Chapter 152: Chapter 152: The New World Order!
The next day, amidst the serene beauty of a back garden bursting with vibrant flowers, the World Summit officially commenced. Kings and their families from across the seas sat in a grand semicircle, their opulent attire shimmering in the morning sun. All eyes were drawn to the makeshift podium where Dr. Edie, clad in his signature white coat, exuded an aura of unshakable confidence.
"Good morning, esteemed leaders of the world," Edie began, his voice resonating through the quiet garden. "Today marks a turning point in history. I have summoned you here to discuss and define a new path for our world. First, I will announce a significant change—an end to the era of great pirates."
Before the weight of his words could fully sink in, a sudden movement from the audience drew everyone's attention. Princess Otohime, with her graceful yet determined demeanor, rose from her seat. Her sudden interruption caused a ripple of surprise, though none dared question her boldness.
Edie's sharp eyes fell on her, briefly catching sight of Shirahoshi, whose gentle presence softened the moment. Then his gaze shifted further, landing on another unexpected figure—Princess Vivi of Alabasta.
Princess Vivi? Why is she here? Edie thought, his curiosity piqued. Though this was a gathering of royalty, Vivi's presence added a personal layer of intrigue. Her large, curious eyes met his, and for a moment, Edie allowed himself a faint smile before turning his focus back to Otohime.
"Mr. Edie," Otohime began, her voice unwavering despite the audience of kings and dignitaries, "I have something of great importance to present on behalf of my people."
With a subtle nod, she beckoned King Neptune, who lumbered forward carrying a large, ornate box. From it, Otohime retrieved a thick stack of documents. She held them aloft, her determined gaze sweeping over the crowd.
"This is the collective wish of five million citizens of Ryugu Kingdom," she declared. "We dream of living on land, of coexisting peacefully with humans. These documents bear the signatures of my people, who have entrusted me with their voices."
With measured steps, Otohime approached the podium and extended the documents toward Edie. The scientist accepted them and began flipping through the pages, his expression unreadable as the garden fell silent, save for the soft rustling of paper.
Each page bore heartfelt pleas:
"I wish to feel the warmth of the true sun."
"If it is Princess Otohime's dream, it is ours too.""
"Help us rise above the waves to a brighter future."
Edie paused, his fingers resting on a particularly poignant note that read, "The sun under the sea is but a pale shadow. Can we not also bask in the real sun?"
Each note carried signatures, alongside details of age, occupation, and gender, reflecting the hopes of an entire people.
He closed the documents, lifting his gaze to meet Otohime's hopeful eyes.
"My promise stands," he said firmly. "I will help The Fish-Man Island come to the surface."
A wave of murmurs swept through the assembly, a mixture of admiration and skepticism. Edie, unbothered, turned to address the gathered kings, his tone shifting to one of conviction.
"This world is a mosaic of intelligent races—fish-men, Minks, Lunarians, giants, Oni, Tonatta, and humans, among others. While our appearances differ, our destinies are bound together. No race is inherently superior, and no race deserves to be oppressed.
"Today, I propose a vision for a [community of shared future for all races]. This means abolishing practices that perpetuate inequality, including slavery."
The garden erupted in a cacophony of whispers. Some kings nodded in agreement, while others looked visibly unsettled. One ruler, his crown glinting in the sun, rose hesitantly. "Dr. Edie, does this mean the abolition of all forms of slavery, even those integral to our economies?"
Edie's gaze locked onto him, unyielding. "Yes. Effective immediately, all slave auctions, human trafficking, and forced labor markets are banned. Any country found violating this decree will face severe consequences, including sanctions or intervention."
The air grew heavy as the weight of his words settled over the assembly. Another king stood, his tone cautious. "What about the crimes of the past? Should we prosecute those who participated in these practices?"
Edie chuckled lightly, diffusing the tension. "I leave the past to your discretion. My focus is on building a future free of such atrocities. However, let me be clear—those who attempt to undermine these new laws will be dealt with accordingly."
The kings exchanged uneasy glances. One ruler, emboldened, asked, "How will this new order be enforced without the World Government's authority?"
Edie's response was swift and resolute. "The World Government is history. In its place, I am establishing a coalition government. This body will set universal laws, which all member states must respect. However, local governance will remain largely autonomous, provided it aligns with these fundamental principles."
This declaration sent shockwaves through the assembly. The kings, accustomed to the World Government's centralized control, were stunned by the prospect of such freedom.
