POV Tanya Degurechaff

Location: Egghead

The next day, Tanya woke up early, well before dawn. The night still weighed heavily on Egghead, wrapping the island in a silent, oppressive darkness. The sky, free from artificial light, revealed a starry blanket that few could admire. But Tanya wasn't there to appreciate the beauty of the night sky. Her thoughts were focused on one thing: testing her new computation orb.

She dressed quickly, donning her uniform with military efficiency. Every piece of her gear was carefully adjusted, every button and strap tightened to perfection. As she fastened the orb around her neck like a pendant, a familiar feeling of power surged through her mind. This orb, her crowning achievement, was now ready to be put to the test. This test would be more than a simple check of its functionality: it would determine whether she could regain the abilities she once had with the Type 97.

Tanya slipped out of her quarters quietly, moving with the grace of a predator through the deserted halls of the base. She had carefully chosen a time when the surveillance systems were less active, knowing that even in such a highly advanced facility, there were always gaps to exploit. The discipline of the men behind the machines could never match Tanya's, honed by years of war and relentless combat.

For this test, she had identified an isolated sector, far from the research zones and main operations centers. It was a space used for drills with robots and weapons of all kinds, but at this hour, it was completely deserted. It would be the perfect place to test her orb's capabilities while avoiding the constant surveillance of Vegapunk.

When she finally reached the test area, a wide expanse of rugged terrain surrounded by earthen mounds, she paused to survey her surroundings. No drones in the air, no visible Den Den Mushi. But she knew the real danger didn't come from conventional surveillance devices. Vegapunk was a genius, and his security systems had to match his intellect. Still, Tanya had her assets. She wasn't just anyone, and her ability to manipulate magic gave her a unique advantage in this ultra-technological environment.

She activated her orb, immediately feeling the flow of magical energy coursing through her. It was almost euphoric, a sensation of raw power that brought her back to the days when she used the Type 97 in her world. The connection between her and the orb was flawless, each magical pulse resonating with her mind. But before starting the tests, she needed to ensure she wouldn't be watched.

Tanya focused a portion of her magical energy, preparing to deploy a series of complex interference patterns. In her world, she had learned to manipulate magical flows to create disruptions that made remote surveillance impossible. Here, she would apply the same technique, but adapted to the advanced technology of Egghead.

She first created a veil of energy, a subtle yet effective barrier that disrupted the electrical signals and radio waves around her. This would be enough to mask her presence from conventional sensors. But to be completely safe, she added a second layer of interference, this time designed to disrupt more advanced systems that could detect anomalies in magnetic or thermal fields. This web of interference wove a complex network of illusions, making any attempt at surveillance as confusing as trying to track a shadow in the fog.

Once satisfied with her camouflage, Tanya moved on to the next phase. The surrounding air began to vibrate, charged with pure energy. It was a sensation she hadn't felt in a long time, that of being in perfect harmony with her magical powers.

She started with simple spells, bursts of magical light that she projected into the air, waves of energy that she channeled through the orb. The initial tests were successful: the orb reacted exactly as she had anticipated. The flow of energy was stable, and the internal magical circuits were functioning perfectly. She could already sense that this artifact surpassed the performance of the Type 97 artisanal she had been using until now, and this was just the beginning.

Next, Tanya decided to test the orb's offensive capabilities. She concentrated her magical energy into a sphere that she had previously crafted with her Devil Fruit and infused it with a substantial amount of magic. Then, she grabbed her Luger and fired an artillery shot toward the ocean. This was an attack she often used in her home world to annihilate groups of enemies. Once fired, the projectile sped toward the vast expanse of water, crackling with pure, concentrated energy.

The impact was devastating. The bullet exploded in contact with the water, sending an enormous amount of water soaring into the air. The ground trembled beneath her feet, and a warm gust swept through the area. Tanya remained still, watching the result with a cold smile. The orb had not only replicated the spell perfectly, but it had amplified it, making the explosion even more powerful than she had expected.

She continued with a series of varied tests, each time pushing the orb to its limits. Magical lightning, waves of fire, force fields… each spell was executed with unmatched precision and power. The computation orb responded to her every desire, transforming her thoughts into actions with formidable efficiency. It was as if she had regained a part of her true identity, that of the mage soldier she had been in her world.

