Chapter 20: A Scientist’s Curiosity and A Mutant’s Secret
"Then may I ask your name?" Vegapunk asked with a polite smile, turning to face Mio.
"Mio Kurokawa," Mio replied with an equally warm smile.
"Then Mr. Mio, a cup of black tea." Vegapunk reached for the black tea resting on an instrument beside him. He poured a cup for himself, then another for Mio, before turning toward Erica. "Does this lady need a cup? It may not be the finest black tea, but it's still quite pleasant."
Erica simply shook her head.
Vegapunk gave a light shrug, handed the filled cup to Mio, and took a sip from his own. His tone remained relaxed and friendly. "So, Mr. Mio, what is it you'd like to discuss?"
Surprisingly, despite Erica's earlier display of impressive combat strength, Vegapunk seemed entirely unfazed. His demeanor was calm and untroubled, as if he didn't feel threatened at all by Mio or his companion.
Mio smiled. "Of course, I've heard of Mr. Vegapunk's brilliance. It might sound a little cliché, but I'm here to make friends. After all, I believe the World Government has already taken an interest in you, hasn't it? If I form a friendship with you now, I might be lucky enough to hear some good news in the future."
"Mr. Mio is certainly straightforward," Vegapunk chuckled, clearly appreciating Mio's honesty.
With a faint smile, Vegapunk glanced at the instruments scattered around the basement. "You're right. The World Government has indeed taken notice of me. But I've always been reluctant to work with them."
"And now?" Mio asked, genuinely curious.
"Now?" Vegapunk let out a helpless sigh and shrugged. "I joined them, of course. I didn't have a second choice, did I?"