"After I take over Baroque Works, I'll run it as a legitimate commercial organization. We could even..."
"Cooperate with the Alabasta Kingdom in certain areas, for our mutual benefit."
Cobra was meticulous. As he looked into Ye Chuan's unfathomable black eyes, thoughts raced through his mind:
He's so young, yet he defeated Crocodile of the Shichibukai with ease. His strength is unfathomable, and his background is shrouded in mystery.
If he insists, with Alabasta's current national strength, I'm afraid... we won't be able to stop him.
Rather than break with him completely, it would be better to...
Finally, Cobra nodded slowly, a trace of resignation and a hint of probing in his voice:
"Since you insist, then... I can agree for the time being."
"However, Baroque Works must answer for its past crimes! Any members who committed serious offenses must also be handed over to the kingdom for trial!"
"No problem."
Ye Chuan answered without hesitation:
"I'll cooperate in handing over those who truly committed heinous crimes."
With Ye Chuan's promise, King Cobra felt somewhat reassured.
He gave Ye Chuan a long look, then ordered the royal guards under his command to escort the utterly dejected Crocodile away.
What awaited him was judgment from the World Government and the Navy, followed by the sunless prison of Impel Down.
"Mr. Ye Chuan..."
Before leaving, Vivi approached Ye Chuan, her azure eyes filled with conflicting emotions:
"I... I still can't figure you out."
"But, no matter what, thank you for saving Alabasta."
Ye Chuan merely gave a slight nod.
Soon, King Cobra, Princess Vivi, and a large contingent of royal guards left Rain Dinners with the captured Crocodile.
Only Ye Chuan and an equally conflicted Nico Robin remained in the luxurious VIP room.
Robin looked at the mysterious man before her, who