" Vic is probably already at the palace. You don't need to look for him. I have important business to attend to, so don't follow me anymore!"
Rebecca was getting impatient. She'd been in a bad mood for the past few days. After saying that, she sped away from Pell. Her Observation Haki hadn't detected any strong presences for the past few days, and suddenly a stronger one appeared—only to turn out to be a large bird. She didn't know how long this would continue.
Pell's bird-like face revealed a human-like smirk, but after learning Rebecca's identity, he was no longer worried. Now he just wanted to return to the palace as soon as possible to report on the pirates, and he also wanted to see that young Headquarters Vice Admiral who was abnormally strong. Pell lowered his wings and turned to fly towards Alubarna.
In Alabasta, the capital of Alubarna, after enjoying a hearty meal at a local restaurant, Vic and his entourage changed into naval uniforms and headed to the royal palace. As a naval commander of his rank, it was customary to pay respects upon arriving in Affiliated Nation, especially since he had a special purpose to fulfill, making a visit to the royal palace a must.
Vic and his group had kept themselves completely covered up during their journey, and their identities as naval officers had never been revealed. So, apart from their outstanding demeanor attracting attention wherever they went, they did not cause any crowds or sensations.
But now that they were all wearing uniforms and cloaks, it was a completely different story. The cloaks of justice were like guiding lights, and they instantly attracted the attention of passersby and vendors as soon as they left the restaurant.
Combined with Vic's face, they recognized Vic instantly. Then they gathered in small groups and whispered among themselves. They were all very curious about Vic's arrival in this country, but they dared not get too close or ask too many questions.
Vic ignored the whispers of passersby; although they were all compliments, they did not affect his emotions.
The Alabasta Kingdom was quite good during this period. Although it was a desert country, the king was wise and the ministers were selfless. In such a country, the common people were able to make a living.
All that's left is to deal with Crocodile, and future internal rebellions can be avoided, allowing the country's civilians to live peacefully for another decade or so.
Therefore, Vic was still optimistic about the future of these civilians. Without future internal strife, water shortages, food shortages, homelessness, and uncertainty, Vic would have no more pity for them.
Vic walked slowly toward the palace, attracting onlookers, who all made way for Vic.
Some curious people followed them, wanting to know where they were going. Alubarna, where the royal palace was located, was the most prosperous city in the country, followed by Rainbase.
The streets are always bustling with people, so Vic and his group's appearance caused several brief traffic jams.
By the time Vic and his companions reached the main street, most passersby had guessed their destination. Some went about their business after finding out, while others became even more interested and followed them all the way to the palace gates.
Vic still respected King Cobra, so he treated the palace guards very well. After the guards went in to report, he waited quietly at the palace gate.
This further enhanced King Cobra's prestige. A Vice Admiral like him would be an honored guest even in Affiliated Nation, and would not need to wait outside the palace; he would be directly received in a VIP room.
"It really is Vice Admiral Dark Dragon from the Marine Headquarters! I thought a soldier had mistaken you for someone else. Please come in! Please come in!"
Cobra's voice rang out from ten paces away from Vic. He genuinely thought the guard had mistaken him for someone else; how could Vice Admiral from Marine Headquarters possibly be waiting at the door?
This was unbelievable. The previous Vice Admiral were never like this. When he saw that it was indeed Dark Dragon, he was immediately shocked. Dark Dragon's performance made the ruler of the country think a lot in that instant.
Having been a king for so many years, he still possessed the composure and composure expected of a king, so he didn't show anything unusual and extended his hand with a smile to invite Vic inside.
Igaram, the captain of the Royal Guard, followed behind Cobra. He was also a loyal and good subject, but more like the royal steward. Although he looked rather comical, his actions and courage earned Vic's admiration.
" King Cobra, you are too kind. I have only heard that Alabasta, one of the Affiliated Nation, has a rather difficult geographical environment. But even under such harsh conditions, and through the rule of the Nefertari Royal Family for generations, they have not only paid their dues in Heavenly Tribute but also ensured that their people are well-fed and clothed. This is truly remarkable, and I greatly admire them!"
Vic spoke sincerely. He had seen it all along. A country built in the desert, with such a large population and such heavy taxes like the Heavenly Tribute, it was already a miracle that everyone could have enough to eat!
Moreover, the throne is passed down within the family for 800 years. If a foolish king appears during this period, it will be difficult for the family to continue ruling. Even if the country is destroyed, internal strife and dynastic change will occur!
Just like the situation after Crocodile caused trouble more than ten years Crocodile, if it weren't for the arrival of the Straw Hat Pirates, the dynasty would have really changed.
Although it was Crocodile's conspiracy, if the royal family were corrupt, the situation in the country would change even faster. Therefore, Vic greatly admired this family that had given up their status as Celestial Dragons.
It's incredible that not a single incompetent king has appeared in 800 years. Does that mean the Celestial Dragons ' bloodline becomes top-tier once they reach the seas?
The Nefertari Family can be described as having a strong culture, while Doflamingo and Shanks can be described as having exceptional martial arts skills. These Celestial Dragons who came to the lower realm all have outstanding bloodlines!
Vic was speaking the truth, but Pell hadn't returned yet to report to Cobra about the pirates, so Cobra heard things differently. Mentioning the Heavenly Tribute so soon after arriving?
He assumed Vic was trying to get the Heavenly Tribute indirectly, but this year's Heavenly Tribute had already been paid, and next year's Heavenly Tribute wasn't due yet. Had this young Marine Vice Admiral been corrupted by money, and was he here in Alabasta to beg for it?
As king, Cobra naturally knew that there were some incompetent naval officers in the navy who were there not for justice but for money.
He was heartbroken to see Vic in such a state at such a young age. Such talent had been ruined by the Navy's corrupt practices. If someone like him came to Alabasta to serve him, he would definitely be able to improve the lives of the people of Alabasta to a whole new level.
He just didn't dare say it out loud: Vic alone could destroy a country! He dared not provoke Vic. He was already prepared to grit his teeth and give in as long as Vic didn't ask for too much!
Vic was unaware of Cobra's misunderstanding of him, so he maintained his smile and followed behind Cobra with Barnett and the others, listening to the king's introduction to the palace buildings.
This royal palace has a long history, but it wasn't built in a day or two. Each generation of kings had their own ideas, and from ancient times to the present, there have been changes and new constructions.
Therefore, there are differences in the condition of the buildings in the palace, some old and some new. Igaram, who is behind Cobra, introduces which king these buildings were built under, and Cobra personally introduces some of the more significant ones.