Chapter 99: The End of World Government II
Shanks tilted his head slightly, his expression inscrutable. His vibrant red hair caught the sunlight, making him seem almost otherworldly. He swirled the sake bottle lazily, the liquid sloshing inside as if mirroring the tides around them. His crew, though seemingly relaxed, kept a subtle eye on the interaction. Ben Beckman leaned against the mast, his cigarette smoldering as he studied the agent with quiet intensity, while Yasopp absentmindedly cleaned his rifle, though his sharp gaze flickered toward the visitor every now and then.
"You're asking me to pick a side," Shanks said finally, his voice calm but carrying a weight that made the agent flinch ever so slightly. "That's not really my style."
The agent cleared his throat, choosing his next words carefully. "With all due respect, Red-Haired-sama, the World Government values your neutrality, but this situation is unlike any other. If the Neo Marines and Whitebeard succeed, it could destabilize the entire world. Surely, someone with your sense of responsibility can see the need to prevent such chaos."
Shanks chuckled softly, his hand resting lightly on the hilt of his saber. "Chaos, huh? Funny, that's what the World Government's been calling balance for centuries." His gaze sharpened, though his smile didn't falter. "Tell me something. What makes you think I'd want to help maintain your version of peace?"
The agent hesitated, unsure how to respond. Shanks stood, his full height and commanding presence forcing the man to look up at him. Despite his easygoing demeanor, there was an unmistakable edge to Shanks, a quiet authority that could silence even the boldest of men.
"I've made it clear before, and I'll say it again," Shanks said, his tone firm now. "I'm neutral in this matter. I won't join Dave, but I won't side with you either. I've seen enough of your 'justice' to know it's not something I'll fight for."
The agent, sensing the finality in Shanks' words, made one last attempt. "If I may, Red-Haired-sama, your neutrality could be interpreted as tacit support for the Neo Marines. The World Government—"
Shanks cut him off, his smile fading as a subtle but undeniable tension filled the air. "Don't mistake my neutrality for weakness," he said, his voice low and unyielding. "I stay out of this war because I choose to, not because I fear you or anyone else. If the World Government decides to test my patience, you'll find out just how quickly I can end this neutrality."
The agent took an involuntary step back, his confidence crumbling under the weight of Shanks' words. Ben Beckman exhaled a plume of smoke, his calm voice breaking the silence. "You heard him. Best get moving before you overstay your welcome."