"Does this mean we retain control over our own currencies and domestic policies?" one king asked, his voice tinged with hope.
"Exactly," Edie confirmed. "The coalition government will serve as a unifying framework, not a controlling overlord. You are free to craft laws suited to your people, so long as they do not violate universal principles such as equality and justice."
The reaction was electric. Kings who had entered the summit with apprehension now rose to their feet, their voices ringing with newfound enthusiasm.
"Dr. Edie, your vision is revolutionary!"
"On behalf of my kingdom, I pledge unwavering support!"
"This is the dawn of a new era—a brighter, freer world!"
Edie remained composed, his mind already calculating the next steps. As the kings cheered and pledged their loyalty, he knew this was only the beginning. Implementing such sweeping reforms would require vigilance, diplomacy, and, if necessary, force.
As the initial applause subsided, Edie raised a hand, commanding silence. His steely gaze swept across the gathering, signaling that the discourse was far from over.
"While the abolition of slavery and the establishment of a coalition government form the cornerstone of this new era, these are but the beginning. To ensure lasting peace and prosperity, we must address several critical issues. Allow me to outline the next steps."
Edie continued, "First, I propose a global framework for environmental preservation. We have exploited this world's resources recklessly—deforestation, pollution of our seas, and the destruction of habitats. These actions not only harm nature but also destabilize economies and displace entire communities."
A king from the South Blue, his robes embroidered with waves and fish motifs, stood up. "Dr. Edie, my kingdom relies on whaling and deep-sea mining for its economy. Are you suggesting we abandon these practices?"
Edie's lips curled into a faint smile. "Not abandon, but regulate. Sustainable practices will be encouraged. Overexploitation only ensures ruin for future generations. A coalition environmental council will be formed to create guidelines for resource management. Participating nations will receive access to advanced technologies and support for transitioning to sustainable industries."
The king hesitated before nodding. "If this council ensures fairness, my kingdom will comply."
"Second," Edie announced, "education must become a universal right. Knowledge should not be the privilege of a few but a tool for all. The coalition will establish an intercontinental network of academies, ensuring access to basic and advanced education for every child, regardless of race or social standing."
A young queen, her emerald crown glinting in the sunlight, interjected, "Education is vital, but how can poorer nations afford this? Many of us struggle just to provide food and shelter for our people."
Edie's expression softened. "The coalition will create a global development fund. Wealthier nations will contribute based on their GDP, while I will personally ensure the fund's management is transparent. Education is an investment in the future, not a burden."
This drew murmurs of approval, especially from the smaller, less affluent kingdoms.
"Third," Edie said, his voice turning sharp, "security. This world has been shaped by conflict for too long. While the Marines will continue to exist, their role will evolve. They will no longer serve as the World Government's enforcers but as neutral peacekeepers. Nations will retain their militaries for self-defense, but offensive actions against other nations will be met with immediate intervention."
As the discussions continued, the kings grew increasingly engaged, their initial doubts giving way to cautious optimism. By the end of the summit, a sense of unity began to take root.
Edie, observing the gradual shift, concluded with words that carried the weight of history:
"Today, we lay the foundation for a new era. One built not on domination but on collaboration. The road ahead will not be easy, and there will be resistance. But together, we can forge a world where every race, every nation, and every individual can thrive. This is our shared future."
The kings rose to their feet in thunderous applause, their cheers echoing through the garden. It was a moment that marked the dawn of a new world order—one driven by vision, hope, and the courage to dream of a better tomorrow.
Edie smiled faintly, saying nothing at first, letting the murmurs of the gathering settle. His piercing gaze finally rested on Princess Otohime, her serene yet curious expression betraying her thoughts.
"You intend to relocate Fish-Man Island to the surface. Have you chosen a location yet?" he asked, his tone as calm as the still waters of the Calm Belt.
Princess Otohime blinked in surprise. "May I still choose the location myself?"
Edie nodded, his demeanor unwavering. "I suggest the Calm Belt. It is a natural barrier, one that will offer your people unparalleled protection. The coalition government will formally recognize the racial status of Fish-Man Island's citizens, and world laws will explicitly prohibit the sale of mermaids. However, a law, no matter how just, is only words on paper. If laws alone could eliminate evil, the world would have no need for rulers."
