This was already considered high-end hospitality. Though the pace was slow and the route was much longer than traveling by ship, it allowed them to gain a direct sense of Alabasta's actual condition along the way.
Almost everywhere they looked was much like the Tru Kingdom had been two years ago, with the people living in poverty.
"I heard your country is joining the World Government?" Vivi asked from the carriage, making conversation.
"Yes."
"Why does every country want to join the World Government when they have to pay such exorbitant Celestial Gold every year? I really don't understand what it's all for."
Nova smiled when he heard Vivi's words, then said, "If I remember correctly, Alabasta doesn't need to pay Celestial Gold, does it?
"Besides, governing a country is often not as simple as you imagine. Take joining the World Government, for example. Not everyone wants to join; sometimes they have no choice.
"But from another perspective, if a country's economy and politics are developing, joining the World Government may bring more benefits than drawbacks. Just like our country.
"Our nation has only just begun, but when it comes to development, we have no choice. After joining the World Government, our country's economic development can at least take a major step forward."
"Why is it like that?"
Faced with Vivi's question, Nova thought for a moment before saying, "After joining the World Government, we do need to pay Celestial Gold every year. It really is a considerable expense, but because of it, we have free access to the Marines. At the very least, we don't need to worry about safety while sailing the seas.
"Most pirates wouldn't take such a huge risk to raid ships flying the World Government's flag.
"Another, and most important, point is that our goods