one piece: gene extraction and fusion system-Chapter 309: The Price of Refusal

"You mean, your identity has been discovered by Black Crow?"

In the luxurious hall of the World Government Headquarters in Mary Geoise, the bald old man frowned, a terrifying murderous aura unconsciously emanating from his body as he spoke in a deep voice. "So there is an undercover agent of Black Crow in the World Government?"

"If there is an undercover agent, then he must be in a high position—otherwise, he wouldn't know Stussy's identity!" another elder said coldly.

They were not surprised that there might be spies within the World Government, but they absolutely could not tolerate one with knowledge of Stussy's covert role.

"That may not be the case. Black Crow must have his own intelligence networks. Investigate it first. If there truly is a mole, we must eliminate them."

"Damn it. Now that Stussy's identity is exposed, if the news spreads, she won't be able to maintain her footing in the New World. All our efforts will be for nothing."

"Contact Black Crow and propose a deal."

"Give him whatever he wants. Stussy's identity must remain concealed."

"But first, test Black Crow's strength. Not everyone is worth negotiating with."

"Agreed."

"Have Stussy stabilize the situation for now. We'll evaluate our next move after contact."

The World Government's high council continued deliberating.

Stussy's position was crucial. As the leader of the underground world, she served as their most reliable source of New World intelligence—sometimes even quicker than official channels. She was also a major asset, a chess piece carefully placed by the World Government.

Soon, the meeting concluded. Several top CP0 operatives were dispatched immediately to the New World.

...

Meanwhile, aboard the Black Glory—

Mio sat cross-legged, watching Noah clash with Hei Yan, a slight frown tugging at the corner of his lips, eyes filled with faint exasperation.

To challenge Noah—what was Hei Yan thinking? Noah's raw power was terrifying.

Even Mio himself would have to go all-out against him.

From what he saw, Noah hadn't even used full strength. Despite Hei Yan coating his tentacles in Armament Haki to block the blows, he was still forced backward with each punch.

And on this ship, Hei Yan couldn't use the Mangekyō's powers—he was just taking a beating.

Pointless and self-inflicted.

Mio shook his head and took a sip of wine, turning his thoughts to what awaited five days from now.

If all went well, he and Big Mom would rise as emperors.

If not, Poken and Sayar would take that mantle.

But Mio wasn't worried. His confidence in himself and the Black Crow Pirates remained unshaken.

His real concern was securing benefits—like taking over Poken and Sayar's New World territories.

These territories, full of towns, paid fees for pirate protection, generating immense wealth.

Right now, Mio didn't own enough of them. He couldn't afford to miss the chance.

Once he returned to Crow Island, he would inform Olive and the others to prepare. The moment action was taken in five days, they would seize those territories swiftly.

Just then—

Tap, tap, tap. freēwēbηovel.c૦m

Footsteps echoed.

Erica approached Mio with a Den Den Mushi in hand. "Sir, it's from Nine Snake Island."

"Oh? Looks like they've made their decision." Mio smiled faintly and took the call.

"Hello, this is Black Crow."

"Mr. Black Crow," came an old woman's voice. It was Gloriosa, the elder of Nine Snake Island.

"Gloriosa, I take it you've reached a decision," Mio said evenly.

"Yes." Gloriosa responded without hesitation. "On behalf of Nine Snake Island, we are willing to join the Black Crow Pirates—but I hope Lord Black Crow will consider a few conditions. I know Nine Snake Island has little bargaining power, but I still hope for your agreement."

"Speak."

"I hope Black Crow will not interfere in the politics of Nine Snake Island."

Mio's eyes flickered. This clearly referred to the selection of their next queen—a condition he had anticipated.

"Fine. But the next queen must be Hancock," Mio stated.

"Agreed," Gloriosa replied immediately. Hancock was her chosen successor as well.

"Anything else?"

"Yes. If Black Crow ever demands something that would lead to Nine Snake Island's destruction, we reserve the right to refuse."

"Haha." Mio sneered. There was a clear trace of disdain in his voice.

"Gloriosa, are you getting ahead of yourself?" Mio's gaze sharpened. "I refuse. Nine Snake Island will obey every command. Otherwise, I'll erase it from the sea tomorrow."

Agreeing to such terms would make Nine Snake Island useless to him. He'd be better off recruiting pirate crews.

Gloriosa fell silent.

Mio's voice turned cold. "Decide now—submit or die. You have three seconds. While I do find Nine Snake Island interesting, it's not irreplaceable. You understand the cost of refusal. The Black Crow Pirates can easily wipe out an island."

"Your choice."

Mio placed the Den Den Mushi down, sipped his wine, and grinned. "Three."

Silence.

"Two."

Still nothing.

Mio remained indifferent. "Asuka, begin."

"Yes." Asuka's eyes gleamed red. He licked his lips with bloodthirsty excitement. "I've never massacred a country before. It sounds beautiful. I'll record it."

Just as Asuka finished—

A panicked voice burst from the Den Den Mushi...