After the Phoenix Pirates arrived at Fish-Man Island, Jinbe, the Sun Pirates, and Fukabooshi, the eldest prince, came forward to greet Marco and the others. Jinbe, as always, shared a close bond with his comrades in the Phoenix Pirates.
After the formalities, Marco got straight to the point. "Jinbe, are the Big Mom Pirates still on Fish-Man Island?"
"Yes," Jinbe replied solemnly. "They've been here for several days, likely waiting for your arrival. I must apologize—our hands are tied. King Neptune and the others dare not act recklessly for the safety of Fish-Man Island. Even I want to help, but the Big Mom Pirates are here specifically to confront you."
Marco gave a reassuring smile. "I understand your position. This time, the Big Mom Pirates are after us. Leave the rest to us."
Fukabooshi bowed slightly. "Thank you, Captain Marco. Regardless of the outcome, Fish-Man Island will always remember the protection of the Whitebeard Pirates and the Phoenix Pirates. My father is waiting for you at the Royal Palace."
Marco smiled confidently, understanding the pragmatism of Fish-Man Island. They had long relied on the flags of the Whitebeard and Phoenix Pirates to deter hostile pirates, paying tribute each month. Now, with the Big Mom Pirates encroaching, the island sought to remain neutral, allowing the stronger force to prevail and claim subordination.
From a rational standpoint, Fish-Man Island should favor the Phoenix Pirates. If the Big Mom Pirates succeeded, the tribute would likely increase. Yet Neptune likely doubted the Phoenix Pirates' ability. With Whitebeard gone and their forces weakened after Marineford, the Phoenix Pirates were stretched thin, their territory mostly in the latter half of the New World, far from the island.
While Fishmen are physically stronger than humans, their combat potential is limited. Jinbe, the strongest among them, was only on par with Namur. Against the Sweet Commanders, he could at most handle Snack. This reality forced Fish-Man Island into submission when facing Four Emperors-level threats.
Soon, under Neptune's arrangement, the Phoenix Pirates and Big Mom Pirates formally met. In a room of the royal palace, both crews sat on opposite sides of a long table. King Neptune spoke as mediator, "Sir Katakuri, Sir Marco, and all present, Fish-Man Island is honored to host you. Our island has decades of friendship with the Whitebeard Pirates and Phoenix Pirates, and longstanding trade with the Big Mom Pirates. I ask that peace guide today's discussion."
Marco's eyes flicked across the Big Mom Pirates, mentally assessing their strength:
Charlotte Katakuri, Mochi-Mochi Fruit, estimated Yonko Commander Level
Charlotte Smoothie, Squeeze-Squeeze Fruit, estimated weak Emperor Second-in-Command Level
Charlotte Cracker, Biscuit-Biscuit Fruit, estimated weak Emperor Second-in-Command Level
Charlotte Snack, Fry-Fry Fruit, estimated Strong Captain Level
Charlotte Oven, Heat-Heat Fruit, estimated Weak Captain Level
Charlotte Daifuku, Lamp-Lamp Fruit, estimated Weak Captain Level
Baron Tamago, Tamago Fruit, estimated Captain Level
Pekoms, Turtle-Turtle Fruit, estimated Weak Captain Level
Marco was stunned by the cadre's strength. No wonder the Big Mom Pirates were so confident.
Katakuri addressed Neptune politely, "Do not worry, King Neptune. Our focus is the Phoenix Pirates. We will not harm the innocent."
Marco's gaze sharpened. "Indeed. This matter concerns only our crews. Let's dispense with pleasantries. We are pirates, and I do not favor beating around the bush."
Oven, Daifuku, and Cracker bristled at Marco's words, ready to act, but Katakuri raised a hand, stopping them. "We are all pirates," he said calmly, "so I won't waste words either. Fish-Man Island is now under the control of the Big Mom Pirates. This island is our territory."
The Phoenix Pirates' Captains clenched their fists in anger, while Marco smirked coldly. "You really think we are easy targets, Katakuri."
Katakuri's expression remained unreadable. "The sea is cruel, Marco. Strength determines everything. Your Whitebeard Pirates once claimed vast territory in the New World. Now you cannot protect it. If you know what's good for you, hand it over. Obedience may prevent war."
Tension filled the room as the crews stared each other down.
_____
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