[OP Marine Officer Luffy] Chapter 471- 475

Chapter 471: Manufacturing Cost and Profit

Koala interrupted with a mischievous grin, eager to share some gossip with Olivia.

"Sister Olivia, you weren't here last night, so you don't know," she teased. "Mansherry's voice was so loud that the whole floor could hear it! If I hadn't just bought some noise-isolating earmuffs, I probably wouldn't have gotten any sleep."

She punctuated her statement with an exaggerated yawn, as if to prove she wasn't making it up.

In the past, Olivia would have been the most enthusiastic about such gossip, likely driving the conversation and teasing Koala mercilessly. But with Marine representatives arriving any moment to finalize their computer transaction, she really wasn't in the mood.

"I swear, you girls are too relaxed," Olivia sighed, straightening her business attire. "Come on, 'Three, Six, Seven'! Perk up for me! This money isn't just for my pocket—you all get a share!"

Olivia was about to launch into a motivational speech to focus their attention when Violet suddenly gasped, her expression shifting as she activated her ability.

Violet closed her eyes, "looking" in a specific direction with her Devil Fruit powers. A small smile played across her lips.

"They're here," she announced calmly. "Now you can rest assured."

Almost the moment she finished speaking, they heard footsteps outside. A marine soldier appeared at the entrance, standing at attention.

"Vice Admiral Luffy! Rear Admiral Kujaku! Captain Kalifa!" he announced with a salute.

"Ah, hello. How are the preparations coming along?" Luffy said

"Yes sir! Everything is ready, please be assured!"

"Good. Carry on with your duties. We'll head inside."

After this brief exchange, Luffy and his two companions entered through the main gate. Koala and Violet greeted them with warm smiles, waving casually.

"Good afternoon," they called in unison.

Olivia rushed to Luffy, her nervousness evident in her hurried steps.

"Why are you only arriving now? I was about to call you!" she complained.

Without waiting for an explanation, she immediately launched into her report:

"Recently, with the construction of new production lines, computer production has increased steadily. I've prepared 10,000 Tier 2 computers for this deal with the Marines. I also worked through the night to create prototypes of other grade computers, but time was too short for proper testing. Mass production of those models will take much longer."

As she spoke, Olivia pulled a detailed list from her coat pocket. The document outlined specifications for six tiers of computers along with their estimated manufacturing costs.

Tier 1: As the entry-level computer, its primary function was to popularize the concept of computing technology across the Four Blues. Its manufacturing cost had been compressed to the extreme—less than 10,000 Berries per unit in mass production. However, compared to its selling price of 50,000 to 150,000 Berries, this range actually yielded the smallest profit margin.

Tier 2: This was the model already in mass production. With several new production lines opened and raw materials purchased in bulk, the cost had dropped to around 28,000 Berries per unit. Compared to its selling price of 300,000 Berries, this manufacturing cost was incredibly attractive.

Tier 3: With current technology, the difference between Tier 3 and Tier 2 wasn't substantial. Most of the internal components were identical, with changes primarily made to the exterior design. The cost was controlled within 40,000 Berries, but the price was an impressive 800,000 to 1 million Berries.

Tier 4: The situation with this tier was similar to Tier 3. However, Olivia had made every effort to incorporate more advanced configurations, with major improvements to ergonomics—including peripherals such as mouse, keyboard, and game controllers. The cost had increased to just over 70,000 Berries. This model could be slightly modified according to customer requirements, but even so, the starting price of 2 million Berries made these production costs seem utterly insignificant.

As for Tiers 5 and 6, the costs for these models were impossible to calculate precisely. From these tiers onward, computers were fully customized to the buyer's specifications. Wealthy clients might opt to plate their computers with gold or embed them with thousands of diamonds. Even more extravagant luxury features weren't out of the question. The costs were completely incalculable.

Luffy only needed to understand one thing: he would definitely make a fortune.

