"Enough about that, by the way, do we have enough money?"
The group huddled together, like a bunch of country bumpkins arriving in a big city, the first thing to check being their assets.
"Ah, no need to worry about that. I notified an acquaintance, so entry is free this time."
Saying this, Shanks suddenly waved: "Hey! Hathaway!"
Following Shanks' greeting, everyone saw a maid standing at the city gate. She nodded slightly at Shanks' call, then quickly walked over.
"Long time no see, Hathaway!" Shanks greeted her with a smile.
"Indeed, it's been many years, Shanks. You've… matured quite a bit these past years!"
Hathaway scrutinized Shanks; he already looked like an old man at such a young age.
"Hahahaha! After all these years have passed!"
"Alright then, I'll take you to see His Majesty Nero now." Not planning to chat much at the gate, Hathaway intended to invite them to see Nero first.
So, the group grandly entered the city, boarding a golden lion-drawn carriage and heading towards the Golden Palace.
"Does Nero have other guests today? I saw a pink pirate ship at the harbor," Shanks asked, remembering the other pirate ship at the harbor.
Hathaway paused at the question, then immediately answered firmly: "No! That is not a guest of Nicuss."
"Is that so?" Seeing there seemed to be another hidden story, Shanks didn't press further.
He was also very much looking forward to meeting Nero, even restless, eager to show Nero how much he had grown over the years.
Thinking of this, the corner of Shanks' mouth couldn't help but curve into a confident smile.
"What a bustling city it is!"
Through the carriage window, Beckman and the others also expressed their awe. Nicuss was definitely the most luxurious city they had ever seen.
Soon, the carriage arrived at the Golden Palace in the very center.
Hathaway, like an ordinary maid, bowed and invited them in.
"This way, please. His Majesty is currently in the Small Garden behind. I'm sure she will be very happy to see you, Shanks."
"Hahahaha, really?"
Following Hathaway's steps, the others lagged behind, no longer able to contain their curiosity, and asked Shanks:
"Captain, your relationship with Nero seems pretty good?"
"That's great, I thought we were going to get beaten up!"
"Finally, I can relax."
"When I was with Captain Roger, among everyone on the ship, Buggy, Nero, and I had the best relationship..."
Shanks' words reassured everyone, and the atmosphere became much more relaxed.
Only Hathaway, in front, quickened her pace a few steps.
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