"Huh?"
The words from the other end of the line left Bright somewhat speechless.
Did the Five Elders take him for some kind of emergency responder? Sending him wherever trouble arose?
Even Tesoro was briefly stunned. Then he said nothing, merely leaned slightly closer with a meaningful smile on his face.
"The Government cannot yet openly fall out with Doflamingo, but neither can it stand by and watch Dressrosa be threatened. So, after discussion, we unanimously agreed that, Bright, you are the most suitable candidate."
The Five Elders said, "Don't be so quick to refuse. We will offer a price you won't be able to turn down."
"Oh?"
Bright was interested. "Like what?"
"We already promised to support Queen Otohime's request. On top of that, the Government will fully support Fish-Man Island's plan to relocate to the surface. We will even provide you with suitable land to serve as your national territory."
That was what the Five Elders said.
The corner of Bright's mouth twitched.
Ah, what a damnably tempting proposal.
Did those five old bastards take him for an idiot?
Sooner or later, he'd make them cough up their gold.
After receiving no answer from Bright for a long while, the Five Elders hesitated before saying,
"Of course, if you are dissatisfied with the location designated by the Government, you may choose a place yourselves. The land of non-member nations is naturally no problem. The Government can help you clear it out."
"Even if you have your eye on the land of a member nation, it is not impossible to discuss."
Bright could not help but smile.
What a thoroughly condescending statement.
To the Five Elders, perched atop the Red Line, what were the people living on the seas?
"Not enough."
Bright lightly tapped the table with his fingers