Chapter 6: Chapter 6
Chapter 6 Small Conflict
"What on earth is the Doctor doing in there? "
Positioned outside the heavy metal door, the Rear Admiral gripped his sword, his countenance somewhat grave. "It's been several minutes. "
For the first time, he considered it could be detrimental if the soundproofing was overly effective.
What transpired within? Will the doctor be unharmed?
Despite the fish-man's strength, it seems impossible for him to harm the doctor, but what if?
Any potential danger is intolerable. Should anything happen to that doctor, his political career would be irrevocably damaged. It wouldn't be surprising if he were cast directly into Impel Down.
The Rear Admiral's demeanor shifted, nearly prompting him to forcefully enter.
Squeak.
Fortunately, at that moment, the heavy metal door swung open, revealing Vegapunk emerging slowly with his hands clasped behind his back.
The Rear Admiral's face brightened, and he exhaled in relief.
Thank goodness nothing transpired.
Vegapunk acknowledged with a nod before turning back and calling out, "Boy, come out, stop hesitating."
Brett gradually stepped out from the doorway.
He had withdrawn his abilities and reverted to his usual appearance. The devil fruit developed by Vegapunk had succeeded, allowing him to acquire the power. It was best to keep this information from the government for now.
The Rear Admiral moved behind Vegapunk in an instant, the sword in his hand placed directly against Brett's neck.
Brett stood still, neither retreating nor displaying panic, though his pupils slightly contracted.
'What astonishing speed! I couldn't even react. What an powerful marine. I'm glad I took Vegapunk's deal because in a direct confrontation with this marine, I'll be dead before I know it'
"Doctor, what do we do with this Fishman? "
The Rear Admiral did not turn around, maintaining a vigilant gaze on Brett. Brett was certain that any unusual movement on his part would result in this man's sword mercilessly slicing through his neck.
"This young man and I have already come to an understanding. He will remain unharmed going forward. Take him back to his previous room." Vegapunk replied nonchalantly. "He is a crucial experimental resource."
"Doctor, are you serious? "
From the rear, a marine captain couldn't restrain himself from exclaiming loudly, "Just because of this kid's actions, over a dozen marines have died in combat, and more than a hundred have sustained injuries. "
Brett recalled some details about him. Prior to entering Vegapunk's treasure chamber, he had been the last opponent he confronted.
His body was covered in bandages, and his face appeared ashen.
It seems that even employing iron body doesn't prevent injuries after being struck.
"Silence, Ronald! "
The Rear Admiral admonished him loudly, "This is the Doctor's order. Your responsibility is to comply. "
"…"
Captain Ronald wore an expression of anger, Brett observed the muscles in his face quivering.
Then at last, he nodded and replied, "Yes."
From this perspective, Vegapunk's dominance within this facility appears somewhat overstated.
However, this is indeed a scientific stronghold.
"Ronald, escort him back. "
The Rear Admiral sheathed his sword and cast a final icy glare at Brett, stating, "It seems that a single pair of handcuffs is inadequate for securing him, so apply several more. "
Brett observed Captain Ronald, whose expression suddenly shifted to one of excitement, and inwardly sighed.
' There may be some trouble up ahead.'
"Absolutely! You can count on me, Rear Admiral!"
Ronald nodded with enthusiasm, gesturing for several marines to approach, and promptly retrieved the additional handcuffs and shackles that had been prepared for Brett.
No one thought that Brett would manage to escape. It was merely a question of time before he would be apprehended.
Brett did not resist; rather, he willingly extended his hand.
Having resolved to remain, he was prepared for this scenario.
The marines swiftly secured several new pairs of handcuffs and shackles onto him, applying three pairs each at once.
He was relatively unconcerned, as the marines was unaware of his status as an devil fruit user, meaning they would not utilize Sea-Prism Stone shackles, rendering these restraints useless.
"Make sure to bring him here tomorrow. It is time to gather some experimental subjects," Vegapunk stated nonchalantly.
"Understood, Doctor. "
The Captain acknowledged with a nod, placing his hand on the sword hilt at his side, his gaze filled with coldness, "It is time to return, fish-man. I trust you do not need a chain around your neck for guidance? "
Brett smirked faintly, "Then show the way, human. "
"Then, Rear Admiral Hager, Doctor, I will take him back now."
Ronald offered a slight bow before turning to leave.
Brett followed closely, avoiding any eye contact with Vegapunk throughout the process.
"I believe it is time for me to resume my rest. "
Vegapunk stretched.
"Please ensure you take a proper rest. "
The Rear Admiral named Hager replied with respect, "Allow me to handle the remaining tasks. This will not interfere with your ongoing research. "
"Then I appreciate your assistance. "
Vegapunk yawned and swayed slightly as he departed.
As his back was turned to the marines, a subtle smirk appeared on his face.
Observing Vegapunk's exit, Rear Admiral Hager summoned a marine officer, "Deploy additional personnel to monitor that Fish-mam. Such an incident must never be repeated. "
"Yes, sir! "
The Rear Admiral's gaze was steely. Despite having captured that Fishman, he would not ignore the disturbances that transpired this evening.
Fucking Fishman!
…
Brett began his journey back, flanked by numerous marines,
The Marines who moved ahead frequently turned back to look at him with expressions of disdain, not to mention the hostile glances cast from behind. If visual glares could inflict harm, Brett felt as though he had been thoroughly battered.
Nevertheless, vision lacks lethality; only weapons possess that capability.
The navy therefore merely glowered at Brett, while the firearms aimed at him remained unfired and the swords pointed his way were not drawn.
' They appeared to be struggling to maintain their composure. '
Brett reflected on this, unable to even rotate his head, as the barrel of a gun nearly brushed against his face.
This facility is huge, and Brett's route to freedom was extensive, resulting in a significant delay in his return. When he finally reached the familiar confines of the prison, it was nearing midnight.
The prison door remained open, identical to how it had been when Brett departed previously.
Brett prepared to re-enter the prison to recuperate.
However.
"You do not think that today's incident ends here, do you, fish man? "
The marines did not part ways and continued to encircle him. Captain Ronald positioned himself directly in front of Brett. When Brett glanced down, he noted that the man's hand was firmly grasping the hilt of the sword at his side.
"After inflicting so many injuries on our people, you do not believe you can return to a peaceful sleep, do you? "
The expressions of the marines were filled with ire, and they seemed merely an order away from launching an assault on Brett.
"I am...sorry." Brett responded tersely.
It truly is regrettable that some had died.
Yet, he did not view his actions as unjust.
Ultimately, from a particular perspective, the Marines represents the opposition.
"Sorry? "
Ronald gritted his teeth. Releasing the sword hilt, he clenched his fists. "Indeed, I'm foolish. What is the point of speaking to a heartless creature? "
He adjusted his tie and stated coldly, "Let us resort to a more straightforward approach, one that even a fish can instinctively understand, to convey the magnitude of the crime you have committed. "
Brett cast his eyes downward, "I don't recommend it"
"It is too late to plead for mercy now. No one can save you."
Ronald bellowed furiously, "Seize him! ! "
The marines, who had long been unable to contain their anger, surged toward Brett without hesitation.
The moment for Brett to face the consequences had arrived.