Chapter 5: Chapter 5
Chapter 5 Vegapunk's deal
What is this guy suddenly talking about?
Brett had to concede that Vegapunk's disjointed rambling left him thoroughly perplexed.
Now, it is essential to capture him and make a swift exit from this location.
Despite his bewilderment by Vegapunk's comments, Brett wasted no time and directly seized Vegapunk.
With a snap.
Vegapunk nonchalantly raised his hand, deflected Brett's reaching gesture, and expressed his distaste by saying, "You really don't have an appreciation for talking, huh? "
Brett's eyes widened in astonishment.
The force of the slap nearly caused him to lose consciousness.
The scales, which had initially seemed impervious and capable of deflecting bullets, now appeared utterly ineffective. They were fractured with ease, and his body was turned effortlessly.
"Impertinent brat,"
Vegapunk showed no concern for Brett's reaction. He casually pulled a table laden with objects closer and took a seat. His tone revealed a hint of impatience, "Alright, let us discuss the ramifications of attempting to escape from here. "
Brett took two steps back in surprise, maintaining distance from Vegapunk.
Is hel truly a researcher in science?
Why is he so strong though ?
Brett felt a sense of caution, yet he remarked, "The Ryugu Kingdom is a nation aligned with the government, and Fish-Man Island falls under the domain of the Whitebeard Pirates. The government is unlikely to launch a full-scale assault on Fish-Man Island for someone like me."
Perhaps Fish-Man Island is of little significance to the government, but the Whitebeard Pirates pose a different challenge. They are adversaries that the government must prepare to confront thoroughly.
"Since nothing will occur on Fish-Man Island, I find it hard to believe that the government can apprehend a fish-man such as myself in the ocean. "
While I am unable to swim at present, I possess the ability to fly.
"That is accurate. It appears you are not entirely lacking in intelligence. "
Vegapunk leapt onto the platform and squatted down. Then, a playful grin appeared on the face of the world's preeminent scientist, "But, what shall they do regarding those fish-men in Impel Down? "
Brett's expression turned serious.
Indeed, Arlong and his companions remain incarcerated in Impel Down.
Although Arlong is portrayed negatively in the original narrative, or rather, as a contemptible fish-man, he has shown considerable support for his fellow countrymen during his time before regaining his memories. He merely falls short as a brother figure. In terms of stature, Tiger is even comparable to Jinbe.
Moreover—
Vegapunk was correct. If he chose to escape, there may not be significant issues on Fish-Man Island, but the situation for them would become dire.
Brett felt a twinge of shame for not having previously contemplated their circumstances seriously.
In essence, he had harbored a somewhat naive belief that "This should not affect them. "
Brett sighed deeply.
"Please explain your deal, doctor. "
The current situation is as follows: taking an additional half-minute to listen to Vegapunk's deal doesn't matter.
"Excellent! "
Vegapunk was nearly buoyant as he adjusted his glasses, "Trust me, young man, you will not regret this decision. "
"I can inform you of some preliminary news. The government has reached out to the new captain of your Sun Pirates, an individual named Jinbei. Based on my calculations, once he assumes the role of the new Warlord, those of you who were detained will attain a moment of freedom. "
He smiled and added, "Although your exposure to the government's clandestine agencies is unrelated, having my endorsement will alter the circumstances. "
Brett responded calmly, having been aware of this information. "What, is the price I must pay then? "
This kid is quite calm.
Vegapunk expressed considerable interest, stating, "Your obligation is quite straightforward: you must collaborate with my research. "
"Research? "
Brett's expression darkened.
He had no desire for others to examine his body.
"Do not hastily decline; this research could prove highly advantageous for you." Vegapunk removed his glasses and exhaled. He casually adjusted the corner of his white coat to clean his glasses, squinting kindly as he inquired, "Are you aware of what devil fruit you consumed? "
Brett feigned ignorance, shaking his head. "I am unaware, but I assume it must be a very powerful devil fruit. "
"Hahaha, I appreciate the compliment. "
Vegapunk laughed heartily before replacing his glasses. "It is an artificial devil fruit that I developed utilizing the blood factor of Kaido the Beast. "
"An artificial devil fruit? impressive! " Brett endeavored to display the appropriate expression of astonishment. "So, my abilities are a replication of the blue dragon form associated with Kaido's mythical zoan ? "
"Hahaha, it seems you didn't hear what I said, huh? "
Vegapunk's smile held a teasing quality. "Did I not clarify that it is derived from Kaido's blood factor, not his abilities? "
"…"
Brett's expression became rigid.
Is this the conclusion he has drawn?
