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The powers exercised by the Council of Ministers are primarily focused on addressing matters of public welfare and organizing key domestic affairs.
As the king of Tru Kingdom, Anos is responsible for setting the kingdom's development direction, overseeing military expansion and economic growth, and managing foreign relations.
When major events arise or national policies need revision, Anos consults with the Council in advance.
This ensures they can prepare documentation and communicate changes effectively to the kingdom's citizens.
This system has proven effective. Even if the king makes a critical error in decision-making, the impact on the general populace remains minimal.
Currently, Tru Kingdom's most important institutions are the Council Department, the Commercial Department, and the Royal Guard.
The latter two are directly controlled by the king, leading to their rapid development.
"Your Majesty, should others be notified about convening a Council of Ministers meeting?" Suzu asked.
"No need. This time, only the Experience Council will participate," Anos replied.
"Understood, Your Majesty," Suzu responded respectfully.
After placing the pile of documents on the table in the main hall, Suzu departed. Moments later, Abona and Zen entered, their arrival coinciding with Suzu's departure.
Abona bowed deeply as he stepped inside. "Your Majesty, we have returned."
"Good to see you back. I have important matters to discuss with you," Anos said, rising from his seat and walking toward them.
Turning to Zen, he added, "Summon all members of the Kingdom Guard to the rear palace grounds within a week. I will personally lead you to our next destination."
"Are we heading to Skypiea?" Zen asked excitedly.
"You will know in due time," Anos replied.
"But, Your Majesty," Abona interjected, "if the entire guard leaves the kingdom, what will happen to the country's security?"
"Now is not the time to worry about that. The kingdom has stood for centuries, even during times of little strength. Moreover, we are not planning any external conflicts in the next few years. This is the perfect opportunity to regroup and strengthen our forces," Anos explained.
"If that's the case, I'll go with them when the time comes," Abona volunteered. "There's little for me to do here in the kingdom."
Anos shook his head. "It's too soon for you to join. I have tasks for you here. Focus on your responsibilities for now, and we'll discuss other matters later."
Zen then asked, "Your Majesty, what about the Marine warships stationed in the South Blue?"
"They are handling their own business," Anos said with a faint smile. "And let us not forget that Tru Kingdom is a sovereign nation. We cannot allow ourselves to be trampled upon. If they push too far, I won't hesitate to respond with force."
Although Anos had no intention of provoking conflict with the Marines, his confidence in his growing strength meant he wouldn't shy away from a direct confrontation if necessary. To him, ten Marine warships posed little threat.
Zen nodded. "Understood, Your Majesty."
Anos continued, "In addition to preparing the guard, take Abona to Clearwater Bay within the week. You'll oversee the work there."
Zen turned to Abona and explained, "Clearwater Bay is the kingdom's primary shipbuilding base. Nearly all the kingdom's craftsmen gather there. It's a critical location for developing our naval and commercial fleets."
"Clear," Abona replied, though he seemed overwhelmed by the scope of these developments.
Anos concluded, "Once you've finished at Clearwater Bay, ensure someone monitors the Marines' movements. Report any unusual activity immediately."
"Yes, Your Majesty!" both Zen and Abona responded in unison.
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Currently, the kingdom's affairs are progressing steadily, but Anos is acutely aware of underlying issues. Without the current system, many citizens might have faced starvation.
Addressing this concern, Anos planned a Senate meeting for the following day a crucial step toward further reform.
Despite being king for only three years, Anos had already implemented two major policy shifts.
Such diligence could provoke dissatisfaction among the populace, but he remained resolute.
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The next day, the palace hall was meticulously arranged. Tables were set on both sides of the aisle, with tea provided at each seat.
The Senate members' collective presence underscored the meeting's importance.
Unlike previous public sessions, this meeting was conducted in secrecy, with only Anos and Senate members in attendance.
A key agenda item was cooperation with Alabasta. Anos sought to allocate nearly half of the kingdom's commercial operations there to bolster Tru Kingdom's economy.
He understood that failing to address existing economic weaknesses could lead to ruin.
As the meeting progressed, Losta prepared to depart for Alabasta, accompanied by a delegation of 20 officials from the Commercial Department.
Their mission was to align Alabasta's development strategies with Tru Kingdom's economic plans, laying the foundation for a prosperous alliance.
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