Chapter 432: Target is Vegapunk
This was the dark deep sea east of Fish-Man Island. So far from Fish-Man Island that even Sunlight Tree Eve's illumination couldn't reach here.
A group floated silently at the deep sea's bottom. All remained silent. All waited quietly.
"What exactly happened?"
A certain man still waited anxiously.
Why hadn't the promised signal arrived?
Something definitely went wrong, he thought.
Better contact Headquarters first.
During missions—to avoid accidents—Headquarters wouldn't actively contact them. They also wouldn't contact Momousagi's assault team.
But now the situation was wrong. Could only contact Headquarters first.
He made the call.
Then, after brief communication, the man transformed into an octopus Fish-Man—his expression changed dramatically.
This was truly unimagined circumstances!
"Retreat."
He said.
What else could they do now?
Brett had already calmly escaped with Fire Fist's group. Probably already returned to Fish-Man Island by now.
And Gion's side—probably also had problems.
Damn it—both operations failed simultaneously!
Could only choose dejected retreat.
He no longer hesitated. Immediately led subordinates retreating. The operation had definitely failed. So couldn't let losses expand further.
They disappeared silently into the deep sea.
Not long after their departure, a Fish-Man Island military unit—led by a certain man—arrived here.
After thorough searching, the lead man pulled out a Den Den Mushi and called. "Came too late. They've already transferred."
"I see. Can't help that. Thanks, Jinbei-aniki. Come back first."
Jinbei nodded. Indeed regrettable. But now could only return empty-handed. In this deep sea, simply impossible to pursue them.
He felt somewhat worried. Moving freely through deep seas—originally Fish-Man Island's exclusive advantage. Now humans could do it too. In future wars, Fish-Man Island wouldn't have that previous absolute isolated advantage.
Must properly discuss this matter with Brett.
This absolutely wouldn't be good news for Fish-Man Island!
Jinbei returned.
Brett's side—he and Tesoro currently leaned against the prison corridor wall.
After ending the call with Jinbei, he said somewhat helplessly. "Quite vigilant. Probably realized something was wrong and directly retreated."
"That's not the point."
Tesoro's expression was serious. "They're just small fries anyway. Even escaping doesn't matter. The truly troublesome part is—once the Government can freely create Fish-Man warriors, Fish-Man Island is no longer safe."
"I know."
Brett nodded lightly.
Fish-Man Island's geographical position had long been Brett's confidence in opposing the Government.
He could freely launch attacks on the Government. But the Government couldn't attack Fish-Man Island.
Such massive strategic advantage let Brett act boldly and freely.
But after this—such circumstances would probably be gone forever.
"Though the Government's operation failed this time, if things continue developing like this—maybe the Government will really create a Fish-Man force!"
Tesoro said seriously. "With the Government's technological and economic power—probably easily build a team surpassing Fish-Man Island's level!"
Brett nodded in deep agreement.
With Vegapunk leading the Science Division, Fish-Man Island's proud Tom-san and disciples probably completely inadequate.
They could easily research weapons surpassing Fish-Man Island's standards.
By that time—even with Shirahoshi—Fish-Man Island wouldn't be safe anymore.
"So what should we do now, Brett?"
Tesoro was quite grave. "Under current circumstances, we probably can't safely wait any longer. Launch war immediately?"
Brett shook his head. "Not the right time yet."
The Sea Forest's Pluton still under construction. Starting war with the Government now—somewhat hasty.
"Then what's your idea?" Tesoro frowned.
"Since worried about Government developing underwater forces—just make them unable to develop it."
Brett said.
Tesoro froze briefly, then unconsciously asked. "How will you do it?"
"At the end of the day, the Government itself doesn't possess deep sea conquest capability."
Brett said this. "The trouble isn't the Government—it's that Vegapunk guy."
That old man's technology—five hundred years beyond the world—made the current situation so troublesome.
"Oh! So, Brett—"
Tesoro's eyes brightened. "You mean—you want to move against Vegapunk?"
Brett nodded lightly.
Haven't seen him in years anyway. Time to find that man for another chat.
Vegapunk controlled the world's foremost scientific power. If he could be recruited to his side—definitely greatly beneficial against the Government.
"But the problem is—Vegapunk is the Government's chief scientist. His whereabouts always secretive."
Tesoro frowned again. "Not just me—probably even Morgans couldn't find that guy's location."
"No need to worry about that."
Brett chuckled lightly. "Don't forget—I escaped from Vegapunk's base years ago. I've always known exactly where he is."
That Vegapunk guy—hadn't he always stayed quietly at Punk Hazard?
"I see!"
Tesoro immediately laughed excitedly. "Excellent! When are you planning to act?"
"As soon as possible."
Brett said.
"Good. Feel free to strike. With Jinbei and me here, Fish-Man Island temporarily won't have problems."
Tesoro said. "Even if some difficult opponent truly comes—there's still Uta."
Brett nodded slightly.
Indeed, Uta's ability's formidable strength went without question.
Overly powerful Haki could nullify Devil Fruit abilities.
But not all Devil Fruits could be nullified.
Uta's ability obviously was such a case.
"By the way, what to do with these guys?"
Tesoro pointed at the distant cell holding Momousagi. "Kill them directly? But before that—I think we should publicly announce this first."
He said. "After all, if the Government later uses these Fish-Man-transformed people to act recklessly then frame us—could be troublesome."
"Indeed."
Brett agreed deeply. If Tesoro hadn't reminded him, really hadn't thought of this. "Then notify Morgans. He'll definitely be very interested."
"Heh, can properly disgust the Government too." Tesoro showed a wicked smile.
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