Otohime listened intently as Edie continued, his voice sharpening with a hint of cynicism. "There's a saying—'the most profitable businesses are always those listed in the criminal code.' The price of mermaids, once 70 million berries, will likely skyrocket once this law is enacted. What was once an open business will simply become an underground trade, more insidious and dangerous than before."
Otohime's expression shifted, her understanding deepening as Edie's words struck a chord with the truths she already knew but rarely voiced. Indeed, the Calm Belt would provide a fortress-like sanctuary, safeguarding her people from the evils that could not be eradicated overnight.
"Mr. Edie," she said with a soft smile, one that carried both gratitude and a hint of deference, "would you help me choose? I lack the knowledge of the surface world needed to make an informed decision."
Edie's lips twitched into a subtle smile, one tinged with quiet amusement. You know far more than you let on, Otohime. Truly, you are more suited to rule than Neptune.
"Relocate near Amazon Lily," Edie advised after a thoughtful pause.
"Amazon Lily?" Otohime murmured, her gaze flickering with curiosity. "The legendary island of women…" She glanced briefly at Boa Hancock, who stood beside Edie, radiating her usual aura of aloof grace. Otohime quickly nodded. "Very well. I shall do as you suggest."
In those few short exchanges, the fate of Fish-Man Island was sealed. Neptune, standing silently to the side, could only watch as his wife and Edie shaped the destiny of their kingdom. His helplessness was palpable, though he masked it behind a forced smile.
As the kings and queens in attendance murmured among themselves, their excitement finally calming, Edie's voice cut through the room once more, crisp and deliberate.
"Let us return to the matter at hand: the end of the Great Pirate Era."
The assembly hushed, leaning forward in anticipation.
"I will make this simple," Edie declared. "Two decisive measures will achieve this goal."
He gestured toward the Den Den Mushi broadcasting his voice. "First, the relocation of Fish-Man Island. Pirates navigating the Grand Line rely on the record pointer to chart their course. After departing Water 7, the pointer leads to Fish-Man Island, beneath the Red Line. This is a critical juncture; without the island's magnetic pull, the route to the New World becomes obscured.
"The Sabaody Archipelago, which lacks a magnetic signature, serves as the final waypoint before the perilous descent to the ocean floor. Historically, the survival rate for reaching Fish-Man Island was a mere ten percent. Without it as a destination, that survival rate will plummet even further. Crossing the ocean depths without a clear path will be a feat few, if any, can accomplish."
Edie paused, allowing his words to sink in. The kings exchanged uneasy glances, their expressions a mixture of awe and unease.
"So," he continued, "pirates who once reached the New World will now be stranded in Paradise, the first half of the Grand Line. Their inability to progress will lead to a bottleneck, reducing the chaos spilling into the New World."
A king from the West Blue rose to his feet, skepticism evident in his tone. "Doctor, while this plan will limit the flow of pirates into the New World, what about the rest of the seas? Pirates will still plague the East, West, North, and South Blues, as well as Paradise itself."
Edie inclined his head slightly, acknowledging the concern. "Indeed, the total number of pirates may not decrease immediately. However, by confining the majority to the first half of the Grand Line, we can concentrate our efforts on containment and reform. Additionally, the coalition's other policies—economic stability, education, and the eradication of systemic inequality—will address the root causes of piracy. Over time, fewer will feel compelled to take up a life of crime."
Another voice interjected, this time a queen from the South Blue. "And what of those who still manage to cross into the New World? Won't they pose an even greater threat, emboldened by their survival?"
Edie's eyes gleamed, a flicker of amusement crossing his face. "If any pirate can navigate the treacherous waters of the deep sea and emerge on the other side, they will have achieved a feat so extraordinary that even the God of Destiny might take notice. Such individuals would be the exception, not the rule—and exceptions can be managed."
The assembly fell silent, the weight of Edie's plan settling over them. One by one, the rulers began to nod, their earlier doubts giving way to reluctant agreement.
"I see now," one of them finally said. "Relocating Fish-Man Island achieves more than we realized. This could truly mark the beginning of the end for the Great Pirate Era."
"But it is only the beginning," Edie reminded them, his voice steady and resolute. "Ending an era is not done with a single act or even a single generation. It is a process—a revolution of thought, law, and action. And it starts here, with all of us."
Edie stood calmly at the podium, his presence commanding the attention of every king and ruler in attendance. His words, sharp and deliberate, cut through the air like a blade.
