Chapter 106: 106. Seraph's Plan Is Imminent

Check out advanced chapters on P@treon: [email protected]/CosmicKaminari ---------- A few days later, whether it was due to his discussions with Robin or the progress he observed in Wanokuni's development, Dragon had reached a conclusion. With his decision made, he began his return to the Revolutionary Army's base. Though Alex would likely succeed the World Government as a manager of power, Dragon remained skeptical. His ideals diverged; the primary goal for Dragon was to uproot the corruption and oppression that plagued the world. Before that, however, the secret alliance between the revolutionaries and Wanokuni had begun, with Robin acting as the key intermediary. Using the Revolutionary Army's global network as a foundation, the Royal Guard's influence gradually expanded. Starting in North Blue, their reach was slowly spreading into the other three seas. For now, it was only a matter of time. One month later, under the watchful and approving gaze of Doflamingo, the first batch of artificial Devil Fruits, the SMILE, reached maturity. The shipment was promptly transported to Kaido's territory. Flying the flag of the Beasts Pirates ensured that no one dared provoke the convoy. Additionally, with Doflamingo personally overseeing the delivery, the goods arrived near the Vodka Kingdom without incident. Little did they know, government spies had seized the opportunity to infiltrate Kaido's forces, embedding themselves within the 06th Battalion to observe the results of the experiment. The first batch of SMILE was unveiled amidst great anticipation. Of the 18 artificial fruits produced, five failed, leaving their users with the now-infamous permanent grins and no powers. The remaining twelve, however, experienced physical transformations, gaining Zoan-type abilities based on animals such as cats, tigers, cows, and sheep. Despite the nearly one-third failure rate, Kaido was ecstatic. Watching his first artificial Zoan legion come to life, he grew even more invested in the transaction's potential. For now, his earlier frustration at Alex for "stealing" his son Yamato a few months ago was completely overshadowed by the success of the SMILE. Meanwhile, the reactions of Doflamingo and the government spies present were markedly different. Doflamingo's fingers twitched with excitement as he envisioned the enormous profits that the expanding SMILE trade would bring him. He could barely contain his anticipation for what lay ahead. On the other hand, the government spies were deeply alarmed. They meticulously documented the changes, the side effects, and the physical enhancements observed in the test subjects. With this information in hand, they prepared to send their reports. A week later, comprehensive intelligence on the SMILE reached the Marines and the World Government, prompting an emergency summit at the highest level. "This so-called artificial fruit... What do you think of it?" "Could the scientific research team Alex took with him still possess the capability to produce something like this? If so, they've hidden it well." "Even though the artificial fruit strengthens users, Alex is actually selling it?" "It's likely because of the SMILE's side effects. He's posturing as a benevolent ruler in Wanokuni, so he must care deeply about the public perception of such drawbacks." "The side effect is merely a loss of facial expression. But those who succeed gain real Zoan abilities. It's clearly a resource worth pursuing." After thoroughly reviewing the intelligence reports on the SMILE fruit, the Five Elders began deliberating among themselves. From the World Government's perspective, the side effects were a trivial matter, especially when weighed against the potential benefits. The Government's vast pool of candidates could easily absorb such risks. Moreover, with a success rate exceeding fifty percent, the numbers alone were compelling. "So, how do we integrate ourselves into the artificial fruit supply chain?" The Elders, shrewd and calculating, saw the industry's potential. Rather than resorting to direct plunder, they recognized the value of strategic participation, particularly as the industry was poised for rapid growth. "What about commissioning Vegapunk to develop artificial fruits?" "With his intellect, surpassing humanity by five centuries, he could undoubtedly replicate or even refine the process." "But Vegapunk's priority right now is the Seraphim Project," another Elder reminded. "We cannot afford delays or distractions from that initiative. The Shichibukai system was established specifically for this purpose, remember." "Exactly, Alex's team has had years to refine their research. Even if we're faster now, there's no sense in wasting time on redundancy. The sooner we complete the Seraphim Project, the better." "Besides, the concept of mechanical consciousness in the Seraphim is leagues ahead of artificial fruits. Enhancing precision values like combat abilities is far more critical. There's no need to dilute our efforts." The room grew heated as the Five Elders, each the pinnacle of power in their respective domains, debated fiercely. Eventually, the blond Elder raised his voice to deliver a decisive verdict. "The Seraphim Project must not be delayed. Our ultimate goal is to complete it by the prophesied time—a mere dozen years away." "Meanwhile, the artificial fruit industry can be approached pragmatically. Money can save us time, bypass development hurdles, and avoid unnecessary complications with production chains." Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro leaned forward. "True, but how do we ensure our involvement? Alex's secrecy and guarded approach make infiltration difficult." Shepherd Ju Peter gave a surprising answer. "Let's approach Alex directly." The other four fell silent, startled. Most had assumed it would be easier to target Doflamingo or Kaido, particularly the former, given his former status as a Celestial Dragon. "If Alex is selling the artificial fruits, he's clearly driven by profit," he continued. "This makes him more approachable. Begin by probing his interests and securing a clear statement." Money? The World Government has no shortage of that resource. And collaborating with pirates is hardly a moral hurdle, they are cooperating with Kaido on arms and Seastone deals for years now. After a moment of reflection, the others nodded in agreement. The logic was sound, and a new task was assigned to the CP agency as the summit meeting concluded. Time flowed swiftly, and the Sea Circle Calendar shifted from 1508 to 1509. Few could foresee the chaos that would soon erupt in Mariejois. None, except Alex, realized that a merman slave escaping the Celestial Dragons would ignite the largest upheaval of the year. On Fish-Man Island, the Shadow Guard had been keeping a close watch. When Fisher Tiger, the former leader of Fish-Man District, returned from his journey, Alex knew that the wheels of his plan had begun to turn. This time, Alex wasn't content with merely replicating the historical events of Tiger's liberation of slaves. No—his goal was to incite an incident that would dwarf that feat entirely. He aimed to push Fish-Man Island and the World Government into irreconcilable conflict, maximizing tensions for his own designs.