The Navy Splits, Purification Chain

The news exploded through the conference hall like a bomb. Marine Headquarters was one of the most heavily defended places in the world, and now that it was under Akainu's tight control, taking the key from there was almost an impossible mission.

"There's worse news," Silvers Rayleigh continued. "From what I saw at Marine Headquarters, they've already begun large-scale 'conversion' experiments. Under Vegapunk's 'guidance,' Dr. Vega developed a drug that can rapidly turn humans into Void Servants. Rumor has it they plan to inject everyone at the G-1 base within three days, then expand the program to other bases."

Dragon's expression grew even grimmer. "Time is more pressing than we imagined. We need to carry out two missions at once: one team goes to Marine Headquarters to seize the Purification Chain, while the other prepares to sail for Laugh Tale."

Ace rose to his feet. "I can lead the team to Marine Headquarters. As a former member of the Whitebeard Pirates, I'm fairly familiar with Marineford."

"No." Dragon shook his head. "You're the holder of the Flame Key. You must go to Laugh Tale. We can't risk letting any key already in our hands fall into the enemy's possession."

Whitebeard's voice came through the Den Den Mushi again. "I'll personally lead the team to Marine Headquarters. Before they discover that Silvers Rayleigh has escaped, we have a chance to strike by surprise."

After thinking for a moment, Dragon nodded. "Then it's settled. Whitebeard will seize the seventh key; the remaining key holders will accompany me to Laugh Tale. According to ancient records, reaching Laugh Tale requires a specific route and navigational techniques. That was precisely the key to the Roger Pirates' success back then."

Silvers Rayleigh interjected, "I can help with that. As someone who has been there before, I