It was only after they started working together that Masako learned from Olivia and girls about their deep connection with Luffy. The realization left her in awe, as she hadn't expected the seemingly distant Seagull Shogun to have such a personal bond with them.
What Luffy didn't anticipate, however, was how quickly Masako could negotiate a partnership with Olivia. Judging from her actions and demeanor, this woman was undoubtedly resourceful—a trait Luffy couldn't help but acknowledge. At least, she seemed to excel in the business of running a high-profile establishment.
Reflecting on this, Luffy waved his hand, signaling Masako to stand up from her kneeling position.
"Since you're now a partner of Olivia's, consider yourself one of us," he said with an air of authority. "If you encounter any difficulties in the future, don't hesitate to reach out to Olivia—or directly to me. We support capable and ambitious individuals who have the skills and ideas to thrive."
Hearing this, Masako had to stifle a laugh. She had initially been unaware of the relationship between Olivia and Luffy, but now, she saw a golden opportunity. She resolved to hold onto this connection no matter what. To solidify her position, she had even neglected her newly opened dance hall, choosing instead to linger at this establishment every day in hopes of crossing paths with Luffy again.
Her persistence had finally paid off.
With Luffy's endorsement as the Seagull Shogun, she was effectively untouchable. As long as she maintained her composure and avoided reckless actions, no one in Onigashima or Wano Country would dare trouble her. Her business was already flourishing, and with this newfound protection, she envisioned herself becoming the next Mama-san in no time.
"Thank you so much for your trust and generosity, Seagull Shogun. I will work hard and remain loyal to Olivia!" Masako declared, bowing deeply to show her allegiance. She swiftly positioned herself as Olivia's deputy, a role she believed would further secure her future.
Luffy appreciated her quick-witted response and waved dismissively. "Alright, you can go now. I still have matters to discuss with Olivia and the others."
Masako, having achieved her goal, didn't linger any longer. After bidding farewell to everyone, she took the elevator and left with a triumphant smile.
Once Masako was gone, only Luffy's trusted group remained in the room—Olivia, Yamato, Alpha, Hancock, and a few others from his inner circle. Yet, Luffy's sharp observation told him that they weren't entirely alone. He could sense the presence of several women hiding in adjacent rooms. It wasn't difficult to deduce their identities—they were likely hostess employed by Masako, called in specifically to entertain Olivia and the others.
This realization made Luffy's eyes narrow dangerously, a fierce glint flashing in his gaze. Everyone in the room tensed, aware of his displeasure. Olivia, the main culprit, lowered her head, not daring to meet his eyes. She had intended to reveal this arrangement to Luffy after a few days of revelry, but fate had other plans. Her misfortune was compounded by Luffy's unexpected arrival today.
Feeling cornered, Olivia cast a pleading look at Hancock, her expression a mix of confusion and grievance.
"You were the one who brought this situation to his attention?" she whispered, hoping for some reprieve.
Hancock, initially oblivious to the implications of her actions, had simply wanted to share her newfound hobby with Luffy. Only now did she realize the unintended consequences. Embarrassed, her cheeks flushed a faint red as she turned her gaze away guiltily.
Olivia, observing Hancock's reaction, let out a resigned sigh. As much as Luffy's words carried weight, how could anyone stay mad at such a beautiful and endearing woman? Sometimes, forgiveness was the only option.
However, while Olivia could forgive Hancock, Luffy was far less lenient. His attention shifted to the strange machine dominating the center of the living room, replacing what would typically be a television cabinet. The device, complete with multiple large screens and numerous connected wires, appeared to be some sort of advanced gaming setup.
When Luffy arrived, it seemed the group had been in the middle of a game, as the screens displayed paused images of an intense match. Having not played any games since his times in the One Piece world, Luffy felt a twinge of curiosity. However, there were more pressing matters to address before he could indulge in such distractions.
Fixing his gaze on the three women standing obediently before him—Olivia, Alpha, and Yamato—Luffy finally broke the tense silence.
"You all seem to be enjoying yourselves," he began, his voice deceptively calm. "Playing games, entertaining women, and even opening a game city. It seems I didn't give you enough work, considering you've found time to exploit loopholes in my arrangements."
Though his tone remained measured, those who knew him well could sense the simmering anger beneath the surface. Yamato, quick to act, immediately raised her hand in defense.
"Report, sir! I'm on my day off today!" she exclaimed.
Luffy paused, doing a mental calculation. Indeed, it was her designated rest day. His expression softened slightly, and he gestured for her to step aside.
"Very well. Stand aside," he ordered.
"Yes, sir!" Yamato responded briskly, retreating to a safer position near Hancock. As she passed, she cast a sympathetic glance at Olivia, silently wishing her luck.
Left to face the storm, Olivia and Alpha exchanged anxious glances. Before Luffy could direct his fury at them, Alpha decided to speak up, attempting to mitigate the situation.
"Let me clarify something," Alpha began, her voice firm but tinged with nervousness. "I'm not here to play with women. In fact, I'm the one being played with by them—wait, no, that's not right. What I mean is, I'm here to inspect the situation!"
...
==============================================
Support me at [email protected]/goldengaruda and check out more chapter of this or more early access chapter of my other fanfic translation.
=============================================