Capture Kaido Alive

Punk Hazard was an island perpetually shrouded in an artificial climate and the low hum of machinery.

Layer upon layer of thick alloy walls sealed it off from the outside world. Beyond those walls lay the world's most advanced—and most dangerous—experimental zone.

On the surveillance feed,

Several chains made of specially crafted Seastone and high-density alloy were fastened link by link around a massive body, like a spine coiled around an ancient beast. They pinned him firmly to the central operating table.

Kaido.

Even in a deep coma, his body radiated an unconscious pressure that set hearts pounding.

His chest rose and fell faintly. His muscles tensed now and then of their own accord, as though he might open his eyes at any moment and tear the entire laboratory apart.

Vegapunk adjusted his goggles, his gaze shifting between the monitor and the man on the table.

After a long moment,

He gave a heartfelt sigh.

"...Remarkable."

He turned toward the man leaning against the wall, looking far too relaxed for someone who had just come out of a world-shaking battle.

"You brought this thing back without so much as a scratch."

Rock smiled. "I wouldn't say I got away without a scratch."

He rolled his shoulder, and a flash of lightning flickered across it.

"That guy really can take a beating."

Then, as if something had just occurred to him, his tone changed.

"Oh, right."

"Didn't you extract his Lineage Factor before? You were planning to develop an Artificial Devil Fruit, weren't you?"

Vegapunk's hands visibly paused.

He jerked his head up and glanced instinctively at the Camera Den Den Mushi in the corner of the laboratory, which was "operating normally." Then he lowered his voice.

"...Ah."

"So I couldn't keep even that from you."

He gave a rueful smile,