After three hours of sailing, a massive shadow appeared on the distant sea.
Nelson lowered his telescope and handed it to his companion.
"Take this. I'll go inform Vice Admiral Karl."
Knock knock knock.
"Sir, it's me!"
"Come in."
Nelson carefully pushed the door open and saw Karl focused on maintaining his beloved swords. He lowered his voice.
"Sir, we've spotted the Golden City. We should arrive in about half an hour."
"Got it. Good work. By the way… how's that Celestial Dragon? Causing any trouble?"
Nelson froze for a moment, then shook his head vigorously.
"N-no. She's been staying in her room the whole time. Her guards are always outside. Other than that… nothing unusual."
Karl chuckled lightly.
"Hmph… at least she knows how to behave."
Nelson swallowed nervously.
Daring to talk about Celestial Dragons like that… probably only Commander Karl—or Vice Admiral Garp—would dare…
"Alright, let's go take a look."
Karl sheathed Shusui and Raiu, then grabbed the still-eating Raven and placed it on his shoulder.
As for maintaining Raven?
It was already a "mature sword"—it didn't need him.
Approaching the Golden City
Stepping outside, Karl looked at the increasingly clear outline ahead and couldn't help but sigh.
"What a nouveau riche display…"
This was the true meaning of a city clad entirely in gold.
The entire ship was probably worth hundreds of billions of Berries.
"No wonder Gild Tesoro bribes Celestial Dragons and flatters Marine officers…"
"Without the World Government, he would've been robbed clean long ago."
"Smart guy."
Nelson scratched his head and smiled.
"Hehe, sir… I've heard this place is amazing. Can we… go have some fun too?"
Karl glanced at him.
Nelson instantly shut his mouth.
Karl laughed and patted his shoulder.
"Go ahead. Take the others and enjoy yourselves—you've earned it."
"But they're all your responsibility. If anything goes wrong… I'll hold you accountable."
Nelson snapped into a salute.
"Yes, sir!"
Karl trusted Nelson's abilities.
His strength, however… hadn't improved much.
But that was normal.
There were countless Marines like him—no matter how hard they trained, talent was a ceiling they couldn't break.
And Nelson himself had no great ambitions.
Karl even offered him a Devil Fruit once—
But the guy refused.
Because he didn't want to become a "landlubber."
Karl had no answer to that.
Arrival
Half an hour later—
"Sir, we've arrived… Huh? Those ships over there… pirate ships?"
"Ignore them. This is a neutral zone. Marines aren't allowed to act against pirates here."
"Go inform the Celestial Dragon—we've arrived."
"Yes, sir!"
Golden Tower – Control Room
"Boss, a Marine ship is about to dock. Based on its markings, it's the newly appointed Marine Hero, Vice Admiral Karl. Should I personally receive him?"
The man reclining on a golden throne suddenly opened his eyes.
"Marine Hero?"
"Zehahaha… Just became a hero and already here to enjoy himself instead of upholding justice?"
Gild Tesoro stood up and looked at the surveillance screen.
The moment he saw the Celestial Dragon aboard—
His pupils shrank.
"There's a World Noble too…"
Beside him, Baccarat covered her mouth in surprise.
"Amazing… So the Marine Hero is escorting a Celestial Dragon?"
Tesoro waved his hand.
"You don't need to handle them. I'll receive them personally."
"And tell those pirate scum to behave."
"If anyone causes trouble… you know what to do."
Baccarat nodded and left.
Tesoro stared at the image of Ordesia.
A trace of hatred flickered in his eyes—
But quickly disappeared.
After adjusting his appearance, he ordered the Holy Light ship to be guided to the Super VIP Channel, then headed out personally.
Super VIP Port
Karl leaned on the railing, looking around.
Tesoro really understands business…
Dedicated reception.
Exclusive VIP channel.
Private luxury port.
Even the surrounding facilities were far more extravagant.
And most importantly—
From here, you could look down at pirate ships docked at the regular port.
That instant feeling of superiority?
Perfectly designed.
At that moment, Ordesia spoke:
"Vice Admiral Karl… this is my first time here. Would you accompany me around the Golden City?"
Karl's expression instantly turned serious.
"Sorry. I have no obligation to accompany you."
"As for safety, don't worry. This place is secure."
"I believe the owner of the Golden City wouldn't allow any harm to come to you."
A voice sounded from ahead:
"As expected of a Marine Hero."
"Your Highness Ordesia, please rest assured—we will ensure you have a wonderful stay."
Tesoro walked forward, dressed entirely in gold.
With a wave of his hand, attendants surrounded Ordesia, providing meticulous service.
He then turned to Karl with a wide smile.
"Your presence brings great honor to my establishment."
"How about I personally guide you around?"
Karl laughed.
"Sure, I'll trouble you then."
"Oh—and take good care of my subordinates."
"Hey, Nelson—don't gamble away your pants, or I'll be angry!!!"
Nelson shouted back:
"Yes, sir!"
Tesoro clearly understood Karl's implication.
He immediately called Baccarat over and whispered instructions.
Then he smiled at Karl.
"Rest assured. Your men will have an unforgettable experience."
"Baccarat, take good care of them."
"No problem! Colonel Nelson, please follow me~"
Karl nodded slightly.
As expected of someone at this level—he understands instantly.
Tesoro continued flattering:
"Vice Admiral Karl truly lives up to the rumors—so handsome, the most handsome man in the world! I feel ashamed in comparison!"
Karl waved him off.
"No need for flattery. I don't like that."
"Let's speak plainly."
Tesoro stiffened briefly, then recovered his smile.
"Of course! Whatever you need, I will do my utmost to satisfy you."
Karl looked at him calmly.
"I have a large amount of gold."
"Can you handle it?"
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