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The entire ship was on alert outside, but inside, the atmosphere had relaxed considerably.
At least Robin wasn't as cautious and fearful as she had been initially, though she still felt a hint of unease.
The crew members outside exchanged glances, their expressions a mixture of vigilance and curiosity, but they knew better than to intrude on the moment unfolding within.
Robin sat on the edge of the bed, facing Anos. Despite his status as a king and the fact that they were about the same age, she had developed a good impression of him during their brief time together.
His demeanour was calm and composed, radiating a sense of authority that was both intimidating and comforting.
"What kind of place is the Tru Kingdom?" Robin asked suddenly, a hint of anxiety creeping into her voice.
The thought of venturing into another Kingdom stirred old fears within her fears of being discovered, of being hunted once more.
Anos smiled a warm expression that eased her apprehension somewhat. "The Tru Kingdom is ordinary. No matter how I describe it, it won't capture the full reality."
"Besides, the kingdom is undergoing constant changes. I can't say exactly how far it's progressed. You'll be able to see it with your own eyes when you arrive."
"Aren't you worried I might draw the attention of the World Government or the Marine if I go there?" Robin questioned, her brow furrowing slightly. Her past experiences had taught her that danger lurked around every corner, and she wasn't keen on putting anyone else at risk.
Anos responded nonchalantly, "What harm is there in being discovered? Your Knowledge will do more harm if I let you Rome free in the world" His casual tone surprised her. It was as if he was inviting the danger rather than shying away from it.
"I'm an ominous person. It seems like I'm always found, no matter where I go…" Robin's voice faltered. She began to share her past, letting down her guard around Anos.
This was perhaps the most relaxed and secure she had felt in the ten years since she began her life on the run.
As she spoke, the memories flooded back to dark times when trust was a luxury she couldn't afford.
The memories of betrayal, loss, and constant flight echoed in her mind, each one more painful than the last.
Robin's current appearance lacked any sign of refinement; her clothes and hairstyle were plain and weathered from her travels. Her skin had tanned during her time in Alabasta, leaving her looking a bit worn and weary.
Anos listened patiently, his eyes never leaving hers as she recounted her past.
Each painful memory resurfaced, and Robin shed tears, her sorrow stemming from a mix of unwillingness to live in the past and the helpless, lonely feeling of being perpetually on the run.
Her heart ached as she recalled the friends she had lost, the people she had been forced to leave behind.
"I thought I could find a home… but every time I got close, something would tear it away from me," she confessed, her voice breaking.
Watching her, Anos remained expressionless, offering her the space to speak without interruption.
After Robin spoke for nearly ten minutes, he finally interjected gently, "The past is behind you. There's no need to cling to it. The future is a new chapter." His words were a balm to her soul, providing a flicker of hope amidst the shadows of her memories.
With that, Anos waved his hand, and the space barrier around the room vanished instantly, a soft shimmer fading into the air.
Despite the barrier's removal, Robin, still seated on the bed, sensed no unusual change.
However, as it dissipated, Daiki, who stood outside the door, sensed everything happening inside at once.
He was aware of Anos's methods, so he remained calm, merely glancing briefly in their direction before resuming his post, hands clasped behind his back, the picture of loyalty and vigilance.
"Daiki, come in!" Anos called, his voice breaking the silence.
"Your Majesty…" Daiki addressed him respectfully from the doorway, his demeanour professional and composed.
"Find five members of the Royal Guards and arrange for Robin to be escorted to the Tru Kingdom," Anos instructed his tone firm yet considerate.
Daiki hesitated momentarily, glancing at Robin, who was still seated on the bed, looking at him with a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.
He quickly recovered and replied, "Yes, Your Majesty."
"The other thing is to make preparations for our departure from Alabasta tomorrow morning," Anos added, his eyes narrowing slightly as he contemplated the logistics involved.
"Should we notify others from the kingdom to dock in Alabasta?" Daiki asked, his brow furrowed in thought.
"No, not yet. The Tru Kingdom is not in a hurry. We'll wait until we return from Mariejois to make further arrangements," Anos decided, his expression thoughtful.
"Understood, Your Majesty. I'll see to it immediately," Daiki said, nodding respectfully before exiting the room.
They had initially planned to stay in Alabasta a while longer, but with matters now resolved, there was no need.
The climate was uncomfortably hot, and Anos found it challenging to settle in this place. It was a stark contrast to the cool, serene atmosphere of Tru Kingdom.
"Stay here and don't wander around. Wait for the Royal Guards to escort you to Tru," Anos instructed Robin, his gaze steady.
"I understand," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
With her reply, Anos vanished from his seat in an instant, as though he had never been there.
Robin was briefly stunned, her heart racing at the suddenness of his disappearance.
She turned to look at Daiki, who had escorted her. He seemed unsurprised as if this was routine for him.
"Is he a Devil Fruit user?" she wondered aloud, her curiosity piqued.
"Don't ask what you shouldn't. I don't know what His Majesty told you, but while the Tru Kingdom is open, certain boundaries cannot be crossed. Betrayal is something we despise," Daiki warned her coldly, his gaze unwavering.
Robin nodded, understanding the stern tone. She simply wanted a place to call home, without any ulterior motives.
"I just want a place to live. I have no other intentions," she stated firmly, hoping to convey her sincerity.
"I hope that's true. Stay here until your escort arrives to take you to the Tru Kingdom," Daiki said, turning to leave with a neutral expression.
Robin didn't mind his attitude. Compared to the treatment she'd endured in the past, Daiki's approach was almost welcoming.
Reflecting on her hardships, she allowed herself a rare, gentle smile, a flicker of warmth breaking through her long-held defences.
Meanwhile, Anos returned to the Alabasta Palace, his mind racing with thoughts of the future.
He collected himself as he settled onto the sofa, picking up the newspaper that had been lying on the coffee table.
He gazed at the photo of the Four Emperors printed on it, their faces a reminder of the power struggles and dangers that lay ahead.
With a sigh, he placed the newspaper back on the table and began to tap it rhythmically with his fingers, lost in thought.
He had much to consider before their journey to Mariejois. The stakes were higher than ever, and he needed to be prepared for whatever awaited them.
Lost in contemplation, he was soon interrupted by a gentle knock on the door.
"What is it?" he called from inside, trying to mask his preoccupation with authority.
The guard outside didn't open the door but reported, "Your Majesty, King Cobra of Alabasta has sent for you."
"I see. I'll be there shortly," Anos replied, rising to adjust his attire. He smoothed down his coat, ensuring he presented himself well before meeting with Cobra.
Even if Cobra hadn't summoned him, Anos intended to meet him before leaving.
Business came first, and he was not one to ignore the importance of alliances. He needed to confirm whether Cobra had an Eternal Pose leading to Mariejois; without it, there was no telling how long it might take to reach that place.
He could purchase it from the system, but it was too expensive for him to buy.
As he made his way through the palace corridors, Anos took note of the various guards stationed at their posts, their expressions serious and focused.
It was clear that Alabasta was still on high alert, especially after the recent upheavals.
The air was thick with tension, a reminder that danger was never far away.
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