As the Elders' minds raced with plans, Elder Ju Peter's eyes shone as he thought of something.
"Vegapunk, what's the progress on the Seraphim project? Have you been able to extract anything from the piece of heart we provided you with?" He asked, recalling that they had given Vegapunk the younger Donquixote's heart fragment that Agana had originally provided as proof of the kill.
They had left it under the place where Doflamingo was being punished, but after his escape, they had kept the sample to see if they could create a Vivre card from it. When that effort proved fruitless, they handed the sample over to Vegapunk for research.
Vegapunk hesitated slightly before replying, "That... the sample was dead. Tissues—everything was dead. I don't think I even have that sample anymore; it must have been incinerated long ago," he declared. This explanation dissatisfied Ju Peter. Vegapunk's statement was true, but only partially. He had indeed incinerated the sample, but not for the reasons he stated.
The memory of that chunk of heart was vivid in Vegapunk's mind. He had never come across such a phenomenon. Even months after the sample had been taken from the original host, it still retained vitality, as if it were trying to repair itself. Although others might not have detected it, his extensive research had revealed just how special the original host was.
He had wanted to ask the elders to whom the sample belonged but refrained, knowing they would question his intentions. The sample's resilience and vitality were monstrous. He had only seen one other instance of such traits in Kaido, but those could be explained by the devil fruit Kaido consumed.
This sample, however, was just a plain old regular sample with no devil fruit traits, nor was it from a different race, yet it was special—so special that he had to destroy it to prevent any future complications, especially with government agents constantly sniffing around his lab.
Elder Ju Peter's eyes narrowed in disappointment. "Is that so, Vegapunk? It's unfortunate to hear. That sample was unique, and we had high hopes for its potential." His voice carried a hint of suspicion, but he let the matter drop for now.
Vegapunk, sensing the shift in mood, quickly moved to steer the conversation back to safer ground. "Regarding the Seraphim project, we've made significant strides. The research into lineage factors has allowed us to make advancements in the creation of humanoid weapons. However, for optimal results, we still require more specific genetic material, preferably from powerful bloodlines. The Seraphim project is promising, but it needs time and resources."
The Elders exchanged glances, weighing the benefits and risks of continuing to support Vegapunk's projects. Elder Saturn spoke up, his tone measured. "Vegapunk, we understand the challenges you face. Ensure that you prioritize the projects of the utmost importance to us. Your work is crucial, and we expect to see tangible results soon."
Vegapunk nodded, concealing his relief. "Of course, Elder Saturn. I assure you that my team and I are fully committed to delivering the results you seek. The artificial devil fruits, the giant soldiers, and the Seraphim project are all progressing, albeit slowly due to the complexities involved."
Elder Mars leaned forward, his gaze piercing. "See to it that your progress accelerates, Vegapunk. The stability and future of the world depend on your success, you must already know how chaotic the seas are currently. Do not disappoint us."
Elder Nusjuro, who had been carefully watching Vegapunk since the start of the meeting, finally spoke. "Vegapunk, your insights are invaluable. We will consider your requirements and see what can be done to acquire the necessary resources and samples. In the meantime, continue your research."
Vegapunk nodded, hiding a smirk. He knew he had bought himself more time. The Elders would be hard-pressed to meet his demands, and that delay was crucial. He could continue his real work, the work that aimed to protect the world from tyranny, rather than hand it over on a silver platter.
As Vegapunk prepared to leave the meeting, Elder Nusjuro spoke up. "Well, before you leave, there is one more matter we need to discuss today. Knowing how important you are to the World Government, we cannot have your safety compromised. Therefore, we have decided to impose stricter security measures. From now on, you will have to carry out your research from a secure World Government stronghold. You may choose the location, ensuring that you are not disturbed during your research, and we can guarantee your safety."
Vegapunk immediately realized the true intention of the Elders. He had anticipated this day. Since leaving MADS and agreeing to work under the World Government, his movements have been monitored, but he has enjoyed a certain degree of freedom. It seemed that freedom was about to be completely revoked.
"But what about Punk Hazard? All my research is being conducted there." Vegapunk tried to see if there was a way to negotiate, but it seemed the Elders were determined to restrict his freedom.
