Alubarna, the royal capital of Alabasta, stood atop a raised, circular plateau in the desert. Five broad white marble stairways had been built along its front and sides, and they were the only way into the city.
"Everyone, look! The capital!"
Lina and the others were galloping through the desert on horseback, nearing the steps at the south gate.
At the foot of the stairs leading into the city, Lina summoned the undead.
"We don't have time to waste. Let's hurry up there."
They had ridden straight from Kataleya to the capital, stopping only once along the way. Even so, Baroque Works had probably already set an ambush.
There were plenty of spies among the rebels. Once word of the ceasefire got out, it would surely reach Baroque Works soon. They had Den Den Mushi to keep in touch, after all.
They left their horses behind and hurried up the steps. When they reached the gate at the top—
"Stop! Who are you?!"
"The city is under lockdown! These are special circumstances!"
Several guards raised their spears to block the group. Behind them, a large formation of the King's Army stood ready.
"It's me!" Vivi pulled back her hood, revealing her sky-blue hair and face.
The guards stared in shock and immediately lowered their weapons. "Princess Vivi! What are you doing here?"
"There's no time to explain! Let us in!" Vivi cried urgently.
"But they... I understand!"
"Make way for the princess!"
The guards looked at Lina and the others behind Vivi. They were full of questions, but they would still carry out their princess's orders without hesitation.
Even at this crucial moment, with war liable to break out at any time, not a single soldier would doubt the princess.
Inside a house somewhere in the capital, two people