The Execution Was Moved Up

Meanwhile, Mihawk stood steadily on the other side of the crater.

A thin wound had appeared on his right arm, the one holding the sword, with tiny beads of blood seeping out.

The victor had been decided.

Mihawk looked at Zoro, battered and disheveled yet still defiant in his gaze, and gave a slight nod.

"The path you walk is unique. You combined your own aura with 'demonic aura' to form a unique domain. Its potential is immense."

He paused. "But right now, you're only forcibly merging that domain into your swordsmanship itself. That last strike was powerful, but somewhat scattered."

A thoughtful glint flashed through Zoro's eyes. "Scattered... I see..."

Hawk Eyes slowly slung the black blade Yoru back over his shoulder. "Roronoa Zoro, I'll remember your name. I hope... you won't keep me waiting too long."

Ever since Shanks lost his left arm,

he had not encountered an opponent with such potential, one so dedicated to swordsmanship itself, in a very long time.

He longed for Zoro to truly grow.

Then, someday in the future, Zoro could stand before him again in his complete form and engage him in a true, exhilarating clash at the pinnacle.

Zoro was strong now, but he was not qualified yet.

Zoro panted heavily. There was no unwillingness to accept defeat in his eyes, only an even purer fighting spirit.

He slowly sheathed his three swords.

He grinned, revealing a bloodstained yet exhilarated smile. "Next time we meet... I'll bring my 'path' and cut down your title of 'World's Greatest Swordsman.'"

Mihawk merely gave a faint "Mm" in response.

A silver Space Gate silently unfolded beneath Zoro's feet.

The next second, his figure vanished from the battlefield and reappeared on the high observation platform.

"Zoro!"

Chopper was the first to rush over, his