Still Need to Keep Working Hard

Queen Otohime was powerless to refute this and could only point out that Fish-Man Island, like every other nation, was also a victim of pirates and had suffered greatly because of them.

In the end, Queen Otohime's sincerity moved many people. In particular, her words about how the children longed for sunlight and forests, and for a life alongside humans, touched many kings and queens.

"So Fish-Men and Mermaids have feelings just like ours. They're a civilized society too."

Hearing the discussion around her, Queen Otohime felt that her efforts had not been in vain.

"Queen Otohime." After the chairman and councilors of the World Government conferred, they said, "You have shown us the current state of Fish-Man Island, as well as your citizens' desire to live on land. After considering the views of many nations, we believe that while this is not yet a formal proposal, if you can submit signatures from more than half of your nation's citizens, it may become an official proposal and be formally submitted at the next Reverie. Of course, Fish-Man Island will need to keep working hard to gain the recognition of more than half the nations. At present, fewer than twenty countries support you."

"After all, even if you become a member nation of the World Government, if too few countries establish diplomatic relations with you and you contribute nothing to the world, then such a proposal would be meaningless. Wouldn't you agree?"

As he spoke, the chairman had someone hand Queen Otohime an official signature petition. It stated that, as citizens of Fish-Man Island, they were willing to accept the leadership of the World Government and fully understand and abide by its laws. On that basis, they hoped to gain the right to live on land.

"Thank you so very much!"