Ryugu Palace

The morning sun filtered through the leaves of the Sunlight Tree Eve, casting dappled patterns of light onto the tables where Jack and his family were enjoying breakfast. The tree's unique ability to channel sunlight from above the ocean's surface down to the depths of Fishman Island created an atmosphere almost indistinguishable from an early morning on land.

While everyone was engrossed in their meal, an aide from Ryugu Palace appeared at the entrance of the dining area. The fishman was finely dressed, signifying the importance of his visit. Catching Jack's eye, he approached respectfully.

"Good morning," the aide greeted, bowing slightly. "King Neptune would like to extend an invitation for you and your family to join him at the Ryugu Palace. He wishes to express his gratitude for your help in protecting Fishman Island and its inhabitants."

Jack pondered for a moment. It wasn't every day that one received an invitation from a royal, especially one as significant as King Neptune.

"The King assures the safety of your family should you choose to join him," the aide added, seemingly sensing Jack's hesitation.

"Very well," Jack finally said, nodding towards Otohime. "We'll go. But I'd like to bring a friend along as well."

The aide looked surprised but composed himself quickly. "Of course, sir. I will relay your message."

After receiving confirmation from the palace, the aide signaled to the enormous sea creature harnessed to a lavish carriage. Its scales shimmered in the channeled sunlight, reflecting hues of deep blue and iridescent green. Jack gave a curt nod, stepping into the carriage first before extending a hand to help Amelia, Liana, Luna, Sophie, and the younger ones on board. Even though Aria didn't need reassurance, her eyes glimmered with an unspoken delight at the upcoming adventure.

Otohime looked around curiously, not familiar with this kind of royal treatment. She followed suit, a touch of awe gracing her features as she took in the scene.

The aide took his seat at the driver's position, handling the reins with practiced ease. A whistle escaped his lips, and the creature began to move, its giant fins sending ripples through the water as they made their way to Ryugu Palace.

As they approached, the first thing that caught everyone's eye was the grandeur of the palace. Sitting in the heart of Fishman Island, the palace resembled a magnificent castle made of coral and pearl, shimmering as though imbued with the essence of the sea itself. Towering spires reached upwards, intricately carved with symbols and patterns that seemed to tell stories of the island's rich history.

Titi couldn't help herself. "Wow, it's amazing! Just think of the adventures that must have happened here!"

Ponis, whose adventurous spirit had only intensified since joining Jack's family, nodded eagerly. "I can only imagine."

Finally, they arrived. The aide hopped off, gesturing for everyone to disembark. Once everyone had stepped out, he led the group through an impressive archway and into the palace proper.

"King Neptune will receive you now," he announced before disappearing down a separate hallway, leaving them in the care of another aide who guided them through winding corridors adorned with maritime artwork and royal banners.

As they entered the grand hall, the towering figure of King Neptune welcomed them with a smile that held the wisdom of centuries.

"Mr. Jack," he boomed, his voice filling the space, "I'm pleased you accepted my invitation. And you've brought your family. How delightful!"

Jack responded with a nod. "Thank you for inviting us, King Neptune. This is our friend Otohime."

King Neptune's eyes turned to Otohime. "Well, anyone who is a friend of Jack's is a friend of this kingdom."

Robin, who had been clinging to Olvia, let go and walked up to Jack, looking up at King Neptune. "You're big," she observed aloud, her words filled with the unfiltered honesty of a child.

Neptune chuckled heartily. "You have a keen eye."

Aria tugged at Jack's shirt. "Daddy, can we see more of the palace later?"

Jack looked down, his eyes turning a softer blue. "Of course, Princess."

Neptune seemed to catch the subtle shift in Jack's eyes, sensing the deep bond he had with his daughter. "Your family is safe here. I assure you, this meeting is but a small gesture of the debt we owe you for protecting our home."

Jack's eyes returned to their usual calm shade. "There's no debt. Every battle I choose is my own."

"And yet, Fishman Island is safer because of your choices," Neptune retorted, his eyes locked onto Jack's, as if peeling through layers of his stoic exterior.

A feast was laid before them, a sumptuous spread of dishes that showcased the bounty of the sea. King Neptune sat at the head of the table, his towering presence making even the grand hall seem modest. To his sides sat his two aides, the Right and Left Ministers. Jack learned that it was the Left Minister who had come to fetch them. Jack sat nearby, his eyes a steady shade of blue as he scanned the table where his family and Otohime sat, enjoying the delicacies.

King Neptune lifted a goblet, his eyes meeting Jack's. "The fish and sea creatures that grace this table are tokens of our gratitude. Fishman Island owes you a great debt."

"There's no debt," Jack responded, picking up his goblet. "I make my choices freely."

The king nodded, seeming to weigh Jack's words, then turned to address the table. "Even so, your choices have kept our waters safe. And yet, we still face challenges."

Jack's eyes met Neptune's, acknowledging the unspoken tension. "Pirates?"

Neptune sighed. "Indeed. Since Fishman Island is the only gateway to the New World, pirates flow through here like a relentless tide. Many harbor ill intentions, preying on mermaids and fishpeople alike."

"Endless, aren't they?" Jack mused.

"Seemingly so. Our forces have been effective, but the waves of pirates are never-ending," the king added.

Shakky, sitting near Jack, leaned in to speak. "It must be tough to safeguard such a vast area, especially with the constant influx of pirates."

Neptune looked at her. "It is a heavy burden, but one we bear willingly for the sake of our people."

Robin, who was sitting on Olvia's lap, looked up. "Pirates bad?"

King Neptune looked down at her. "Most pirates are."

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