[OP Marine Officer Luffy] Chapter 596 - 600

Chapter 596: Hancock's Solicitation, Sister Alliance

As the crowd waited in anticipation, a massive vessel adorned with the distinctive seagull emblem gradually parted the clouds, materializing in the distant sky.

"Look! It's the Stormbreaker! Admiral Luffy has returned!" came an excited shout from a particularly sharp-eyed tourist.

The exclamation sparked immediate activity throughout the port as the atmosphere became electric with excitement. Many witnessing the Stormbreaker for the first time couldn't suppress their astonished gasps.

This was the world's first warship capable of autonomous flight through technological innovation—a legendary vessel hailed as both a "miracle" and a "flying fortress" by renowned scientists and shipwrights alike. It served as the exclusive transport for one of the Marine's four Admirals.

The ship's reputation had spread far and wide alongside Luffy's meteoric rise. Among younger generations, it was considered comparable to Roger's "Oro Jackson" and Whitebeard's "Moby Dick"—a truly legendary warship that had already secured its place in maritime folklore.

As the Stormbreaker's approach became unmistakable, Wano residents spontaneously began waving and cheering with unbridled enthusiasm.

Reporters and photographers representing major newspapers—having received advance notice and positioned themselves strategically—rapidly assembled their equipment. The majestic spectacle of the Stormbreaker breaking through the clouds and soaring against the azure sky was captured with precision.

Among the beautiful women at the forefront of the gathering crowd, several could no longer contain their excitement.

Yamato stood on tiptoe, one hand shading her forehead as she peered into the distance.

"They're here! They've returned!" she announced, barely controlling her enthusiasm.

Koala, equally unable to disguise her eagerness, declared: "After more than six months away, they're finally back! I must show him how significantly my strength has improved during his absence."

"I've missed Luffy terribly," Mansherry added, clasping her hands together with undisguised anticipation. "I wonder if he's missed me as well."

Listening to the animated conversation among the three women, Hancock stood with one hand resting imperiously on her hip, her expression betraying mounting impatience as several prominent veins began throbbing visibly on her forehead.

Observing their discussion grow increasingly enthusiastic—the three women seemingly prepared to throw themselves into Luffy's arms the moment he disembarked—Hancock finally reached her breaking point.

"Silence, you three fools!" she commanded sharply.

"Huh?" The trio responded in unison, turning toward her with expressions of bewildered innocence.

Undeterred, Hancock continued her tirade, her beautiful features contorted with indignation:

"Have you all forgotten how that heartless man abandoned you? Have you forgotten spending half a year alone and helpless in this wretched place?!"

Witnessing Hancock's outrage, the three women exchanged glances, silently struggling to suppress their amusement.

Perceiving their compliance, Hancock nodded with satisfaction, though she continued her impassioned criticism:

"That bastard left us here while taking Ain to the North Blue. Without a word of explanation, he's returning with two additional women. If we simply observe passively, aren't you concerned that the number of 'sisters' will continue to increase until we're eventually supplanted entirely?"

"Hmm? I don't mind," Yamato responded cheerfully. "The more sisters we have, the more friends to enjoy! Isn't that wonderful?"

Hancock directed a ferocious glare toward Yamato, who remained oblivious to her social misstep. The energetic woman prepared to elaborate on the numerous benefits of an expanded sisterhood.

However, Koala—displaying remarkable awareness and quick reflexes—leapt forward to cover Yamato's mouth with her hand before additional damage could occur.

Koala offered an awkward smile and hastily affirmed: "Ha ha ha, Sister Hancock is absolutely correct! When that scoundrel returns, we must confront him properly."

Relieved that not all her companions were similarly obtuse, Hancock released a dismissive snort, temporarily absolving Yamato of her indiscretion.

Yet she remained unsatisfied, continuing to indoctrinate her "sisters" with unwavering dedication:

"Remember this well—when Luffy disembarks, do not approach him, and certainly do not offer him a warm reception."

Koala and the others nodded obediently, indicating their willingness to follow the elder sister's guidance.

"Excellent," Hancock affirmed. "I shall represent all sisters in questioning this unfaithful man. You need only observe my performance. Is that understood?"

Having delivered these instructions, Hancock surveyed her audience, directing her gaze toward Hina, Olivia, and Viola, who had maintained silence throughout the exchange.

Noting no objections from this quarter, Hancock finally expressed satisfaction. A triumphant smirk settled on her lips as she positioned herself to await Luffy's arrival, thoroughly pleased with her diplomatic maneuvering.

