Chapter 15
The dazzling clash between Madara and Mihawk left the battlefield in stunned silence. Particles of dispersed energy shimmered like stardust, creating a breathtaking scene. For a few seconds, the battlefield paused, all eyes fixed on Madara. His Susanoo arm dissipated slowly, like serene blue flames fading into the air. Each significant figure in the war was left to process the incredible display they had just witnessed.
Whitebeard's crew, renowned for their resilience and power, were particularly struck. Marco, the First Division Commander, narrowed his eyes, his curiosity piqued. "Who is this guy?" he wondered, noting the effortless way Madara had neutralized Mihawk's formidable attack.
Admiral Aokiji, perched atop an ice formation, let out a low whistle of appreciation. "Impressive. Not many can stand up to Mihawk's power like that," he mused, his normally stoic expression betraying a hint of surprise.
Even Admiral Akainu, who was usually single-mindedly focused on the mission at hand, couldn't help but acknowledge Madara's prowess. "Whoever he is, he's a threat," he muttered under his breath, his eyes narrowing in suspicion.
Doflamingo, ever the one for theatrics, threw his head back and laughed maniacally. "Fufufu... It looks like the battlefield just got a lot more interesting!"
Boa Hancock, her eyes never leaving Madara, felt a rare sense of unease. "Who is this man capable of such feats?" she wondered, her mind racing with possibilities.
Crocodile, lurking nearby, sneered in disdain. "So, even Mihawk isn't invincible. Interesting..." he muttered, his mind already strategizing potential advantages.
Meanwhile, Mihawk, still locked in a stare with Madara, finally broke the eye contact as he remembered his original target. Turning to where Luffy had been, he found that the Straw Hat had already fled, pressing onward toward Ace. Mihawk's lips curled into a faint smile. "So, you slipped away. Perhaps there is more to you than meets the eye," he thought.
Luffy, using the distraction to his advantage, had bolted further into the chaos, meeting up with Boa Hancock, who discreetly handed him the key to Ace's cuffs. "Thank you, Hancock!" he exclaimed, gratitude shining in his eyes. She simply nodded, her face softening as she watched him continue his desperate mission.
Back at the center of attention, Marco made his move. With a powerful kick, he sent Kizaru flying across the battlefield, the light-man Admiral transforming into a radiant beam as he was hurled away. Then, encased in his distinctive blue and yellow flames, Marco flew back to Whitebeard's side, landing gracefully.
"Oi, oyaji," Marco began, his tone urgent yet respectful, his eyes filled with concern.
Whitebeard, his gaze never leaving Madara, responded immediately. "I know. That prisoner... I don't know who he is, but we need him on our side. His strength could turn the tide of this battle," he said, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and determination.
Marco's wings flared as he took to the sky once more, heading towards Madara. The Uchiha, noticing Marco's approach, remained impassive, his expression unreadable as he awaited the Phoenix's landing. His eyes, though calm, betrayed a hint of curiosity.
As Marco touched down, his flames subsiding, he looked Madara straight in the eye. Before he could speak, Madara's lips twisted into a mocking smile. "Even pigeons can fight in this world, it seems," he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.
Marco, undeterred by the insult, responded calmly, "It's a Phoenix, actually. The mythical bird that rises from its ashes," he explained, his voice steady despite the tense atmosphere.
Madara's eyes, now back to their normal black, gleamed with curiosity and amusement. "And what does a rare creature like the Phoenix want from me?" he inquired, his tone both challenging and intrigued.
"We need your help," Marco stated bluntly, his respect evident but his urgency clear. "Join us and aid the Whitebeard Pirates. We can offer you wealth beyond measure," he offered, hoping to appeal to any potential interests Madara might have.
Madara's gaze shifted to Whitebeard, standing imposingly some distance away. The legendary pirate's presence was undeniable. "If there's anything I desire, it's to see that old man fight. If he can truly dance, then I will decide whether or not he's worth supporting," Madara declared, his eyes glinting with a challenge.
Marco pressed on, trying to convince Madara of the benefits of joining them, emphasizing the potential for glory and power. But the Uchiha remained unmoved, his resolve unwavering. With a sigh, Marco conceded, "Very well. I'll relay your message."
Returning to Whitebeard, Marco reported the exchange. "He's not interested in gold or power. He wants to see you fight, I don't know what benefit this will do to him," he relayed, a mixture of frustration and respect in his voice.
Whitebeard grinned, a fierce light igniting in his eyes. "Then I'll give him a show he won't forget," he declared, his voice resonating with determination and confidence.
And with that, the stage was set for the next act in the great battle of Marineford. The clash of legends and the test of wills would continue, each moment bringing the war closer to its climactic conclusion.
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