The In-Demand Scientist, Grey's Bizarre Adventure

"Cough cough, that's right, I am the genius scientist, Thomas Grey!"

A flash of inspiration struck Grey's mind. He coughed twice affectatiously, then unceremoniously shook off the Marine's hand.

"Don't get so close to me, you bastard!"

"My apologies!"

The Marine Captain named Gilber Galan released Grey's shoulder. He wasn't angered by Grey's attitude; instead, a hint of joy flashed in his eyes.

Sloppy attire, messy hair, dark circles under his eyes, and an unfriendly way of speaking.

This is so scientist-like!

"Doctor Thomas, forgive my presumption, but why have you come to Tiger Shark Island, a place known as a lawless land?"

Although he didn't know why, these Marines seemed to greatly respect scientists.

But knowing this much was enough.

"Hmph!"

Grey snorted coldly.

"It's all because of my research. Some special materials can only be bought here."

"It's all your fault, Marines. You know this is a lawless land, so why don't you clean it up quickly! If it weren't for the fact that the distribution of those special materials is controlled here, I wouldn't be unable to buy them elsewhere."

"Ahahaha, these are matters beyond the influence of a soldier like me."

Gilber Galan scratched his head, appearing simple and honest.

"However, Vice Admiral Onigumo is leading us to Tiger Shark Island this time precisely to sweep away the darkness hidden here. From now on, Tiger Shark Island will be a place protected by Justice."

Vice Admiral Onigumo!

Grey had heard of his great name. He was an absolute hawk among generals, a believer in absolute Justice, and had already been a Vice Admiral at Headquarters twenty years ago.

I wonder if Rod will be okay.

A flicker of worry crossed his mind, but Grey showed nothing on his face, merely nodding calmly.

"Vice Admiral Onigumo, I've heard of his great name too. I hope it turns out as you say."

"So, what do you want by stopping me? Even the Marines can't arrest people arbitrarily."

"You misunderstand, we aren't here to arrest you."

Gilber Galan waved his hands frantically, then hesitated, seemingly unsure how to explain.

These kinds of scientists were usually difficult to communicate with.

In fact, although they had come to Tiger Shark Island with Vice Admiral Onigumo this time, they were not Vice Admiral Onigumo's direct subordinates. They belonged to a special team under Vice Admiral Stroberi.

They had previously accompanied Vice Admiral Stroberi on a mission in the North Blue. As there were still some follow-up matters to handle, they temporarily remained in the North Blue. Coincidentally, Vice Admiral Onigumo was returning to Marine Headquarters, so they hitched a ride on Vice Admiral Onigumo's warship to return.

The Vice Admiral they followed, Stroberi, had always been a direct subordinate of Admiral Kizaru. As subordinates of Vice Admiral Stroberi, they naturally fell under Admiral Kizaru's command as well.

Several months ago, they had received a mission from their superiors—pay close attention to scientists among the populace. If they encountered any during their duties, they were to treat them with courtesy and, ideally, invite them to join the Marines.

According to gossip, this was a request made by the genius scientist known as the most advanced scientist in human history, Dr. Vegapunk.

After all, the Marine Science Unit led by Admiral Kizaru was a special unit directly responsible to him.

Although he didn't know the actual level of the scientist before him, it was worth a try!

One should know that the last person who successfully recruited a scientist was directly promoted by one rank and transferred to the Science Unit.

Who didn't know that the Marine Science Unit was the best assignment—light duties, plenty of holidays, and good treatment.

"We just want to invite you to join the Marines!"

After hesitating for a moment, Gilber Galan finally spoke directly.

"Join the Marines!?"

Grey exclaimed, his voice cracking.

"I know, you might feel that joining the Marines will bring restrictions. However, there are many benefits to joining the Marines!"

Unexpectedly, Grey's reaction was so intense. Gilber Galan immediately spoke frantically to salvage the situation, attempting to persuade Grey.

"The Marines, backed by the World Government, possess the most complete research facilities, capable of supporting all your research projects; they also have ample research funding, so you won't have to worry about research expenses anymore; and no matter what kind of special materials you need, the Marines can find them for you, facilitating your scientific research."

With every sentence Gilber Galan spoke, Grey's eyes lit up a little more, as if he could already see the bright future the other party described.

"Not only that, but we also have the world's greatest scientist, Vegapunk! You can join Dr. Vegapunk's laboratory and research cutting-edge technology together with him!"

Seeing that Grey seemed interested, Gilber Galan struck while the iron was hot, continuing to tempt him.

Any scientist would hold adoration for Dr. Vegapunk, who represented the world's strongest technological level, and long to research alongside him.

"Vegapunk..."

Hearing the name Gilber Galan uttered, Grey suddenly froze. The excitement in his eyes quickly faded, and he snapped back from the dreamlike scenario the other party had painted.

"I'll consider it."

What's going on?

Suddenly calm?

Looking at Grey, who had returned to his usual demeanor, Gilbert Garan was filled with confusion.

He had felt that the other party was completely mesmerized by the scene he had painted, so why did he calm down after Dr. Vegapunk was mentioned?

He took another look at Grey, and a flash of lightning struck Gilbert Garan's mind.

He understood!

This was a very arrogant scientist!

He was unwilling to join Dr. Vegapunk's team and wanted to have an equal status with the doctor!

Believing he had guessed Grey's thoughts, Gilbert Garan was filled with excitement.

Although this scientist named Thomas Grey could absolutely not reach Dr. Vegapunk's level, since he possessed such arrogance, he should at least have a considerable level of scientific research ability!

I'm going to get promoted too!

Gilbert Garan's mind was filled with only this thought.

Bowing slightly to show respect, Gilbert Garan then looked up at Grey, his face full of sincerity.

"Dr. Thomas, no matter what, please give us a chance! At least come visit our warship, our warship is equipped with the latest technology."

"Since you are a scientist, you should have heard of it, right? It's a new era Marines warship that can traverse the Sea King's nest—the Calm Belt!"

Hmm?

Grey's mind raced.

To sail in the Calm Belt, there were two major challenges to overcome.

First, how to avoid the attacks of giant Sea Kings.

Second, how to sail without wind.

How to sail in a windless environment was alright, his own technology could achieve it, though not for long.

However, avoiding Sea King attacks was completely beyond him.

If he could learn their technology, could he upgrade the [Polar], allowing them to freely traverse the Calm Belt as well!?