Fujitora stepped closer to inspect it. "This matches the Great Hollow Incident recorded in ancient texts. Humanity was nearly wiped out then, and in the end, they barely managed to seal the Void with the Seven Keys."
"And now, history is repeating itself." Hiyori tightened her grip on the sword in her hand. "But this time, we won't let the tragedy repeat."
The waters of the Calm Belt were usually deathly silent, one of the few places in the sea with absolute stillness. Yet today, the massive sea turtle base known as Dawn was filled with unprecedented tension. At that moment, a historic scene was unfolding in the central conference hall—nearly all the holders of the Seven Keys, save one, had gathered together for the first time.
The conference hall was circular in design, symbolizing equality and unity. Maps from around the world hung on the walls, many regions covered in alarming purple markings. Around the central round table sat key figures from across the world, each carrying their own stories and sacrifices.
Dragon stood at the front of the conference hall. His usually calm face was more solemn than ever. After the final attendee—Marco of the Whitebeard Pirates—took his seat, he drew a deep breath and began the meeting that might determine the fate of the world.
"Thank you all for traveling such great distances and risking your lives to come here," Dragon said in a steady, powerful voice. "Today, we are not facing an ordinary enemy. Not pirates, not the Navy, not even the World Government—but a threat from beyond the dimensions, an existence trying to devour our entire world."
He gestured for Corazon to activate the central holographic projection. A three-dimensional image displayed a world map marked with vast swathes of purple.
"The situation is more severe