Marco understood the hidden meaning behind Jinbe's words and offered a reassuring smile.
"Don't worry, Jinbe. Since I made such a declaration, I am confident. My Armament Haki has now reached the level of external emission, enough to pierce through Big Mom's defenses. And in my fight with Katakuri, my Observation Haki has developed to the point of predicting the future. Though I am not yet fully proficient, it is sufficient. Coupled with the regenerative power of my Phoenix Devil Fruit, I cannot claim a guaranteed victory, but I will certainly not lose."
Hearing this, the crew relaxed. With Marco's unwavering confidence, they naturally believed in his plan. His self-assurance reminded them of the strength and determination of their old captain, Whitebeard.
"That's reassuring," Jinbe nodded, glancing at Neptune, who also gave a small, approving nod.
Neptune had already been informed by Jinbe of Marco's previous invitation to join the Phoenix Pirates. For the Fish-Man King, the safety of his people was paramount. Witnessing Marco's strength firsthand, he recognized that although Marco was not Whitebeard, he had the potential to rise as a new Emperor. Helping the Phoenix Pirates now strengthened their alliance and secured Fish-Man Island.
Jinbe turned to Marco seriously. "Marco, I've discussed the matter you mentioned with my companions and King Neptune."
Marco's eyes brightened. The rest of the Phoenix Pirates looked on expectantly.
With a seasoned smile, Jinbe continued, "Ten years ago, I hoped to join the Whitebeard Pirates to contribute in my own small way, but circumstances prevented it, and I became one of the Seven Warlords of the Sea instead. Now that I am no longer a Shichibukai, joining the Phoenix Pirates is my long-cherished wish. Since Captain Marco does not look down on me, I will serve with my utmost loyalty. Please guide me."
Cheers erupted from the Phoenix Pirates. One by one, they rushed forward, embracing Jinbe and shouting, "That's wonderful!" "Welcome, Jinbe!" "We've been comrades for so long, and now you've finally joined us!"
Jinbe's joining was more than symbolic. During the Marineford War, he had abandoned his Shichibukai status to fight alongside Whitebeard, providing invaluable support. Now, his presence added significant strength to the Phoenix Pirates.
Laughing heartily, Jinbe added, "I am also delighted to be among you. And it's not just me—the Sun Pirates wish to join as well, to sail under the Phoenix flag. I hope you will grant this request."
"Of course, that is no problem," Marco replied with a smile.
The crew raised their cups high. "Welcome, Jinbe and the Sun Pirates! With you joining, our Phoenix Pirates will regain their former glory! Drink, drink! We won't stop until the celebration lasts!"
With the arrival of Jinbe and the Sun Pirates, the banquet continued well into the next day, the mood buoyed by joy and camaraderie. The Kohn Islands, Marco's chosen destination, were conveniently located in the first half of the New World, only half a day to a day's journey from Fish-Man Island, so there was no urgent rush.
During this time, Trafalgar Law approached Marco, seeking guidance in Haki. Marco, grateful for Law's prior assistance, agreed. He assigned Fossa to instruct Law in Observation and Armament Haki, ensuring that the young pirate could strengthen himself.
Meanwhile, Marco spent time in the prison, interrogating Katakuri about Observation Haki cultivation. Though reluctant, Katakuri had no choice but to reveal some insights. The key, he explained, was maintaining a calm mind to maximize the future-predicting abilities of Observation Haki.
Curiel also reported recent developments. On Nanku Island, Jack of the Beasts Pirates and the rest of the Flying Six had been defeated by Vista and his team, yet Jack remained unconvinced and was likely to return.
"We must resolve this quickly," Marco concluded. "Otherwise, the Beasts Pirates will continue to be a threat."
Curiel agreed. "Vista is monitoring them closely, which helps, but there's more."
Marco listened as Curiel continued. "According to Jozu, the Wang Zhi Pirates have also begun moving. Several of their warships have been spotted near Shihblan Island. They haven't taken direct action yet, likely observing, but they are testing our limits and may strike soon."
Marco's expression turned serious. "Wang Zhi was once a member of the Rocks Pirates. While not as powerful as the Beasts or Big Mom Pirates, he remains formidable, second only to the Four Emperors crews. Beehive Island lies deep within our territory. Before, Wang Zhi occupied it with the old man's blessing. I did not expect him to act so boldly after Whitebeard's death."
Though angered by Wang Zhi's actions, Marco remained strategic. "For now, tell Jozu not to act. As long as Wang Zhi holds back, we maintain our position."
Curiel nodded. "Understood, but if Wang Zhi attacks Shihblan Island in the coming days, should Jozu retaliate?"
Marco pinched the bridge of his nose. If they didn't respond, Wang Zhi would gradually encroach further, and other opportunistic forces might exploit their weakness. But retaliation with Jozu's current forces was uncertain.
Despite the temporary victory on Fish-Man Island, the Phoenix Pirates faced ongoing threats: Nanku Island from the Beasts Pirates, Shihblan Island from Wang Zhi, and their own territory from the Big Mom Pirates. A defeat in any of these theaters could trigger a chain reaction, threatening the complete collapse of the fledgling Phoenix Pirates.