Chapter 80: The Island
"First island in the New World," Rayleigh mused, his voice calm yet carrying a note of caution. "These waters are unpredictable, and the islands even more so."
Dave smirked, gripping the wheel. "That's why we're here, isn't it? The greater the chaos, the better the opportunities."
Ahead, an island came into view, shrouded in an ominous fog. Tall cliffs lined its edges, and flashes of lightning lit up the sky above it, despite the absence of clouds. The crew exchanged glances, knowing instinctively that the island held secrets—and likely danger.
"Looks like a storm, but it's too localized," Tony commented, his HUD scanning the area. "Definitely not natural."
"Good," Dave replied. "Natural's boring."
As they approached the island, a sudden wave of heat washed over them, followed by a chilling wind. Enel stood, his golden staff in hand. "The weather here's got a mind of its own. I like it."
The ship pulled into a small, rocky cove, the only apparent entry point to the island. As they disembarked, the terrain shifted under their feet—blackened rock, cracked and jagged, with patches of glowing, molten earth scattered throughout. A faint hum filled the air, as if the island itself were alive.
"Careful," Shakky warned, her sharp gaze scanning their surroundings. "This place feels... wrong."
Rayleigh nodded. "Something's definitely off."
Dave unsheathed Rebellion, the gleaming blade catching the light of the molten patches. "Then let's find out what."
As they ventured further inland, the terrain grew more volatile. Pools of bubbling lava dotted the landscape, and strange, luminescent plants clung to the jagged rocks, their glow casting eerie shadows. The hum grew louder, accompanied by faint, rhythmic vibrations underfoot.