The Sea Dragon Palace looked much like the underwater Dragon Palace Rubick had seen in Journey to the West.
Because it lay beneath the sea, every building was made of stone. Domed towers were linked by countless corridors. Above the entire Dragon Kingdom loomed a statue of the Divine Dragon Rubick knew so well, its coiled body dominating the palace.
As befitted the Dragon Palace, its guards were all strong and sturdy. To Rubick, though, they were just for show.
Passing through the main gate and then the Imperial Gate, Rubick and his party arrived at the Sea Dragon Palace's Council Hall. Neptune sat on a towering throne, his thick orange hair and beard immediately catching the eye.
Known as the Grand Knight of the Sea, Neptune was no weaker than Jinbe. He stood twelve meters tall and looked imposing on his throne, his tail stretched out before him.
Two ministers stood to either side of Neptune.
The Left Minister was an elderly catfish merman in a long robe.
The Right Minister was a seahorse merman in armor, with a sword at his waist.
Neptune's booming voice echoed through the spacious Council Hall.
"Esteemed King and Queen of Sky Country, welcome to Fish-Man Island. I am Neptune, king of Fish-Man Island."
Rubick and Conis promptly returned his greeting. "Good day, Your Majesty."
"I know you prefer discussing matters over a meal," Neptune said. "I've prepared food to suit your tastes. Please wait a moment."
At a wave from Neptune, the Left Minister directed a group of Fish-Man guards to carry a long table into the Council Hall. Soon, mermaids brought in dish after dish.
Since everyone was served individually, there did not appear to be much food. And because merfolk ate neither meat nor fish, Neptune and his people had