Chapter 28-29-30

Chapter 28 : The opponent is Shichibukai! You know.!

"Didn't dance powder appear in the capital many years ago? Do you know what's going on?" Kahn suddenly inquired.

Cobra paused for a moment, then responded, "Is this about Crocodile?"

Kahn was surprised. He hadn't assumed that the king would be more aware of the situation.

Cobra continued, "You seem to know something."

Kahn was no longer concerned about whether Cobra understood or not. He recognized that the king's awareness of the issue was deeper than he initially thought.

"Indeed. Crocodile is behind it, and he has his sights set on something your country possesses—poneglyph."

Cobra's eyes widened in astonishment upon hearing this revelation.

"How do you know?" Cobra's tone was a mix of shock and incredulity.

Kahn sneered. "Don't concern yourself with how I know. What matters is that Crocodile is plotting to take control of your kingdom. The prolonged drought in Alabasta is a result of his ability and the involvement of the dance powder."

Cobra struggled to comprehend the information, especially the fact that the navy officer before him was privy to such a closely guarded secret.

"Please explain, Lieutenant General Kahn."

Kahn acknowledged the king's skepticism. "I won't divulge how I acquired this information. But you should consider the consequences if it turns out to be true. By then, it may be too late to prevent a catastrophic event or a war. Alabasta could be thrown into turmoil. Are you willing to risk that?"

Cobra fell into silence, contemplating Kahn's words.

"As long as you make the necessary payment, I'll help you resolve the situation. The risk will rest on me. However, remember that the Baroque Works' plan is only days away. Even if you report this to the World Government, it won't prevent the imminent danger."

Cobra continued to process the information, torn between skepticism and the need to ensure his kingdom's safety.

Kahn noticed Cobra's hesitance. "I know it sounds like speculation, but sometimes action must be taken before concrete evidence surfaces. I'm offering you an opportunity to preempt a crisis. This Shichibukai is formidable, and as part of the Navy, I'm willing to help."

Cobra's gaze turned piercing. "But you're a member of the Navy, and the Shichibukai are allied with the World Government. It's their duty to assist us."

Kahn sneered once more. "Cobra, the information I've shared is speculation, and I don't possess concrete evidence. However, certain situations demand action even without proof. If I intervene, the consequences will be mine to bear. Do you believe that your country has the strength to challenge Crocodile and the Baroque Works?"

Cobra realized the truth in Kahn's words. The disparity in power between Alabasta and the Shichibukai was immense.

"And about my motivation," Kahn continued, "I don't need to justify myself. I like money, and I'm here to help for a price."

Cobra's expression reflected surprise. Kahn's blatant honesty caught him off guard.

"Your Excellency, you're an honorable naval officer. Why do you..."

Kahn interrupted, "Enough with the questions. Do you want my help or not?"

Cobra sighed, acknowledging the urgency of the situation. "Explain your terms, Lieutenant General."

Kahn's persistence paid off. "Good. This situation is delicate. As you know, this old man is getting older, and intervening presents risks. Furthermore, confronting a Shichibukai requires careful consideration, as it may impact the World Government's reputation. I don't have concrete evidence, only speculation."

Cobra listened intently.

"Considering all this, I'm willing to help for a fee. Five billion Berries should suffice."

Cobra's eyes widened at the astronomical sum.

Kahn noticed his astonishment. "Is that too much?"

(End of this chapter)

Chapter 29： Seems like a bit of a loss?

But the negotiation didn't budge on the price either; it was business after all!

Kahn continued, his tone persuasive, "Come on, it's not that expensive. Think about it - five billion Baileys. With that, I can settle all the country's affairs, even handle the rebels directly. Your daughter will probably return in a few days. It's a chance to show your greatness as a father. Isn't that worth it?"

Cobra finally shook off his shock and mustered a wary smile.

"Your Excellency, Alabasta can't possibly afford that much money," Cobra admitted with a sigh.

Kahn's skepticism showed, "You're telling me that a grand kingdom like Alabasta can't scrape together five billion Baileys?"