"Well, Punk Hazard will be taken care of. I'm sure there are other capable researchers to lead in your stead," Elder Ju Peter added. They knew how crucial it was to keep Vegapunk under their control. With the new revelations, they needed to ensure Vegapunk had minimal contact with the outside world.
"Sigh! Fine. In that case, I would like to move my lab to an island in the New World. I have the basic infrastructure to build a full-fledged lab on Egghead Island. It originally belonged to MADS, but now it's in ruins. I'm sure we can repurpose it. However, there are a few conditions that need to be set before I agree to move to this new island," Vegapunk proposed, knowing that the Elders needed him enough for some negotiation leeway.
The Elders were not pleased with the idea of Vegapunk establishing his new lab in the New World, where their influence was weakest. Their original intention was to move Vegapunk from Punk Hazard and isolate him within one of their secure strongholds in the Calm Belt or the first half of the Grand Line.
"In addition, I want to visit Ohara before I settle down in my new lab. There are hundreds of thousands of books in Ohara that I might need for my research. I want to see if any books can be salvaged."
Elder Nusjuro's eyes sharpened dangerously, but Vegapunk disregarded the warning, adding more conditions, such as restrictions on CP agents and other government members regarding access to his lab, to prevent interference in his research.
The more the Elders heard about Vegapunk's absurd requests, the uglier their faces became, except for Elder Saturn, who keenly listened to every request.
After another five minutes, Vegapunk finally stopped with his demands.
Elder Saturn, deep in thought, finally spoke. "Vegapunk, some of your requests are excessive, so you can forget about those. As for visiting Ohara, you may do so, but remember, you will be confined to Egghead Island after your trip. In addition, we will create a special scientific division, which you will lead. Vice Admiral Kizaru and a group of elite members from the Marines and Cipher Pol will be reassigned to your science division team."
Elder Saturn then clearly outlined their expectations and the concessions they were willing to make. Throughout his explanation, his cold, calculating eyes never left Vegapunk.
As Vegapunk left the chamber, his mind was already racing with plans. The Elders were powerful, but their understanding of science and its ethical implications was limited. He would continue to push forward with his genuine research, but he would ensure that the most dangerous discoveries remained hidden from those who would use them to impose tyranny.
Back in the chamber, the elders resumed their discussion, their faces stern and contemplative. They knew that Vegapunk was a necessary asset, but they also sensed the underlying tension.
Elder Mars broke the silence, his voice low and thoughtful.
"We need to keep a closer watch on him. His genius is unmatched, but so is his unpredictability. We must ensure he remains loyal to our cause."
Elder Ju Peter nodded in agreement. "Indeed. His work is crucial to maintaining our dominance. We will provide what he needs, but we must also prepare for any eventuality."
Elder Warcury turned to Elder Saturn, who was deep in thought. "Was it wise to let Vegapunk visit Ohara? He still holds some attachment to that place, and who knows what he might uncover there?"
"We need him for now, especially with his work on lineage factors and his new revelation that he can potentially develop a fuel source for the ancient weapons," Elder Saturn responded.
The other Elders were skeptical about Vegapunk's ability to create a viable power source, especially since Vegapunk himself admitted there was no current fuel source capable of operating an ancient weapon. However, Elder Saturn was sharper than the rest. "You all underestimate that man." Elder Saturn narrowed his gaze towards the doorway where Vegapunk had left earlier.
"For all we know, every word he shared with us today might have been a lie. We have no idea how an intelligent mind like Vegapunk works. The more you tell him something is impossible, the more driven he will be to achieve it. If I'm not wrong, the man will soon start working on a secret project to create a viable power source for an ancient weapon. Yes, the man is smart—maybe smarter than anyone in this world—but his pride and his intelligence will drive him to create the very thing we need, even if we didn't ask for it," Elder Saturn chuckled.
He understood Vegapunk to a certain extent. Vegapunk wanted to learn the truth, no matter the cost, and would take absolute measures to ensure his creations did not fall into the wrong hands. But ultimately, his thirst for knowledge would triumph over everything else.
"So are we to consider what Vegapunk said about the lightning logia?" Elder Nusjuro finally addressed the elephant in the room.
