"Success!" Ace cried, watching the roughly ten-meter-wide passage gradually stabilize within the mist.
"Quick!" Lin Ye shouted. "The passage won't last long. We have to get through as soon as possible!"
Sabo immediately ordered full speed ahead. The Shadow Dance sailed into the purple passage, the mist on either side like solid walls, emitting a faint hum. Sweat beaded on Luffy's forehead as he clearly endured immense mental pressure, yet he gritted his teeth and continued keeping the passage open.
When the ship finally passed through the mist barrier and entered the island's inner waters, a spectacular sight unfolded before them—the entire island was shrouded beneath dazzling auroras, streams of rainbow light flowing across the sky like a mythical paradise.
The island's buildings were ancient and mysterious, towering spires pointing toward the firmament. The surface of every structure was carved with runes similar to those on Lin Ye's robe. A group of islanders in star-patterned robes had already gathered along the shore, watching the suddenly appearing ship with caution and curiosity.
"The Aurora Tribe," Lin Ye explained softly. "They are descendants of the Star Gate Watchers, guarding knowledge of dimensions from generation to generation."
After the Shadow Dance docked, a kindly-faced elder with piercing eyes stepped forward. She wore a purple robe trimmed in gold, and an Anchor Stone similar to Lin Ye's but far more ancient hung from her chest.
"I am Claire, chieftain of the Aurora Tribe," she said in a steady, powerful voice. "What wind has brought you to this forgotten corner?"
Lin Ye stepped forward, removed the Anchor Stone from around his neck, and held it before his chest. "I am Lin Ye, the Transcending Shadow, one of the Guardians from the prophecy. We have come for the third Anchor Stone."
Claire's eyes suddenly widened as