Capítulo 29: Chapter 28
At this moment, a shiny gem, resembling a star-shaped crystal, lay embedded in the chest of Kate. The faint blue glow from the crystal signified her new heart.
Although it appeared inconspicuous, this crystal now took on the vital role of pumping blood throughout her body.
The combination of the micro-light and Hextech crystal greatly accelerated Kate's physical recovery, allowing the new heart to integrate perfectly into her system.
She moved her arm experimentally, feeling new energy coursing through each cell.
"Move around a bit more. Your body needs time to fully adjust to the enhancements from the new heart. More movement will help you adapt better."
"Come over here; the ship has a designated testing area."
Vegapunk seemed more excited than the two directly involved. He was more curious than Orlan about the potential changes brought about by this new heart.
Under Vegapunk's guidance, they quickly reached the lower deck of the ship. The area was filled with various testing equipment, and targets marred with bullet holes. Some experimenters were cleaning up after a recent test.
Seeing Vegapunk arrive, they silently nodded in acknowledgment and made way.
"Go ahead, whether it's testing speed or strength, the equipment here can provide accurate data. The data doesn't lie. It's a pity there's no baseline to compare against; otherwise, the results would be clearer."
"That doesn't matter. Kate, this heart is now a part of you. Feel it, then control this power. It's within you, just like breathing and emotions, only a thought away."
Orlan guided Kate on how to harness this power while Vegapunk started the equipment.
Unlike a biological heart, the Hextech heart didn't beat, but Kate could feel the pulsating energy within it.
Zzzzz
Sparks danced across her fur, unlike regular static. These sparks gradually coalesced into writhing silver serpents, the electric currents circling her body while stimulating her cells.
Eyeing the speed testing device, Kate bent her legs and launched herself forward, her body transforming into a streak of white lightning that zipped past the speed detector. The astonishment on her face indicated she hadn't anticipated such speed.
The sudden surge in speed left her unsteady, causing her to crash into a nearby wall.
"Dr. Vegapunk, it seems your equipment needs an upgrade. It doesn't handle electricity well."
"I think it's more about the intensity of her electricity. The Mink Tribe members I know couldn't achieve this level."
The speed detector was now emitting smoke, seemingly damaged by the stray currents during Kate's run.
However, neither Orlan nor Vegapunk were concerned about the damaged equipment; the results were what mattered.
"Well, Cidriel, here's your access card. I've granted you full access to all the ship's equipment. Yesterday, I showed you around.
Now, feel free to use everything. If you have any questions, ask the other researchers. I need to get back to my work. There's never enough time; I wish I could clone myself."
Having seen what he wanted, Vegapunk didn't delay further and handed the pre-prepared access card to Orlan.
This card meant Orlan had become a core member of the MADS organization, granting him the authority to command the regular researchers to assist with his projects.
"Time is limited, and pursuing infinite knowledge within it is the fun part. Sometimes, finding the answers too quickly can be dull."
"Infinite knowledge indeed. I look forward to our future collaborations, Cidriel."
At this point, Vegapunk felt that Orlan would make a better research partner than Queen and the others, though he kept an open mind about the future.
After Vegapunk left, Kate continued testing her limits. Sweat soaked her fur, but she relished this feeling. It was her first time running freely, her heart no longer a burden but a stable source of power.
"Any discomfort?"
"No, just a bit unused to the enhancements. A bit more practice should do it."
Kate stretched, feeling remarkably good.
"By the way, Orlan, could you squat down a bit?"
"Why?"
"There's one more thing I missed. Orlan, you know a lot about the Mink Tribe, right? Then you should know this, Garu Chu~."
The height difference between them was significant. As Orlan squatted down, Kate grabbed his shoulders and rubbed her cheek against his.
This was the traditional Mink Tribe greeting, equivalent to a handshake.
After leaving Zou and being captured, Kate had almost entirely stopped this form of greeting. Even after escaping, she hadn't used it, considering it a gesture for family.
Today marked her rebirth, a new beginning. In her eyes, Orlan, who had changed her fate, was as important as family.
The MADS ship stayed at the Sorbet Kingdom for a few more days, during which Orlan arranged everything for the future before setting sail.
Despite their grumbling about funding distribution, Queen and the others couldn't complete Vegapunk's wager due to leadership disputes.
Initially, they didn't think it was a big deal, but over time, they regretted not preventing this from happening. Unbeknownst to them, a new person had joined, adding to the pressure on them.
The MADS ship continued its voyage. As time passed, they entered the Grand Line, exploring new unknowns.
...
Time flew, and it was now the year 1487.
Orlan had been with MADS for two years, and it had been two and a half years since he came to this sea. Today, he and Vegapunk were testing a new device.
"Punk, are you ready?"
"Ready. Let's hope it works this time."
Vegapunk stood inside a massive glass chamber, wearing an oxygen mask.
Once he signaled he was ready, Orlan pulled a nearby lever, flooding the chamber with seawater, submerging Vegapunk.
Moments later, the water drained, but Vegapunk looked disappointed.
"Orlan, it still doesn't work. This method can't eliminate the effects of seawater on Devil Fruit users; the PYROBROIN particles are too unique."
"Dr. Vegapunk! Dr. Cidriel! A woman has suddenly appeared on the deck, claiming she wants to join us!"
As Orlan and Vegapunk discussed their findings, the lab intercom announced an unexpected situation on the deck.
(End of Chapter)
Estado de energía semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Piedra de
Poder