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)