Fish-Man Island, Mermaid Cafe.
This particular cafe was situated in the heart of Fish-Man Island, exuding luxury in every single detail, with a strong underwater theme throughout its design.
The tables and chairs were intricately carved with lifelike sea creatures, appearing as if they might swim away at any given moment.
The air inside was filled with the rich aroma of coffee, which mingled with the fresh scent of the sea breeze, and the sound of waves gently lapping against the rocks created an atmosphere that was both tranquil and opulent.
The most captivating aspect of the establishment, however, were the graceful and elegant mermaid waitresses.
They moved between the tables with sweet smiles on their faces and light steps in their movements, like true spirits of the sea.
"Ding-ling—"
The clear sound of a bell broke the cafe's tranquility.
Mike led the way inside, followed closely by Smoker, Kuro, and the other marines.
The previously quiet cafe instantly began to buzz with a palpable excitement.
Patrons and waitresses alike turned their heads to look, their eyes filled with a mixture of delight and curiosity.
"Welcome to the Mermaid Cafe."
The mermaid girls greeted them in unison, their voices as clear and melodious as chimes.
The beautiful mermaid who had seen Mike at the docks earlier gasped excitedly.
"It's... it's Captain Mike!"
"Oh my! It really is Captain Mike!"
"Good afternoon, Captain!"
In an instant, the entire café erupted in excitement.
The mermaids' eyes sparkled as they gathered around him with bright, eager smiles.
They still clearly remembered the dashing man they had seen at the docks—his striking handsome face was accentuated by his marine uniform, and his commanding presence was unforgettable at first glance.
"Hahaha, hello there," Mike responded warmly, his tone gentle and kind.
"You're all too kind—please try not to disturb the other customers." He waved his hand slightly, signaling for them to calm down.
"We got a little hungry while exploring, so we thought we would come here to try Fish-Man Island's famous food and drinks."
One bold mermaid sidled up to Mike and playfully blew him a kiss with a coquettish movement.
"Don't worry, Captain. We will prepare the finest coffee and desserts for you—you're going to love them!"
"Hahaha, much appreciated," Mike accepted the kiss with an easy smile.
Smoker who's watching from the side nearly dropped his cigar and rolled his eyes.
"This guy... he's popular wherever he goes."
Kuro adjusted his glasses as a glint flashing across the lenses and his lips curled slightly.
"Well, he is charming—naturally, he's always the center of attention."
Before long, Mike's table was laden with an impressive array of delicacies.
Vibrantly colored cakes, fragrant deep-sea fruits, exquisite shellfish dishes, and unique seaweed specialties—each one was more enticing than the last.
But the most eye-catching of all was the specially brewed cup of coffee.
Steam curled invitingly from the rich, aromatic brew, carrying a hint of the ocean's unique essence.
"This is specially made for you, Captain," the mermaid who served it said with a sweet voice, blinking coyly.
"It's one of a kind."
"You're too kind, hahaha." Mike lifted the cup and took a small sip.
The deep coffee flavor, mingled with the scent of the sea breeze, made him close his eyes in quiet enjoyment. S
etting the cup down, he gazed out the window, his thoughts drifting far away.
He figured he'd stay on Fish-Man Island for another half-day or so—exploring and enjoying himself.
This matter was more or less settled.
Ever since becoming Admiral Kizaru's aide, he had been running around nonstop—practically a model of diligence.
He was almost moved by his own hard work.
Just look at his achievements: as a co-founder and financier of the New Navy, preparations were already underway; he had thwarted the conspiracy to steal Alabasta and invested in its reconstruction; he had liberated Skypiea, turning Enel into Fish-Man Island's guardian; and he had facilitated diplomatic relations between Fish-Man Island and humans.
It was only a matter of time before Fish-Man Island fully pledged its loyalty.
Then, just like in Skypiea, he'd be welcomed with cheers wherever he went.
Mike took another satisfying sip of coffee and lit up a cigar.
Originally, he planned to head to Dressrosa next, but after hearing what Whitebeard said, it seemed the Summit War was inevitable.
He figured he should return to headquarters first; after all, it wouldn't do to skip reporting in for so long.
'By the way', he thought.
'I should go back and see how old man Kizaru is handling all that overtime.'
That old geezer had such a sleazy smile when he told him to go to Marineford—he was definitely up to no good.
'But Kuro has been handling things more and more smoothly lately.'
'I'm not afraid of Kizaru playing tricks anymore. When the time comes, I'll show him how the people I've trained can handle military affairs at lightning speed!'
Thinking this, Mike couldn't help but chuckle.
"What's this guy scheming about now?" Smoker muttered, watching his expression.
"Heh— Say, how about we drag old man Kizaru into the New Navy?" Mike suddenly perked up.
Smoker and Kuro exchanged glances.
"Admiral Kizaru isn't exactly the easiest to persuade."
"Relax, I've got a plan," Mike smirked mysteriously.
"Kuro, prepare two crates of Berries."
"Yes, sir!" Kuro responded immediately.
"You punk, you're not thinking of bribing an Admiral, are you?!" Smoker looked shocked.
"What do you know? Have you ever heard this saying?"
"What?"
"With enough money, even the Four Emperors can be crushed!"
...
Marine Headquarters, Marineford. Admiral Kizaru's office.
"Click, click—"
The crisp sound of nail clippers opening and closing echoed distinctly in the spacious office.
Kizaru lounged leisurely behind his desk, legs crossed, humming a tune as he happily trimmed his nails.
Sunlight streamed through the massive windows, making his yellow-and-white striped suit even more eye-catching.
"Admiral Kizaru!" A young marine rushed in, carrying a stack of documents, with beads of sweat on his forehead.
He carefully placed the files on Kizaru's desk, only to find it already piled high with paperwork.
"Here are today's military reports for your review," the marine said, a hint of resignation in his voice.
Kizaru lazily looked up, his lips curling into his trademark grin.
"Oh~ How terrifying~" he drawled, not a trace of urgency in his tone.
"So many documents... when will this old man ever finish them~ Just put them over there. When Mike comes, he can handle them."
"But, Admiral," the marine hesitated.
"We dont even know when is Captain Mike's gonna arrive in Marineford..."
"Young people need more training," Kizaru cut him off.
"Besides, that kid Mike is plenty capable. These files are nothing to him~ If he dares to slack off, I'll dock his pay! Speaking of which, what's that kid been up to lately? Kinda miss him."
Kizaru mused to himself with a flicker of curiosity crossing his face.
"Click, click—"
The crisp sound of nail clippers resumed.
"My dear aide~ Hurry back to headquarters~ This old man has prepared a big surprise for you!"
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