Chapter 339: Taking Over Wano Country and Dealing with Kozuki Hiyori

Luffy paused, letting his words hang in the air. His gaze bore into Sukiyaki, who was trembling violently. With his mouth gagged, the old man could only whimper, his muffled pleas for mercy filling the room.

"Eh? Nothing to say?" Luffy asked, tilting his head mockingly. "You're really heartless, you know that?"

Shaking his head as if in disappointment, Luffy turned away. He retrieved the Den Den Mushi and addressed the citizens of the Flower Capital directly. His voice echoed across the city, cutting through the lingering tension.

"More than 20 years ago, Kurozumi Orochi usurped the position of shogun and allied himself with the pirate Kaido," Luffy began. "Together, they ruled Wano Country with cruelty and greed, exploiting its people and resources without remorse.

"I believe you, the residents of Wano, know better than anyone the suffering inflicted during those years. You don't need me to remind you."

Luffy paused briefly, his words stirring memories in the hearts of the citizens. They recalled the pain, loss, and humiliation they had endured under Orochi and Kaido's rule. The mention of those names alone reignited the bitterness of the past.

After a moment, Luffy continued. "Not long ago, the Marines defeated Kaido and executed Orochi, liberating Wano from their tyranny. Since then, we've worked tirelessly to rebuild this country. We released prisoners in Usagi, liberated laborers in Hakumai, distributed food in Kuri, and rebuilt homes in Ringo and Udon.

"And what did we ask for in return? Nothing. Not a single thing."

Luffy's voice grew colder as he added, "But some of you... you ate the food we provided, wore the clothes we gave you, and then turned around to betray us. You killed my people and desecrated their bodies."

His words hung heavy in the air. The Flower Capital fell into a stunned silence as guilt and fear crept into the hearts of those who had turned against the Marines.

Turning to Sukiyaki, Luffy's expression darkened. "And you... You're the worst of them all. Your position as shogun was stolen by Orochi, and your son Oden died fighting Kaido. Instead of avenging them or rebuilding your family's honor, you hid in the countryside, lusting after your collection and living in disgrace.

"But then you had the audacity to come here, provoke me, and kill 271 of my brothers. Even if I were a saint, I wouldn't forgive you for that."

Without warning, Luffy slapped Sukiyaki across the face with the back of his hand. The force of the blow echoed like a thunderclap, leaving the old man's face bruised and swollen.

"Listen up!" Luffy shouted into the Den Den Mushi. "From this moment forward, the Kozuki family is banished from Wano Country. Anyone who dares support them will be sent to the mines. From now on, this nation belongs to the Marines. We will govern it fully and restore order."

His declaration left the residents of the Flower Capital stunned. The once-revered Kozuki name was now synonymous with betrayal and shame.

Luffy turned to the Marines gathering at the base of the Shogun's Tower and barked his next orders. "The Shogun's Castle is under strict martial law. Anyone who approaches without permission will be executed. When this fool dies, I'll carve his body into 271 pieces and place them on the graves of the Marines he killed."

The Marines saluted in unison, their voices ringing out. "Yes, sir!"

Satisfied, Luffy ignored Sukiyaki's muffled cries and leapt back into the Shogun's Castle. Inside, the Marines had already secured the area, rounding up maids, servants, and a handful of Kozuki loyalists. The operation was efficient and precise, led by none other than Gavin, Luffy's trusted brother-in-arms.

Gavin approached Luffy as he landed, offering a quick salute. "Luffy, the Flower Capital is under control. Lord Fujitora's support forces have locked down the outer districts. Lady Ain's team is dealing with the wealthy merchants and nobles who backed the Kozuki family. The Shogun's Castle is secure."

Luffy nodded. "Good work. What's next?"

Gavin hesitated, glancing over his shoulder before motioning to a nearby Marine. The soldier stepped forward, leading a woman into the room. She was dressed in a luxurious kimono adorned with intricate patterns, her light green hair cascading over her shoulders. Her head was bowed, her silence palpable.

Luffy's gaze swept over the woman. Even without an introduction, he knew who she was. Her elegant appearance and resemblance to Oden made her identity unmistakable.

"This is Kozuki Hiyori," Gavin said softly. "We found her hiding in the castle."

Hiyori hesitantly raised her head, her eyes meeting Luffy's. The moment their gazes locked, fear gripped her heart. She had witnessed what Luffy had done to her grandfather. The sight of him was enough to make her feel as if she were staring into the eyes of a devil.

Luffy studied her for a moment before letting out a derisive chuckle. "Relax," he said. "I'm not like those scum who kill without reason. You're just a woman caught in the middle of this mess. I have no intention of harming you."

He raised his chin, his voice calm but commanding. "Look at me."

Hiyori flinched at the authority in his tone but obeyed, lifting her head to reveal her delicate features. Her trembling was subtle but noticeable as she stood before him, exposed and vulnerable.

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