On Egghead Island, Marco finally agreed to Dr. Vegapunk's request.
There had been little choice. The old scientist was resolute. Egghead contained generations of research data and technological achievements that could not simply be relocated. For Vegapunk, abandoning the island meant abandoning the very foundation of his life's work. In the end, Marco accepted the responsibility and declared Egghead Island part of the Phoenix Pirates' territory.
By then, the rest of the crew had already set foot on the island. The futuristic landscape left them visibly stunned. Advanced machinery hummed softly in the background, holographic interfaces shimmered in midair, and automated systems handled tasks that would normally require dozens of people.
Yamato stood before an automated food dispenser, happily sampling one dish after another. "Being out at sea is amazing. I never thought we would see something like this."
Ace laughed, looking around with genuine admiration. "This is my first time seeing technology on this level. As expected of the world's greatest scientist, everything here feels decades ahead of its time."
Atlas crossed her arms proudly. "Not bad, right? This is the Island of the Future. If these food dispensers could be mass produced and distributed across the world, no one would have to wait long for a proper meal. Imagine ending hunger in a minute."
As they spoke, Marco approached with Stussy at his side. He observed his crew quietly before asking, "Ace, everyone, what do you think of Egghead?"
Yamato turned to him immediately, eyes bright. "Marco, have you finished speaking with the Doctor? Is he joining us?"
Marco nodded. "He has agreed to align with us, but there are conditions. Dr. Vegapunk is not someone who creates weapons for conquest. Even after joining us, he will not develop offensive weapons for war. At most, he will provide defensive systems. His priority is using technology to improve lives within our territory."
He paused before adding, "We will also need to fund his research."
Jozu frowned slightly. "So he will not forge new weapons for us?"
Ace remained relaxed and confident. "It does not matter. As long as his genius does not strengthen the World Government, that alone benefits us. We have our own power. We can defeat them without relying on machines."
Yamato nodded firmly. "He is a good man. Not like Queen, who only created plagues and suffering. Vegapunk actually wants to help people."
Stussy stepped forward, her expression measured. "Now that the Doctor has joined the Phoenix Pirates, and with your arrival here, the World Government likely already knows. Vegapunk's importance to them cannot be overstated. The Marines may act soon. You should prepare yourselves."
The crew exchanged confident glances. Not long ago, they had defeated the Marines in open battle. Even Fleet Admiral Akainu had fallen by Marco's hand. Their morale remained high.
Ace grinned. "If it is only the Marines, we will handle it. We will protect the Doctor."
"Exactly," several pirates echoed, their spirits rising.
Marco, however, did not share their ease. His voice grew more serious. "If it is only the Marines, we can manage. But if the World Government intervenes directly, things become far more complicated. Beyond the Gorosei, the Celestial Dragons possess a force known as the God's Knights. Each of them is an elite with extraordinary strength."
At his words, the earlier overconfidence faded. The weight of the situation settled over them.
One pirate spoke cautiously, "Even so, we have allies. The Big Mom Pirates and the Beasts Pirates stand with us."
Jinbe's expression remained grave. "After the Whole Cake Island conflict, the Big Mom Pirates lost more than half of their officers and nearly two thirds of their regular forces. Their ability to assist us is limited."
He continued, "As for the Beasts Pirates, Wano Country was destroyed by Uranus. They too suffered devastating losses. If the Marines and the World Government launch a coordinated assault, our allies may not be able to offer significant support."
Silence followed. The reality was unavoidable. Vegapunk's value made Egghead a target. Sooner or later, the storm would come.
Vista spoke carefully. "Marco, should we inform our allies in advance?"
Marco shook his head. "Not yet. If it is only the Marines, we will handle it ourselves. As for the Gorosei, I have found a way to counter their supposed immortality."
The captains immediately focused on him. They had previously faced Saint Saturn, one of the Gorosei, and his regenerative ability had seemed absolute. Even Sea Stone weapons had proven useless.
Ace leaned forward. "How?"
Marco answered calmly, "Haki. Specifically, Conqueror's Haki. If it is powerful enough, it can overwhelm and negate abilities that defy natural order. Immortality is not absolute. I believe Conqueror's Haki can break it."
Ace and Yamato exchanged thoughtful glances. Both possessed Conqueror's Haki. They trusted Marco's judgment, and neither doubted the potential of their own willpower.
If what Marco said was true, then the seemingly invincible Gorosei were not beyond defeat.
The confidence that returned to their eyes was no longer reckless. It was steadier, sharpened by understanding.
Above Egghead Island, the sky remained clear. Yet every one of them knew that peace would not last long.