One Piece: King of the World-Chapter 177: Dragon: I Almost Got Killed Because of You!

In the headquarters of the World Government, the Five Elders were gathered around a table in their office, laughing and discussing the events of the World Summit.

The nearly week-long summit had taken its toll, even on these experienced statesmen. As the discussions drew to a close, the elders allowed themselves a rare moment of relaxation, reflecting on the overall success of the conference.

The myriad issues presented by the various nations, both large and small, hardly merited further mention. But the summit had undeniably produced some positive outcomes.

For example, the problem of the Revolutionary Army, a persistent thorn in the side of the World Government, had no clear resolution at the outset. However, Claudius had unexpectedly intervened with an intriguing suggestion. Whether or not his proposed solution would effectively weaken the Revolutionary Army was uncertain, but at least it provided the affected nations with a measure of hope, a far better outcome than simply admitting helplessness.

Then there was the matter of Fish-Man Island. Claudius had addressed this issue in detail during the summit, laying the groundwork for the island to be fully integrated into the World Government as a member nation. As a result, Fish-Man Island would begin to enjoy the full benefits afforded to member states. Claudius's CP-X unit would spearhead collaborations with the island, and even the Marines had pledged support, promising further cooperation in the near future.

The Five Elders weren't particularly concerned with the details. Claudius had been granted full authority over matters related to Fish-Man Island from the outset, and they trusted him to handle the situation.

"Hahaha, sea train technology," the bald elder chuckled. "What started as a World Summit turned into a trade fair, thanks to that kid Claudius."

The elder with blonde hair nodded, a wry smile on his face. "Still, you have to admit, he has a knack for delivering surprises when it matters most. His idea about the sea train technology actually makes sense. It might even help curb the Revolutionary Army's influence to some extent."

They weren't deluded enough to think the sea train would destroy the Revolutionary Army outright, it wasn't realistic. But even reducing their momentum and putting pressure on their activities would be a significant step forward.

"If the sea train network can be expanded quickly," the bald elder added, "the World Government's finances might stabilize over the next few years. We wouldn't have to stretch ourselves so thin."

The elder with a beard stroked his chin thoughtfully. "True. When you think about it, most of these struggles, whether with pirates or the Revolutionary Army—boil down to economic issues. As long as we maintain financial strength, we can bolster our forces and remain in control. Without that, everything crumbles."

"That settles it," the bald elder said. "This technology is worth fully supporting. Production might be limited right now, but if it proves effective, we'll push Claudius to ramp up investment in this area."

The elder with curly hair interjected, "Should we report this matter to Lord Imu?"

At this, the room fell silent. The Five Elders exchanged glances, weighing their options.

Finally, the bearded elder spoke, "Not yet. Let's wait until we have tangible results. Once we do, we'll bring it to Lord Imu and present it as a polished achievement."

Despite their outward authority, the Five Elders held a deep-seated fear and reverence for Imu. They avoided contact unless absolutely necessary, preferring to stay out of his gaze. The thought of someone being above them, someone who wielded true control was an unspoken tension among the Five.

Back at Claudius's palace, the man in question was sitting comfortably, speaking with someone over the phone snail. He was in high spirits, having secured significant progress during the summit.

Tom had been busy organizing everything, ensuring the kings of the fifty participating nations were properly attended to. None of them seemed eager to leave, whether out of genuine interest in the sea train technology or a desire to curry favor with Claudius. Their motivations didn't matter, what mattered was their willingness to invest.

For Claudius, this wasn't just a business venture. It was part of his larger plan to consolidate power within the World Government. If he intended to take control one day, the organization couldn't be in ruins. It needed to retain enough value to be worth governing, and the sea train project was a step in that direction.

As Nia, his ever-efficient butler, placed a glass of juice on the table beside him, she couldn't help but smile at the voice emanating from the Den Den Mushi.

The caller was none other than Monkey D. Dragon, leader of the Revolutionary Army. Having read the recent news, Dragon had wasted no time in reaching out.

"My situation is already difficult enough," Dragon complained. "And now you're making it worse for me, Claudius. By the way, those books you sent me last time were useless. Don't you have anything better? Aren't we supposed to be allies? Why are you sabotaging me like this?"

Claudius leaned back with a grin. "Oh, come on, Dragon. Didn't you just mess with one of the CP agencies recently? What's wrong with me having a little fun too? Besides, once the sea train system is up and running, your Revolutionary Army will benefit from it as much as anyone else. Surely you'll make good use of it."

"Benefit?" Dragon shot back, exasperated. "This project of yours is going to make my life infinitely harder! You call that a benefit?!"

Claudius chuckled. "What can I say? I'm doing this for the greater good. There are so many people suffering on the seas, struggling to survive. If I have a way to improve their lives, are you really going to stand in my way? That wouldn't look good for a revolutionary, would it?"

Dragon fell silent, knowing Claudius had a point. Their revolution was supposed to be about creating a better future, not hindering progress. Opposing the sea train system would not only contradict their principles but also risk alienating their supporters.

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Still, the practical difficulties this project would create for the Revolutionary Army couldn't be ignored. Dragon felt as if Claudius was deliberately making his life harder.

"As for the Poneglyphs," Claudius added with a smirk, "why not stage a daring rescue? I hear Nico Olvia is still locked up in Impel Down."

"You'll be the death of me, Claudius," Dragon muttered, exasperated.

After a pause, Dragon shifted the topic. "Let's set that aside for now. What about the Seven Warlords of the Sea? Are you making any progress there?"

"Why are you in such a rush?" Claudius replied, feigning helplessness.

"Because I don't have the luxury of lounging around like you do! Do you have any idea how hard it is to build a movement from scratch?!" Dragon's frustration poured out in a flurry of words.

"Yes, yes, I hear you," Claudius said dismissively, his tone deliberately nonchalant.

"You're insufferable," Dragon grumbled. "And don't think I didn't notice, you're setting something up, aren't you? Some grand plan?"

Claudius chuckled again. "Let's just say I have a few moves in mind. Don't worry, Dragon. When I finalize the next batch of the Seven Warlords, you'll get three spots. Consider it a gift."

"Three spots?" Dragon repeated, surprised. "You're making big moves, aren't you?"

"Of course," Claudius said smoothly. "Trust me, it'll all come together. Just be patient."