With the closure of the spatial rift within the core control room and the collapse of the altar, the rampaging Demon Puppets on the ground, like puppets with their strings cut, instantly lost their red light, their movements stiffened, and they collapsed to the ground, becoming truly lifeless. The automated defense facilities throughout the island also ceased their attacks, and the dark red energy shields dissipated like shattered glass, revealing the long-lost normal sky.
The chaos and clamor came to an abrupt end, replaced by a deathly silence, and the lingering smell of gunpowder and sorrow in the air.
The Straw Hat Pirates crew breathed a sigh of relief as they watched the enemy suddenly stop.
Luffy deactivated Gear Fourth and scratched his head. "Huh? Aren't we fighting anymore?"
Zoro sheathed his sword and looked towards the underground. "Looks like he's taken care of Allen."
Nami sat wearily on the ground, looking at the chaotic street and the shaken people around her, and sighed, "What a disaster..."
Sanji lit a cigarette, his eyes cold as he looked at the wrecked theater and the injured dancers. "That bastard Festa, he got off too easily."
Franky looked at his somewhat damaged general's armor and began to think about how to repair and upgrade it in a super way.
Brook played a soothing requiem, calming the frightened soul.
Robin then began collecting scattered research materials on Festa and the Devil Factor, which served as important evidence and warnings.
Usopp and Chopper were busy treating the wounded, Chopper's medical skills played a huge role at this moment.
Jinbe helped stabilize the port and facilitated the departure of ships.
Ace helped put out some fires caused by the fighting.
Allen's figure quietly appeared beside Nami and Robin.
"The source has been addressed," he said succinctly. "With the energy core out of control, the structure of this artificial island may be unstable, and all personnel need to be evacuated as soon as possible."
With the help of the Straw Hat Pirates, the surviving tourists, exhibitors, and original staff began to evacuate to the port in an orderly manner. Many people were still in shock, filled with gratitude towards the Straw Hat Pirates, and at the same time, filled with anger towards the organizers.
After taking stock, it was found that the incident caused numerous casualties and property losses. The once dreamlike Delta Island is now defunct and has become an expensive ruin.
A few days later, when the last group of survivors left on a rescue ship, the Straw Hat Pirates returned to the Thousand Sunny. Standing on the deck, looking back at the dilapidated artificial island emitting wisps of black smoke, everyone felt a mix of emotions.
"What Expo? It's a man-eating trap!" Usopp said indignantly.
"To exploit people's desires and dreams to achieve one's own evil ends is unforgivable," Robin said softly.
Luffy adjusted his straw Straw Hat, unusually quiet. Looking at the ruins, he said, "Dreams and banquets are supposed to be joyful things."
Nami tallied up her "haul"—mainly some data copied from the information center and rare metal parts found on some destroyed puppets. Economically, it was a huge loss. "Sigh, a wasted effort, and I almost lost my life."
Allen cautioned, "Although Festa is dead, his ability to create Demon Puppets and contact other-dimensional monsters suggests a deeper force or technological source behind him. Those research materials need careful analysis."
"That's right," Robin nodded, "The existence of ' Devil Factor ' and 'Nag Jurat' indicates that there are unknown threats beyond this world."
The Thousand Sunny slowly sailed away from this sorrowful place. The Log Pose adjusted slightly, pointing to the next unknown island.
Having survived a life-or-death crisis triggered by a false revelry, the Straw Hat Pirates became even more determined on their path. True adventure should not be built on plunder and deception, but rather stem from freedom, dreams, and protection.
Ace patted Luffy on the shoulder. "Don't be so downcast, next time let's find a real banquet venue!"
Upon hearing this, Luffy immediately regained his energy, raising his arm high. "That's right! Let's go! To find the next adventure and banquet!"
Sunlight shone on the sailboat again, and the sea breeze dispelled the previous gloom.