Chapter 597: The Alliance Collapses, the Scheming Empress

"Darling, your meal has been prepared, and the servants have readied hot water for you," Hancock purred seductively, her arms wrapped tightly around Luffy as she pressed herself against him. "Would you prefer to eat first, bathe first, or perhaps... enjoy me first?~"

Looking at Hancock's exquisite face as she clung to him so possessively, Luffy leaned closer and placed an affectionate kiss on her cheek.

"My greedy little snake," he murmured fondly. "I've been traveling for days, and still you won't let me catch my breath? Don't worry—I'll attend to you properly tonight. But first, let me have something to eat to restore my energy."

"Mmm, very well~" Hancock replied with a playful pout, sticking out her pink tongue cutely before gently taking his arm and guiding him toward the dining hall.

Yamato, Koala, and the others following behind the couple witnessed this intimate exchange with barely contained fury, their eyes practically shooting sparks of rage.

Rewind to just thirty minutes earlier.

Under Hancock's persuasive instigation, the women had been successfully convinced to collectively boycott Luffy, intending to demonstrate their solidarity and teach him the consequences of abandoning them at home while potentially pursuing romantic connections elsewhere.

As planned, after the Stormbreaker docked, Hancock immediately stepped forward to confront the Admiral.

The other women watched eagerly, anticipating that she would deliver a scathing rebuke that would make Luffy keenly understand the price of his prolonged absence and suspected infidelity.

What happened next, however, completely shattered their expectations.

As Hancock approached Luffy with apparent aggressive intent, the smile on his face momentarily froze, his instincts clearly sensing impending danger.

Before he could even begin formulating an explanation, Hancock's intimidating aura suddenly evaporated. Like a transformation from fearsome tigress to affectionate kitten, she threw herself into his arms.

"Ohhh, my beloved!" she exclaimed with dramatic sentiment. "You've finally returned to me! I've missed you desperately!"

This abrupt reversal confounded everyone—Luffy himself, Ain, Nami, and especially Koala,Mansherry and Yamato, who had eagerly assembled to witness Hancock's promised confrontation.

Indeed, the entire port fell into stunned silence following this unexpected display.

From the crowd of onlookers, only the faint sound of metaphorical hearts breaking could be heard. Numerous individuals clutched their chests as if experiencing profound loss, some even dropping dramatically to their knees in apparent despair.

The collective silence persisted until, after an indeterminate period, an experienced photographer regained his professional composure. With renewed enthusiasm, he quickly depressed the shutter on his camera den den mushi, capturing the intimate moment between the stunning couple.

The distinctive click of the shutter broke the enchanted silence. As if emerging from a trance, the assembled crowd reanimated—photographers rapidly began taking pictures and recording the scene while spectators whistled and applauded enthusiastically.

It was precisely at this moment that Mansherry, Yamato, and Koala comprehended the full extent of their betrayal. Hancock had deceived them completely, abandoning their alliance the instant it served her personal interests.

Infuriated, they attempted to rush forward and claim their own places in Luffy's embrace.

Unfortunately, they had missed their opportunity—one step behind meant permanently disadvantaged. Even as they attempted to demonstrate their affection, one of Luffy's arms was already firmly secured in Hancock's possession.

Moreover, with so many observers present, Luffy couldn't possibly distribute his attention equally among all the women without compromising his dignified image.

And so, watched by her increasingly envious and resentful "sisters," Hancock leaned comfortably against Luffy's shoulder, accompanying him through interviews with reporters and graciously accepting the adulation of the public alongside him.

The other women were relegated to following behind like mere attendants for a full half hour.

Their frustration mounted until they nearly ground their teeth to powder. Finally, after the crowds dispersed in orderly fashion and the group returned to their private residence on Onigashima with no outsiders present, the facade crumbled instantly.

The moment the door closed, Yamato and Koala charged toward Hancock with unbridled fury.

"Traitor!" Yamato shouted. "What happened to our sister alliance?! Is this how you honor your commitment to your sisters?!"

"How utterly shameless!" Koala added vehemently. "We trusted you completely! This means war!"

Even Hina, Kalifa, and Olivia—who had initially dismissed the entire situation as trivial—now wore expressions of deep displeasure after witnessing Hancock's "triumph" for half an hour. They too advanced, prepared to surround the Pirate Empress and demand accountability for her deception.

