The Germa team's eyes widened in astonishment. Ashveil clearly knew much more about their technology than they had anticipated. They could hardly believe that he understood the intricacies of such complex inventions, and yet here he was, effortlessly discussing them.
"You can continue to improve these, turning them into what I'll call a net cable. With this network, computers across the world could be connected to play games together," Ashveil explained calmly, though the idea was extraordinary.
The Whitebeard Pirates were left dumbfounded. Ashveil's imagination was staggering; he was even envisioning a worldwide network for shared gameplay. Yet the practicality of such an endeavor would require immense manpower and resources. All eyes naturally turned toward the Germa team and the other scientists nearby.
Caesar, standing nearby, could hardly contain his excitement. As a mad scientist, he had toyed with similar ideas before but lacked the resources to make it happen. The world had little interest in such frivolities—power and Devil Fruits dominated attention, leaving little room for extravagant technological pursuits. And yet now, hearing Ashveil articulate this vision so clearly, even he felt a spark of genuine excitement.
The Germa engineers and researchers exchanged glances. Their work on network cables had always been limited to experimental connections between machines. Yet Ashveil's simple statement had opened a new door in their minds. Why had they not considered it before? Perhaps, they realized, a wireless network could one day connect computers worldwide.
Ashveil intelligence was exceptional. One brief comment from him had illuminated a path to breakthrough that had eluded them for years.
"Yes, Ashveil-sama," the Germa engineers said eagerly, one by one. "Your suggestion enlightens us greatly. We will continue to develop this along the path you have indicated."
Caesar, still processing the implications, stepped forward. "However, this net cable system will require immense manpower and material resources. Without adequate support for experimentation, it would be incredibly difficult to develop fully," he warned.
The Germa engineers nodded in agreement. Resources had always been their limiting factor. While their technology was impressive, rebuilding a massive laboratory after leaving North Blue was not feasible with their remaining equipment. They needed support—manpower, materials, and a safe base of operations.
Ashveil's lips curved into a lazy, knowing smile. "Manpower and resources, you say? Don't worry about that. Haven't we got some on hand?" He glanced at Whitebeard and the others, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Diamond Jozu stepped forward, nodding. "Our prison is small. This time we captured about two thousand prisoners, and as for high-ranking officials—they've all been arrested and are under our control."
"Perfect," Ashveil said with a slight smile. "We can interrogate them now. Bring them all to me."
Under Ashveil's command, the greatest figures of the seas were bound and escorted before him. Kaido, Big Mom, Kong, Garp, Sengoku, and even the Elders were all present, powerless under his authority.
Kaido of the Beasts, one of the Four Emperors, was the first to approach. His massive frame was tense, and the scars marking half of his face still reflected the aftermath of Ashveil's previous attack. Terror flitted across his features as he gazed upon the young pirate.
"Ashveil… Ashveil…" Kaido stammered, unease creeping into his voice.
Ashveil's gaze was calm as he regarded him. "So, Kaido, shall we make a deal?"
"A deal? What kind of deal?" Kaido asked warily, his instinct sensing danger.
"Nothing complicated. Do you wish to leave this place?" Ashveil asked casually, almost smiling.
Kaido hesitated. Death was not his concern, but imprisonment at the hands of the Whitebeard Pirates meant losing his most treasured possession—freedom. The loss of liberty was more agonizing to him than the threat of death itself. Naturally, he longed to leave.
"Don't jest, Ashveil. You wouldn't truly release me," Kaido said, suspicion and pride mingling in his voice.
Ashveil chuckled softly. "You've been my enemy numerous times, Kaido. Yet you do not pose a threat to me now. Even if I were asleep and unguarded, could you harm me?"
Kaido's expression turned red with frustration and disbelief. He realized the harsh truth: Ashveil's defense and capabilities were so extreme that no amount of brute strength could overcome them. Not even a coalition of peerless powerhouses could hope to breach him.
For a moment, Kaido reconsidered everything. Even his legendary crew, his terrifying allies, and the resurrection of Rocks' warriors would likely be insufficient to match Ashveil's abilities. Here stood a force beyond reckoning, capable of neutralizing any opponent with ease.
Gritting his teeth, Kaido asked, "Then… what are the conditions?"
Ashveil's voice was calm, almost indifferent. "One hundred billion Berries will suffice."
Kaido's eyes widened. He had expected impossible demands, yet this was concrete, tangible, and within the realm of possibility. Still, the sheer audacity of Ashveil's confidence and power left him uneasy.
Every member of the Whitebeard Pirates, including seasoned veterans, felt a quiet awe. Ashveil had proven, yet again, that strength alone was not the measure of mastery; intellect, foresight, and control over both people and technology were equally critical.
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