Tesoro Was Quite the People Person

Leading the group was a tall, powerfully built middle-aged man.

He wore a pure white suit, his jacket open to reveal a golden shirt beneath. His long golden hair was slicked back, and his face bore an enthusiastic smile.

The "Golden Emperor," Gild Tesoro himself.

Standing beside him was a short, stout man in a black suit with a bowl cut—the Gold-digger, Tanaka.

"Welcome! Welcome to Gran Tesoro!"

Tesoro strode forward, stopping five meters away from Brook before giving a slight bow.

"Honored Sir Brook, and everyone from the Cloud Wanderer Pirates, it is my honor, and Gran Tesoro's honor, to welcome such distinguished guests."

His tone was warm without being fawning, respectful without being humble.

It showed precisely the respect due to one of the Four Emperors.

As the world's richest man, the "Golden Emperor" who controlled twenty percent of the world's circulating wealth, Tesoro certainly had reason to be proud.

The Golden City he had built was neutral territory, and even the World Government acknowledged its special status.

He could speak directly with the Five Elders and have Marine admirals "serve" him—provided he paid them, of course.

But he knew very well.

Those advantages were still not enough to speak to Brook Lott as an equal.

Because Brook was a new Four Emperor.

Because Brook was the man who had defeated Kaido head-on and captured him alive.

Tesoro neither wanted to offend nor could afford to offend someone like that.

So he had to offer the highest level of hospitality, the most sincere smile, and the most generous gifts.

"Mr. Tesoro, you are too kind," Brook said with a smile as he stepped off the ship. "I have long heard of the Golden City. Today, I finally have the chance to see it for myself."

"Your presence is