Chapter 6: Meteor Volcano

"Ah, Fleet Admiral, I believe this strategy plays to your strengths," Sakazuki remarked with a dry cough.

Kong glanced at Sakazuki, surprised by difference in his actions from his usual approach. As a Marine Vice Admiral, vigorously nurtured by the Marine Corps as part of the new generation, Sakazuki was widely recognised by senior management as one of the prime candidates for the next Marine Admiral.

Previously, Sakazuki had been known for his relentless pursuit of justice and his staunch stance against pirates. So, it was peculiar that he would hesitate in seizing an advantageous opportunity to confront the flying pirates.

"As the Fleet Admiral of Marine Headquarters, decision-making holds greater significance than sheer combat prowess. This is fundamental to the role of Marine Headquarters. If I were to intervene, it would signify that Marine Headquarters has been pushed into dire straits. Success would be favourable, but failure would deal a severe blow to the Marine's prestige. Thus, I cannot act unless in dire circumstances. Do you comprehend, Sakazuki?" Kong explained seriously.

Physically and mentally stunned, Sakazuki gazed at Kong's solemn expression, finding all his previous doubts resolved. He couldn't help but recall his confusion while watching the anime in his previous life.

Why did ordinary soldiers initially engage with ordinary pirates during the war atop? Even Marine Admirals refrained from acting until a certain point. Figures like Marine hero Garp and Marine Fleet Admiral Sengoku—why did they delay in the Marineford arc? In the end, they only acted at the eleventh hour.

Now, with Kong's words in mind, Sakazuki finally understood. Garp and Sengoku had served as the last bastion of defence for Marine Headquarters. If they had intervened from the outset, it would have exposed the inadequacies of the rest of the Marine forces.

The present situation mirrored those times. Marine Fleet Admiral Kong symbolised the spiritual backbone of the Marine Corps. He would either refrain from acting or ensure victory before doing so. Otherwise, Marine's prestige would undoubtedly suffer.

Just like the Battle oof Marineford, where the Marines persistently provoked the Whitebeard Pirates, yet the Whitebeard Pirates' captains advanced to impede Whitebeard. Whitebeard, being the linchpin of the Whitebeard pirate group, refrained from acting initially to avoid portraying weakness among his ranks and to bolster Marine's momentum. Eventually, he intervened when left with no alternative.

Though seemingly paradoxical, large-scale wars differed from individual combat. Personal strength paled in comparison to effective leadership and spiritual guidance. As Dragon as these remained intact, the army's morale endured.

It resembled ancient military warfare, where top leaders rarely engaged as soldiers. Such involvement risked catastrophic consequences for the entire campaign if the leader fell.

Sakazuki, being astute, grasped the key point almost instantly. At present, despite any reservations, he knew he couldn't replicate Kong's approach with full certainty.

"I understand, Fleet Admiral." Sakazuki affirmed.

Observing Sakazuki's reaction, Kong felt content. Within Marine Headquarters, Sakazuki was a promising protege whom he esteemed highly. Strong and committed to justice, Sakazuki undoubtedly stood as a potential Marine Admiral candidate. While combat prowess defined Marine Admirals, strategic acumen remained equally vital.

"I have great faith in you, Sakazuki. I entrust this to you," Kong declared.

Despite understanding the essence, Sakazuki felt daunted by Kong's weighty instructions. He struggled to conceive a viable approach.

Even with the power of Akainu coursing through him, Sakazuki lacked genuine integration and combat experience. Rashly charging forth would only lead to embarrassment and failure.

"Is there any alternative?" he queried.

Reaching a final decision proved arduous. Given his current capabilities, Sakazuki recognised the futility of certain actions. Disrupting the current situation to favour Marine Headquarters represented the best course of action. However, achieving this feat demanded careful consideration, not impulsive action.

"That technique?" Suddenly, inspiration struck Sakazuki. Recalling Akainu's formidable technique from the original work—where lava surged into the atmosphere, transforming into a meteor shower of magma—he recognised its potential to alter the battlefield dynamics.

"Why not give it a try?" With no better options in sight, Sakazuki resolved to attempt it. Though ignorant of its principles, he believed launching the lava fist into the sky posed the greatest challenge.

Taking a deep breath, he focused. Sensing a surge of importance, Sakazuki experienced a newfound sense of purpose. Emboldened, he raised his fists towards the heavens.

With a swift motion, lava erupted from his shoulders. However, a mishap occurred—the lava fist, lacking proper control, plummeted to the ground upon reaching a mere five or six meters, eroding the earth.

Kong watched in bewilderment, unable to fathom Sakazuki's intentions.

Though outwardly composed, Sakazuki inwardly cringed at his blunder. The initial tension had led to a lapse in control, resulting in premature release.

Collecting himself, Sakazuki focused once more. This time, he achieved success. Concentrating his power on his shoulders, he unleashed the lava fist with precision, propelling it skyward like a rocket.

The fist soared hundreds of meters into the air, unabated. Kong observed, stunned by the spectacle. Though unfamiliar with Sakazuki's magma abilities, he couldn't deny the breathtaking sight unfolding before him.