Cobra affirmed, "That's the truth."

Kahn then attempted to find a middle ground, "Alright then, how about four billion Baileys?"

Cobra responded with gratitude, "Thank you, Lieutenant General, but even that is beyond our means. Over the years..."

Kahn interrupted with a dismissive gesture, "Spare me the details. Let's settle on a figure - three billion Baileys. Given the threat of the Shichibukai, it's quite a reasonable amount."

Secretly, this was the price Kahn had in mind - substantial for a country, but a fair exchange for its stability. He mused about Doflamingo's audacious ten billion demand back in Dressrosa.

Kahn noticed Cobra's reluctance to accept the three-billion figure, despite it being a significantly lower amount than initially proposed.

"You mean to tell me that you can't even pull together three billion Baileys?" Kahn's face contorted into a grimace.

Cobra pointed out the obvious, "Remember, this isn't a simple financial transaction. It's a fight to suppress a rebellion and eliminate a Shichibukai threat. Can we afford to risk our resources for that?"

Kahn couldn't believe it, "Are you saying you can't even come up with one billion Baileys? This isn't charity, this is a necessary expense to quell a nation-wide rebellion and eliminate a dangerous Shichibukai. And what about the funds from the dance powder incident?"

Cobra explained, "With three years of drought and the dance powder incident draining our treasury, we've used most of our funds to secure food supplies."

Kahn's face soured; he was growing increasingly frustrated. He compared the swift two-billion Baileys he'd obtained from Crocodile to the slow progress with Cobra.

It appeared that his initial estimation of Alabasta's financial capability was overly optimistic. Kahn frowned, feeling somewhat deceived by his assumptions.

He grumbled internally, his thoughts spiraling, "A country with a legacy spanning thousands of years should have ample reserves... I thought we could get ten billion with ease."

Kahn's frustration deepened as he recalled how effortlessly Crocodile's organization had amassed two billion Baileys in a mere half-hour.

His irritation was palpable as he remarked, "Seems like I overestimated Alabasta's wealth."

As he mulled over the Shichibukai's ability to legally extract funds, Kahn couldn't help but feel the magnitude of their destructive power.

Gazing at Kahn's sour expression, Cobra shared his helplessness. He understood the dire circumstances; three years ago, three billion Baileys wouldn't have been an issue. But now, it was a challenge to keep the kingdom running.

Cobra, recalling Kahn's earlier words, realized that minimizing casualties was his paramount concern. He couldn't afford to send troops blindly; his daughter's safety depended on it.

Cobra finally spoke up, "Lieutenant General Kahn, give me some time. I can pool together one billion Baileys as a down payment. The remaining two billion will be paid within the next two years."

Cobra's logic was simple and pragmatic - resolve the immediate crisis and ensure a stable income to gradually repay the debt.

Kahn's eyes brightened, appreciating the practicality of Cobra's approach.

But then he weighed the value of the deal. He pondered the Neferutali royal family's history and their significance, especially given the upcoming World Conference where major events were expected, including Cobra's alleged death and Princess Vivi's disappearance.

He fretted, "What if they can't pay later?"

Despite the unease, Kahn understood the urgency in Cobra's situation. Alabasta's safety took precedence, and a deal with a hint of uncertainty was still better than no deal at all.

Bitterly, Kahn decided, "Those with money who won't spend it when it matters!"

He pushed aside his concerns and decided to proceed with the agreement, even if it meant bearing some risk.

He also recognized the looming threats of Baroque Works and Ace, which added to his motivation.

Cobra sensed Kahn's contemplative silence and felt the tension mounting.

Cobra's earlier realization that the Navy's intervention in such a complex situation was difficult resonated with Kahn. Exposing the truth at this juncture could lead to catastrophic consequences. Time was of the essence, and swift action was required.

Kahn finally broke the silence, "Alright, here's the deal. But let's be clear, this is between you and me. The Navy won't officially acknowledge this arrangement. Also, I have a condition."

