CHAPTER 21: A Scientific Accord

"Sea King?"

Vegapunk's eyes suddenly lit up, and his tone grew visibly excited. "Are you telling the truth?"

The three ancient weapons—Pluto, Uranus, and Sea King.

Vegapunk was, of course, aware of the rumors surrounding them. Each one was said to possess catastrophic destructive power, but even someone as brilliant as him lacked concrete knowledge of their specific natures.

"From what you said, Sea King… one of the ancient weapons… is a living creature?" he asked, curiosity brimming in his voice.

"As far as I know," Mio replied calmly, "Pluto is a ship. Sea King is a living being. As for Uranus—well, that one's unclear. It's likely in the hands of the World Government, which makes acquiring information about it nearly impossible."

Vegapunk nodded slowly, processing this newfound intel. A gleam of scientific wonder danced in his eyes. "Fascinating… If that's true, then I truly hope you'll bring me a sample of the Sea King's blood in the future. I'd be ecstatic to study such a unique genetic structure. And if there's ever a chance to see Uranus as well…"

As a scientist, the mere thought of analyzing ancient, living weapons sent excitement coursing through his veins. But Vegapunk also understood that the opportunity might not come for a long time—after all, even the World Government had yet to fully control the three ancient weapons.

Mio gave a small shake of his head and turned to Erica. "Erica."

"Erica understands, Master," she replied with a nod.

Understanding her master's intentions, Erica drew the blade from her waist and gently sliced a shallow cut on her index finger. Drops of blood began to bead from the wound.

Surprisingly, though the blood was crimson, a subtle silver shimmer swirled within it.

"Incredible… silver mixed in the red!" Vegapunk's voice trembled with excitement. He hurriedly rummaged through nearby shelves, producing a small potion vial, which he handed to Erica with shaking hands. "Just a few drops will suffice!"

Erica complied, squeezing a few silver-tinged droplets into the vial and handing it over. Vegapunk immediately sealed it, cradling the vial like a priceless treasure. His eyes burned with anticipation, itching to begin his analysis.

Fortunately, he managed to restrain himself, understanding that now was not the time. Carefully placing the vial away, he pulled out a Den Den Mushi and offered it to Mio.

"Take this," Vegapunk said. "I assume you're about to leave, so use this for future contact. I've modified it—it works like a telegraph machine as well. You can write messages, and they'll be transmitted in text form."

"It was just a small side project," he added with a chuckle. "I never imagined it'd actually come in handy."

"Not a bad gadget," Mio said, accepting the Den Den Mushi. It was different from the usual ones, marked with a distinct water droplet symbol on its forehead—an unmistakable sign of Vegapunk's craftsmanship.

After placing it in his trouser pocket, Mio nodded and spoke. "Then, Mr. Vegapunk, as you guessed, I am indeed preparing to leave. I'll reach out to you again when the opportunity arises. And, naturally, I'd like to ask for your help with a few projects."

"Of course. Just tell me what you need."

"I'd like you to help me research some specialized insects and animals," Mio replied.

Vegapunk's eyes lit up again, but this time with understanding. "Ah, I see. Is it related to your ability?"

"Exactly." Mio smiled. "Power is essential in this world. If the World Government finds out I've contacted you, I won't survive unless I'm strong enough to protect myself."

"That's a fair point." Vegapunk nodded. "I'll help you. In fact, aiding your research is also helping myself. The beings you've created through your powers are invaluable for studying bloodline factors. As for our transaction—rest assured, I'll say nothing to the World Government."

"Then, until we meet again." Mio offered a light nod before turning away.

Erica followed silently behind him.

The two of them soon vanished from the basement, their business concluded for now.

Back inside, Vegapunk stood for a moment, gazing at the vial of blood. His expression softened with anticipation.

"I wonder what secrets you hold," he murmured, tucking the vial safely away.

Then, after a pause, he reached into his pocket and pulled out another Den Den Mushi. He dialed.

The line connected.

"I'm Vegapunk," he said flatly.

A voice immediately burst from the receiver, full of excitement. "Mr. Vegapunk! Have you finally made your decision? Please, tell us your current location! CP0 will arrive immediately to escort you to Marijoa! I assure you, the World Government will grant you everything you need for your research!"

The World Government had been aware of Vegapunk's existence for quite some time. They had pursued him persistently, hoping to bring him under their wing. But until now, he had evaded them, unwilling to be shackled.

However, Vegapunk had finally come to terms with reality.

To refuse the World Government was to invite destruction.

At present, they were still patient—but he knew that would not last forever. When that patience ran dry, so would his options.

And truthfully, joining them would provide access to resources he could never obtain alone.

"I'm on Mowak Island, capital of the Kingdom of Meg," he reported before ending the call.

He packed his documents and left the basement behind.

As for the agreement with the king of Meg?

Vegapunk had never taken it seriously. He hadn't developed a single weapon, and all the money granted by the king had gone into researching bloodline factors.

Now that he was joining the World Government, he no longer had to pretend.

Elsewhere, in the Holy Land of Marijoa—the seat of the world's highest authority.

Within an expansive, lavish chamber, five elderly men sat in silence on a grand sofa.

One of them slowly lowered the Den Den Mushi after ending the call.

"Vegapunk has finally agreed to join us. Send CP0 immediately. His knowledge is far too valuable. No accidents must occur."

"Agreed."

"Agreed."

"Agreed."

"Agreed."

"Then it's settled."