Power Divided, World in Turmoil

"And this is only the beginning," the assistant said with admiration in its voice. "Ancient Rune Bearers can do far more than that. They can create dimensional passages, heal Void Erosion, and even briefly merge the powers of two dimensions without causing a catastrophe."

As Lin Ye listened to these possibilities, hope flared within him. Perhaps this was why fate had made him bear these runes—not as a curse, but as a responsibility and a mission.

"I need to find the Anchor Stone," Lin Ye said firmly. "Both to help Luffy and to explore the possibility of returning myself."

The guardian assistant floated in the air, its form constantly shifting. "According to ancient records, Anchor Stones usually form in Surge Zones at Dimensional Boundaries—places where the energies of two dimensions converge with exceptional activity." It pointed toward a particularly chaotic region of Void in the distance. "There is a known Surge Zone in that direction. We can begin our search there."

Lin Ye nodded and gave the knowledge base one last look. In such a short time, he had changed from a victim passively suffering rune erosion into a Rune Bearer who had begun to understand and control this power. This was only the beginning of the journey. More secrets awaited revelation ahead.

"Are you ready?" the assistant asked.

"I'm ready," Lin Ye replied, his gaze resolute. "Whether it's finding the Anchor Stone for Luffy or finding a path back for myself, I won't give up."

Mary Geoise, the World Government's supreme holy land, stood atop the highest point of the Red Line, its mysterious palace complex shrouded in clouds and mist year-round as it overlooked the entire world. The pinnacle of power should have been tranquil and peaceful, yet hidden currents churned beneath the surface today.

Inside the Five