Chapter 598: Dressrosa Relocation

Facing the collective assault from her fellow women, Hancock displayed not the slightest hint of fear.

She carried herself like a proud white swan, gracefully extending her elegant neck as she confronted her challengers with unwavering confidence.

As the women edged closer to physical confrontation, Luffy—despite not fully understanding the source of their conflict—felt compelled to intervene in his capacity as head of this unconventional family:

"What do you think you're doing?!" he demanded, his voice resonating with authority. "I haven't seen any of you for half a year, and the moment I return, you immediately resort to squabbling? Is there nothing that can wait until after dinner? And now that Ain has returned, if you have grievances or require mediation, direct your concerns to her."

Luffy's approach might have provided him temporary advantage, but it also created unseen complications that would be difficult to resolve. In truth, he had unwittingly complicated matters further.

Although Luffy typically maintained a cheerful demeanor and seemed approachable in everyday interactions, when he spoke with genuine displeasure, the women instinctively fell silent.

Ain cast a sidelong glance at Luffy's frustrated expression before quietly pulling Koala and Hancock aside to ascertain the situation.

Meanwhile, Yamato, Hina, and the others who had been moments away from venting their fury upon Hancock now stood with downcast eyes, their postures reminiscent of schoolchildren awaiting punishment after misbehavior.

Of course, Luffy had no genuine intention of disciplining anyone. With a dismissive wave, he beckoned everyone to gather and be seated.

After listening to Koala's detailed explanation, Ain quickly grasped what had transpired.

Predictably, Hancock received significant criticism for her manipulative conduct.

This development felt catastrophic to Hancock. During the past six months, without Ain's moderating presence, she had nearly established herself as the preeminent sister within their extended family. Now, on the very first day of Ain's return, an incident had provided ammunition against her, allowing Ain to reclaim her influence and once again assert dominance over the Pirate Empress.

Unfortunately for Hancock, regret at this juncture served no purpose—the damage was already done.

Once everyone was comfortably seated, Luffy did not immediately commence the meal. Instead, with everyone assembled, he seized the opportunity to formally introduce the newest members of their circle—Vivi and Reiju—to the rest of the women.

Thanks to extensive coverage in major news outlets, the women already possessed some basic knowledge of each other. Despite this being their first face-to-face meeting, they quickly accepted the two newcomers as legitimate members of their unusual family.

With introductions complete, lunch officially began.

Unlike traditional households with rigid rules about silence during meals, Luffy's approach fostered a different atmosphere. For him, the dining table represented the perfect occasion for strengthening interpersonal bonds.

As conversation flowed naturally, the new arrivals—Vivi and Reiju—rapidly developed connections with the other women. Among them, Viola, who had recently transitioned from princess to queen, discovered abundant common ground with the newcomers.

Additionally, Hancock, having occupied her throne for many years, possessed considerable expertise in governance. The four women swiftly set aside previous antagonisms and engaged in animated discussion about effective leadership strategies.

Among the remaining group, Yamato, Koala, Kalifa, Mansherry, and others—either chronologically young or youthful in temperament—clustered around Nami, eagerly questioning her about the experiences and observations from her journey through the North Blue.

Simultaneously, Hina, Kujaku, Olivia, and Robin provided Luffy with comprehensive updates regarding recent developments and significant events in Wano Country during his absence.

Perhaps most noteworthy among these updates was Viola's decision, following her coronation as queen, to relocate Dressrosa to the vicinity of Wano Country.

Truthfully, Luffy had anticipated handling this challenging relocation personally upon his return. He was genuinely impressed to learn that Koala had independently accomplished this feat, employing 690 Flame Clouds to transport the entire island housing Dressrosa to its new location.

Worth mentioning was that despite Viola's ascension to queenship, her father—King Riku III—continued governing in her stead within the kingdom itself. This arrangement struck Luffy as particularly commendable.

Unfortunately, his attempt to praise Koala's remarkable achievement went unacknowledged, as she remained thoroughly engrossed in Nami's vivid descriptions of North Blue landscapes, completely oblivious to Luffy's admiration.

Beyond acknowledging Viola and Koala's accomplishments, the consequential impacts of Dressrosa's relocation demanded attention as well.

Viola's residence in Wano certainly didn't render her an absentee ruler. Following the devastating conflict between Doflamingo and Kaido, Dressrosa had been left in a state of considerable disrepair.

