235. Progress
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The Tru Empire was filled with countless regulations. Every merchant, whether arriving from or travelling to other countries, was required to wear a specific bracelet upon entering the empire.
Garp glanced at the staff member and asked, puzzled, "Do all outsiders entering the Tru Empire have to wear this bracelet?"
"Yes, Mr. Marine, this is a mandatory requirement of our empire," the staff member, a polite and professional looking woman, explained. "It is designed to prevent Devil Fruit users from causing harm within the empire. Once you're wearing this bracelet, you'll have unrestricted access to public areas throughout the Tru Empire without any interference."
"Haha~! Then let's put them on. It's already getting late. Is there somewhere nearby where we can stay?" Garp asked, his usual carefree demeanour intact.
The woman nodded. "The tallest building just beside this hall is a hotel. Once you've put on the bracelet, you're free to check in on your own."
Garp glanced around the hall. It was a simple passage, but the stringent entry and exit procedures of the Tru Empire were already evident.
He extended his hand, allowing the staff member to secure the bracelet around his wrist. Surprisingly, it didn't cause him any discomfort it felt as if it wasn't even there.
Once Garp had his bracelet, the others accompanying him had no reason to refuse. Among them were several Devil Fruit users who were intrigued by the device's effects.
"This bracelet can actually suppress Devil Fruit abilities without interfering with normal movements or behaviour?" one of them remarked in amazement.
Even Akainu couldn't hide his astonishment. "How has their technology advanced to such a level?" he muttered, sceptical yet impressed.
Garp, as casual as ever, waved off the concern. "It doesn't matter. Let's get moving it's late. We'll find a place to rest and deal with everything else tomorrow." He led the group forward, his footsteps confident.
As they exited the port hall, the scene before them left everyone speechless. Despite the late hour, the streets were bustling with activity.
The sheer number of people walking about, the towering modern buildings, and the vibrant commercial complexes were a stark contrast to other countries.
"Vice Admiral Garp, it's so lively here!" Gion said in disbelief, her eyes wide as she took in the sight.
"It sure is," Garp replied, though his expression remained serious. The other Marines shared his sentiment. Even Akainu, usually unflinching, couldn't deny the striking transformation of the Tru Empire.
Not long ago, this land had been a desolate region where famine was a common sight. Now, it stood as a thriving, prosperous nation. The contrast was staggering.
"Hello, esteemed Marine guests," a well-dressed man in a suit and tie greeted them respectfully. "I am Elias, the receptionist of the Tru Empire Welcome Hotel. By order of the emperor, your rooms have been prepared. Please allow me to escort you."
Garp raised an eyebrow. "Who arranged this for us?"
"I'm afraid I can't disclose that information," Elias replied politely. "However, your accommodations have been fully arranged. Please, follow me."
Akainu's adjutant leaned in and asked cautiously, "Do you think this could be a trap, Admiral Akainu?"
"There's no need to worry," Akainu said firmly. Without waiting for further discussion, he took the lead, his curiosity masked by his usual stern demeanour.
As they followed Elias to the hotel, the Marines marvelled at the opulence around them.
The hotel's sign read "Tru Empire Welcome Hotel," a name befitting a venue of national importance. Upon entering, they were greeted by a grand, luxurious interior.
The hotel's architecture was stunning, with intricately crafted designs that reflected the work of skilled Devil Fruit users. The decor exuded magnificence, and its proximity to the port made it a prime location.
"How much does it cost to stay here for one night?" Gion asked curiously.
"The cost is 150,000 beris per person, per night," Elias answered with a polite smile.
"Per person?" Gion was stunned. "Are you serious? That's highway robbery!"
The others shared her surprise, though Elias remained unfazed. "Currently, the hotel has 800 rooms in use, excluding those reserved for special guests. The rooms assigned to you were personally arranged by the emperor. Without that, securing accommodations at this hour would have been impossible," he explained.
"Enough talking," Akainu interrupted. "Arrange for our dinner and then take us to our rooms."
"Understood, Mr. Marine. Please, follow me," Elias replied, gesturing for them to proceed.
The hotel featured state-of-the-art amenities, including massive elevators that felt more like small rooms. Each elevator had a six-meter ceiling, ensuring even large groups could travel comfortably.
When they reached the second floor, they found an expansive dining area. Lavish tables were set with an array of exquisite dishes, their presentation alone enough to make mouths water.
The enticing aroma filled the air, leaving everyone in awe of the culinary artistry.
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