One Piece: Wielder of the Void

63. Poneglyphs

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Since the Tru Kingdom sought to expand, many of its ambitions inevitably brought it into the orbit of the World Government.

Without aligning itself with that immense power, achieving its goals, especially with expansion in the South Blue, would be challenging.

The Tru Kingdom understood this well and had begun considering how to approach the World Government to cement its plans.

King Anos of Tru, standing beside King Cobra of Alabasta, cast his gaze over the arid, sun-scorched horizon.

"King Cobra," he said thoughtfully, breaking the silence, "what do you find most unsatisfactory about Alabasta?"

Cobra was momentarily taken aback by the bluntness of the question. The subject was sensitive, almost taboo, for a land proud of its resilience, a kingdom forged under the harshest of conditions.

But Alabasta had recently been showing an openness to change, owing in no small part to Tru Kingdom's steady rise under Anos's rule.

If not for this emerging influence, Cobra likely wouldn't have entertained Anos's probing question with as much tolerance.

"As a whole," Cobra began, after gathering his thoughts, "Alabasta has no reason for dissatisfaction. Our people are unified, and their beliefs are aligned. But…" His voice faltered slightly, reflecting the heaviness of the truth he had long carried.

"I want to do more for them. The climate here worsens year after year, and the once fertile oases have mostly turned to desert. Providing for my people has become harder."

"So, I ask you, King Anos, if you have any counsel on how we might improve our circumstances."

The sincerity in Cobra's voice spoke of a ruler who truly bore his kingdom's burdens, and it struck a chord with Anos.

He had seen other rulers more preoccupied with wealth and influence than the well-being of their people.

There was a king who was not only aware of his people's struggles but also searching for solutions.

"I may not be intimately familiar with Alabasta's internal affairs," Anos replied, looking thoughtfully around, "but from my journey here, I've seen that Alabasta's people are resilient, honest, and resourceful. They only need the right opportunities."

He paused, considering how best to phrase his offer without overstepping. "If you're open to it, once I return to Tru Kingdom, we could initiate an economic partnership."

Cobra raised an eyebrow in interest, nodding for Anos to continue.

"Our Tru Kingdom could establish large enterprises within Alabasta," Anos explained. "This would create jobs, stimulating the local economy and offering your people a chance to improve their lives."

"However, for this to succeed, Alabasta would need to take responsibility for maintaining security and coordination. How does this sound to you, King Cobra?"

Anos had anticipated Cobra's initial reluctance. While Cobra was a wise ruler, he was cautious by nature, and he knew his limits.

Although he would not admit it openly, Cobra likely understood that his kingdom wasn't impervious to outside influences or threats.

The offer was precisely calculated. Anos wanted to make Cobra see the advantages without appearing overly eager.

Tru Kingdom's plans, after all, were not confined to Alabasta alone. While the current focus lay on developing the Four Blues, the Grand Line's untapped markets beckoned with far greater prospects.