User blog comment:Kaido King of the Beasts/Vegapunk: Friend or Foe?/@comment-24850639-20150713184205/@comment-10543621-20150714020905

Actually, I think his research of DFs is more like an 'advancement' of sorts. In general, even back when he lived on the Ice Island Franky ended up on, he's invented way more things anyone has. You're right with the WG being an incredible source of resources for him to continue researching on. I also agree with WG is likely to not exactly be forced by the WG. Vegapunk may be someone of relatively good moral values, but doesn't really care much about other stuff as long as he gets to continue his research.

In the overall scheme of things, the WG are not technically evil. They still play the role of maintaining order in the world. Despite how the leaders often have extremely twisted concepts, there are overall plenty of Marines who are still 'good' so to speak. It could be possible that Vegapunk wouldn't be aware of the WG's dodgy side, which wouldn't be far-fetched since I expect that he wouldn't pay much attention to other stuff outside his research.

I do like the idea Hanata put forth, where technically, Franky's 'master' during the time skip was Vegapunk. Just not his actual presence. I think it'll be interesting and also make sense for Franky to be the one who builds a connection with Vegapunk. Afterall, his inventions are supposed to be so advanced, others couldn't even understand it. I can see Vegapunk being impressed with how Franky managed to use the blueprints he left behind to actually modify and upgrade himself to a point where he's likely surpassed the Pacifista or is at least on par in terms of cyborg quality. I can totally see Vegapunk taking an interest in him.