Seeing the two missions before him—each nearly identical to the previous ones—Marco now faced two 'establishing authority' tasks and two 'challenging the Four Emperors' tasks. He could only choose one of the 'establishing authority' missions.
Without hesitation, Marco dismissed the system's priorities. Whether the task appeared or not, his course was clear: Fish-Man Island. Not only would it yield more attribute points, but it was also where the Sweet Commanders awaited—combatants of immense strength, particularly Katakuri. Only Marco himself might match Katakuri's formidable Observation Haki, while no one else in the Phoenix Pirates could hope to do so.
Currently, three Yonko Commander-level fighters existed among the Phoenix Pirates: Vista, Ace, and Jozu. The remaining Captains had not yet reached that level, so combat assignments needed careful planning. Still, with urgency pressing, Marco ignored trivial details.
He addressed everyone decisively, "Alright, stop arguing. The sudden alliance between the Big Mom Pirates and the Beasts Pirates is surprising, but not entirely unexpected. Big Mom and Kaido shared a strong bond in their early years. Joint operations or future alliances wouldn't be shocking. For now, let's focus on the immediate threat."
Nods of understanding spread through the crew.
Marco continued swiftly, "Vista, you will lead Blenenco, Blenheim, Atmos, Kingdew, and Kil, along with their squads, to Nanku Island for reinforcement. Instruct nearby subordinate pirate crews to support them as well."
Vista saluted. "Understood, leave it to me!"
Marco looked at Vista with a serious gaze. "The Beasts Pirates are almost entirely Zoan-type Devil Fruit Users. You are a Great Swordsman; your attacks can shatter their defenses. I'm counting on you."
Vista grinned confidently. "Don't worry. If it were King, I might be cautious, but Jack alone? He's nothing. I'll take the lead."
With that, Vista called his squad into action, and they departed.
Turning back, Marco addressed the remaining team, "I will personally go to Fish-Man Island. Namur, Curiel, Izo, and Fossa, you'll come with me."
At that moment, Ace stepped forward. "Wait! I'm coming too."
Marco frowned slightly. "Ace, your arm was just reattached a few days ago; you still need rest."
"Is now really a time for rest?!" Ace protested stubbornly.
Jozu added, "That's right! We've been provoked right at our doorstep. If we don't respond forcefully, Father's legacy will be eroded. Even if it's a Four Emperors crew, we must make them pay."
Marco nodded in agreement, though he weighed the strategic implications. "I want to take you all, but we must leave some strength behind. The Phoenix Pirates currently have only fourteen Captains. The First and Fourth Division Captains are yet to be appointed. Vista and his six Captains will handle the Beasts Pirates, and I need a team for the Big Mom Pirates. If other enemies strike now, you must be ready."
Jozu and Ace fell silent. The Phoenix Pirates were stretched thin.
During the Marineford War, the Whitebeard Pirates had won and lost simultaneously. Ace had been rescued, proving the Marines' failure against Whitebeard, but the victory came at a devastating cost: Whitebeard himself had died, and only half of the fifty-thousand-strong crew survived, many injured or maimed. The once-mighty crew had become vulnerable.
Though Marco had smoothly assumed command, the Phoenix Pirates were at their weakest. Their vast territory attracted envy and aggression. They were like a wounded tiger, surrounded by predators. Marco had been chosen to lead in a time of crisis; failure would destroy decades of Whitebeard's legacy.
Marco turned to Ace, "You will come with me. Your powers might help restrain the Sweet Commanders."
"Good!" Ace said eagerly.
Marco then addressed Jozu and the others. "Jozu, Rakyō, Harta, I leave home matters to you. If Queen or King of the Beasts Pirates attacks, or if the Wang Zhi Pirates intervene, retreat if necessary. It's acceptable to temporarily give up territory; we'll reclaim it on our return."
Jozu promised, "Don't worry! If they dare come, I'll make sure they regret it."
Rakyō added confidently, "We don't consider other pirates a threat besides the Four Emperors crews."
Harta cautioned, "Be careful when heading to Fish-Man Island. The Sweet Commanders are Big Mom's top fighters, especially Katakuri. His strength is fearsome."
Marco smiled with calm assurance. "Don't worry. Katakuri is no match for me, and after this, Big Mom and Kaido won't be able to dismiss me either. If I don't fight, no one will recognize me as the new Four Emperors. I will protect Father's legacy and restore the Phoenix Pirates to Whitebeard's former glory."
His words carried the weight and presence of their late Captain. The crew felt a surge of trust and resolve.
Jozu, who had grown alongside Marco, smiled warmly. "Yes, Marco, I believe in you."
Marco returned the smile, then spoke with resolve. "We set off now. Strengthen your vigilance here."
"Leave it to us!" everyone responded in unison, ready to uphold the Phoenix Pirates' honor.
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Milestones
100 Powerstones = 1 Bonus Chapter
200 Powerstones = 2 Bonus Chapters
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