The vast dock fell into dead silence.
Looking at Akainu's stern expression, they became even more uncertain.
After all, every mission Akainu had led and completed during this period had ended in failure.
For him to make such bold claims now gave people the distinct feeling that he was digging himself into a hole.
"What's wrong? Don't tell me you don't believe me?" Akainu's face darkened as he barked.
"You are the elite of Marine Headquarters. If word of this gets out, we'll lose all face for the Marines."
As soon as he finished speaking, Akainu suddenly swept out his hand and roared, "Pass down my orders! Set up all the cannons! I'll give them a welcome gift first!"
"Since they dare come, I'll make sure they never return!"
The unquestionable force in his words once again tightened everyone's nerves.
After exchanging glances, the Marine soldiers all looked toward Yamakaji.
Anyone could see that the enemy held the advantage in the current situation.
However, they could not defy Admiral Akainu's orders.
Yamakaji's expression darkened. Raising his hand, he shouted, "All artillery units, enter combat readiness immediately! Target the incoming Blood Flag Pirates' ship and prepare to fire at any moment!"
As his stern voice rang out again, Yamakaji, acting as the temporary commander, clearly played a crucial role.
The hundreds, even thousands, of artillerymen stationed there sprang into action.
Amid the rumble of massive gears turning, the thousand cannons mounted atop the breakwater at the harbor entrance instantly aimed at the approaching Oro Jackson.
This sudden development pushed the atmosphere to its absolute limit.
Tens of thousands of eyes, along with every gaze watching through Transponder Snails, all locked onto the vast deck of the Oro Jackson.
In their eyes, the fuse for this imminent battle rested upon the slender