Ther Mermaid Princess #116

As Jinbe and Cedric delved into a discussion about the Whitebeard Pirates, Kieran listened intently, seemingly taking notes. The cozy atmosphere of the Mermaid Cafe provided the perfect backdrop for their conversation, with the aroma of freshly brewed tea filling the air.

Just as Jinbe was about to recount another fascinating story, the cafe door swung open, and a soldier of the Royal Army stepped inside. The clatter of armor against the tiled floor drew the attention of everyone present. The soldier's urgent expression indicated the seriousness of their purpose.

Cedric, and Kieran exchanged puzzled glances, curiosity etched across their faces. The soldier swiftly scanned the room and approached their table, standing at attention. "Apologies for the interruption," the soldier said, their voice laced with urgency. "King Neptune requests your immediate presence at the Royal Palace."

The two companions exchanged surprised glances, their curiosity now replaced by uncertainty. The soldier's unexpected arrival had piqued their interest, hinting at the possibility of an important development.

Cedric, his curiosity piqued, leaned forward. "Did King Neptune mention why he wishes to see us?"

The soldier nodded, their expression solemn. "King Neptune wishes to thank you and your crew personally for your bravery and defeating Vander Deckens."

Jinbe's eyes widened in realization. "Ah, I see. Vander Deckens was a constant threat to Princess Shirahoshi, and your crew's victory over him has brought much-needed peace to our kingdom."

Kieran, who had been silently listening, turned to Cedric, and the latter shrugged. "We are honored to be invited to the Royal Palace. We shall make our way there immediately."

The soldier nodded and stepped aside, gesturing for Cedric, Kieran, and Jinbe to follow him. Cedric and Kieran bid farewell to their crew and asked them to wait here before departing.

The trio followed the soldier through the bustling streets of Fishman Island. As they made their way towards the Royal Palace, Cedric couldn't help but smile as he finally had the leisure to enjoy the enchanting scenery.

The journey through the underwater kingdom was a sight to behold. Colorful coral reefs and schools of fish swayed in harmony with the ocean currents. The mesmerizing beauty of Fishman Island seemed to mirror the vibrant spirits of its inhabitants.

After a short while, they arrived at the grand entrance of the Royal Palace. The imposing gates opened wide, revealing the majestic courtyard adorned with statues and fountains. The soldier led them through the courtyard and into the heart of the palace.

The throne room of the Royal Palace was a breathtaking sight to behold. Its grandeur and opulence spoke of the kingdom's rich history and power. The walls were adorned with intricate seashell mosaics that shimmered under the soft glow of underwater lights. The pillars that lined the room were carved with meticulous detail, depicting scenes from Fishman Island's ancient legends.

The imposing throne stood at the center of the room, intricately designed with coral and pearls. King Neptune sat upon it, his regal presence emanating authority and wisdom. The throne room teemed with reverence, and the water gently lapping against the walls created a soothing ambiance.

Beside King Neptune stood Princess Shirahoshi, her hesitant expression giving away her shyness. She was a truly magnificent sight, even more so due to her enormous size.

Towering above everyone around her, a flowing cascade of long pink hai wrapped around Shirahoshi's giant figure, held in place by a teriyaki-shaped hairgrip. Her wide, innocent eyes were a shade of deep blue, reflecting curiosity and timidity.

Despite her immense size, Shirahoshi exuded an undeniable grace, moving with a gentle sway as she shifted her weight. Her beauty was unrivaled, captivating those who had the privilege of laying their eyes upon her.

King Neptune welcomed Cedric, Kieran, and Jinbe into the palace, smiling warmly. "Thank you for coming-jamon. My kingdom is safer thanks to your actions, and I can rest assured at night, knowing that depraved demon is no longer out there, obsessing over my daughter..."

Cedric cleared his throat before speaking. "There's no need for thanks, Deckens sank our ship, so we were going to find him and give him a piece of our mind anyway..."

King Neptune nodded, his gaze filled with appreciation. "Regardless, your actions have not gone unnoticed. Fishman Island owes you great debt. And Princess Shirahoshi, the most precious treasure of our kingdom and my daughter, wished to thank you personally-jamon."

