Especially that Branch Vice Admiral stationed in the East Blue, he had been so furious lately that six or seven mouth ulcers had appeared, and they simply refused to heal.
Even the food at the base had become bland. No greasy dishes, no spicy food, all because he was afraid the internal heat from his anger would never go down.
"Pass down my orders! Incidents like Anuki's must never happen again in the future. This is simply smearing the reputation of the Marines!"
The Vice Admiral slammed the table again and shouted sternly.
"The Marines, the symbol of justice, have actually been replaced by a pirate crew in the eyes of the people. Isn't that ridiculous?"
He was so angry he could barely speak, immediately ordering a complete reform of the entire East Blue Marine system.
Thus, because of the wave of good deeds carried out by the Nether Soul Pirates, a chain reaction was triggered, leaving countless people stunned.
One month after the events at Ablis Island, the Nether Soul Pirates left the East Blue and arrived in the South Blue.
And so, another grand campaign of "pirate justice" began spreading across the seas. Invisible seeds were rapidly planted, and more and more people began to understand what true pirates really were.
Two months later, the legend of the Nether Soul Pirates had also spread throughout the North Blue.
During this period across the Four Seas, that era came to be known as the "Nether Soul Era," and that year was even dubbed by the masses as the "Year of Nether Soul."
It was a miraculous period of time, and the only year in history to ever be named after a pirate crew.
Not to mention how furious and enraged the high-ranking officials at Marine Headquarters became after hearing this news. Around half a year earlier, however, the World Council had already quietly convened.
The World Government, composed of more than three hundred allied nations, was the only true government in the world. Naturally, the World Council, held once every four years, was of the utmost importance. During the conference, representatives and leaders from various nations gathered to discuss issues concerning the world. Although most discussions ultimately ended without resolution, the conference itself undeniably served as a declaration of the World Government's authority to the world.
Because once a proposal was approved, it represented the agreement of three hundred nations, and any resistance would become meaningless.
The World Government stood above both the Marines and the Army. It represented ultimate authority. The distinction between military power and political power needed no explanation.
This year, however, only a handful of countries attended the World Council. Even so, the conference proceeded as scheduled.
Inside the enormous conference hall, representatives from various nations sat far apart from one another. Before them were their respective nameplates, along with standardized flowers, fruits, and snacks, though no one touched them. Every person present wore an expression of solemnity and cold seriousness.
"Next is the issue concerning Fish-Man Island and slavery."
Someone at the conference table spoke calmly, immediately drawing everyone's attention.
"Some believe that fish-men are merely ornamental creatures. Among the nobles, they are extremely popular as slaves. Therefore, fish-men as a species should be treated as animals."
"Private trading and capture of them should be permitted."
The moment those words were spoken, the expressions of representatives from nations whose people also possessed animal-like characteristics became extremely ugly.
This topic was far too sensitive. If such a proposal were truly approved, then the secretly conducted hunting and trafficking of fish-men would undoubtedly become legalized. In time, Fish-Man Island would inevitably face total destruction.
Against the overwhelming trend of the world, the people of Fish-Man Island simply had no power to resist. And if that happened to the fish-men, what kind of fate awaited the other non-human races?
"No, this cannot be allowed! This is an inhumane act!"
Someone immediately spoke out in opposition.
"Hehe, they're just a bunch of fish. What's inhumane about it?"
At the same time, another person sneered coldly.
"Others believe that although the fish-men and merfolk of Fish-Man Island differ somewhat from humans, they possess consciousness and can communicate. Therefore, they should also be considered a type of human life. We should grant them the rights they deserve, and within reasonable limits, guarantee them the most basic human rights."
The person presenting the proposal raised both hands, stopping the argument before continuing.
One proposal, yet two completely different directions.
Without question, whichever side was approved would completely change the future of Fish-Man Island.
"What is there to discuss about such a beastly proposal?"
Suddenly, an aged voice rang out. The tone was forceful and resolute, carrying immense spiritual pressure.
Everyone turned toward the source of the voice.
"Oh? Is it the Barut Kingdom that just recently joined the World Government?"
"I've heard that you're known as the Magic Kingdom, possessing tremendous power. It's said that all your citizens can use magic, and that your nation is exceptionally prosperous."
Someone let out a cold sneer.
"It is true that the Barut Kingdom has only recently rejoined, but according to ancient historical records, our kingdom has always been a member of the World Government. In fact, we once held a high position within it."
Salo replied indifferently.
"That is correct. The Barut Kingdom does appear in records from fifty years ago within the World Government. It merely lost contact for fifty years before rejoining now."
The host nodded.
"Then, Representative Salo the Wizard, what suggestions do you have regarding these two proposals?"
The host understood very clearly that, according to the legends recorded in historical texts, anyone within that kingdom who possessed the title of "wizard" had strength equivalent to Admiral Rank. As such, he did not dare treat Salo lightly.
"The first proposal was not made by humans."
Salo said calmly.
That single sentence immediately caused several representatives present to change expressions, their eyes turning dark and hostile.
In many nations, the smuggling and trafficking of fishmen generated enormous profits every year and formed a major source of national income. Naturally, they were unwilling to allow fishmen to obtain legal status.
"As for the second proposal, it's somewhat interesting, but still far from enough!"
"The Barut Kingdom believes that fishmen are no different from humans and should be granted all the rights they deserve. As for the scum secretly smuggling and selling slaves, the World Government should have eradicated them long ago."
"These people are simply staining the reputation of humanity as a whole!"
Salo's words rang out powerfully and with unmistakable intent.
In an instant, numerous gazes within the conference room turned toward him, filled with warmth and excitement, expressing gratitude.
Salo acknowledged them with a slight nod of courtesy.
At the same time, however, his words enraged many of the national representatives, who stared at him with sinister expressions.
But Salo paid them absolutely no attention.
"You're talking utter nonsense! From the looks of it, you don't understand the rules of the World Council at all!"
"You'd better watch your mouth before you bring disaster upon your nation! Does your king even know you're saying these things?"
Someone spoke out threateningly, eyes icy cold.
"There's no need for your concern. Our king knows everything."
Salo replied coldly. Then his gaze sharpened like a blade as he looked toward the speaker.
"Rather, where did you get the courage to speak to me in such a manner?"
"Are you looking to die?"
His tone was overwhelmingly domineering, shocking everyone present.
Within the conference room, every single gaze gathered and focused upon Salo.
(End Of This Chapter)
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