Breathless, Tanya straightened up, her cold gaze sweeping over the ruins of her improvised battlefield. The orb was still warm in her hand, vibrating with residual energy. She now knew that her weapon was fully functional and much more than that. It was a masterpiece of magical engineering, surpassing anything she had ever used before.

However, she could not let herself be carried away by satisfaction. This test, as conclusive as it was, was just a step. She still needed to refine certain aspects of the orb, particularly its long-term energy management. The powers she had deployed here consumed a considerable amount of energy, and although the orb was capable of tapping into immense reserves, she had to ensure that those reserves wouldn't run out in the middle of a fight.

She took a few moments to rest, gradually shutting down the magical interference she had put in place. The island of Egghead was slowly beginning to awaken around her, but Tanya remained hidden, concealed by the protections she had erected. She knew it would be unwise to stay here any longer.

Tanya left the test area as quietly as she had entered, the computation orb well concealed in her uniform. She had accomplished what she had come to do, and she was ready to continue her plan. However, part of her mind remained wary. Egghead was a place of science and innovation, but it was also dangerous terrain for those who did not distrust the true intentions of its inhabitants.

Vegapunk was brilliant, but Tanya knew that the key to her survival lay in her ability to stay one step ahead of the scientist. She had to keep evolving, perfecting her powers, and devising plans to face whatever might arise in the future. With her new computation orb, she now had a powerful weapon at her disposal, and she was ready to use it to defend her interests, no matter the cost.

As she returned to her quarters, she was already contemplating her next moves. It was essential for her to maintain the advantage in this strange environment, where science and magic intertwined unpredictably. But one thing was certain: as long as she had her computation orb, Tanya Degurechaff was ready to face whatever this world had in store for her.

POV: Edward Newgate "Whitebeard"

Location: Unknown*

The winds blew with a dull force, causing the thick trees lining the small island hidden in the heart of the New World to groan. It was an island known to few, a sort of peaceful haven lost in the twists of the tumultuous ocean. It was here that the old pirate Whitebeard found himself, hidden by his crew after the Great War of Marineford, a war that had torn his heart more than any sword or fist ever could.

Lying on a large wooden chair, covered with blankets, Whitebeard gazed at the horizon. His body was nothing more than a shadow of its former self, ravaged by wounds and scars from countless battles, and weakened by age. But deep in his eyes still shone that steel glint, that of the greatest pirate the world had ever known. Edward Newgate was still not dead, not yet.

Men from his crew passed by him, bringing food, water, or simply checking that their captain was resting well. But today, he was not at ease. Recent events had reignited a simmering anger within him, a flame he thought had been extinguished. Luffy, Rayleigh, and Jinbe had launched a devastating attack to topple the World Government, an assault that had ignited all the seas. But during this operation, the unthinkable had happened: Jinbei, one of his dearest friends, had been killed.

The memories of Marineford and Ace's death still haunted him, but the news of Jinbe's death had reopened a wound he thought had healed. He recalled Jinbei's calm smile, his unwavering strength, and his absolute commitment to freedom and honor. The captain felt betrayed, not by his allies, but by the unjust workings of fate that had once again taken one of his own.

But there was more. A name kept coming up in the whispers of his men, a name that stirred a wave of ancient anger, a protective father's rage: Tanya Degurechaff. This little girl, a fighter for the Government, had been linked to Jinbe's death. Whitebeard hadn't witnessed the assault, but he knew enough details to understand that the situation was more complex than a simple confrontation. One of his children had fallen because of her, and that he could not tolerate. He had lost Ace at the hands of the Marines, but this time, he was going to fight. Not just for Jinbei, but for his honor and the honor of his crew.

Whitebeard slowly pushed himself up, his hand resting on his massive chest. The familiar rumble of the earth beneath his feet reminded him that even weakened, he remained a force of nature. He murmured in a deep, raspy voice:

"Marco, call my sons."

