After White Ghost patiently coaxed and explained things, the women finally let him leave.
Even so, their gazes still judged him like a confirmed scumbag—until he left with Enel and Contena.
Those two were extremely obedient to White Ghost, but if anyone tried prying into "unimportant details," they might talk. Bringing them along was also a warning.
"Tch," White Ghost muttered as they walked. "Too many eyes on you is troublesome."
Enel strolled with his hands behind his head.
"My lord, you're the god of Skypiea. Honestly, I think you're still being too modest."
Contena nodded solemnly.
"My lord, you've seen how palace nobles live. Compared to them, you're extremely restrained."
White Ghost stared at them.
When did these two learn to talk like this?
And why did the flattery sound so stiff?
At the Bartolomeo Family headquarters, everything was prepared.
Bartolomeo paced impatiently.
"This guy's ego is huge. It's been forever—why isn't he here yet?!"
"Bartolomeo," Granny Tomo scolded, "control yourself. He's already on the way."
"Yes, Granny…" Bartolomeo lowered his head—but the fire in his chest only burned hotter.
Granny Tomo sighed.
Thank goodness there was Dezaya.
She looked at Dezaya, dressed carefully, and nodded with satisfaction.
For the family… every sacrifice was worth it.
Dezaya's heart raced. During the day she'd cursed him, but now that the meeting was real, she was nervous.
A subordinate rushed in.
"Granny Tomo! Boss Bartolomeo! He's here!"
Bartolomeo's eyes flared.
Dezaya's heartbeat quickened.
"Let's go," Granny Tomo said. "We greet him at the door."
Three figures approached—White Ghost in front, followed by a teenage boy and a young man.
Granny Tomo's Observation Haki trembled.
Something terrifying slept inside White Ghost.
Pressure rolled forward like a tide.
Weak underlings collapsed.
"Drag them away," Granny Tomo said coldly.
She looked at Bartolomeo—his face was red, teeth clenched.
He had no illusion of revenge left.
Dezaya felt the same.
White Ghost withdrew his aura.
"You're all too weak," he said casually. "I didn't even release Conqueror's Haki."
Granny Tomo sighed.
Talent… was talent.
After the banquet began, White Ghost finally spoke:
"Say it. Why invite me?"
Granny Tomo answered directly.
"I want one of these two children to go with you."
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