Chapter 109: Chapter 107 Clash of Titans
Satoru stood before Mihawk, his confident demeanor unwavering. "I'm here to invite you to join the Seven Warlords of the Sea," he said plainly.
Mihawk's sharp eyes narrowed. "The Seven Warlords?" His tone carried both curiosity and skepticism.
Satoru explained the concept of the Seven Warlords—powerful pirates granted authority by the World Government to maintain balance against the Four Emperors. He detailed the privileges and influence this title would bring, including immunity from naval pursuit and an elevated status.
Mihawk listened but didn't waver. "I refuse," he said, his voice firm and unwavering.
Satoru blinked, slightly taken aback by the immediate rejection. "Don't you want to consider it? The title comes with unparalleled benefits. You'll be seen as an equal to the Four Emperors!"
Mihawk smirked. "The title of the world's greatest swordsman is already unrivaled. It surpasses any rank or title. I answer to no one but my blade."
Satoru's gaze sharpened. "And what about the Navy? Surely you're not invincible against them, not even against an admiral."
Mihawk's smirk grew wider as he leveled his blade toward Satoru. "Do you wish to test that theory?"
Satoru's smile turned mischievous. "Fine. If I win, you'll join the Seven Warlords. If you win... well, you can claim my life."
The air around them grew heavy with tension. Without hesitation, Mihawk swung his iconic black blade, Yoru, unleashing a powerful slash. Yet Satoru remained unfazed, raising a single finger.
The devastating attack stopped mid-air, as if hitting an invisible barrier.
Mihawk's piercing eyes widened. "Impossible..."
From a hidden vantage point, Sophilar and Cullom watched the spectacle unfold.
"Is this real?" Sophilar murmured, disbelief etched across his face. "He blocked Mihawk's slash with just one finger?"
Cullom nodded, her expression filled with awe. "The commander's ability makes him nearly untouchable. No ordinary attack can penetrate his barrier, not even Mihawk's blade."
Sophilar frowned, muttering to himself. "Every ability has its weaknesses. But can Mihawk discover his?"
On the battlefield, Satoru chuckled. "That's it? If your attacks remain this weak, you might as well surrender now and accept the title of Warlord."
Mihawk's grip on Yoru tightened. His pride as the world's strongest swordsman burned in his chest. "If you want my submission, then prove yourself worthy."
With a powerful two-handed swing, Mihawk unleashed a colossal, dark green sword slash that tore through the air with unparalleled intensity.
Satoru remained calm, intercepting the attack with his fingers once more. The sword slash stopped dead in its tracks.
"Let me show you what it's like to face your own power." With a flick of his fingers, Satoru redirected the energy back toward Mihawk.
Mihawk's eyes narrowed, and with a swift motion, he countered the redirected slash with an identical one of his own. The two waves of energy collided, creating a shockwave that rippled through the area before dissipating into the sky.
Sophilar watched in amazement. "Even Mihawk's most devastating attacks can't break through that barrier. Just what kind of monster is this man?"
Cullom, though equally amazed, remained silent. She knew Satoru's confidence wasn't misplaced. His abilities were unmatched, and his unshakable composure was proof of his strength.
Back on the battlefield, Mihawk lowered his sword slightly, his golden eyes gleaming with respect and determination. "You're stronger than I expected. But don't think this fight is over yet."
Satoru smirked. "Good. Show me what the world's greatest swordsman is truly capable of."
The battle was far from over, and the clash between these two titans promised to shake the very fabric of the Grand Line.