"That research base is located on Sky Island," Dragon said calmly, his voice unwavering. "I guarantee it's absolutely safe there, and the government will never find out."
"Nani?!" Vegapunk's eyes widened in shock. For a moment, his mind raced with possibilities.
"Sky Island… it's true that the government rarely sets foot there," Vegapunk muttered, already lost in thought. "If it's a remote, uninhabited sky island, that would make it even better. But transporting supplies and heavy equipment to such a location could be a logistical nightmare…"
He trailed off, deep in contemplation.
Watching Vegapunk seriously consider the offer, Sentomaru felt conflicted. As Vegapunk's bodyguard, he was duty-bound to follow the doctor's orders. Yet, his ties to the Marines ran deep. Sentomaru had spent years alongside them, and his uncle, Admiral Kizaru, was not just his superior but also his mentor.
If Vegapunk decided to leave, Sentomaru would follow, no matter what. But the thought of abandoning everything he'd known weighed heavily on his heart.
"You don't need to worry about logistics," Dragon reassured, sensing Vegapunk's hesitation. "Although it's called a Sky Island, it's not one of those floating islands you might think of. This is a special island elevated using technology. It's completely unknown to the government."
Dragon paused for a moment before continuing with quiet confidence.
"As for supplies and equipment, leave that to us. We'll handle all the transportation and ensure you have everything you need. Your only responsibility will be to focus on your research."
Vegapunk listened carefully, weighing the pros and cons of Dragon's words. It was true that working under the World Government provided him with enormous resources. However, those resources came with strings attached—strings that often pulled him in directions he despised.
The World Government's demands frequently clashed with his desire to use science for the betterment of humanity. He had argued with the Five Elders more than once over their orders. Yet, as long as he accepted their funding, he was bound to comply.
Dragon's offer, though risky, promised freedom. Vegapunk's resolve began to waver.
Sensing his advantage, Dragon decided it was time to press further.
"Seventeen years ago, after we parted at the ruins of Ohara, you must have gone to Elbaf," Dragon said, his tone casual but deliberate.
The mention of Ohara sent a visible shiver through Vegapunk. Sentomaru, standing nearby, turned to the scientist in surprise. He had no idea what connection the doctor might have had to the infamous island of scholars.
Vegapunk's body stiffened, sweat forming on his brow. He didn't need Dragon to elaborate to understand what he was implying.
Dragon continued, his voice calm but firm.
"Knowing you, it would have been impossible for you not to study O'Hara's 'treasures' after seeing them in Elbaf. Let's not pretend, Vegapunk. By the World Government's standards, you're already guilty of a crime far worse than treason."
Vegapunk's eyes widened in shock. "How… How do you know about that?"
Dragon smirked knowingly. "Don't forget, the Revolutionary Army's goal is to overthrow the World Government. The Poneglyphs and the secrets they hold are of great interest to us. Like you, I've been to Elbaf. While I'm no scholar and can't decipher the mysteries, I was fortunate enough to uncover something else: the movements of the government's prized scientist."
Vegapunk's face turned a shade of green as anger and fear battled for dominance. "Is this guy a ghost?" he thought furiously. "Why does he keep popping up everywhere?!"
Dragon, noticing Vegapunk's discomfort, allowed himself a small, fleeting smile. "Even if I hadn't found out, do you really think the World Government wouldn't eventually discover your secret?" His smile faded, replaced by a serious, almost ominous expression.
"You should know better than anyone what happens to those who study the Poneglyphs. If the government ever uncovers your research, your fate will be no different from the scholars of Ohara. You'll be branded a criminal and wiped out, along with anyone associated with you. Do you truly believe the government will spare you just because you've served them faithfully?"
Vegapunk shuddered, memories of Ohara's destruction flashing through his mind. The island's fiery ruins, the screams of innocent scholars, the merciless Buster Call—it was a nightmare he'd tried to bury but could never forget.
"Of course I'm not that naive!" Vegapunk snapped, trying to regain his composure.
He began pacing back and forth, his hands clasped behind his back as he muttered to himself.
"What a mess… What terrible luck! Here I was, enjoying my work in Punk Hazard, drinking coffee, and peacefully conducting research. Then you, a meddling bastard, burst in and dragged me into this madness! And now, I have no choice but to go along with you, or the government will hang me out to dry!"
Vegapunk suddenly stopped in his tracks and turned to Sentomaru.
"Sentomaru, pack your things and meet me at Punk Records. We're leaving."
Sentomaru blinked in surprise but nodded silently. He understood that Vegapunk had made his decision and that there was no turning back.
Vegapunk then turned to Dragon, his expression a mix of resignation and frustration.
"You win, you bastard. Now, come with me! Let's get this over with."
...
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