Looking at the list with satisfaction, tiny sparks dancing between his fingers as he handled the paper, Luffy asked casually:

"What about that buyer working for the Celestial Dragons? Have you shown him the merchandise? What did he say?"

"That guy has been staying at my hotel since he arrived," Olivia replied with a smirk. "I hear he's been playing games day and night without putting down the controller."

As she spoke, Olivia proudly puffed out her modest chest. Perhaps in terms of computer hardware and other technologies, her expertise fell far short of Dr. Vegapunk's. But when it came to capturing the hearts of users and developing engaging, addictive games—even the brilliant Vegapunk couldn't match her.

The explosive popularity of computers across the Grand Line wasn't primarily due to their utility. Most people purchased them for the games installed on them. Only a small fraction of users paid attention to the search engines, academic forums, and other practical applications included in the software package.

It could be said that Olivia had played a vital role in the widespread adoption of computer technology throughout the world. Where Vegapunk provided the technological foundation, Olivia had made them irresistible to the average person.

Luffy nodded, electricity crackling across his shoulders as he smiled.

Chapter 472: How Can You Call It a Black Heart When It Comes to Making Money!

"I just arrived at Onigashima today," Olivia continued, "so I arranged for someone to deliver the samples to him right away. The employee who delivered them told me the guy was so engrossed with his controller that he barely acknowledged his actual work. In the end, my staff had to force him to pause his game before he'd even talk to them."

Olivia chuckled, shaking her head. "But I'll give him this—he's worthy of representing the Celestial Dragons. He only glanced at the price list for a second before choosing the most expensive Tier 6 model. Of course, he still needs to relay the information back to Mariejois. He'll place the official order after his Celestial Dragon master chooses the style and sends payment."

"Hmm, a gaming enthusiast," Luffy mused, a small spark dancing between his fingers. "Fine, if he loves to play, let him play. Give him a high-end model and ask him to help secure more business for us."

Luffy smiled, the kind of smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. He appreciated generous customers like this the most. It was a pity they still had to sell computers to extract benefits from the Celestial Dragons. If they could target Mary Geoise directly, there'd be no need for such roundabout methods—they could simply take what they wanted.

"Oh, and about the Marine contract," Olivia spoke again, her expression turning serious. "According to the agreement you made with Fleet Admiral Sengoku, the commission for a Tier 2 computer is 10,000 Berries. Now that we've divided computers into so many tiers, should we adjust the commission structure?"

She gestured to her notes. "For the entry-level Tier 1, with the production cost plus a 10,000 Berry commission, we'd barely make a profit. And those high-end computers cost millions each. If we only offer the Marines 10,000 per unit, they might not be satisfied."

Hearing this, Luffy's expression immediately darkened, small lightning bolts crackling around his shoulders.

"Unsatisfied? What's there to be dissatisfied about? They don't want free money?" he scoffed. "I established this business relationship with the Marines only because of the Fleet Admiral's goodwill. Otherwise, how could they get such a favorable deal?"

Olivia opened her mouth, about to retort, "Isn't it because we don't have any connections that we're partnering with the Marines? Why do you make it sound like they're begging us?"

But before she could voice her thoughts, Luffy shot her a displeased glance, as if sensing her objection.

"What's wrong? You think you have too much money and want to give away more?" His voice held an edge sharper than a Sea King's tooth. "You can do that if you want, but it'll come from your share of the profits. I refuse to be taken advantage of."

Hearing this, Olivia quickly shook her head, abandoning any protest. "So how much do you think we should offer?"

Luffy thought for a moment, tapping his fingers on the table with small electric sparks following each movement.

"Well, we can't be too harsh on them. We'll be a bit more generous—5,000 Berries for Tier 1 computers. The Tier 2 commission remains at 10,000, Tier 3 will be 20,000, Tier 4 will be 40,000, and Tier 5 will be 80,000." He paused, a sly smile crossing his face. "As for Tier 6—let the Celestial Dragons handle that themselves. We'll address it later if necessary."

