One Piece: Conquering Wanokuni at Start

To participate in the giveaway, join my p@treon as a free member and vote on the pinned post

Check out advanced chapters on P@treon: [email protected]/CosmicKaminari

----------

The integration of the mermaid race into Wanokuni was surprisingly smooth, thanks to Alex's reputation and the structured governance he had established. Compared to the chaotic multi-ethnic system of Big Mom's Totto Land, Wanokuni's approach was far more orderly.

Initially, the colorful coastline of Wanokuni was known for entertainment. However, with the arrival of the mermaids, it began to transform into a picturesque district inspired by the Mermaid Cove. Over time, it evolved into one of Wanokuni's most beautiful attractions.

Mermaid cafés, renowned clothing shops, unique snacks, and the bay's breathtaking scenery became defining features. The colorful coast quickly rose to prominence, becoming Wanokuni's busiest location outside the Flower Capital.

Though Queen Otohime was no longer a queen, Alex entrusted her with the management of this new district. This decision allowed her to oversee the integration of the mermaid race into Wanokuni's society while easing the adjustment for her people.

Outside Wanokuni, Alex's decision to raise his flag over Fish-Man Island brought a new level of protection to the embattled nation. With Alex's fearsome reputation and overwhelming power, pirates dared not target Fish-Man Island as they had in the past. This marked the end of a period in which pirate attacks had steadily increased year after year.

However, this newfound protection sparked tensions between Alex and Whitebeard, who also considered Fish-Man Island under his protection. While the disputes had so far been limited to minor skirmishes, the possibility of escalation loomed. For the World Government and the Marines, this conflict was an opportunity they eagerly wished for.

Alex, however, paid little attention to these developments, leaving his subordinates to handle the situation. He viewed Whitebeard, weakened by injuries and far from his prime, as little more than a nuisance.

The Fish-Man Island incident yielded far-reaching consequences. Not only did Alex secure Shirahoshi but his Shadow Guard grew in influence, operating covertly under the cover of Mariejois.

Katrin, disguised as Palazzo Lor Jabbert, had opened doors to the political elite, uncovering secrets that strengthened Alex's network.

Through careful manipulation, the Shadow Guard exploited government authority to reach Alex's goals, including the pursuit of Baccarat, the user of the Luck-Luck Fruit.

At the same time, a shocking piece of news began to spread: the music kingdom of Elegia had been completely annihilated. Reports claimed the massacre occurred during a birthday banquet, orchestrated by Akagami Shanks, a former crew member of Pirate King Gold Roger.

Shanks' bounty skyrocketed to 1.04 billion berries, and he was labeled one of the most dangerous emerging threats in the world.

Reading the news, Alex smirked. He recognized the opportunity presented by Elegia—within the kingdom lay a top-level Devil Fruit. With the Red-Haired Pirates occupied, Alex planned for his Shadow Guard to secure the singing girl Uta from the hands of Gordon, even without direct intervention.

With Baccarat, the "lucky girl," at his side, Alex began an expedition across the seas, capitalizing on the fortune granted by her Fruit.

On the Grand Line, they encountered the small country of Tweetbor. The nation had recently endured days of calamity, leaving its infrastructure paralyzed. In response, the government declared "Disaster Days," a period during which citizens were required to stay home to avoid further mishaps.

Unknown to the citizens, the true cause of their plight stood before Alex, looking at him in admiration.

In this sea, advocating the strong is the most common mentality of most people, especially the weaker women.

When she realized she had been brought to the emperor of the New World, a top powerhouse, she was completely convinced on the spot. She turned into a little fan girl, believing that this experience was hers because of her Luck-Luck Fruit.

"I'm starting to feel it, Master Alex," Baccarat said as she gripped the ship's rudder. Her eyes gleamed with excitement. "I can sense it—luck is calling to me more strongly than ever."

With the ship powered by Alex's float-float ability, Baccarat, having absorbed the luck of several towns, directed their course blindly yet instinctively.

Not long after she spoke, Alex, who had been extending his Observation Haki across the vast sea, suddenly froze. His eyes narrowed, and he turned sharply toward the direction Baccarat was steering.

In the distant sea, enormous waves rippled outward, layer upon layer, their sheer size churning the water into towering walls tens of meters high.

The disturbance was unmistakable—some massive creature was moving through the deep seabed. Its presence alone was enough to create this awe-inspiring phenomenon.

Alex's gaze locked onto the sea with laser focus. His Float-Float Fruit power surged, extending its influence over the ocean.

BOOM!

The water beneath them erupted as though grasped by an invisible hand, lifted high into the air. Gravity itself seemed to vanish as countless tons of seawater were torn away, exposing the previously hidden depths below.

"My lord, you're incredible!!"

Baccarat, who was deeply shocked by this scene, exclaimed like a fanatical star-chaser.

And then, from the abyss, a blinding white light pierced through the surface.

As Baccarat's eyes adjusted to the radiance, the source of the light came into focus—a colossal lantern fish!

Its enormous body stretched across the horizon, so vast that it dwarfed their ship entirely. Measuring at least a kilometer long, if not more, the creature was a living island, its grotesque, fearsome features amplified by its scale.

Baccarat shivered as she took in its terrifying appearance, her scalp prickling with unease. Despite her confidence moments earlier, standing in the presence of such a monstrous being filled her with dread.

But Alex?

He laughed. His excitement was palpable, his expression that of a hunter finding prey beyond imagination. Without hesitation, he leaned forward and gave Baccarat an approving pat on the head.

"Baccarat, you really are a lucky girl," Alex declared.

Though she didn't fully understand, Baccarat beamed at his praise. If her luck had brought them here, then this lantern fish must hold a treasure worth its size.

Alex's burning gaze remained fixed on the massive lantern fish. He knew this wasn't just any sea creature.

Deep within this monster was the legendary treasure of pure gold, a miraculous material said to grant eternal life.