19.

Sett and Fox had been sailing for three months since they were contracted to help in a war between two neighboring islands in the North Blue. As they approached their destination, Sett stood at the front of the ship, lost in thought about what he had been told before taking the mission.

~Flashback~~

The Stone sat in his chair and explained their work to Sett. "To put it simply, we're mercenaries, assassins, whatever you want to call it. I'm involved in the underworld scene and part of a massive crime syndicate that brings together the most influential figures in the world, not just some unheard-of parties, but literally the most influential people." Stone looked at Sett and then went to his alcohol bar to refill his empty glass. "We have contacts ranging from super rookies to world nobles, warlords of the sea, and Yonkos. Individuals participating in our activities usually act autonomously and for their benefit." Sett nodded, knowing that they were all in it for personal profit. After all, he was doing the same.

"The underworld is mainly active in the New World under the influence of the four emperors," Stone continued, sipping some sake. "But it is also active in all other regions. For example, in West Blue, there are organizations called the Five Families of the West. You can find everything from weapons and devil fruits to slaves in the underworld. Now, about us and how we work. It's quite simple. I look for profitable missions that I can later give you after taking a cut of the money. The missions are of all kinds. We deal with assassinations, helping in wars or other smaller conflicts. The client pays, and we do the work. If you have any questions later, you can ask Fox. Now, here's your first mission. Two neighboring islands in the North Blue are at war. One side is losing and wants us to help them. You leave today, and the travel will take around three months. Fox will come with you, but you're in charge. Fox won't interfere, only watch your work and give me feedback later. That's it. You can leave now."

After hearing all this, Sett nodded, knowing everyone was in it for personal gain. Stone warned Sett that Fox would not interfere with the mission but would observe and give feedback to him afterward.

~Flasback ends~

Sett shook himself out of his thoughts and looked towards the harbor as they docked. "Let's go, Sett. We need to meet with our employee," Fox said, getting off the ship. Sett followed closely behind her.

As they made their way down, they heard a shout from the harbor. "Are you from the Stone?"

Sett looked at the man and calmly answered, "Yes, we are."

"Great," the man replied. "My name is Egroeg Notgnihsaw. We were expecting you." Sett shook his hand, and they continued to talk as they made their way toward a carriage. "Come, then. How was your journey? Do you want to rest a bit?"

"There is no reason. I would love to hear the specifics of our assignment," Sett replied. "Yes, it's good to hear that. We are really in a bad situation. The faster we move, the better. Come, I will talk to you as we travel," Egroeg said as he led them toward the carriage.

"So, we are going to the other side of the island, and this is our fastest means of transport. Where to start?" Egroeg scratched his chin. "Ten years ago, our Queen Helena was abducted by our prince, Paris, of the neighboring kingdom. The husband of our Queen convinced his brother, who is--"

"I don't care," Sett interrupted the man. "I don't care about your conflict. Tell me what you are expecting from me."

Egroeg cleared his throat, displeased by Sett's remark. "Hmm, fine. As you wish. We want you to help fight and defend in the next battle. Other than that, your main target is an enemy general named Sellihca. He is resistant to any injuries and is a great general and strategist. Usually, he fought on the frontlines, but when they docked on one of our island's beaches, he began ordering his men from the backs. Right now, their battleships are docked behind cliffs, and the army camp is stationed on the cliff. Our only way towards them is by climbing a steep slope of this hill. After defeating Sellihca and his troops, we want to destroy their battleships," Egroeg explained as they slowly made their way toward the battlefield.

Sett blood was boiling at the mention of the strong opponent. He wants to fight with him. But Sett slowly colled his head. He has to somehow deal with his troops and the strategic position of the camp on the hill. But first, he will have to see a situation on site.