Marco, the Phoenix, his loyal commander, appeared almost immediately. His face was etched with worry since Jinbei's death. He deeply respected the captain but knew that he was no longer the man he once was, and that troubled him. Nevertheless, Marco obeyed without a word. He knew that when Edward Newgate spoke this way, nothing could stop him.

A few moments later, the core crew of Whitebeard had gathered around him. Vista, Jozu, Marco, and a few other commanders looked at their captain, awaiting his orders. They had always respected his strength and wisdom, but today, they sensed a different shadow looming over him. A simmering anger. A rage they had not seen since Marineford.

"My sons…" Whitebeard began, his voice trembling but still powerful. "Jinbe… he has been killed. We have been robbed of a brother. A family."

The words seemed to resonate in the air, heavy and threatening. The crew already knew what had happened, but hearing their captain say it with such sorrow and fury added weight to the news.

"It's that young Marine soldier…" murmured Jozu, fists clenched. "She's not just a soldier, father. She's a weapon of the Government. Strong, calculating, and treacherous. If we go after her, we need to be ready for anything."

Whitebeard listened in silence. He knew she could be a formidable opponent. He had heard rumors about her powers, whispers that circulated even among his allies. But for him, that changed nothing. Whether she was a monster or a genius, she had touched his family.

"According to rumors, she is hiding behind the Pacifistas on Vegapunk's island," Marco continued in a measured voice. "But the island where she is currently located is Egghead. That's where Dr. Vegapunk conducts his research, and that's where she is stationed, likely to test new weapons."

A heavy silence settled in before Whitebeard finally stood up from his chair, his knotted and scarred muscles contracting with effort. The imposing shadow of the world's greatest pirate loomed over the group. Even weakened, his authority was undeniable.

"We will head to Egghead," he said in a low voice, but one filled with promise. "I will avenge Jinbe's honor. And I will show the Marines what it means to target my family."

The crew, initially hesitant, saw in Whitebeard's eyes a determination they hadn't witnessed in a long time. A will of iron forged through decades of war and dominance over the seas. They knew their captain would accept no refusal. The entire crew quickly sprang into action, preparing the ship for the journey.

The departure was silent, almost solemn. The island where Whitebeard had hidden since the Great War slowly receded, swallowed by the horizon. The crew remained focused on their tasks, but a sense of apprehension lingered over them. Egghead was a technological fortress, guarded by Vegapunk's most formidable inventions. They had no idea what awaited them there, but that mattered little to their captain.

Whitebeard stood at the bow of the ship, his gaze fixed on the horizon as if he could already see Egghead in the distance. His heart beat slowly, but each beat resonated like thunder in his chest. He recalled the faces of his sons, the smiles of Jinbe, Ace, and so many others he had lost. That was enough to fuel his determination.

There was no longer any question of strategy or caution. For Whitebeard, revenge was the only thing that mattered. A pirate's honor could only be washed clean with blood.

Days passed, and Whitebeard's crew advanced through the New World, facing storms and sea monsters with a familiarity that betrayed their long tenure on these waters. But the atmosphere remained tense. Each man knew that what awaited them at Egghead was not just a simple battle. They were about to confront Vegapunk's genius and the power of a young girl they knew to be formidable.

One day, Marco approached Whitebeard, his face calm but filled with concern.

"Father, are you sure you want to go there in person? You are far superior in power compared to that girl, but... your condition…"

Whitebeard's gaze was enough to silence him. Marco knew his captain better than anyone else. He understood that the old pirate wouldn't heed any advice this time. Whitebeard wanted to confront Tanya, and nothing and no one could sway him from that goal.

"Marco, I am still Edward Newgate," he replied simply, his voice rough. "They have killed many of my sons. It is my duty to respond."

Marco nodded, respecting his captain's will. But deep down, unease lingered. He knew this mission wouldn't be easy. This young girl was not an ordinary opponent. She was shrouded in mystery, and her powers were perplexing.

POV Admiral Kizaru

Location: Egghead

Several hours earlier…

The sun was lazily setting over Mary Geoise, casting a golden light on the towers and palaces of gold that made up the heart of the World Government. In this fortress of power, Kizaru, the admiral of blinding light, stood with his hands in his pockets, his eyes half-closed as usual. His relaxed demeanor belied the importance of the meeting taking place in front of him. In the grand hall, the Five Elders, the supreme leaders of the World Government, sat in silence, their faces stern and solemn. They were among the most powerful men in the world, and while Kizaru always appeared indifferent to most situations, he knew this audience was not a mere formality.