"With the relocation of Fish-Man Island, the traditional route to the New World will become inaccessible to most pirates," Edie began, his voice steady and clear. "But in its place, I propose a new solution: the opening of the government channel at Red Harbor to all legal ship traffic."
A murmur rippled through the assembly, confusion and intrigue reflected in their eyes.
"Pirates… no," Edie corrected himself, his lips curving into a faint smile. "Legal adventurers who obtain an 'Adventurer Certificate' from the coalition government will also be permitted to pass through this channel. Furthermore, I propose establishing the headquarters of the Adventurer's Guild in the Sabaody Archipelago."
The room fell into stunned silence, the weight of Edie's words leaving even the sharpest minds reeling. Whispers of confusion filled the air.
"Adventurer's Guild? Adventurer Certificate? Pirates allowed to pass legally through Red Harbor?"
The kings exchanged bewildered glances, their minds struggling to keep pace. Even Princess Otohime, typically composed, furrowed her brow and leaned forward.
"Edie," she interjected softly, "could you elaborate on this?"
Edie inclined his head, a glint of satisfaction in his eyes. "Certainly. This policy represents a shift in how the world approaches piracy. All previous bounty orders for pirates will be invalidated. Moving forward, individuals who wish to sail under the banner of adventure can apply for legal certification through the coalition government. Upon receiving an Adventurer Certificate, they will gain recognition as lawful explorers, free to sail across the world without fear of persecution."
He paused, allowing the assembly to absorb the implications of his words before continuing.
"However," he added, his tone sharpening, "this is not a free pass. To qualify as a legal adventurer, one must undergo a rigorous assessment. The criteria are simple but firm: no record of major criminal activity, proof of a legitimate income source to support their endeavors, and evidence of professional navigation skills. Crews must demonstrate stability and capability to ensure their voyages are conducted responsibly."
"What if mistakes were made in the past?" a ruler from the West Blue asked, their voice tinged with skepticism.
Edie's expression remained unflinching. "For minor offenses—such as theft or the looting of a merchant vessel—applicants will be required to pay restitution in the form of fines. However, those guilty of heinous crimes—murder, arson, and other atrocities—will not escape justice. Such individuals will be remanded to Impel Down or, in the most egregious cases, executed to prevent further harm to the world."
His gaze swept across the room, his words sinking deeper with every passing moment.
"In the past," Edie continued, "the World Government treated pirates with a broad brush, branding them all as criminals regardless of intent or actions. Such an approach failed to address the complexities of human nature and the myriad reasons individuals turn to piracy. With this new policy, we create a structured system—one that rewards lawful behavior while punishing genuine evil."
The room grew hushed as Edie's vision began to take shape before their eyes.
"The establishment of the Adventurer's Guild," he explained, "will serve as a regulatory body. It will monitor the activities of certified adventurers, ensuring they adhere to the laws and ethical standards set forth by the coalition. The Guild will provide resources, training, and support, transforming reckless piracy into a legitimate pursuit of exploration and discovery."
Princess Otohime's eyes brightened with understanding. "You're not merely suppressing piracy—you're reshaping it entirely, turning chaos into order."
Edie nodded. "Precisely. Many who become pirates do so out of desperation, poverty, or lack of opportunity. By offering an alternative—a path to legitimacy—we can redirect their ambitions. Those who truly seek adventure can do so without resorting to crime, while those who harbor malicious intent will be identified and eliminated."
The kings began murmuring among themselves, the initial shock giving way to cautious optimism.
A king from the West Blue rose to address Edie. "But what of the risks? Allowing pirates—no, adventurers—to travel freely through Red Harbor could still lead to trouble."
Edie's response was swift and calculated. "The Adventurer's Guild and the coalition government will maintain strict oversight. Adventurer Certificates can be revoked for violations, and offenders will face swift consequences. Additionally, the Red Harbor channel will be fortified with checkpoints and patrols to ensure that only those in good standing may pass."
The king nodded slowly, though doubt lingered in his eyes.
Another ruler leaned forward, their expression contemplative. "This policy… it is radical, yet it holds promise. If successful, it could transform the era of piracy into an era of exploration."
Edie's lips curved into a rare smile. "That is the goal. To end the Great Pirate Era, we must think beyond suppression. We must create a world where the thirst for adventure is not synonymous with lawlessness. A world where dreams can thrive without destruction."
The room erupted into a mixture of applause and spirited debate, the rulers finally beginning to grasp the magnitude of Edie's vision.