Chapter 287

Pachinko parlors are everywhere in Japan, and the allure of these machines to the Japanese is tremendous.

Steel balls can be exchanged for various daily necessities or cash, which is very convenient for the public.

"It's really noisy," Arthur was shocked by the frenzy as he walked into a large pachinko parlor in Tokyo.

Yasuko Sawaguchi noticed that Arthur didn't seem to enjoy this place and suggested, "Mr. Smith, there are too many people here. How about we leave?"

Arthur nodded, "After this, you'll go to Uniqlo to serve as their brand ambassador. It's a famous clothing retail chain in Japan, after all!"

"Ah, thank you," Yasuko was now quite famous in Japan, primarily as an idol and TV actress.

In the afternoon, Arthur met Kazuo Okada at the Sheraton Hotel. California Pacific Investment Company set up a new investment fund in Japan to invest in the pachinko business.

Kazuo Okada had early business dealings in Las Vegas. After returning to Japan, he entered the gaming rental industry and now mainly manufactures steel ball gaming machines.

"Mr. Smith, my gaming machine business needs a bigger market now, but here in Tokyo, the Sumiyoshi-kai is an unavoidable obstacle," Kazuo Okada warned.

Emily Shear, standing by, explained, "Sumiyoshi-kai is one of Japan's three major designated violent organizations and currently the largest underground organization in Tokyo.

They've surpassed Inagawa-kai a few years ago, and now Sumiyoshi-kai's sixth-generation leader, Shigeo Nishiguchi, is very keen on the gambling business!"

Arthur was indifferent: "Send someone to meet Shigeo Nishiguchi on my behalf and tell them that the pachinko business is very profitable, and cooperation is essential for mutual benefit.

Kazuo Okada should also accelerate expanding production capacity to capture the market. The Japanese public needs something to hold onto now..."

Given Arthur's international reputation and wealth, he didn't worry that these Japanese thugs would dare disrespect him.

After Kazuo Okada and Emily Shear left the living room, Yasuko emerged from the room, having just finished her bath.

Seeing Arthur standing by the window, admiring the night view of Tokyo Bay, she asked, "Sir, are you done talking?"

Arthur nodded with a smile, pulling Yasuko into his arms. "I've bought a vacation villa in Karuizawa. Let's go there tomorrow!"

Karuizawa is a small town northwest of Tokyo, located in the Saku region of southeastern Nagano Prefecture, on a plateau about 1,000 meters above sea level. Known for its cool summer climate and snowy winters, it's a famous resort and luxury villa area in Japan.

"Okay," Yasuko agreed without objection.

Arthur reached into Yasuko's pajamas, feeling the softness. He kissed her cheek and reminded, "As long as you behave, you'll have everything!"

"Okay," Yasuko snuggled against Arthur, rubbing her face against his. "My agency, Toho Entertainment, might have some opinions."

"Don't worry, it's not a problem," Arthur assured, kissing Yasuko and unbuttoning her pajamas.

Before long, Arthur was leaning over Yasuko's back, gripping the glass as they both admired the night view of Tokyo Bay.

Gasping, Arthur suddenly spoke, "Tomorrow in Karuizawa, wear a kimono."

"Yasuko will listen to you," she responded breathlessly.

The next day, Arthur took Yasuko to the vacation villa in Karuizawa. The scenery was indeed beautiful, and the climate was pleasant.

Arthur smiled, lifting Sawaguchi Yasuko's chin and giving her a quick kiss. 

"Alright, you go prepare. We will go to the hot spring later," Arthur said.

Yasuko Sawaguchi nodded and then got up to arrange the hot spring.

Arthur had just finished his call and was chatting with Carl Anderson about the recent updates.

Arthur stretched, "How many people does Seraphim have now?"

"Currently, with both trainees and those working, there are about 200 people. The first phase of the training base in Colorado has been completed. And, boss, we are also constructing a vacation villa as you suggested. It's in a beautiful and quiet forest near a creek," Carl Anderson hesitated, looking at Arthur. "Seraphim has received some arms transportation deals, sending them to the Middle East."

"The military?" Arthur understood what Carl Anderson meant. Seraphim had purchased a lot of light and heavy weapons, and reselling them would yield significant income.

If someone wants to make money, why worry about the danger?

Carl Anderson nodded, "These deals are the safest. Of course, there are other warlords who need weapons too!"

"I don't mind. If someone wants to make money, I can't stop them, as long as they follow the rules," Arthur was now on good terms with the White House, making it very easy to get some defense outsourcing contracts!

However, Seraphim and Arthur were not directly connected, participating through a shell company in the Cayman Islands.

"Of course, if there are any rare mineral deposits or oilfields in the Middle East or Africa, I'd be very interested," Arthur had absolute trust in the quick profits from arms dealing. He had little interest in minor dealings.

If there were a chance to earn more, Arthur would not refuse. As for funding? Are there movie companies in Hollywood not involved in money laundering? Movies and casinos are naturally money-laundering businesses!

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