One of the Elders, a man with white hair and a neatly trimmed mustache, broke the silence with a grave voice.

"Admiral Borsalino, we have a delicate mission to entrust to you."

Kizaru raised an eyebrow slightly, but his expression remained nonchalant. He tilted his head in acknowledgment while letting his gaze wander distractedly over the room's lavish decorations.

"You are aware of the recent events concerning Dr. Vegapunk, aren't you?" the old man continued.

Kizaru nodded slowly. Vegapunk, the greatest scientist in the world, was currently on Egghead, a technologically advanced island where he was conducting secret research for the Marines and the World Government. He had heard rumors about developments concerning the Pacifistas, as well as his sudden interest in historical research.

Another of the Five Elders, a bald man with an imposing scar, spoke up.

"We need you to go to Egghead and investigate Vegapunk's research topics."

Kizaru opened one eye slightly, intrigued. It wasn't uncommon for the World Government to ask an admiral to oversee a mission, but the idea of monitoring Vegapunk seemed... unusual.

"It is imperative," the bald Elder added, "that you act quickly and discreetly. Vegapunk has conducted experiments that exceed our expectations, but according to our sources, some of his research has also attracted unwanted attention."

Kizaru tilted his head, still appearing indifferent, but the gears in his mind were turning rapidly. "Why do they suddenly want to keep an eye on Vegapunk? His research has always been bizarre; what has changed since then?"

The "unwanted attention" mentioned by Elder Saint Warcury could refer to anything from revolutionary spies to pirates eager for technology, or even internal factions within the World Government. He knew Vegapunk was not just an asset for the Marines but a key figure in the global balance of power.

The old man with the neatly trimmed mustache continued, "There is another element to monitor... a young girl you know very well, Captain Tanya Degurechaff. Her powers are unique, and we have reason to believe they could cause… imbalances if misused. We have sent her to Egghead so that Vegapunk can conduct some research on her, but we need to keep a close watch on her."

Kizaru straightened slightly, his interest finally piqued. He knew that since joining the ranks of the Marines, his journey would be atypical. Her ability to manipulate powers almost unknown in the world made her interesting and particularly effective in her work, despite her sometimes problematic behavior.

"Your mission is therefore to investigate Vegapunk's motivations and keep a close watch on Captain Degurechaff. If she becomes a problem, you have a free hand."

Kizaru nodded, his eyes still half-closed, but a barely visible smile appeared on his lips. "Well, well... this is starting to get interesting," he murmured in his characteristic drawling voice.

He understood that despite his nonchalant demeanor, this mission had far greater implications. The Five Elders never asked for his help lightly. If Vegapunk needed to be monitored, it meant something enormous was brewing in the shadows.

The air was colder here, and the atmosphere was heavy with technology. The metal towers and complex structures of Egghead loomed before the admiral, a stark contrast to the turbulence of the sea and the clouds above.

Kizaru disembarked from the ship with a slow, measured gait, still nonchalant. His men, high-ranking Marine officers, followed at a respectful distance, their faces tense and serious. The admiral, however, appeared as relaxed as ever.

Upon his arrival, he was greeted by one of Vegapunk's assistants, a man dressed in a pristine white lab coat, who bowed slightly in respect.

"Welcome, Admiral Kizaru," the man said in a formal tone. "Dr. Vegapunk is expecting you."

Kizaru nodded with a lazy smile and followed the man through the maze of high-tech corridors and rooms. The fluorescent lights flickered slightly as they passed through immaculate hallways lined with screens, buzzing machines, and ongoing projects.

Kizaru cast distracted glances to the left and right, noting the inventions and innovations that made the island famous, but he never lingered too long. His objective was clear: Vegapunk and, eventually, Tanya Degurechaff. When they finally reached the main laboratory, Kizaru found himself face-to-face with the famous scientist.

