Wait, Where's My Payment?

"Oops, I've been found out!"

A sly smile curled Hanazuki's lips as he watched Vegapunk with great interest.

"So, have you finally finished fully analyzing the Reishi components I left with you? Dr. Vegapunk, care to tell me about any unexpected discoveries?"

"About that, it took me a tremendous amount of effort to find it within the Devil Fruit's lineage factor structure... I'm getting sidetracked! Kuma is what matters right now!"

Vegapunk, who had been about to launch into an impassioned explanation of how he had discovered the structure of Reishi, came back to his senses and hurriedly dragged the topic back on track.

"Kuma? Dad, what is going on? Why is this weirdo saying it has something to do with Dad?!"

The campfire burned quietly, the crackling logs spitting out scattered sparks. Bartholomew Kuma wore a complicated expression as he cast Vegapunk a grateful look.

"Thank you, Dr. Vegapunk, but my life..."

"Shut up! Kuma, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn wants to kill you for good, do you understand, you bastard?!"

"The more people there are who love you, the bigger a problem your death will be! I contacted this guy prepared to be hunted down by the World Government, so cherish other people's goodwill!!!"

His voice was hoarse with strain. Cold sweat seeped down his forehead, his face turning slightly pale. Having exhausted every ounce of strength, Vegapunk sat on the ground, limp as a heap of mud.

"What exactly is going on? Why are you going to die, Dad?!"

Bonney's eyes brimmed with tears. Sentomaru remained silent beside her, while Kuma grew somewhat flustered and hurriedly lowered his head, trying to brush it off.

"No, no, Bonney, don't listen to Dr. Vegapunk..."

"Yes. According to the agreement between Bartholomew Kuma and the World Government, after curing you, Jewelry Bonney,