"Or rather, they opposed the Five Elders' plan," Rayleigh said thoughtfully. "The collapse of dimensional balance would also be a disaster for the Void world. They might be protecting their home in their own way."
Dragon swiftly adjusted the plan. "Since the Void Creatures are not a threat for the time being, we can concentrate more of our strength on dealing with Akainu and the Five Elders. Lin Ye, Ace, go with Rayleigh and take the other key holders. Leave immediately for the location of the 'heart.' Sabo and I will lead the troops in establishing a defensive line along the coast."
The landing team was quickly assembled: Lin Ye, Ace, Rayleigh, and the holders of the other five keys—Sanji, Zoro, Chopper, Brook, and Robin. The eight approached the shore aboard a small boat, advancing cautiously through the passage formed by the Void Creatures.
The moment they set foot on Laugh Tale, everyone felt a strange surge of energy, as though the entire island were breathing and pulsing. Lin Ye and Ace felt it even more strongly. They could clearly sense the energy flowing toward the island's center, guiding their path forward.
"Let's go." Lin Ye took a deep breath and looked toward the center of the island, where a translucent purple tower flickered in and out of view. "The truth and hope are both waiting for us there."
The landing team passed through the passage formed by the Void Creatures and headed deeper into the island. Lin Ye, Ace, and Rayleigh led from the front, with Dragon and Sabo close behind. Although the initial plan had been for Dragon to remain at the coast and establish a defensive line, it was ultimately decided that the Revolutionary Army's other senior officers would handle the defense while Dragon himself joined the