Princess Shirahoshi's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she stepped forward, her voice soft and filled with emotion. "Thank you... Thank you so much for saving freeing me from Vander Decekns' curse. I- I will never forget what you've done..."

"Curse....?" Cedric remarked, tilting his head in confusion. "Ah! You must be talking about his devil fruit powers..." He added with a chuckle.

"Devil fruit powers....?" Shirahoshi said as she tilted her head, mirroring Cedric's actions and causing her pink hair to flow to the ground. "What is that...?" She asked, sounding eager and curious.

Cedric paused momentarily, realizing that Princess Shirahoshi might not be familiar with Devil Fruit powers, considering her sheltered life in Fishman Island. He prepared to explain, but King Neptune interrupted before he could speak.

"Apologies for the interruption," King Neptune said, his gaze shifting from Cedric to his daughter. "Princess Shirahoshi, we can discuss these matters later. Let us focus on expressing our gratitude to our guests for now-jamon."

Cedric shrugged, understanding the king's desire to proceed with the purpose of their meeting. Princess Shirahoshi, although still curious, followed her father's lead and took a step back.

King Neptune turned his attention back to Cedric, a warm smile on his face. "Young human, you and your crew have done a great service to Fishman Island. I wish to express my gratitude and reward for your bravery."

Cedric considered the king's words for a moment before responding. "And we're grateful for your gratitude..." He replied with a chuckle, scratching his head. "But I don't think we need anything right now... it would be enough if you allow us to stay in your beautiful kingdom for an extended period of time,"

King Neptune's smile widened. "I am pleased to hear that you find Fishman Island to your liking. You and your crew are always welcome here. Consider it your second home-jamon."

"But that is only natural... tell me, young human, what else would you want as a reward?" King Neptune concluded.

Cedric hesitated for a moment, contemplating the king's question. He appreciated King Neptune's offer but wasn't used to seeking rewards for his actions. However, there was one thing on his mind.

"Well, Your Majesty," Cedric began, "there is one thing I could use. You see, my trusty spear broke a while ago. I was wondering if there might be a good replacement in your treasury..."

King Neptune's eyes twinkled with amusement. "A broken weapon can be quite inconvenient, indeed. Fear not, for we have a collection of exceptional weapons in the treasury. I'm sure we can find a suitable replacement for you-jamon."

Cedric's face lit up. "Thank you, Your Majesty. I truly appreciate your generosity."

With the spear's matter addressed, King Neptune shifted his attention back to the overall discussion. "Now that we have settled that, I believe it is time to express our gratitude properly. Cedric, Kieran, and Jinbe, you have not only defeated Vander Deckens, thus saving my daughter from a life of confinement, but also brought peace to our kingdom by exposing a poisonous presence. Your actions deserve to be honored and celebrated-jamon."

Princess Shirahoshi nervously stepped forward, her eyes watering as she gathered the courage to speak. "Y-yes, thank you all so much. Please stay and e-eat something with us!"

"Well, it's not like we have anything else to do..." Cedric' shrugged at the princess' words. "And I could do with a drink or ten right now... sure, we'll stay," He added, chuckling and nodding.

King Neptune chuckled, amused by Cedric's response. "Excellent-jamon! The feast will be a grand celebration of your victory and an opportunity for our people to express their gratitude directly. Udaijin, please make the necessary arrangements for the feast..." He said as he turned to the seahorse fishman standing on his right.

The fishman nodded eagerly, speacking out of the first time. "Of course, your majesty. I will ensure that everything is prepared for the feast."

King Neptune turned to the soldier who had accompanied Cedric, Kieran, and Jinbe. "Please escort our guests to their quarters so they may freshen up and prepare for the feast. We shall make all the necessary arrangements-jamon."

The soldier bowed respectfully. "Yes, Your Majesty. Right away."

Cedric, Kieran, and Jinbe thanked King Neptune again for his hospitality before following the soldier out of the throne room. As they made their way to their quarters, Cedric couldn't help but reflect on the unexpected turn of events.

...

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