His expression grew more serious as he continued, "But there's one critical point: regardless of which tier computer they purchase, you must sign a formal, legally-binding contract requiring them to ensure the safety of the goods during transportation. If anything is damaged or stolen en route, they must compensate us at the full retail price."

Olivia nodded solemnly and immediately called for someone to draft the contract.

The four observers—Koala, Violet, Kalifa, and Kujaku—were stunned into silence. Kujaku, born into a Marine family, was particularly shocked to witness what she perceived as Luffy's betrayal of the organization.

She covered her face, unable to look at him directly, and couldn't help but marvel at his ruthlessness—even toward his own comrades. Of course, this didn't prevent her from mentally planning to approach Vice Admiral Tsuru later, to speak well of Luffy and persuade the Marines to accept these conditions.

After all, he was making money, so a touch of shadiness was to be expected.

With the business details finalized, Luffy led everyone out of the lounge toward the port where the welcoming ceremony for the three Vice Admirals was ready to commence.

Officers wearing the ceremonial capes emblazoned with "JUSTICE" stood in formation on either side of the dock. Twelve cannons had been positioned for the salute, and Olivia, as president of the Olive Company, attended as an honored guest.

The massive fleet—eighteen medium warships followed by three super-large warships at the front and six large warships behind—finally appeared on the horizon. According to Luffy's agreement with Sengoku, some of these vessels would soon belong to him.

With Onigashima's growing reputation, pirates were increasingly avoiding the area. Luffy needed these warships to arm his troops and strengthen patrols around the island. This shipment would address his most urgent defensive requirements.

"Artillery ready! Prepare to salute! FIRE!"

Before the warships even docked, twelve cannons on shore roared to life in sequence. Fortunately, the visitors were elite Marines from Headquarters who had seen their share of the world. Otherwise, they might have mistaken the G-66 branch for rebels firing upon them.

Chapter 473: Slippery Comil, Top Versailles

Even so, twenty-one consecutive salute shots rang out from the leading super-large warship in response. Vice Admirals Comil, Momonga, and Doberman couldn't help but twitch their lips in speechless exasperation.

They weren't such important figures to warrant this ceremony, and they had known Luffy well during their time at Headquarters. Was this really necessary?

"Let's go meet the future of our Marines," Comil remarked to his companions with barely concealed sarcasm.

"Indeed. It's been a while since I last saw this kid," Momonga agreed with a thin smile.

Doberman merely nodded, saying nothing.

When the warship docked, Comil was first to disembark, followed by Momonga and Doberman. In terms of raw strength, Momonga was actually the most powerful of the three and would normally lead. However, Headquarters had initially planned to send only Comil, and the leadership role had already been assigned to him. The other two were added later as escorts due to recent unrest in the New World. Though Yamakaji was originally supposed to come, he was replaced by Momonga at the last minute.

As they appeared, the officers lined up on both sides stood at attention, saluting in welcome. Luffy stepped forward to greet them, his Marine coat billowing behind him, quite different from the straw hat-wearing pirate in another timeline.

"Uncle Comil, Uncle Momonga, Uncle Doberman," Luffy called out with practiced cordiality, "it's been a long time since we last met. Welcome to Onigashima Sub-base under the jurisdiction of G-66. Thank you for your service."

"Haha, Luffy, it has been quite a while," Comil responded with a smile that didn't reach his eyes. His gaze occasionally flicked to the Marine officers standing in formation. Based on their insignia, they were at least Captain, with the two leaders holding the rank of Rear Admiral.

To be honest, Comil had visited many Marine branches, but Luffy was the first to greet him with nearly two hundred Lieutenant-level officers. He recalled Fleet Admiral Sengoku mentioning that Luffy had been conducting large-scale recruitment, expanding his forces to 10,000 troops in a short time.

My goodness, Comil thought, is this still a Marine branch? Most branches only have a few hundred or at most a thousand personnel. Even the permanent Marine force at Headquarters only numbers 50,000. This branch has existed for less than a year! Is he trying to build his own army?