Dr. Vegapunk was a short, elderly man with thin limbs and flushed cheeks. He had a notably elongated head, carefully shaved, with a stick stuck in it holding a piece of apple and a leaf. His forehead was remarkably large, and his tongue was very long. His eyes were close to his potato-like nose, while his eyebrows were much farther apart. He was practically bald but had spiky hair on the sides, along with a thick mustache. Finally, he was dressed in a lab coat with "SSG" written on the back, a polka-dotted shirt, dark pants, and technical shoes.

"Admiral Kizaru, my friend," Vegapunk said with a smile. "What a surprise to see you here."

Kizaru shrugged indifferently. "Well, Vegapunk, given the current times and the surge of pirates lately... I was asked to provide you with additional protection. It seems your work has caught the World Government's interest."

Vegapunk raised an eyebrow, his smile widening. "Oh, I see. The Elders are always so eager, aren't they?"

Kizaru smiled slightly, appreciating the scientist's humor. "They seem quite curious about what you have in store, yes. And they also mentioned someone else... Tanya Degurechaff."

At the mention of that name, Vegapunk appeared slightly pensive. His eyes narrowed behind his glasses.

"Tanya Degurechaff... a fascinating little girl," Vegapunk began playfully, which amused Kizaru. His old friend might look quite aged, but when his curiosity was piqued, he resembled a child. "Her power surpasses anything we've seen so far. A phenomenon that even my satellites and I struggle to explain."

Kizaru tilted his head, still nonchalant. "Yes, it seems her abilities are... interesting. That's also one of the reasons I'm here. To ensure everything stays under control."

Vegapunk nodded and then gestured for Kizaru to follow him into another room. There, behind a large observation window, Tanya was in a special training room, fighting against Pacifistas.

"Her powers don't solely come from a Devil Fruit," Vegapunk murmured, observing the scene with fascination. "It's... something else. A mysterious power that I still can't comprehend, although for a while now, she has only been using her Devil Fruit."

Kizaru watched in turn, his yellow eyes scrutinizing Tanya with growing interest. "Hmm... Do you think this could be dangerous for the World Government?"

Vegapunk didn't respond immediately. He remained thoughtful as if weighing each word he was about to say.

"Potentially," he finally said. "But every misunderstood power is dangerous, don't you think?"

Kizaru smiled, amused by the remark. "That's true. But that's why I'm here... to avoid complications."

POV Kokichi Oma

Location: ?

Timeline: A few days before Whitebeard's crew departs

The air was heavy, almost suffocating, in the small dimly lit room where Kokichi Oma found himself. The bare concrete walls, devoid of any decoration, created an oppressive atmosphere as if the weight of the world rested on the shoulders of those who entered this place. The cold, damp floor beneath his feet emitted a musty odor that infiltrated his nostrils. Yet, despite the austerity of the setting, a mischievous smile floated on Kokichi's face, as if this gloomy ambiance amused him.

For several months, Kokichi Oma had attracted the attention of the World Government. His manipulative charisma, strategic genius, and especially his unique powers made him a prime target for intelligence services. Rumors about his ability to sow chaos and confusion had spread through elite circles of the Government, and it didn't take long before CP3, one of the most discreet and ruthless branches of Cipher Pol, took notice of him.

Today, he was waiting, comfortably seated in a worn chair, facing a reinforced door that remained stubbornly closed. The location was unknown and probably kept secret by the World Government itself. Kokichi didn't know exactly where he was, but he liked to imagine it was one of those hidden bases, lost in a remote corner of the world. It added a certain excitement to the situation.

He stretched his arms above his head and yawned, deliberately exaggerating his movements as if to signal to whoever was watching that the wait was starting to bore him. He knew these meetings were never quick, but he hated sitting around doing nothing.

Suddenly, the door opened with a sinister metallic creak. Two men in black suits entered the room, looking stern, their eyes hidden behind sunglasses. They positioned themselves on either side of the opening, making way for a more imposing figure who entered without a word.

A tall man with cold, chiseled features, wearing a dark coat. His expression was as hard as stone, and his icy, calculating eyes betrayed a formidable intelligence. Unlike his subordinates, he didn't wear glasses. He didn't need them to conceal his intentions, as no emotion leaked through his expression. His imposing stature and angular face exuded a natural authority that usually silenced most people.

