Winds Stir; Developments on All Sides; Arrival at Laugh Tale / Laugh Tale, ONE PIECE ...

Yet she had never been hurt. Years ago, the New Fish-Man Pirates had considered making a move against her, as had cunning pirate poachers. Without exception, a single flash of sword light had left them half-dead.

Spurred on by Sword Intent, Shirahoshi's power as Poseidon had grown at an almost absurd rate. She might still be young, but her strength now matched her size.

The enormous creatures beneath Fish-Man Island had already submitted to the mermaid princess before them.

If she wanted, she could even keep Whitebeard from leaving Fish-Man Island.

"Lord Whitebeard, it's a pleasure to meet you! Fish-Man Island has remained safe all these years thanks to your protection!"

She spoke with easy grace, neither servile nor arrogant.

Whitebeard laughed.

"Gurararara! Such a little grown-up! Neptune and I are brothers. Of course I'd do him a favor like that!"

Shirahoshi's large eyes held innocence, but also a sharpness that seemed to see through everything. She looked first at Whitebeard, then at his thirteen Division Commanders.

"There's a café in Fish-Man Square. Madame Shyarly there can tell the future. She might be able to help you on this journey!"

Whitebeard paused, apparently surprised that Shirahoshi would say such a thing to them.

Just then, Vista the Flower Sword rose to his feet.

He bowed first, then said, "Forgive me if this is presumptuous, but does Princess Shirahoshi have a little wooden sword like this one? I sense a familiar presence!"

The Winds Stir, the Powers Make Their Moves, and Arrival at Laugh Tale

"Newgate! If Fish-Man Island can do anything about Ace, just say the word! You've helped us for years. We won't stand by and do nothing!"

Neptune's expression was grave. With the safety of his island at stake, he would never have said such a thing if