Vegapunk snorted.
"If possible, I'd like you two to mass-produce Pluton!"
Xia Le added.
Tom and Vegapunk both turned to stare at him.
"Are you insane?"
"The Ancient Weapons—Pluton, Poseidon, and Uranus—have inspired countless legends. Any one of them is enough to drive people mad."
"Each is a treasure beyond price, and you want to mass-produce one?"
Vegapunk asked in disbelief.
"Weapons aren't good or evil. What matters is who wields them."
Xia Le smiled.
"You have a point."
"I'll do my best, but a perfect replica of Pluton is impossible."
Vegapunk pondered for a moment before continuing.
"Besides, the Seraphim are mostly complete, but a few flaws still need fixing."
"We've run into some problems copying and transferring Devil Fruit abilities."
Xia Le's expression remained unchanged. "I've found someone you could work with."
"The Vinsmoke Family of the Germa 66 Legion has done extensive research on the Lineage Factor. You might have plenty to discuss."
Vegapunk's eyes lit up. "The Vinsmoke Family? Their Lineage Factor research and specialized equipment are fascinating."
Then his eyes widened.
"Xia Le, I hear Wano Country has Seastone deposits."
"The lab's been working on a Seastone weapons project."
Xia Le knew exactly what he was after and chuckled. "What, you've got your eye on my Seastone?"
"This research will make the navy stronger!"
Vegapunk snorted.
"Then you have my full support!"
Xia Le grinned.
Tom followed behind them, listening to their conversation while taking in Wano Country's unfamiliar architecture.
He was also quietly studying Xia Le.
Though Xia Le had saved him years ago, Tom barely knew him. They had seldom met.
But judging from their brief time together, Xia Le seemed approachable, without a trace of arrogance.
In that respect, he reminded Tom of Pirate King Roger.
Wait. That sword!
Tom's gaze snapped