From another perspective, though, the G-66 branch was clearly flourishing. Such expansion would only be possible with substantial resources, especially during this critical period when the Marines faced pressure from all sides. The fact that Luffy had transformed Onigashima so quickly demonstrated remarkable capability.

With this in mind, Comil couldn't help but probe Luffy with a pointed question.

"Well, Luffy, if I remember correctly, the World Government originally ordered you to serve as interim governor in Wano until they elected a new Shogun." He paused, studying Luffy's face. "I've heard Wano still hasn't elected a new leader, and your G-66 branch is essentially governing the entire country."

Realizing how this might sound, Comil quickly added, "Don't misunderstand—this inquiry isn't my idea. The Fleet Admiral asked me to look into it."

Hearing this, Momonga and Doberman behind him visibly darkened. Well played, they thought simultaneously. The Fleet Admiral trusts you enough to make this inquiry, and you immediately deflect responsibility onto him. Impressive.

They complained silently but said nothing aloud. After all, having risen to the rank of Vice Admiral, they weren't foolish enough to speak without thinking. Besides, Sengoku had assigned this task to Comil, not them—why should they concern themselves?

Doberman, who had recently been reprimanded by Sengoku, had grown more cautious. He quietly turned away, pretending to know nothing of the conversation.

After hearing Comil's slippery words, Luffy didn't rush to answer. Instead, he glanced at Momonga and Doberman, noting their minimal reaction. Then he sighed dramatically, his expression one of rehearsed helplessness.

"There's nothing we can do about it," he lamented. "Uncle, you don't know how corrupt the previous rulers of Wano were before we Marines arrived. The residents were starving and desperate—farming fertile land year-round but unable to feed their families."

Lightning subtly crackled around Luffy as he continued his performance. "Since I came here, I've done nothing but restore what rightfully belongs to the people. I've had Marine officers and soldiers assist civilians by working alongside them and offering support."

He placed a hand over his heart, the very picture of noble sacrifice. "They've been so impressed by the excellent character of the Marines that they've rejected their former rulers and voluntarily accepted our guidance. They even call me 'ShogunSeagull' in private, treating me as Wano's true leader."

Luffy's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "Now, forget about electing a Shogun—the moment they hear the Marines might withdraw, hundreds of thousands of Wano citizens threaten to revolt. They insist the Marines must stay and lead them toward prosperity, even if it means rebellion."

He concluded with another heavy sigh, his face a mask of sorrow, as if the burden of ruling an entire country against his will was almost too much to bear.

Chapter 474: The Praise of Three People, Nepotism?

The three Vice Admirals looked at Luffy with silent eye rolls, recognizing his attempt to manipulate the situation to his advantage. Yet beneath their exasperation, they couldn't help but admire the young man standing before them.

As Vice Admirals of the Marines, they knew all too well the organization's deteriorating reputation among civilians in recent years. In some regions, thanks to corrupt Marine officers, the hatred civilians harbored for Marines even surpassed their fear of pirates.

In this context, what Luffy and his subordinates had accomplished was remarkable—treating civilians with respect and dignity, making them willingly accept Marine governance. It was an achievement worthy of recognition.

This success proved that Luffy hadn't strayed from the path of justice. He was showing himself to be a promising successor, worthy of the Marines' continued investment in his development.

That's right—the three Vice Admirals had suspected that Fleet Admiral Sengoku intended to groom Luffy as his potential successor. They'd worried that placing someone so young in such an influential position might lead to complacency or corruption. Yet Luffy's performance had far exceeded their expectations.

However, they weren't about to take Luffy's word at face value. They would need to verify his claims by discreetly observing conditions on Onigashima and throughout Wano Country. They needed to confirm whether the reality matched Luffy's portrayal. Their findings would influence not only their own positions regarding Luffy but also the extent of Fleet Admiral Sengoku's future support for the young Vice Admiral.

