On the second layer of Cloud Island in Apayao, a crucial meeting was convened. Important officials and those in charge of the empty shellfish farming gathered in anticipation. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and apprehension as they awaited Arthur's arrival.
Arthur made his entrance with his usual dramatic flair, appearing suddenly on his throne. Despite the occasional nature of these meetings—only about two or three a year when Arthur was present—everyone had grown accustomed to his unpredictable appearances. Today, the topic was one of utmost importance: the cultivation and breeding of empty shellfish.
Over the past year, Arthur had taken significant steps to advance this project. He had relocated the bases from seven empty islands, including Karakuri Island, and repurposed them for shellfish farming.
These bases had been moved closer to Apayao, creating a concentrated area for shellfish cultivation. Some extinct species, thought to be lost, had been discovered in the remnants of these bases, sparking renewed hope.
Arthur's objective was clear: Sky Island could no longer remain isolated. It was time for Sky island to become a global product, generating revenue for the kingdom. The shellfish farming was a cornerstone of this strategy, intended to equip the kingdom's army and bolster its position in the world.
The meeting began with Arthur inquiring about the status of the shellfish cultivation. Moore, a distinguished gentleman in charge of the breeding bases, stood to address the room. Wearing his bowler hat and sporting a mustache, Moore reported with precision:
"Lord Arthur, the farms under our care are yielding promising results. The bases now house a variety of shellfish including sound shells, light shells, water shells, image shells, fire shells, wind shells, hot shells, and flavor shells.
As per your directive, two-thirds of the dual-purpose shellfish, fire shells, wind shells, and hot shells are concentrated on Karon Island."
Moore continued, detailing the production timeline and output:
"Currently, we anticipate a stable output of more than 30,000 living shellfish within the year. However, the dual-purpose shellfish, which need three years to mature fully, will not be ready for another year and a half. Once matured, they will be equipped to serve the kingdom's army."
Arthur nodded in approval but pressed further, "What about the shellfish collected from various sky islands? How many combat shellfish have died naturally?"
Moore reviewed the data and responded:
"From the collected numbers: We have approximately 34,600 Jinbe, 8,900 Luo Zheng, and 7,200 Giant Fengbei. For laser shells, we have about 930; cut shells, 13,460; impact shells, 720; row shells, 180; and shining shells, 5,800. There are about 23,200 Rebei ready for use as weapons."
Moore also noted the status of the extinct shellfish:
"There are sixty-four sun shells discovered six months ago. Seven of these have been successfully studied and cultivated at the Kong Shell Research Center. We estimate this will be sufficient to equip around 100,000 troops, as not all troops will require the same type of shell."
Arthur's expression softened with satisfaction. "Very well. The cultivation of these extinct shellfish must be approached with utmost care and diligence. They represent the heritage of Sky Island, and their preservation is paramount."
With that, the meeting continued as Arthur and his officials discussed further strategies and preparations. The successful cultivation and strategic deployment of the shellfish would not only enhance the kingdom's military capabilities but also solidify its position on the global stage.
As the meeting progressed, Arthur laid out his plans for the shellfish farming project with clarity and ambition.
"Regarding the living shellfish," Arthur began, "they will continue to be cultivated based on the current output. However, I want to increase the output by up to 20,000 units. We will market these shellfish as luxury products, sold in limited quantities at a premium price."
Arthur then turned his attention to the fighting shellfish, emphasizing their importance. "In addition to the existing stock, we need to search for those that have died naturally. For the shellfish currently being cultivated, ensure that all except those under five years of age are fully matured."
Arthur then addressed Gol D. Roger, the head of the Kong Research Center, with a specific directive. " Roger, your research has been commendable over the past two years. However, you are getting older. I want you to recruit some younger, more innovative researchers from Sky Island to join the Kong Research Center."
Roger, still in good health despite his age, stood up with respect. "Yes, Lord Arthur."
Arthur, always full of ideas, added a new challenge. "One more thing. In addition to studying stable breeding of extinct shellfish, I want you to explore the possibility of shellfish hybridization."
The concept of "shellfish hybridization" puzzled everyone in the room, including Roger. He raised a hand and asked, "Lord Arthur, what exactly do you mean by shellfish hybridization?"
Arthur, who was as much a scientific novice as anyone, didn't have a clear answer but was inspired by the boundless possibilities of the world of One Piece. He responded, "Shellfish hybridization means crossbreeding two types of shellfish with different functions to create a new shellfish with combined or enhanced abilities.
For instance, combining ordinary wind shells with flame shells might produce fire-breathing shells. Or merging sound shells with video shells could result in audio-visual shells that can record and play simultaneously."
The idea was met with astonishment and curiosity. While the concept was unconventional, Arthur's enthusiasm was contagious. He encouraged them to experiment with other shellfish as well, suggesting, "You should try hybridizing common shellfish first, such as the examples I mentioned.
Once we have a substantial number of extinct shellfish and have perfected their breeding, we can attempt hybridization with them as well."
Roger, though initially skeptical, nodded in agreement, intrigued by the potential of such an endeavor. "Understood. We will explore these possibilities and see what can be achieved."
The meeting continued for another half hour, during which Arthur discussed a deal with Doflamingo. He instructed Moore to prepare shellfish that had been cultivated for three years, three and a half years, and up to four years.
These shellfish were to be sent to Doflamingo through his team. Arthur decided not to disclose the exact ages of the shellfish, as he intended to withhold that information, presenting them as more mature than they actually were.
With his orders given, Arthur exited the hall, leaving the attendees deep in discussion. His next move was to find an empty island, and he planned to enlist Jessica's help now that she had returned. The search for this island was crucial for Arthur's broader plans, which involved utilizing its unique resources and technologies to further his ambitions.
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