Chapter 343: Hiyori Surrenders, the Princess's Maid

Luffy nodded at Yamato's compliment, though a wry smile played on his lips. He appreciated her admiration but felt compelled to address her perspective.

"Yamato, I'm glad you think so," he began, "but honestly, being 'more powerful than Kozuki Oden' isn't much of an achievement."

Yamato's expression shifted, a mix of confusion and unease crossing her face as Luffy continued. "What exactly about Oden draws you to him so much? Why do you admire him to the point of wanting to become him?"

Ignoring the tension in the room, Luffy began listing his questions. "Do you admire his adventurous spirit? If that's the case, wouldn't Roger, Whitebeard, or even your father, Kaido, be just as worthy of admiration? They've all had decades of adventures on the seas."

Luffy paused, letting his words sink in. "Or maybe it's his strength? But even in that regard, Oden wasn't the strongest. He'd have a hard time beating Kaido in a fair fight, let alone matching Roger or Whitebeard."

The room fell silent as everyone's eyes turned toward Yamato. While they had heard her talk about Oden countless times, they had never quite understood why she idolized him so much. Even Hancock, who acknowledged Oden's role in helping Roger reach Laugh Tale, found Yamato's obsession over-the-top. To idolize someone so deeply that she claimed to become them seemed... strange.

Yamato lowered her head, her fists clenched tightly. Despite the tarnished image of the Kozuki family, Oden remained her beacon of inspiration. Her companions' skepticism stung, but she wasn't about to back down.

"No!" Yamato exclaimed, her voice firm and passionate. "Maybe Oden wasn't the greatest adventurer or the strongest fighter, but that's not what makes him special."

She raised her head, her eyes burning with emotion. "It's his will—his personal charm! I'll never forget the day he was executed. He stood in a boiling pot of oil, holding up his retainers on a wooden board. He sacrificed himself to save them and gave Wano Country a chance to fight back against Kaido in the future."

Her voice grew louder as she spoke, her words brimming with conviction. "At that moment, I saw what it meant to be a true leader. Oden stood tall, even in the face of death. I vowed that day to become Kozuki Oden and defeat Kaido, no matter what!"

The room was still for a moment. Yamato's fervor was palpable, her passion undeniable. The others exchanged glances, unsure how to respond. Even Luffy seemed lost in thought for a moment, his fingers lightly tapping the tatami mat.

Finally, Luffy broke the silence. "Yamato," he said, his tone even, "how do you feel about someone admiring your father like that?"

Before Yamato could respond, the door slid open with a quiet sound. All eyes turned toward the entrance, where Hiyori knelt, holding a tray. She had traded her elaborate attire for a simple light pink kimono adorned with delicate purple floral embroidery. Her smooth, light green hair hung loosely, unkempt but still striking.

Luffy frowned at the sight of her. "Didn't I tell you to leave?" he asked sharply. "Why are you still here? And what's with this attire?"

Hiyori lowered her gaze, glancing quickly around the room before focusing on Luffy. When her eyes landed on Hancock, they widened slightly in awe. How can someone be so beautiful? the thought flashed through her mind before she quickly composed herself.

Bowing respectfully, she replied, "Vice Admiral, you did allow me to leave, and your subordinates treated me fairly. But you also said I could remain if I wished. I requested permission from the Marine guards to serve as a maid in the Shogun's Castle."

Without waiting for a response, she carefully entered the room, balancing the tray as she closed the door behind her. With a grace born of years in the brothel, Hiyori moved through the room, serving tea with practiced precision. Yet, unlike her usual alluring demeanor, her actions were simple and elegant, befitting a proper maid.

After placing tea in front of everyone, Hiyori retreated to a corner of the room and knelt quietly, her posture perfect as she awaited further instructions. Her composed demeanor left the group momentarily stunned.

Luffy narrowed his eyes, watching her closely. He couldn't quite decipher her motives, but he wasn't particularly worried. If she's up to something, we'll know soon enough.

Without hesitation, he picked up the teacup she had served him and took a sip, unbothered by the possibility of poison. The taste was smooth, and he gave a slight nod of approval.

Meanwhile, Hancock, Nami, and Violet were less trusting. Their eyes followed Hiyori's every move, their expressions filled with suspicion. The moment Hiyori retreated to the corner, the three women exchanged glances, silently confirming their shared relief.

Seeing that the woman looked pretty, they thought Luffy had found a new love. But it seems that this is not the case, and Luffy even seems to be somewhat hostile to her.

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