"They have special instruments provided by the Five Elders that can penetrate the Mist Domain's interference to a certain extent. We must pick up the pace and reach Laugh Tale before they catch up to us."
Just as everyone was busy, a sudden energy storm interrupted all activity. The entire Dawn rocked violently, as though some invisible force were tugging at it. The people on deck had to grip nearby objects tightly just to keep their footing. The sea churned into strange whirlpools, and purple light shone up from beneath the water, illuminating the entire mist.
Inside the secret chamber, Lin Ye and Rayleigh felt the violent tremors as well. A sharp stabbing pain suddenly shot through Lin Ye's right arm, and the runes lit up with a dazzling purple glow.
"Void Creatures!" Lin Ye cried out. An unsettling image appeared before his eyes. "They were drawn here by the key's energy and are lurking in the mist!"
Rayleigh rose swiftly. "We have to get to the deck!"
By the time the two rushed onto the deck, the situation was already critical. Around the ship, dozens of hazy purple silhouettes flickered in and out of view within the mist. They came in all shapes—some resembled giant jellyfish, while others looked like twisted humanoids—but every one of them radiated danger.
"They were drawn here by the energy of the seven keys!" Lin Ye shouted. "We have to change course and avoid their main gathering area!"
Ace held the Flame Key, its fire still blazing fiercely amid the storm. "Which way?"
Lin Ye clenched his teeth and glanced at Rayleigh, who gave him an encouraging look. He understood that there was no other choice now—he had to use the ability he had only just learned to control with everything he had.
"Give