Cobra was taken aback by Kahn's condition.

"What's the condition?"

Kahn stated assertively, "I want access to the underground historical text in your country."

Although Cobra initially hesitated, Kahn's reasoning made sense.

Cobra eventually conceded, "Fine, you can have it."

Kahn was surprised by the straightforwardness of Cobra's agreement, but he understood that Cobra's top priority was his daughter's safety.

Kahn's pragmatism spoke louder than his curiosity for the historical text's secrets.

Seeing Kahn's surprise, Cobra considered explaining his decision, but Kahn brushed it off.

"No need for explanations; money talks in my book."

Kahn shifted the conversation to the side, recommending a friend's new book before rallying support for his ongoing work.

As the chapter came to a close, the stage was set for an unlikely alliance. The partnership between the King and the Navy Officer, forged under unexpected circumstances, was poised to reshape Alabasta's destiny.

Chapter 30 : Can they not listen?

Cobra nodded without further argument, acknowledging Kahn's terms.

"I understand, Lieutenant General Kahn."

Kahn's tone shifted to a teasing one, "It seems you've managed to scrape together quite a sum."

Cobra looked puzzled, wondering what Kahn meant by that comment.

But Kahn didn't elaborate, merely pressing on, "Alright, let your men start collecting the money. We'll address the rebel situation first."

Cobra was caught off guard by the sudden turn of events.

"Handle the rebels?"

Kahn clarified, "Of course, I have a plan to quell them swiftly. We'll deal with them once we've got the funds. Otherwise, people might assume I'm just bluffing."

Cobra wanted to clarify his intentions, "Lieutenant General Kahn, my concern isn't about suppressing the rebels, it's about avoiding harm to innocent lives."

Kahn reassured, "I'm not suggesting we harm them. I'll accompany you there, and you can explain the truth to them. Once they're aware, they'll likely surrender. Meanwhile, I'll address the Baroque Works issue and catch Crocodile. Then, the matter will be resolved."

Cobra grasped the simplicity of Kahn's strategy. However, he was still unsure about how smoothly it would unfold.

"But will they listen to me? Convincing them might not be so easy."

Kahn retorted, "You're their king. I'll be there with you. It'll work. Don't overthink it."

Cobra realized what Kahn meant, a roar of a fire dragon would certainly capture their attention.

With the added weight of the Navy behind him, Cobra's authority was bolstered.

"I get it now. Your presence will indeed make a difference."

Kahn further confirmed his decision, "Exactly, you hesitate because you're a king. Stop hesitating. I'm here to provide support. The rebels are already incited by Crocodile; they're about to explode. That's why I decided to intervene."

Understanding the urgency, Cobra's resolve solidified.

"I understand, Lieutenant General Kahn. I'll make the necessary arrangements."

Kahn added, "Time is precious. Your country can't afford further delays."

Reassured by Cobra's cooperation, Kahn's mood improved. He considered the potential earnings from the historical text, despite the one-billion reduction.

With the perspective that various ambitious parties would pay handsomely for the text's secrets, he saw the deal as a profitable venture.

With matters settled, Cobra quickly organized everything according to Kahn's plan.

Initially, Cobra's ministers were taken aback by the unexpected course of action. Nevertheless, Cobra's determination inspired their trust.

And so, with Kahn's transform into a dragon and pick Cobra in his claw, they departed the palace, an incredible sight that left the onlookers astounded.

As they journeyed towards the rebels' location, Kahn's curiosity got the better of him.

"Cobra, which direction are the rebels in?"

Cobra chuckled at the inquiry, appreciating the need for precision.

Pointing in the right direction, he guided Kahn toward their destination.

As they reached Juba, the rebel base, Cobra felt a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. Koza, the rebel leader, was engaged in a meeting with his cadres, strategizing for their impending attack on the capital.

Just as the meeting was in full swing, chaos erupted outside. The sudden commotion piqued their curiosity.

