Convergence of the Three Keys, a Choice Between Life and Death

"Kuzan," Akainu said, suspicion flashing in his eyes. "Why are you here?"

"Secret mission," Aokiji replied calmly. "Intelligence suggested that the Revolutionary Army might be establishing an outpost here. I didn't expect to run into this legendary figure."

Akainu's gaze shifted back and forth between them, as though searching for a flaw. "What a... coincidence."

"Justice sometimes favors the Marines this way," Aokiji said blandly. "I've already searched the surrounding area. It seems they withdrew not long ago, and all the data was destroyed."

Silvers Rayleigh remained silent, but there was a hint of provocation in his eyes, as if he were deliberately angering Akainu to draw his attention.

"Hand him over to me." Akainu extended a hand, magma-like power flowing around his fingertips. "I will personally ensure that he reaches Impel Down."

"I'm afraid not," Aokiji refused calmly. "By Steel Bone Kong's direct order, any important prisoner must be personally escorted to Marine Headquarters by their captor."

Anger flashed in Akainu's eyes. "Are you questioning my authority?"

"No, I'm merely following procedure." Aokiji's tone remained languid, but his stance subtly shifted into a combat-ready position. "Unless you have a direct order from the Five Elders overturning Steel Bone Kong's instructions?"

The desert of Alabasta had never been so violent. Golden sand and dust were swept into the sky by the raging storm, forming an enormous vortex, while strange violet-black energy slowly spread from its center. Lin Ye, Ramon, and Princess Vivi stood amid the crumbling remains of an ancient ruin, solemnly observing the situation around them.

"The situation is worse than I expected." Professor Ramon gripped the Time Tuning Fork tightly, sweat from his forehead rolling into his gray-white beard. "Void energy is accelerating its seepage. The Dimensional Barrier in this area has become extremely fragile."

Lin Ye rested