The E.O. drug was instantly digested within his body, and a faint red glint appeared in Sarutobi Hiruzen's eyes.
"Strength..."
"It has indeed increased quite a bit."
Sarutobi Hiruzen looked at the swollen muscles on his body and sensed it.
"But not by much."
Sarutobi Hiruzen shook his head. As expected, this kind of drug could hardly improve a physique at his level.
"Still, Vegapunk can study it further. There may be an unexpected gain."
"The research direction could be to completely consume lifespan in exchange for permanently improving one's physique."
As for the life force consumed by taking the drug, Sarutobi Hiruzen barely sensed any loss. Perhaps his vitality was simply too powerful.
Then, before Sarutobi Hiruzen could conduct any further tests, the drug's effects faded away.
"Let Vegapunk experiment with it later. For now, I should get back to business."
By the time Sarutobi Hiruzen returned to the palace, the wine inside had not even gone cold. It was still warm.
"It's settled."
Sarutobi Hiruzen said blandly.
"Thank you, Azure Emperor."
Jinbe clasped his hands and expressed his gratitude.
Though he was quite strong, his speed was far inferior to Sarutobi Hiruzen's Light Release. It was therefore difficult for him to catch Vander Decken IX and his group, who fled immediately after every strike.
Neptune, meanwhile, was filled with deep fear. The sudden surge in temperature on Fish-Man Island, along with the sight outside the island that resembled a great sun crashing down, had left this already unwarriorlike king trembling with dread.
"Come."
"Take me to see Princess Shirahoshi."
Sarutobi Hiruzen gestured for Neptune to lead the way.
"This..."
Neptune's expression tightened, and he became somewhat uneasy.
Although he was grateful to Sarutobi Hiruzen for resolving the trouble facing Fish-Man Island and Princess Shirahoshi, Princess Shirahoshi possessed an