Cobra nodded without further argument, acknowledging Kahn's terms.
"I understand, Lieutenant General Kahn."
Kahn's tone shifted to a teasing one, "It seems you've managed to scrape together quite a sum."
Cobra looked puzzled, wondering what Kahn meant by that comment.
But Kahn didn't elaborate, merely pressing on, "Alright, let your men start collecting the money. We'll address the rebel situation first."
Cobra was caught off guard by the sudden turn of events.
"Handle the rebels?"
Kahn clarified, "Of course, I have a plan to quell them swiftly. We'll deal with them once we've got the funds. Otherwise, people might assume I'm just bluffing."
Cobra wanted to clarify his intentions, "Lieutenant General Kahn, my concern isn't about suppressing the rebels, it's about avoiding harm to innocent lives."
Kahn reassured, "I'm not suggesting we harm them. I'll accompany you there, and you can explain the truth to them. Once they're aware, they'll likely surrender. Meanwhile, I'll address the Baroque Works issue and catch Crocodile. Then, the matter will be resolved."
Cobra grasped the simplicity of Kahn's strategy. However, he was still unsure about how smoothly it would unfold.
"But will they listen to me? Convincing them might not be so easy."
Kahn retorted, "You're their king. I'll be there with you. It'll work. Don't overthink it."
Cobra realized what Kahn meant, a roar of a fire dragon would certainly capture their attention.
With the added weight of the Navy behind him, Cobra's authority was bolstered.
"I get it now. Your presence will indeed make a difference."
Kahn further confirmed his decision, "Exactly, you hesitate because you're a king. Stop hesitating. I'm here to provide support. The rebels are already incited by Crocodile; they're about to explode. That's why I decided to intervene."
Understanding the urgency, Cobra's resolve solidified.
"I understand, Lieutenant General Kahn. I'll make the necessary arrangements."
Kahn added, "Time is precious. Your country can't afford further delays."
Reassured by Cobra's cooperation, Kahn's mood improved. He considered the potential earnings from the historical text, despite the one-billion reduction.
With the perspective that various ambitious parties would pay handsomely for the text's secrets, he saw the deal as a profitable venture.
With matters settled, Cobra quickly organized everything according to Kahn's plan.
Initially, Cobra's ministers were taken aback by the unexpected course of action. Nevertheless, Cobra's determination inspired their trust.
And so, with Kahn's transform into a dragon and pick Cobra in his claw, they departed the palace, an incredible sight that left the onlookers astounded.
As they journeyed towards the rebels' location, Kahn's curiosity got the better of him.
"Cobra, which direction are the rebels in?"
Cobra chuckled at the inquiry, appreciating the need for precision.
Pointing in the right direction, he guided Kahn toward their destination.
As they reached Juba, the rebel base, Cobra felt a mixture of anticipation and anxiety. Koza, the rebel leader, was engaged in a meeting with his cadres, strategizing for their impending attack on the capital.
Just as the meeting was in full swing, chaos erupted outside. The sudden commotion piqued their curiosity.
Koza frowned, puzzled by the disturbance. A soldier soon burst in, gasping for breath.
"Urgent news, Lord Koza ! A massive dragon has appeared in the sky!"
Amused by the legendary creature's description, one cadre scoffed, "A dragon? That's just a myth."
Unconvinced, Koza ordered, "Go verify the situation immediately."
Koza 's anticipation heightened when he heard of a person being carried by the dragon. A figure that seemed remarkably similar to King Cobra.
Caught in a moment of disbelief and curiosity, Koza dashed out, his cadres hot on his heels.
The sight that greeted them was beyond their wildest imaginations.
A fiery red dragon dominated the sky, capturing their attention and evoking awe.
Koza could hardly believe his eyes. King Cobra, ensnared in the dragon's claw, was an astonishing sight to behold.
Confusion and questions filled the air as the rebels grappled to understand the situation. Their eyes widened as they observed the navy-clad figure beside Cobra.
The transition from disbelief to alarm was swift. The appearance of a legendary creature had a chilling effect, leaving them paralyzed with fear.
As the dust settled, two figures emerged, Cobra and the navy officer. Cobra's identity was clear, but the officer's presence in the navy uniform puzzled them.
Whispers and questions echoed among the rebels, "It's King Cobra!"
"Who's that next to him? Why's he dressed as a navy officer?"
Koza , wrestling with conflicting emotions, struggled to process the scene before him.
Kahn's dry humor broke the tension, "Seems like you've underestimated the king's net worth."
Cobra's voice, laced with remorse, added, "It was my mistake that led our people into such suffering. It's only natural for them to harbor resentment."
The rebels, meanwhile, were ready to take matters into their own hands. They surged forward, intending to confront Cobra.
However, before they could act, Kahn's aura shifted. A palpable, overpowering sensation washed over the rebels, freezing them in their tracks.
Cobra watched the transformation in awe. The abrupt shift in the rebels' demeanor from aggression to fear underscored the raw power Kahn commanded.
The rebels hesitated, their bravado replaced with terror. Kahn's aura was nothing short but menacing.
Cobra, fearing the situation might spiral out of control, intervened, "Koza , I have something to discuss."
Koza , gathering his wits, hesitated for a moment before instructing his cadre, "Let's hear him out."
Cobra's offer to communicate intrigued Koza . He recognized the gravity of the situation and understood that Cobra's words carried significance.
Koza 's cadres remained cautious, however, barring him from advancing. Their leader's safety was paramount.
As the rebels struggled with mixed emotions, Kahn's eerie presence continued to command respect, diffusing their rebellious fervor.
The dust hadn't yet settled on this pivotal encounter between the kingdom's leadership and the rebels, and the chapter concluded with uncertainty lingering in the air.
"Yes! It was my carelessness that caused the suffering of our people, and it's understandable for them to harbor resentment against me!" Cobra's voice dripped with regret.
But before he could continue, the rebels surged forward, clearly intent on taking some kind of action against Cobra.
This time, Kahn's sneer wasn't hidden. Did he truly not exist in their eyes?
Suddenly, an overwhelming wave of murderous intent burst forth from Kahn. The air around him seemed to vibrate with the intensity of his aura.
However, just as the rebels reached halfway towards Kahn, they froze in their tracks. Fear etched across their faces, their eyes locked on Kahn.
The suffocating weight of Kahn's murderous aura held them in place, rendering them unable to move.
Sensing the situation spiraling, Cobra intervened, shouting at the top of his lungs, "koza, I have something crucial to tell you!"
Kosha, leader of the rebels, took a deep breath, his emotions in turmoil. He responded, his tone resolute, "There's nothing left to discuss between us. This country demands change!"
"No, you have to listen to me! This matter is of utmost importance," Cobra pleaded urgently.
"Who cares to listen to you? You've deprived us of our rainwater. Do you, someone who has taken our livelihood away, deserve to be king?" One of the cadres retorted.
The moment his words echoed, they resonated with the crowd, stirring a chorus of agreement.