The standoff on the Rainbow Sea lasted only a few brief, oppressive seconds.
Both sides had only just caught their breath after the strain of crossing the "eye of the storm." Their ships were battered and their people exhausted; neither wanted to launch straight into a fight to the death in poor condition. More importantly, the legendary island shrouded in hazy light and shadow drew everyone's eyes and thoughts like a magnet.
Blackbeard licked his cracked lips, the greed in his eyes almost tangible. Yet, in a rare show of restraint, he suppressed the urge to attack immediately. He merely let out a low, dangerous laugh and ordered the Skull Ship to sail slowly toward Laugh Tale, while keeping a watchful flank against a surprise attack from the allied fleet.
The CP0 intelligence ships were even quieter. They scattered like ghosts, occupying several advantageous observation and interception positions, clearly intending to let others fight before swooping in for the spoils.
"They're recovering and observing, too." Dragon stood on the Dawn Ark's bridge, his gaze as sharp as an eagle's. "There won't be an all-out battle for now. But once we land, conflict will be inevitable."
Lin Yan nodded. His breathing had mostly steadied, and the Nika Core was rapidly repairing the strain caused by forcibly maintaining resonance through the storm. Gazing at the distant silhouette of the island, he said gravely, "Once we land, we'll split into teams and explore according to the original plan. Our first objective is to locate the island's core information storage point. That Crystal Mountain is the most likely place. Robin, deciphering the historical information and system blueprints will be crucial. Franky, Nami, make sure to record the island's energy circulation and terrain features."
"Understood!" everyone answered in unison.
"Ace, Luffy, Sabo, you'll be with