"Well done," the normally stern Doberman finally spoke, his words unusually full of praise. "Our Marine's reputation has been suffering lately. We need capable young officers like you, Luffy, to lead by example."

Momonga's face softened into an approving smile as he looked at Luffy. "Compared to you, I'm starting to feel old now. Keep it up, Luffy. This is your era—it's almost time for old-timers like us to retire."

"Hey, you're going too far, Momonga!" Comil interjected with perfect timing. "I still want to serve the Marines for a few more years and earn a decent pension before retiring."

His joke lightened the mood, prompting laughter from everyone present. Small sparks of lightning danced around Luffy's shoulders as he chuckled, extending his hand in invitation.

"Alright, Uncles, our Marines have been standing at attention for long enough. Let's head inside for some tea and continue our conversation there."

The three Vice Admirals nodded in agreement. Luffy took the lead, guiding them toward the Marine port's meeting room. Kujaku, Kalifa, and the other women followed closely behind, while the port's commanding officer remained to coordinate with Comil's personnel.

They would handle the massive equipment and supply transfer that had accompanied the three Vice Admirals. After both sides made contact and confirmed everything was in order, the military port quickly buzzed with activity. Crates of weapons and ammunition were unloaded through their combined efforts.

Meanwhile, all 10,000 computers stood ready for loading once space became available on the warships.

Inside the Marine port's reception room, away from the rank-and-file Marines, everyone noticeably relaxed. During this time, the medical officer took the initiative to serve everyone tea.

Luffy introduced the women to the three Vice Admirals one by one. Kujaku was already familiar to them as Vice Admiral Tsuru's granddaughter. Olivia, originally a Marine and now their primary partner in this transaction, was someone they'd seen in photographs at Fleet Admiral Sengoku's office before departing.

Then there was Kalifa, a former CP member and current Marine Captain, whom they'd heard mentioned occasionally. As for Violet and Koala, who held the rank of Commander and were introduced as the Chief and Deputy Chief of Intelligence for the G-66 branch, none of the three Vice Admirals recognized them.

This didn't prevent them from noticing the common characteristic among all the women—each was exceptionally beautiful, a world-class beauty in her own right.

In addition, they recalled rumors about Luffy's girlfriend from his Academy days, and others suggesting he had won the heart of Vice Admiral Gion, one of the Marines' most sought-after women. Then there were the persistent whispers about his connection to Empress Hancock herself.

These observations made the three Vice Admirals suspicious. This kid whose hair isn't even fully grown, they thought, is he perhaps making personnel decisions based on personal connections and appearance rather than merit?

Noticing the strange looks the three men frequently directed toward the women, Luffy set down his teacup and cleared his throat pointedly.

"I can see what you're thinking," he said, electricity subtly crackling around his fingertips, "but don't jump to conclusions. The capabilities of Koala and Violet have been personally verified by Fleet Admiral Sengoku. Their importance, strength, and marine achievements speak for themselves."

Hearing this, Momonga coughed twice and said, "Ahem, we didn't mean anything by it. Don't read too much into our expressions."

Comil and Doberman nodded silently, as if they hadn't just been speculating about Luffy having improper relationships with his female officers.

Luffy rolled his eyes in annoyance but chose not to call them out further.

Chapter 475: Comil: I Am So Jealous~

The group sat together, sipping tea and exchanging stories about interesting happenings at Marine Headquarters and recent events that had captured public attention. With the natural flow of veteran officers accustomed to diplomatic conversation, they smoothly transitioned to business matters as if guided by unspoken agreement.

Comil was the first to broach the subject, setting down his teacup with deliberate precision.

"By the way, Wano Country and your G-66 branch have been making quite the headlines recently," he commented. "The newspapers all report that any pirates foolish enough to approach Onigashima are promptly eliminated by the formidable Marines of G-66."

