Chapter 81: 81. Four Emperors Pattern, Big Changes After The War

Check out advanced chapters on P@treon: [email protected]/CosmicKaminari ---------- As Alex destroyed the original plot, it sparked a storm that disrupted the original timeline, the current year deviates from the traditional Sea Circle Calendar 1505, marking a period of great significance. Alex, who defeated Big Mom to rise as the new ruler of the New World, joined Kaido—renowned for his battle with Whitebeard, to officially become the fourth Emperor of the Sea. The new bounty list for the Four Emperors was soon dispatched across the seas by carrier pigeons. "World's Strongest Man" Whitebeard (Edward Newgate): 3.846 billion Berries. "BIG MOM" Charlotte Linlin: 3.259 billion Berries. "Flying Admiral" Alex: 3.12 billion Berries. "Hundred Beasts" Kaido: 2.836 billion Berries. This declaration by the World Government, along with the high bounties set for other infamous pirates, clearly signals that the New World has settled into the Four Emperors' era. The message is plain: the difference between ordinary pirates and these monstrous figures is as vast as the chasm separating a mere carp from a dragon. The might of these four infamous pirates is well known, and thus the title of "Four Emperors" is largely accepted as fact. As the World Government anticipated, the year of chaos caused by Alex has begun to settle, gradually returning to the uneasy stability of previous years. The New World has now become fully dominated by the Emperors. Increasing numbers of people from the Four Seas and the Grand Line seek refuge under the Pirate Emperors, following the strong winds of the era. Among them, Alex and Whitebeard attract the largest factions. Though the sea has four Emperors, Alex and Whitebeard's influence clearly stands out, leading many to gravitate toward the two strongest among them. Alex, upon learning of this influx, accepted it with a discerning eye, never refusing outright but selecting only the elite. His aim was not mere numbers, but exceptional strength. Thus, even if there is a relatively safe entry into Wanokuni, it remains off-limits to outsiders, accessible only to domestic members and approved merchant allies. To gain Alex's protection, one must navigate the treacherous waters of the vortex sea area and scale the towering waterfall—a mere first test of resilience and loyalty. These rigorous requirements mean that while many dream of reaching Wanokuni, even more are deterred by the difficult path. This harsh territory, with its ominous skies and imposing challenges, can drain the courage of most at a glance, let alone the trials awaiting to gain entry. Thus, Wanokuni remains an exclusive domain. After months, only one or two fleets managed to endure the hazards of Wanokuni and were accepted under Alex's command. It's notable that nearly ten pirate ships manage to reach the New World each month, making Alex's intake among the lowest of the Four Emperors. Yet Alex remains indifferent, following his own principles unwaveringly. With mastery over two major weapons of war and the rigorous, militarized training conducted in Wanokuni, Alex's forces are formidable. In terms of strength, they are not hampered by numbers, instead surpassing others in quality by focusing on an elite, efficient crew. Alex's strategy centers on resource conservation and cultivating a more efficient, elite force. Beyond the self-motivated pirates venturing to Wanokuni, Alex proactively recruits select infamous pirates with strong potential. One of these is Crescent Moon Hunter Catarina Devon, who has become a symbol of his growing influence. In addition to strengthening his forces, Alex has spurred rapid development across Wanokuni. News magnate Morgans has opened newspaper access to Wanokuni, and Alex has allowed other underworld kings from the dark world's Tea Party gathering to establish ventures in the region. Figures like "God of Fortune" Du Feld, who controls dark world currency, have Alex's support in gradually converting gold into Berry savings. Umit, the shipping king, and Giberson, the warehouse king, have expanded trade routes, allowing for an influx of rare overseas goods and equipment, adding vibrancy to Alex's domain. The production of weapons and seastone crafts is now streamlined, making them both efficient and reasonably priced, solidifying Alex's New World reputation and establishing his influence in the dark world. Meanwhile, Stussy has contributed by diversifying entertainment in Wanokuni's unique geisha culture. Her involvement represents an intelligence strategy, with Alex controlling what information flows or is blocked from reaching the world, effectively turning Wanokuni into a hub of controlled intelligence. Although these underworld figures operate in secrecy, they have brought unprecedented convenience and global connectivity to the once-isolated Wanokuni. The impact of these transformations is particularly visible during the annual Fire Festival. In the Flower Capital, the renowned song and dance troupe led by Emily showcases a spectacular performance on a grand stage constructed by master craftsmen from overseas, with talents like Maria and Yamato singing melodies from across the seas. Throughout the towns and villages, celebratory foods and decorations abound. Besides local Wanokuni delicacies, shops offer Fish-Man Island pastries, Alabasta's cactus chowder, Elbaf's warrior stew, and Drum Island's frozen sashimi. Even Amazon Lily's signature Zoloa Cheese and Sea Kings' Tube Noodles, once exotic delicacies, are now being crafted and improved upon by Wanokuni chefs. The influx of tools, technology, and culture has profoundly changed Wanokuni, transforming its isolationist legacy within just three years of Alex's leadership. While entry remains restricted and the nation lacks formal recognition, Alex's governance has made it one of the most adaptive and culturally rich nations in the New World. To accommodate the heightened entertainment demands, Alex relocated the island, using the powers of the More-More Fruit to expand and build specialized areas. New venues, from theaters and competition arenas to military bases, auction houses, and lively coastlines, have further bolstered Wanokuni's economy, enriching its self-sufficient landscape and creating a vibrant, prosperous realm.