This World Runs Deep-It's Hard to Get a Handle on!

"Ice Bird Strike."

Just as Dragon steadied himself, an ice bird swept in from afar, leaving everything in its path frozen solid as it beat its wings and charged toward him.

Dragon's expression darkened. Facing Aokiji's attack, he clenched his right fist, a whirlwind swirling around it, and struck fiercely as the ice bird arrived.

In an instant,

a violent hurricane overturned everything. The ice bird was sent flying, seemingly surrounded by invisible blades, and was quickly torn apart.

"As expected of the world's most dangerous man."

Aokiji appeared slowly off to one side. Just as he prepared to attack again, a sense of crisis engulfed him.

The entire sky glittered brilliantly. Amid the dazzling light, a slash tore through the atmosphere.

Clang!!!

Sparks flew. Aokiji crossed his arms, ice blades coated in Armament Haki intercepting the strike. The instant they made contact, his feet sank deep into the ground as he was forced sideways. Gritting his teeth, he finally deflected the slash. The cloud-covered sky split in two and remained that way for a long time.

A towering sword intent swept across the battlefield. Everyone's hair stood on end as they looked toward Dragon, as if a sharp sword hung above their heads, ready to fall at any moment.

A figure flashed to Dragon's side. The cloak fell back, revealing a masked face.

Near the Shichibukai.

Dracule Mihawk stared over, the black blade on his back trembling.

"Great Swordsman."

Feeling that extraordinary sword intent, Mihawk was excited.

"The Revolutionary Army is full of hidden talent."

Aokiji didn't dare move. He felt an opening locked onto him; if he made a move, an endless barrage of attacks would await him.

This was a Great Swordsman, and one of the very best.

"Who are you?"

Aokiji's expression darkened.

"The Revolutionary Army."