At the World Government's highest seat of power, the Five Elders gathered.
"Chiaki Setsuna's rate of growth... is astounding. Even I feel a hint of a threat from him," the Warrior God of the Environment said gravely.
The Warrior God of Finance furrowed his brow. "The key question is whether he will get out of control. An uncontrollable 'World's Strongest' is more dangerous than ten Kaidos."
The Warrior God of Science and Defense pondered for a moment. "Perhaps... we should invite him to join the Holy Knights again."
He paused, his tone turning cold. "If he refuses again, we will have to reassess where he stands."
After some debate, they called Setsuna's Den Den Mushi.
Once the call connected, the Warrior God of Justice spoke first, his voice carrying just the right amount of praise. "Congratulations on defeating Kaido. No one on the seas shines brighter than you now."
The Den Den Mushi mimicked Setsuna's humble, cautious expression. "A fleeting brilliance. How could it compare to the World Government's eternal radiance?"
The Warrior God of Agriculture was pleased with Setsuna's attitude and said with a smile, "By defeating Kaido, you have made a tremendous contribution to the stability of the world. We sincerely invite you once again to join the Holy Knights."
After a brief silence on the other end, Setsuna asked, "What contract are you planning to give me?"
The Five Elders exchanged looks.
"You actually know about the contracts?" the Warrior God of the Environment asked in surprise.
"If I'm going to join you, of course I need to learn about things beforehand," Setsuna said with a smile.
"You're right. You should indeed have that awareness," the Warrior God of Justice said. "We will grant you a shallow sea contract, and that will only be a transitional arrangement.