Chapter 599: Luffy's Era

The kingdom's handicrafts, commerce, and agriculture all required substantial time to recover. Dressrosa had been reduced to ruins during the previous conflict. Despite significant improvements facilitated by the Dwarves' assistance, critical shortages in essential supplies persisted.

Recognizing these challenges, Viola had proposed a pragmatic arrangement with Wano Country. Under the terms of this agreement, Wano would finance supplies and wages, permitting Dressrosa's residents to seek employment opportunities within Wano's borders. Simultaneously, Dressrosa would market its specialty products to Wano, generating revenue crucial for reconstruction.

Currently, thousands of able-bodied citizens from Dressrosa resided on Onigashima. As their sovereign, Viola bore the responsibility of ensuring both their safety and fair treatment.

This situation prompted Luffy to raise an observation that had caught his attention earlier.

"I noticed something when I was approaching on the Stormbreaker," he began thoughtfully. "Onigashima appears significantly larger than when I departed. Are those new structures Koala's doing?"

Hina glanced appreciatively toward Koala, who remained engrossed in animated conversation with Nami, and nodded confirmation.

"Indeed. Following our previously established strategy, Onigashima serves as our economic hub," she explained. "While the current dimensions seem adequate, we must anticipate future development. As Wano's reputation for economic opportunity spreads, an increasing number of merchants and nobles have begun arriving to conduct business and tourism activities."

She continued, "Consequently, we collectively determined that Onigashima's original size would prove insufficient over time. I tasked Koala with relocating several uninhabited islands I had identified, effectively expanding Onigashima's total area."

"Hancock deserves acknowledgment for her contribution as well," Hina added. "The Calm Belt contains numerous high-quality islands—rich in resources yet undeveloped. She meticulously charted these locations on navigational maps, enabling Koala to systematically transport and integrate them with Onigashima."

Hearing her name mentioned, Hancock's ears perked up attentively. Realizing someone was acknowledging her efforts, she momentarily ceased her self-congratulatory posturing.

Her satisfaction proved short-lived, however, as Ain, Hina, and Kalifa directed stern glares in her direction. Though Hancock normally remained undaunted by their disapproval, Luffy's presence—particularly after his recent intervention—compelled her to suppress her indignation. She lowered her gaze and discreetly recorded their names in her small notebook for future reference.

"I see..." Luffy stroked his chin thoughtfully. "Given these circumstances, perhaps 'Onigashima' no longer seems appropriate as a designation. We should consider renaming it. What about 'Seagull Island'? This would simultaneously represent Marine authority while signifying a peaceful, stable haven."

Since the specific name held minimal importance, and Luffy had proposed the change, the women naturally expressed unanimous agreement.

Thus, Onigashima officially became Seagull Island. Though superficially a mere nomenclature adjustment, this transformation symbolically announced the definitive conclusion of Kaido's era. A new age—belonging to emerging powers and fresh perspectives, or more precisely, an era uniquely defined by Luffy himself—stood poised to commence.

Since returning to Wano Country, Luffy had prioritized developmental initiatives. Through the diligent governance efforts of his capable partners, both Wano and the recently integrated Dressrosa demonstrated remarkable prosperity.

The G66 Marine branch now commanded tens of thousands of soldiers, benefited from Dr. Vegapunk's technological innovations, and enjoyed financial stability through sea stone mining operations. Collectively, these factors had transformed G66 into a formidable power that could not be disregarded.

Indeed, many observed that this single division possessed sufficient capability to potentially dominate the entire New World. Even within Marine ranks, rumors circulated suggesting Admiral Luffy had accumulated excessive power and operated with troubling autonomy.

These murmurings, however, were swiftly suppressed by Marine leadership, spearheaded by Fleet Admiral Sengoku himself. The Fleet Admiral even convened a high-level conference specifically addressing this matter.

Speaking candidly before assembled Marine commanders, Sengoku declared that should any of them demonstrate the capacity to defeat an Emperor as Luffy had accomplished, he would unhesitatingly recommend their promotion to Admiral rank, authorize them to establish a new Marine branch, and ensure they received comparable institutional support.

Following this pronouncement, critical voices among the Marine command structure quickly subsided. The reality remained unspoken but understood: regardless of whether they possessed the strength to challenge an Emperor, even achieving Admiral status wouldn't guarantee the ability to develop an equivalent to the G66 branch.