"Sergeant Kokichi Oma," he said in a grave voice, breaking the silence with undeniable authority. He closed the door behind him, leaving his men outside. "You seem rather relaxed."

Kokichi tilted his head to the side, his mocking smile still in place. "Well, what can I say? I wanted to ensure the reception lived up to my expectations. But I must admit, I've seen better."

"Kokichi Oma," the chief began in a serious tone, "your potential is undeniable. We have been closely monitoring your progress. Your abilities, your knack for blending into chaos and exploiting it, are assets that few agents possess."

Kokichi raised an eyebrow, feigning sudden interest. "Oh? I'm flattered! But why all the flattery now? Have you finally decided to appreciate my true worth?" His words were tinged with irony, but this did not shake the chief, who continued as if nothing had happened.

His interlocutor ignored the provocation and slowly sat down across from him. He crossed his arms, his piercing eyes fixed on Kokichi like a predator watching its prey.

"It's not a matter of admiration, but of pragmatism. Cipher Pol needs talents like yours. That's why we're offering you a position within CP3."

"So, this is the head of Cipher Pol 3," Kokichi concluded inwardly, a smile forming on his face.*

"We're not here to joke around," he began, "but to assign you a crucial mission. Your talents, while... unique, have caught our attention."

Kokichi exaggeratedly widened his eyes, pretending to be astonished. "Oh? My talents? What flattery! Go on, I'm all ears."

"This isn't flattery; Cipher Pol only recruits exceptional individuals that it deems worthy and useful to the World Government. I would like you to hear our proposal before giving us your answer."

At these words, Kokichi's demeanor changed imperceptibly. His legs stopped swinging, and he crossed his arms over his chest. He let out a slight chuckle before responding. "CP3, huh? Now that's an unexpected offer." He leaned forward, his smile widening. "But tell me… why would I want to join your little merry band? I'm quite happy where I am, and my little games don't need new rules."

The chief looked at him, unperturbed. He knew convincing Kokichi wouldn't be easy. But he had prepared his arguments and calculated every word.

"CP3 offers you more than games. We offer you real power. By working for us, you'll gain access to unimaginable resources and information that could change the course of history. And above all, you'll be able to do what you do best: manipulate, pull the strings from the shadows."

Kokichi took a moment to think about it. He knew the chief of CP3 was right about one thing: Cipher Pol's resources were vast. But he loved his independence too much to confine himself to such a rigid framework. And yet… he couldn't deny that the idea of having more control over his schemes was tempting.

"You're proposing I join a well-oiled machine," he murmured, his smile shrinking to a thin line. "But this machine has rules, doesn't it? And I don't like rules."

The chief gave a slight, almost imperceptible smile. He sensed that Kokichi was on the verge of falling into his trap. "CP3 does indeed have rules, but they're not designed to limit you. They're meant to allow you to maximize your potential. Within this framework, you could thrive."

Kokichi stared intently at him, his eyes sparkling with an unreadable glimmer. He loved to play; he loved to test the limits. But he also knew that the proposal he was being offered wasn't something to take lightly. On one side, he could continue to follow his path within the regular Marine branch, free but limited by resources. On the other, there was CP3 with its vast networks, hidden power, but also its invisible chains.

Silence stretched for a few seconds. Then Kokichi began to laugh softly, a laugh that echoed in the room like a sinister echo. He stood up from his chair, circling the head of CP3.

"Alright, alright…" he finally said, a mischievous smile on his face. "I'll play the game." He stopped abruptly and turned to the chief, his gaze sharper than ever. "But on one condition."

The chief narrowed his eyes as if he expected this. "What condition?"

Kokichi stepped forward, his smile widening like a child about to reveal a prank. "I want to be free to act in my way. I refuse to have my every move dictated. I make my own rules, my plans. And if that suits you… then maybe I'll consider your offer."

The chief of CP3 remained silent for a moment, weighing Kokichi's words. He knew that recruiting someone like him meant accepting a degree of unpredictability. But it was a risk he was willing to take. Cipher Pol needed talents like Kokichi, agents capable of slipping into the most delicate situations and coming out victorious.