"If I were to generalize, you would be classified as a Kaido fruit user, right? " Vegapunk beamed, "In terms of genetic lineage, what would you designate Kaido? Father? Or sibling? "
"Surely, Kaido would be thrilled to unexpectedly discover he has an additional blood relative, correct? "
Thrilled?
If that monster became aware of this, his first action would likely be to come and beat him mercilessly.
How could he permit anyone to possess abilities akin to his own?
Moreover, his power was born from his disreputable past.
"So, doctor, are you suggesting that in addition to acquiring abilities similar to Kaido's, I will also gain a monstrous physique like his? " Yet, Brett felt a tinge of exhilaration.
In this scenario, the benefits would far exceed expectations.
Though there exists a significant likelihood that Kaido will pursue him in the future, it is undoubtedly worthwhile.
Kaido is comparable to Charlotte Lin lin, a genuine natural phenomenon! His physical capabilities are unmatched.
Should this fruit and Kaido's innate physique be replicable, he would possess immense power.
From this perspective, Momonosuke in the original narrative is indeed one of the chosen one.
He arguably should be viewed as having inherited the blood of two formidable entities simultaneously, correct?
"Indeed," Vegapunk acknowledged with a tone of certainty.
"It is remarkable! "
Brett expressed genuine admiration.
"Nevertheless, do not celebrate prematurely," Vegapunk cautioned. "The development of the body requires time. The alteration of bloodline traits and the attainment of powers are distinct processes. They must be accomplished incrementally, and the eventual results will also rely on compatibility. "
"Is that so? "
Brett registered a hint of disappointment.
However, it remains irrelevant; my objective is to patiently await the moment when the Straw Hats endeavor to transform the world, provided they possess the means of self-protection.
"So, Doctor, what research are you referencing? " Brett inquired.
Vegapunk revealed nothing regarding this fruit and appeared very earnest.
Brett's wariness diminished somewhat, and he felt it was acceptable to listen.
"How about attempting to enhance your strength? "
Vegapunk descended and approached Brett. His cheeks bore a flush of excitement, causing Brett to instinctively step back. The intense gaze directed at him was somewhat alarming. If Kaido's blood factor worked, then why can't more blood factors be incorporated into him.
Brett remained silent.
He possessed no knowledge regarding this subject.
"The blood factor is an extraordinary element,"
Vegapunk exclaimed, spreading his arms and twirling around, "Human blood factors encapsulate remnants of our evolutionary journey spanning millions of years, yet the majority are ineffectual. They represent the excess we have discarded through evolution; they are all obsolete. "
He abruptly ceased his spinning, standing upright with vigor. His left leg raised high while his right hand gestured towards Brett, "However, your kind, the fishmen, are unique. "
"Your bloodline factor encodes the legacy of all your forebears. This data remains active. Each new fishman or mermaid will randomly activate a lineage of an ancestor. "
"Thus, if you have absorbed Kaido's bloodline factors, what prevents you from activating multiple bloodlines concurrently? "
Multiple bloodlines?
What an intriguing concept.
Nevertheless, Brettt envisioned the scenario of possessing various bloodlines simultaneously—like the limbs of an octopus, the mouth of a kissing fish, or the nose of a swordfish, and so forth.
"Would I become a monster? " he could not resist asking.
"That is the essence of the issue. "
Vegapunk altered his stance, positioning his body sideways while clasping his hands against his chest and narrowing his eyes at Brett. "The clash among various bloodline traits can lead to bodily failure, similar to the limitation of consuming only one Devil Fruit. "
He took a brief pause. "However, utilizing the ability you acquired as a means of reconciliation is different. Just like the blood factor of Kaido, merging this blood factor into the ability can prevent such conflicts! "
Ability?
Does it truly possess such functionality?
Or is the fruit created by Vegapunk unique?
Brett hesitated briefly and inquired, "Doctor, what exactly is the nature of a devil fruit's ability? "
"Ah, this is a highly perilous secret. It would be better for you not to know," Vegapunk replied with an odd smile, tilting his head and directing his gaze at Brett with his head nearly parallel to the ground. "You simply need to respond, do you wish to engage in my research? "
"In times long past, in that ancient era before the emergence of intelligent beings, many formidable creatures thrived in the ocean! As their descendant, young one, don't you yearn to harness their power? "
I must admit, I feel a sense of excitement.
Brett contemplated for a moment and said, "Well, doctor, I have two more inquiries. Why do you wish to assist me in gaining strength, and why should I place my trust in you? "
"Why? Naturally, it is because this research is exceedingly intriguing. Regarding your second question,"
Brett noticed a playful grin on the doctor's face, "Boy, do you believe you can depart without my consent? "
The corners of Brett's mouth fell.