Koza frowned, puzzled by the disturbance. A soldier soon burst in, gasping for breath.

"Urgent news, Lord Koza ! A massive dragon has appeared in the sky!"

Amused by the legendary creature's description, one cadre scoffed, "A dragon? That's just a myth."

Unconvinced, Koza ordered, "Go verify the situation immediately."

Koza 's anticipation heightened when he heard of a person being carried by the dragon. A figure that seemed remarkably similar to King Cobra.

Caught in a moment of disbelief and curiosity, Koza dashed out, his cadres hot on his heels.

The sight that greeted them was beyond their wildest imaginations.

A fiery red dragon dominated the sky, capturing their attention and evoking awe.

Koza could hardly believe his eyes. King Cobra, ensnared in the dragon's claw, was an astonishing sight to behold.

Confusion and questions filled the air as the rebels grappled to understand the situation. Their eyes widened as they observed the navy-clad figure beside Cobra.

The transition from disbelief to alarm was swift. The appearance of a legendary creature had a chilling effect, leaving them paralyzed with fear.

As the dust settled, two figures emerged, Cobra and the navy officer. Cobra's identity was clear, but the officer's presence in the navy uniform puzzled them.

Whispers and questions echoed among the rebels, "It's King Cobra!"

"Who's that next to him? Why's he dressed as a navy officer?"

Koza , wrestling with conflicting emotions, struggled to process the scene before him.

Kahn's dry humor broke the tension, "Seems like you've underestimated the king's net worth."

Cobra's voice, laced with remorse, added, "It was my mistake that led our people into such suffering. It's only natural for them to harbor resentment."

The rebels, meanwhile, were ready to take matters into their own hands. They surged forward, intending to confront Cobra.

However, before they could act, Kahn's aura shifted. A palpable, overpowering sensation washed over the rebels, freezing them in their tracks.

Cobra watched the transformation in awe. The abrupt shift in the rebels' demeanor from aggression to fear underscored the raw power Kahn commanded.

The rebels hesitated, their bravado replaced with terror. Kahn's aura was nothing short but menacing.

Cobra, fearing the situation might spiral out of control, intervened, "Koza , I have something to discuss."

Koza , gathering his wits, hesitated for a moment before instructing his cadre, "Let's hear him out."

Cobra's offer to communicate intrigued Koza . He recognized the gravity of the situation and understood that Cobra's words carried significance.

Koza 's cadres remained cautious, however, barring him from advancing. Their leader's safety was paramount.

As the rebels struggled with mixed emotions, Kahn's eerie presence continued to command respect, diffusing their rebellious fervor.

The dust hadn't yet settled on this pivotal encounter between the kingdom's leadership and the rebels, and the chapter concluded with uncertainty lingering in the air.

"Yes! It was my carelessness that caused the suffering of our people, and it's understandable for them to harbor resentment against me!" Cobra's voice dripped with regret.

But before he could continue, the rebels surged forward, clearly intent on taking some kind of action against Cobra.

This time, Kahn's sneer wasn't hidden. Did he truly not exist in their eyes?

Suddenly, an overwhelming wave of murderous intent burst forth from Kahn. The air around him seemed to vibrate with the intensity of his aura.

However, just as the rebels reached halfway towards Kahn, they froze in their tracks. Fear etched across their faces, their eyes locked on Kahn.

The suffocating weight of Kahn's murderous aura held them in place, rendering them unable to move.

Sensing the situation spiraling, Cobra intervened, shouting at the top of his lungs, "koza, I have something crucial to tell you!"

Kosha, leader of the rebels, took a deep breath, his emotions in turmoil. He responded, his tone resolute, "There's nothing left to discuss between us. This country demands change!"

"No, you have to listen to me! This matter is of utmost importance," Cobra pleaded urgently.

"Who cares to listen to you? You've deprived us of our rainwater. Do you, someone who has taken our livelihood away, deserve to be king?" One of the cadres retorted.

The moment his words echoed, they resonated with the crowd, stirring a chorus of agreement.