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Kaizen smirked, seeing the shocked expressions on Akainu and Aokiji's faces. The real fight was just beginning.

With a roar, Kaizen's Haki exploded, sending a powerful shockwave through the air. Like a tiger pouncing down the mountain, he lunged forward with lightning speed, fists blazing with Haki.

Akainu and Aokiji barely had a moment to react before Kaizen's strike landed, sending both Vice Admirals flying back. They crashed onto the coast ten meters away, their expressions mixed with surprise and anger.

Witnessing this reversal, the Marines and even the distant pirates watching from their ships were stunned.

"Haha! Did you see that? He sent Akainu flying!" one of the pirates shouted.

"This guy's amazing. Does anyone know his name?" another pirate asked.

"I've never heard of him before. Maybe he's a new recruit with Roger?"

"Not likely," a burly pirate replied. "There are only a few known members of Roger's crew, and he's not one of them. But hey, if we can recruit him… Imagine the stories!"

Back on the Marine warship, the crew was equally baffled.

"How is he still standing? And where did he get that power to knock back Vice Admirals Akainu and Aokiji together?"

"Check the wanted list! There has to be some record of a pirate with that kind of strength!"

But no one could find any trace of him in the Marine database, leading to even greater unease among the ranks.

Kizaru, who had been leaning against the mast, raised an eyebrow at the scene. Even he seemed intrigued.

"Borsalino," Zefa's voice rang out sternly, "this is no time for idle remarks. This is war, not a playground."

Kizaru shrugged, still amused. "Right, right. But you know, this might not be as simple as it looks."

Zefa glanced at him. "What are you getting at?"

Kizaru continued, his tone more serious than usual. "Our operation hasn't exactly been subtle. Roger's crew must have gotten wind of this. Do you think they'll sit by idly?"

Zefa grinned. "Hah! Do you really think we'd overlook that? Sengoku and Garp are already in place, handling things elsewhere."

"Wait… so the rest of Roger's crew…?" Kizaru began.

"They won't interfere here," Zefa confirmed with a smirk. "This mission is as crucial as Roger's execution. The Marines cannot fail. Today, we'll show the world the fate that awaits those who pursue the One Piece."

Kizaru wasn't sure if he found it brilliant or brutal. He knew well that the world was a cold place, indifferent to the lives it sacrificed for the sake of order.

"You seem shaken, Porusalino," Zefa noted, his gaze sharp. "Don't forget where you stand."

Kizaru straightened. "Not at all. Just lost in thought." Then, without another word, he transformed into a yellow light and streaked toward the coast, joining the battle.

Now, Kaizen found himself facing off against the combined might of three of Marine Headquarters' top Vice Admirals. The power balance should have been clear; three experienced Marines wielding powerful Logia abilities against a lone pirate. Yet Kaizen's calm composure as he deflected their attacks was unsettling.

Akainu's magma fists, Aokiji's freezing techniques, and Kizaru's speed attacks each clashed against Kaizen, but his Haki shielded him from every blow.

"How can this be?" one Marine muttered, watching Kaizen resist the onslaught with ease. "It's like he's on the level of Roger's first mate!"

On the Marine warship, Zefa's anxiety grew with each failed attempt to bring Kaizen down. Even he would struggle against the combined attacks of his three strongest students, but this young pirate—someone he had never even heard of—seemed unaffected.

Finally, unable to wait any longer, Zefa smashed his fist onto the railing in frustration. "Enough! Order the warships to target the island and commence bombardment immediately!"

The messenger froze in shock. "Fire now? But Vice Admirals Sakazuki, Kuzan, and Borsalino are still on the island!"

"They'll manage," Zefa replied coldly.

"But—"

"Are you questioning my order?" Zefa's gaze was steely, his authority clear. The messenger stammered before hurrying off to relay the command.

As Kaizen continued fending off the three Admirals, a distant rumble echoed from the Marine warships. Moments later, a barrage of cannonballs was launched, each one aimed squarely at the island.

Kaizen looked up, recognizing the new threat. A smirk spread across his face. "They're desperate now, huh?"

The Vice Admirals, realizing what was happening, exchanged glances. But Kaizen's gaze remained defiant, his Haki glowing brighter. This fight was far from over.