They knew Vegapunk wasn't lying when he stated that a Lightning Logia user could be used to operate an ancient weapon. They had been searching for centuries for a viable power source to power Uranus, and finally, they had a lead, though it seemed like an impossible task.
"We need to bring the Donquixote brothers to the negotiation table. If we can really achieve what Vegapunk suggested, I'm sure within a decade or two, with our help, we can have the younger brother act as the fuel source for the ancient weapon," Elder Mars said, his eyes glowing with interest. After centuries of searching, they finally had hope of reviving their greatest trump card.
"Even if Vegapunk's suggestion has the slightest possibility, we need the brothers. Maybe Imu-sama was already aware of such an eventuality. Perhaps that was why we were ordered to stay away from the younger brother," Elder Ju Peter added with reverence, to which the other Elders nodded.
"We'll think of something. However, we also need to keep an eye out for the Zuma Zuma no Mi. Let's have both the Marines and Cipher Pol keep an eye out for it. We'll also place an anonymous trade request in the underworld for the fruit. I'm sure 10 billion bellies should suffice to bring even the most reluctant party to the table if they find the fruit," Elder Warcury suggested.
The elders exchanged looks of agreement. They were determined to harness whatever power they could to ensure the World Government's supremacy, and Vegapunk's brilliance was a key part of their plan.
Elder Ju Peter's eyes darted around the room as he continued, "So how should we bring the Donquixote brothers back to our fold? We cannot afford to have them on the opposing side, especially now that we understand their importance to us."
The Elders fell into a heavy silence, each contemplating viable methods to reintegrate the Donquixote brothers. Every idea they considered seemed to hit a dead end. The tension in the room was palpable until Elder Saturn finally spoke up with a suggestion.
"How about we use the asset that we had reserved for Garp?" he said with grave seriousness.
The room froze in shock. This was one of their long-held secrets, a countermeasure kept solely to deal with Garp if he ever showed signs of rebellion.
"But... what about Garp then? He's from the D clan. Have you forgotten that the only reason we can rest assured against Garp is because of this particular asset?" Elder Mars added, his worry evident. The Elders had ruled on behalf of Imu-sama for centuries, and they had ensured there was a contingency plan for every potential threat, including Garp.
"We don't know how strong Garp truly is," Elder Saturn responded. "Once someone reaches our level, the influence of rule-based Devil Fruits becomes negligible. Garp has receded into the background and hasn't shown any signs of rebellion since God Valley. I can think of no other way to ensure the Donquixote brothers' loyalty. You all know how deep the grudge between us runs. We tried to erase the brothers and almost succeeded. This kind of grudge is not easily forgotten."
"Are we really sure that the threat of Garp has passed?" Elder Warcury interjected. "This might be our only trump card against him. We don't truly know the extent of Garp's strength. Even during the capture of Shiki, do you think Garp wasn't capable of handling it alone? He might have been putting on an act, for all we know. Sengoku and Shiki aren't anywhere near Garp's level."
Elder Saturn nodded, acknowledging the concern. "But we need to understand that a source to awaken Uranus is much more important than the threat Garp poses; if we can get Uranus operational, we will have absolute dominance. How about we first discuss this matter directly with the asset? A fresh perspective might be what we need, and the asset's insight has proven invaluable countless times before."
The asset they referred to was one of the most closely guarded secrets of Cipher Pol 'Aigis' Zero. Only the five elders and the current leader of CP0 knew of the asset's true allegiance.
After a moment of contemplative silence, Elder Ju Peter spoke up, "Agreed. Let's summon the asset. We'll need to handle this delicately and ensure that we're making the best decision for the longevity of the World Government."
The elders nodded in unison, their faces set with determination. They had ruled for centuries, and they were prepared to do whatever it took to maintain their grip on power, even if it meant risking their most closely guarded secrets.
Their conversation continued, a mix of strategy and caution, as they plotted the next steps in their grand plan. Vegapunk, meanwhile, was set to return to Punk Hazard to prepare for his departure to Egghead, ready to continue his work with a renewed sense of purpose and a silent vow to protect the world from the very knowledge he was uncovering.
*****
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Currently updated until Chapter 227.
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