Chapter 264: Chapter 264: Human Experiment, Luffy's Killing Intent
Luffy raised an eyebrow, his expression unreadable as he released Vegapunk's hand and turned to the two Marines restraining Caesar.
"This guy's still got energy to spare. Seems like your lesson wasn't enough. Give him a couple more slaps to calm him down."
The Marines, eager to comply, delivered two more resounding slaps to Caesar's already swollen face. This time, Caesar's defiance wavered. He clenched his teeth and glared but chose silence over further humiliation.
Kizaru stepped forward casually, picking up a document from the nearby table. He flipped through it with apparent interest.
"So, is there truth to what he says, Doctor? Has he really surpassed you in artificial Devil Fruit research? Mass production sounds impressive."
Vegapunk, his towering figure exuding authority, adjusted his glasses and shook his head firmly. Picking up another document, he spoke with measured disdain.
"Surpassed me? Hardly. His so-called artificial fruits are defective—highly unstable, with an extremely low success rate. Even when successful, the consequences are severe. Physical mutations, uncontrollable transformations, and eventual death are almost guaranteed. This isn't innovation; it's reckless disregard for life."
Caesar's face contorted with rage. Even under guard, he couldn't hold back. "You're just jealous of my genius, Vegapunk! Sure, there are side effects—but what great power doesn't come with risk? The Devil Fruits themselves have side effects! You can't dismiss my work just because it's inconvenient for your ego!"
Kizaru ignored Caesar's outburst and passed the documents to Luffy, who had sidled closer to peer over his shoulder.
As Luffy scanned the pages, his playful grin vanished. A dark shadow crossed his face as he absorbed the horrific details of Caesar's experiments—human trials conducted on prisoners sent by the government, grotesque transformations into half-human, half-beast monstrosities, and agonizing deaths inflicted by untested chemical agents.
Then there was the poison gas research, its implications chilling. Luffy's hands trembled as they tightened around the documents, sparks of electricity crackling around his fingertips.
Kizaru, ever observant despite his laid-back demeanor, squinted at Luffy and spoke softly. "Calm down, Luffy-san. I understand your anger, but let's handle this by the book."
Luffy exhaled sharply, his jaw clenched, as Kizaru continued.
"Now that we have Caesar and solid evidence, we'll send him to Judicial Island for trial." He glanced at Vegapunk. "Doctor, any objections? He was under your supervision in the science division."
Vegapunk shook his head without hesitation. "None. After reading his records, it's clear he's beyond redemption. Proceed as you see fit."
Kizaru nodded and issued the formal arrest order.
"Caesar Clown, for conducting illegal human experiments, manufacturing weapons of mass destruction, and engaging in clandestine dealings with pirates Doflamingo and Kaido, you are hereby expelled from the government science division. Your privileges are revoked, and you are sentenced to imprisonment pending trial on Judicial Island."
The two Marines nodded, tightened their grip on Caesar, and began dragging him away.
Caesar's initial shock gave way to outrage. He thrashed against his captors, shouting wildly.
"This is absurd! Vegapunk, this is your doing, isn't it?! You're jealous of my success! You set me up, you coward!" His voice grew shrill. "I'll appeal to the Five Elders—they'll see my value! You'll pay for this! All of you will!"
The more he shouted, the less sense his words made.
Luffy watched the scene with growing disgust. His hand slipped from his pocket, electricity gathering at his fingertips as his voice dropped into a low, dangerous tone.
"Why bother sending him to trial? Someone like this doesn't deserve to live."
The crackling of Luffy's electricity filled the room as he stepped forward, his intent clear.
"Luffy-san!" Kizaru interjected, stepping in front of him. His calm voice carried a rare edge. "I understand your frustration, but this isn't how we handle things. Caesar's crimes will be punished—but not here, not like this."
Luffy's eyes narrowed, his electric aura intensifying. "And what happens if those Five Elders you're so loyal to decide to cut him loose? What if they put him back in a lab and let him keep playing god? I won't risk it."
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