Cobra was stumped by the question.
He had indeed considered the World Government. After all, Alabasta was an affiliated nation and stood opposed to the Hoenn Government.
But from the kingdom's standpoint, things were somewhat different.
He had to put his people first.
"You're the king. What you should be considering is the kingdom's future!"
Good snorted coldly.
"Alabasta has just been through a war, and everything needs rebuilding. But very few countries can help Alabasta, and those countries would love nothing more than to see you perish."
"If Alabasta establishes diplomatic relations and cooperates with us, the sheer scale of our Hoenn Government will soon help you escape your predicament."
"Not only that, Alabasta is now so weak that Crocodile nearly stole the kingdom. How does it look anything like a great power anymore? But by cooperating with us, Alabasta can soon regain its status as a superpower!"
Confidence!
Cobra was stunned.
He could feel the absolute confidence in Good's words, and given the man's position and standing, he really could do it!
"The World Government won't allow it!"
"No, they will!"
Good revealed a dangerous smile.
Of course the World Government would not allow it. Breaking down trade barriers was hardly that easy. War was the only way to resolve the problem.
Although the Hoenn Government now had something to lose, its burdens were far lighter than the World Government's.
Flip the table, and no one would get to eat!
"King Cobra, shall we discuss the specific arrangements for cooperation first? I've come with complete sincerity, so don't disappoint me."
"..."
Cobra remained silent. He could sense the threat in Good's words. If Good failed to achieve his goal, this could very well turn into a war.
A long while passed.
"Mr. Good, why choose Alabasta?"
"Well..."
Good