"Very well," the chief finally said. "As long as you meet the set objectives, you will be free to act as you wish."

Kokichi burst into laughter once again, clearly satisfied. "Then it's a deal! I suppose I'm officially part of CP3 now. What a funny affair! What will my first mission be?" he asked with a childlike tone.

The head of CP3 didn't flinch, accustomed to such behavior. He continued, unfazed. "We have reason to believe that Egg Head, where Dr. Vegapunk is currently located, may soon become a battlefield."

Kokichi stopped smiling, his expression turning slightly more serious. Egg Head. The name resonated like a technological crossroads where advanced science and military secrets intertwined. He had heard of it, of course. Vegapunk, the scientific genius, was conducting research there that interested many factions, including the Marines and the World Government.

"Why send me there? Surely you have more competent agents for this kind of espionage mission, right?" Kokichi asked although he was already intrigued by the answer.

The chief of CP3 slowly nodded, as if he expected this question. "This isn't just a simple espionage mission. Reliable information indicates that members of Whitebeard's crew, or what's left of it, plan to head to Egg Head. They seem to be looking for information, perhaps even seeking to avenge Firefist Ace by getting rid of Captain Degurechaff."

At the mention of Whitebeard and Captain Degurechaff, Kokichi felt a slight thrill of excitement rise within him. The legendary pirate, once known as the most powerful man in the world, had been defeated during the Great Marineford War. But his crew, although weakened, had not been completely wiped out. If some of them were heading to Egg Head, it meant the island was about to become a real hornet's nest.

"I see," he finally said, regaining his mischievous smile. "You want me to infiltrate there, gather information, and... neutralize potential threats, right?"

The chief of CP3 nodded without a word. His patience was exemplary, but he didn't need to force Kokichi to understand the stakes. "Vegapunk is too valuable an asset to fall into the wrong hands. An Admiral is already on-site to ensure his protection. And if there are pirates involved, we need to know why they are interested in him. You're one of the few who can blend into any situation, Kokichi. Your role is to observe, gather information, and successfully infiltrate their crew."

Kokichi straightened in his chair, his eyes sparkling with excitement. "Well, well… a secret mission, pirates, and maybe a bit of chaos on the side? Sounds like a tempting plan."

The chief of CP3 then stood up, straight as a post, and approached the door. Before opening it, he turned one last time to Kokichi. "Don't underestimate Whitebeard's pirates. Even diminished, they are still dangerous."

"Oh, I'm not underestimating them," Kokichi replied as he stood up as well. "But I hope they won't underestimate me either."

Without another word, the chief of CP3 left the room, leaving Kokichi alone with his thoughts. He stood there for a moment, the smile still present on his face, before sliding his hands into his pockets and heading for the exit. Excitement surged within him as he anticipated what was about to happen on Egg Head. An infiltration mission, pirates on the island, Vegapunk, and the enigmatic Marine soldier, Tanya Degurechaff. All of this could only mean one thing: the upcoming events were going to be explosive.

A few days later, Kokichi stood at the back of a small stealth ship belonging to the World Government. Waves gently crashed against the hull as Egg Head appeared on the horizon. His thoughts were focused on the upcoming mission. He knew that Whitebeard's crew had once been one of the most formidable forces on the seas, and even after their captain's death, some of their members remained elite fighters.

However, Kokichi was not the type to be intimidated. He viewed this mission as a game, a test of his skills in manipulation and infiltration. He had never been afraid of danger because, for him, every risk was an opportunity to prove that he could get out of any situation.

As he prepared to disembark on the island, his thoughts turned to Vegapunk and his laboratory. The scientist was renowned for developing revolutionary technologies, including the Pacifistas, those incredibly powerful cyborgs. But what intrigued Kokichi the most was the rumor that Vegapunk was working on something much larger, something that could change the course of history.

"A large-scale game," Kokichi murmured to himself, a sinister smile creeping onto his lips. "I wonder how many players there will be."

His ship quietly docked at Egg Head, and Kokichi disembarked soundlessly, ready to begin his infiltration. The game had just begun, and he intended to make sure he would be the one pulling the strings from the shadows.