— — — — — — —
It didn't take long.
Most people had already left.
Only Joey and Perospero remained in the meeting room.
Joey smiled and said, "Perospero, if you've got something to say, just say it."
"Big Brother!" Perospero sat down and lowered his voice. "To be honest, I don't have much confidence!"
Joey replied gently, "Perospero, what's there to be unsure about? Remember this—you have your big brother right behind you."
"As long as I'm here, all you have to do is keep moving forward. No matter how big the challenge, I'll take care of it for you."
His tone was soft and kind.
Yet, it carried an undeniable authority.
Just looking at this man—his big brother who had cared for him since they were children—made Perospero unconsciously clench his fists. His resolve hardened.
"Big Brother, I understand now. I know what to do next. But, the construction of Totto Land in the New World seas... it won't be easy, will it?"
Joey nodded. "Leaving it to Daifuku, Oven, Opera, Counter, Cadenza, Cabaletta, and Gala might not be entirely safe. The resources owned by the Charlotte family are simply too vast."
"That's true!" Perospero said seriously. "Big Brother, our Charlotte family is more than just pirates."
"Mama and Katakuri established the Big Mom Pirates, but they're only part of our family. If we can make the Charlotte family recognized in every aspect, creating a nation that earns everyone's respect…"
"This..."
Perospero had grown up under Joey's guidance.
He, Compote, and Katakuri all understood their roles and responsibilities—there was no room for idleness.
From childhood, they had studied diligently.
Though Perospero sometimes got nervous, his abilities were undeniable. He just needed time and experience.
Joey nodded. "Exactly. From the Big Mom Pirates to underground trade, and now building Totto Land...
"But right now!" Joey paused, then continued, "To many, the Charlotte family has already become a thorn in their side. The world is only so big, and if a new player tries to take a piece of the pie, it's bound to upset some people."
Joey saw the situation clearly.
At this point, it was impossible to stop the Charlotte family's growth.
The Big Mom Pirates were already established.
But…Many people didn't want Totto Land to be founded as a legitimate nation.
Starting as pirates, or as underground merchants, wasn't the same as founding a kingdom.
The former would always be seen as part of the underworld, no matter how strong they became. They wouldn't earn true respect.
A legitimate nation, however, was entirely different.
Though people often say, "Kings and rulers aren't born special," legitimacy still mattered.
A prince inheriting his kingdom and an outsider seizing it—how do you think people would view the difference?
That was the core of the issue.
Perospero said solemnly, "Big Brother, you're right. The Charlotte family's rapid growth has already touched on too many interests."
"The construction of Totto Land will definitely face resistance. If we don't finish building it before the next Reverie in a year and a half, Totto Land will just be a joke."
"Hmph."
Joey smirked. "Well, let's see who dares to challenge us. I've always liked trouble—it's the easiest kind of problem to handle."
Seeing Joey's confident demeanor, Perospero nodded. "As long as you're prepared, Big Brother, I won't worry. But, isn't our population still too small?"
It was true.
Building a nation required citizens.
Right now, their numbers seemed insufficient.
Joey smiled. "It's not a big deal. We already have control over the Fish-Men, Merfolk, Tontattas, Oni, and Giants. The rest will come in time. For now, the most important thing is the situation at God Valley."
"Hmm!"
The brothers exchanged sharp glances.
God Valley.
If they could acquire what they needed there, the Charlotte family could shave nearly a decade off their development. The treasure hoarded by the Celestial Dragons was no joke.
Joey said, "Let's end the discussion here. Soon, the Land of Wano and the Five Families of the Underworld will come to trade. Make sure everything goes smoothly."
Perospero grinned. "Don't worry, Big Brother, I've got it under control!"
With that, the meeting ended.
Joey muttered to himself, "What will you schemers do to counter my plans? I'm curious to see if you can stop the rise of Totto Land. Let's see who dares to stand in my way."
He chuckled softly, his usual warm smile laced with a chilling menace.
— —
Time passed quickly.
In the garden, Joey was multitasking—reading a book while training with a large sword.
Dozens of swords were being wielded in unison, their blades slicing through the air without disturbing a single leaf.
After a while, Joey exhaled deeply and took a sip of tea.
"Broyé, what brings you here today?"
"Hehehe—Big Brother!" Broyé ran over, smiling brightly. "I have a favor to ask!"
Joey put down his book, pulled her into a hug, and said, "Go on. If it's reasonable, I'll agree."
"Big Brother, I want to manage Tanega Island!"
"Hmm?"
Joey was momentarily surprised but quickly realized. "You mean the island where the Tontatta Tribe lives?"
Broyé nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, Big Brother! I'm good friends with the Tontattas. I want to manage the whole island!"
"Hmm…"
Joey pondered for a moment. "It's possible, but…"
"Please, Big Brother! Please, please, please!" Broyé begged, clinging to him.
"Hahaha!" Joey laughed, then said gently, "Alright, alright. If my little sister wants it, it's yours. You'll manage Tanega Island. The kingdom below and the town above are now under your care."
He paused to think, then added, "And with your Paramecia Devil Fruit—Protein-Protein Fruit—you'll be named the Minister of Protein."
As Joey spoke, the emblem on Broyé's chest changed, marking her new position.
"Yay!" Broyé cheered, jumping up happily before planting a kiss on Joey's cheek. "Thank you, Big Brother!"
She ran off excitedly, leaving Joey shaking his head with a smile. "That girl's growing up. Well, it's good for her to take on more responsibility. She'll mature over time."
Joey wasn't worried. He'd been training plenty of capable managers to handle the details. Broyé just needed to focus on the bigger picture and her own growth.
As a leader, she needed to act like one.
Just then, Perospero walked into the garden, smiling. "Big Brother! Fifty Devil Fruits—delivered by the Five Families of the Underworld."
Joey raised an eyebrow. "And?"
Perospero smirked. "Over the years, we've recruited fifty of Orochi's artisans and trained countless apprentices."
"Wano's craftsmen aren't to be underestimated. Our weapons are top-notch now!"
Joey chuckled. "Good. But leave Wano alone for now—it's a tricky spot. How's that other matter?"
Perospero grew serious. "Under control, Big Brother. I've sent 500 men to monitor the situation. Any suspicious activity will be reported immediately."
Joey nodded. "Good. The Mink Tribe is the hardest to deal with. This is our only chance."
The Minks' close ties to the Kozuki clan made them a tough nut to crack. To subjugate them required absolute domination, as resistance would prevent the signing of a slave contract.
Just then, Custard rushed in, shouting, "Big Brother! A call—from the Kingdom of Adam!"
The room fell silent.
The Kingdom of Adam—a nation built around the legendary Treasure Tree Adam—was a world powerhouse.
Joey answered the call with a smile. "Adam, it's rare for you to contact me first. What's the occasion?"
A gentle laugh came through the transponder snail. "Joey, my friend, let's not be so formal. Cooperation is always a good thing, isn't it?"
Joey's smile deepened. "True. So, what kind of cooperation are we talking about?"
Perospero and Custard exchanged glances.
The atmosphere grew tense.
The Kingdom of Adam, once dismissive of the Charlotte family, had come knocking.
A storm was indeed brewing.
(A/N: There is no "Adam Kingdom" in One Piece. Additionally, the Adam Tree is said to be located in Elbaf, it seems either the author hasn't reached that part of the story yet or has intentionally altered some details. Either way, please enjoy the narrative—these changes don't impact the story significantly!)
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