will cleanse this island."
Neptune, despite the seething fury within him, bowed his head in reluctant agreement, signaling to his sons to stand down.
They reluctantly obeyed, their anger simmering beneath their expressions.
The maids quickly moved to bring new dishes and a new table, attempting to placate Kisame and ease the tension in the room.
As the meal continued, the conversation shifted to the preferences of Kisame's mysterious
guest.
Neptune, desperate to bring the ordeal to an end, listened intently, trying to appease Kisame in the hope that he would soon leave.
Just then, a soldier entered the room, announcing Jinbei's arrival.
Neptune's heart sank at the announcement.
He glanced at Kisame, who remained unfazed by the news, and with a reluctant sigh, Neptune
allowed Jinbei to enter.
Jinbei bowed respectfully; his voice steady but filled with concern.
"Kisame-san..." he began, his eyes focused on the shark-man with caution.
Kisame's lips curled into a smirk.
"What brings you here? Seeking revenge?" he asked, his tone dripping with amusement.
Jinbei shook his head calmly, his expression serious.
"No, I come with news for Fish-Man Island." His gaze turned to Neptune, and his voice grew
grave.
"Your Majesty, Whitebeard intends to reclaim Fish-Man Island. I've returned with a request for Kisame-san to withdraw peacefully and allow the Whitebeard Pirates to raise their flag
here once more."
Jinbei paused, his tone heavy with the weight of his words before adding, "I give my word- and my life—that you will not be harmed." He had negotiated that with Whitebeard. Neptune's face drained of color as he absorbed the news.
Whitebeard was coming? The implications were disastrous, and his mind raced to find a way
to navigate this perilous situation.
Kisame leaned back in his chair, his sharp grin unwavering as he regarded Jinbei with a mix of
amusement and curiosity.
"Interesting..." he murmured, his gaze never leaving the fish-man before him.