Chapter 7: Meteor Volcano (II)

"Meteor Volcano!"

Sakazuki wasn't sure how many lava punches he had unleashed. Eventually, he felt drained of energy, so he ceased the eruption of lava punches and directly shouted the name of the move, despite it sounding somewhat peculiar. Nonetheless, this release of excitement signified the completion of this incredible maneuver.

A multitude of massive lava punches surged into the sky, obscuring half of the view. Kong regarded the panting Sakazuki with a puzzled expression and inquired, "Sakazuki, what was that attack just now?"

Sakazuki sighed, knowing his maneuver had succeeded, and replied promptly, "Admiral, that was a significant technique I've been building up. You'll witness its power shortly."

Only after speaking did he realize his mistake. This move belonged to Akainu, not him. How could he sound so hollow, as if unaware of such a technique?

Considering this possibility, Sakazuki's heart raced even more. His expression became increasingly excited as he pointed to the sky and exclaimed, "Fleet Admiral, look!"

Kong raised his gaze, initially puzzled, but his expression shifted suddenly as he beheld a sky that transformed drastically from serene blue to a fiery red, akin to a blazing cloud, incredibly striking and bright.

"What's this?" he exclaimed inwardly. The sudden transformation from serene skies to a fiery spectacle seemed implausible. Recollecting Sakazuki's warning, he exclaimed in surprise, "Sakazuki, this is an incredible technique."

"It's happening!" Sakazuki too observed the sky, realizing that Meteor Volcano was on the verge of success.

"No time to explain further, Fleet Admiral. My attack is imminent, and I need everyone to evacuate this island immediately," Sakazuki urged urgently.

Kong didn't hesitate, choosing to trust Sakazuki's words for the first time. Retrieving a Den Den Mushi, he announced, "All soldiers, obey orders! This is Fleet Admiral Kong. I command an immediate retreat. Execute the order promptly!"

Through the amplified Den Den Mushi, Kong's command resonated across the entire Marine Headquarters.

Upon hearing Kong's order, the marines were bewildered, yet their disciplined nature prevailed. Despite the unconventional command, they hesitated momentarily before complying.

"Retreat?" Many questioned internally. Despite holding the advantage, retreating seemed counterintuitive. However, the marines, known for their discipline, chose to obey.

On the battlefield, Marine Headquarters officers swiftly organized their troops, leaving a rear guard before orderly withdrawal.

"Retreat, now!" echoed throughout the ranks.

The Flying Pirates Group, witnessing the sudden marine retreat, seized the opportunity and advanced swiftly. Even the Marine soldiers left behind couldn't impede their progress.

Although perplexed by the retreat, the pirates, driven by their battle lust, pursued the retreating marines. A minority amongst them attempted to restrain their companions and halt the pursuit, to little avail.

Observing this peculiar scene from the aerial pirate ship, Golden Lion Shiki, a seasoned pirate, sensed something amiss.

"Golden Lion, focus on us!" Despite his unease, he recognized Garp and Sengoku as formidable opponents and knew he couldn't afford to be distracted.

"Garp!" Sengoku transformed into a massive Buddha, unleashing a shockwave towards the Golden Lion, prompting Garp to intervene.

Dozens of peaks surrounded the Golden Lion's pirate ship. Despite the formidable shockwave, a peak blocked its impact.

Garp charged forward, shattering the mountain with a single punch.

The ensuing battle was spectacular. The collaboration between Garp and Sengoku resulted in the mountain's collapse.

"Let's not let him escape," Sengoku reverted to his human form, mindful of the energy drain of his Big Buddha Impact technique.

Although usually laid-back, Garp was formidable in battle, earning him the title of Marine's hero.

As they prepared for another assault, the sky resonated with thunderous rumbling, catching their attention.

"What's this?" Looking up, they witnessed Sakazuki's fully prepared attack, the red clouds enveloping the sky, signaling the imminent arrival of Meteor Volcano.

Sakazuki below beamed with satisfaction. This was his moment. Based on Kong's reaction, he knew the Fleet Admiral hadn't witnessed this move before. Whether it had been developed or not, this would mark Meteor Volcano's grand debut, undoubtedly leaving a lasting impression.