Doberman picked up the thread, his scarred face set in its usual stern expression. "Is Onigashima truly that profitable? Valuable enough to make all these pirates risk certain death?"

Noticing their keen gazes fixed upon him, Luffy chuckled

"Making money comes naturally here," he explained with casual confidence. "Wano Country is abundant in sea-stone and master swordsmiths. Between the variety of sea-stone products and exceptionally reliable blades, Onigashima has demonstrated remarkable economic potential from the very beginning."

Luffy gestured broadly. "Additionally, geisha culture thrives throughout Wano, and I've overseen numerous improvements to the island's landscape. Tourism has become quite lucrative as a result."

He paused strategically, his gaze sweeping across the three Vice Admirals before settling on Olivia.

"Of course, we've now established another pillar industry," he continued. "The Olive Company under Olivia's leadership develops and sells computers. Their popularity exceeds anything you might imagine."

"People from across the world come to Wano daily just to purchase these computers. Merchants who simply transport them to Paradise can easily sell them for several times the original price. Those with broader distribution networks can spread them worldwide."

His voice lowered confidentially. "Princes and nobles from every corner of the world willingly pay ten or even twenty times the price just to own one—either to flaunt their status or to present them as gifts to curry favor with other influential figures."

Though the three Vice Admirals lacked extensive business knowledge, they understood the implications of nobles' and wealthy individuals' attitudes toward these computers. Based on Luffy's description, they could grasp just how valuable these devices were.

According to their intelligence briefing, each computer sold for 300,000 Berries. They had come to collect thousands of units. If all those computers were sold at market price, they couldn't even begin to calculate how much money the Olive Company stood to make. What was certain, however, was that it represented a fortune they could never hope to earn in several lifetimes of Marine service.

So envious! Comil lamented inwardly. How is it that I can't meet a beautiful, wealthy girlfriend like that? After much internal sighing and self-pity, he finally composed himself, sat up straight, and addressed Olivia directly.

Comil glanced surreptitiously at Olivia, recalling Fleet Admiral Sengoku's briefing. She's supposed to be Luffy's girlfriend, isn't she?

"Since we're discussing computers," he began politely, "I wonder how Ms. Olivia is preparing for our transaction?"

Olivia responded with a graceful smile and nod. "Of course, I've been ready for some time. If everything proceeds smoothly, 10,000 computers will be prepared for shipment shortly."

Hearing this figure, even these experienced Vice Admirals were momentarily stunned.

After recovering from his surprise, Momonga asked, "Ten thousand units? That's double what we originally agreed upon!"

Even the hard-liner Doberman, who had initially disdained the idea of Marines serving as glorified delivery personnel, felt his heart skip a beat at the mention of 10,000 units.

According to their agreement, the Marines would only need to transport the computers to designated islands. In return, Olive Company would provide a commission of 10,000 Berries per computer plus shipping costs.

With Olivia now offering 10,000 computers at once, Doberman didn't find the number excessive at all. Instead, he clenched his fists excitedly, barely restraining himself from leaping up in celebration.

Ten thousand computers—that translated to one hundred million Berries in commission alone. At this moment, he finally understood Fleet Admiral Sengoku's foresight and appreciated Luffy's contributions. If they could maintain a stable relationship with Olive Company and continue handling transportation, the Marines could become financially self-sufficient, generating substantial military funding annually without relying on government allocations.

Next year's situation would be particularly precarious due to sanctions from the Five Elders. The projected military budget deficit might reach the staggering figure of tens of billions of Berries. Under normal circumstances, the Marines would simply tighten their belts and spread their limited resources thin across their global operations.

But with Olive Company as a partner, they needn't fear such shortfalls. While they couldn't completely fill a gap of tens of billions, they could certainly ease the financial pressure considerably, allowing the Marines to maintain essential operations.

Though Doberman and his colleagues already recognized Olive Company's strategic importance, Olivia's next words transformed their expressions instantly, stripping away their carefully maintained Vice Admiral composure.