Secret Passage and the Sword's Memory

Inside the treasury, Tsuru finally found the mechanism that opened the hidden compartment. A section of the wall slowly slid aside, revealing a small safe. She quickly entered the code and took out a silver chain that looked nearly identical, yet had an entirely different aura.

The chain shimmered with a pure blue glow under the lights, and the runes upon it seemed to possess a life of their own. At the same time, the Dawn Blade in Lin Ye's hand shone even more brightly, as though responding to the presence of the Purification Chain.

"This is the genuine one," Tsuru said with certainty. "It feels completely different."

Lin Ye nodded, continuing to grapple with Bell-mère. "We need to leave now! Whitebeard's arrival will draw most of their attention, but it won't last long."

Just then, Zoro broke through the enemy line and reached the treasury entrance. "Lin Ye! We've opened up a route! The Vinsmoke Family's technological weapons are effective, but their duration is limited! We have to retreat immediately!"

Sanji's voice came from outside. "Hey, moss-head! Cut the chatter and hurry up! We can't hold on much longer!"

Lin Ye glanced at Bell-mère and made his decision. "Go!"

He suddenly slashed forward. The Dawn Blade swept across Bell-mère's chest without harming her, instead severing the connection between the purple energy and her body. Bell-mère staggered back in surprise as the purple glow temporarily faded from her eyes.

"Go!" Lin Ye said to Tsuru. "She'll recover soon."

Tsuru nodded and carefully put away the real Purification Chain. The two quickly moved toward the treasury exit. Zoro cleared the way ahead, while Sanji and Usopp provided cover around the perimeter, and the other Vinsmoke Family members held the rear.

However, when they reached the main passage, a despairing sight greeted