After all, none possessed access to strategic resources like sea stone in the quantities Luffy controlled. None had established a corporate empire that developed revolutionary computing technology, popularized video gaming throughout the world, and generated substantial tax revenue. And certainly, none maintained relationships with a network of queens and princesses who provided hundreds of thousands of loyal subjects and invaluable political connections.

The man who had somehow consolidated these diverse advantages was Luffy—a singular anomaly in the World Government's eight-century history.

Chapter 600: Two Years, Sea Calendar 1520

In the blink of an eye, another two years had passed. It was now the year 1520 in the Sea calendar—the very year when, in the original timeline, Luffy would have first set out to sea.

May 5th of this year also marked Luffy's 17th birthday. Though this age represented legal adulthood in many nations, others set the threshold at 18. Yet despite being at or just approaching this transitional age, Luffy already occupied a position of extraordinary influence—not merely as the commander of a Marine base, but as one of the World Government's paramount military assets.

Throughout the seas, perhaps only Im in the Holy Land could claim to surpass Luffy's power at such a young age. Even in terms of strategic importance, the Five Elders—the highest authority in the world—likely valued Luffy above many of their noble but ultimately useless and incompetent Celestial Dragon associates.

Attaining such prominence and authority at his age, Luffy's name had inevitably become universally recognized. His various exploits and the rumors surrounding them provided endless material for dinnertime conversations among ordinary citizens across the world.

To countless noblewomen, he represented the perfect prospective partner. For passionate young men everywhere, his achievements embodied aspirational goals—simultaneously inspiring and seemingly unattainable.

Yet what occupied this universally admired figure during his leisure hours?

"Mmm~ah~comfortable~yes~right there, use more pressure..."

Luffy, bare-chested and wearing only a pair of shorts, reclined on a beach chair while receiving a massage from Hiyori Kozuki. Occasionally, his appreciative murmurs produced sounds that might easily be misinterpreted by anyone passing by.

Hearing these ambiguous utterances, Hiyori blushed deeply as she continued working her fingers into his rock-hard muscles, applying her full strength to make any impression on his densely packed physique.

This continued for approximately ten minutes until Luffy sensed the diminishing pressure from her increasingly fatigued hands.

"Alright," he sighed, somewhat disappointed. "Let's conclude today's session here."

As he spoke, he turned over and prepared to sit upright. Hiyori, visibly relieved, quickly reached for a clean towel placed nearby, intending to wipe the perspiration from Luffy's body.

Observing her flushed, exhausted face covered in sweat while noting his own unchanged condition, Luffy waved dismissively.

"You should attend to yourself first," he suggested.

Hiyori paused momentarily, glancing up at the towering figure before her, then down at the towel clutched in her hands. A flicker of disappointment crossed her features, immediately followed by apprehension—perhaps her service had proven unsatisfactory, and he now viewed her unfavorably.

Throughout their two-year acquaintance, Luffy had neither accepted Hiyori as one of his romantic partners nor dismissed her from his presence with convenient excuses. He maintained her proximity much like an ordinary attendant, permitting her presence primarily to enhance his public image.

This arrangement left Hiyori deeply disappointed. She considered herself exceptionally beautiful, certainly comparable to the women already in Luffy's intimate circle. Perhaps he genuinely lacked interest in her, or perhaps his collection of companions had simply reached capacity.

Regardless of her subtle hints or even direct overtures, Luffy consistently declined to incorporate her among his chosen partners.

Observing Hiyori's downcast expression, Luffy's gaze revealed no particular emotional response or special consideration.

"Return to the residence," he instructed casually, "and inform those slackers hiding indoors that if they don't emerge to enjoy the sunshine, I'll personally collect them one by one."

"...Yes, Admiral," Hiyori replied softly.

She offered a slight bow, lips compressed in reluctant compliance, before retreating several steps, turning, and departing with brisk strides.

Luffy's attention shifted elsewhere immediately upon her departure, never once tracking her retreating figure.

"My, my, what a heartless man," came a teasing voice from nearby. "She has made her feelings for you abundantly clear. Such persistent disregard risks inflicting genuine wounds upon a woman's heart."

The focus of Luffy's gaze had shifted to an elegant dark-haired woman reclining on a nearby beach chair, her shapely jade-white legs crossed as she lounged in a provocative purple swimsuit, leisurely perusing a book.

She embodied a perfect synthesis—the regal bearing of aristocracy combined with the refined demeanor of a scholar. Even after two years of close companionship, the sight of Robin still provoked unmistakable reactions from Luffy, stirring feelings deep within him that he couldn't entirely control.