The World's Number One

A deserted island in the north of the Land of the Sun is the battlefield Kiyotsune Kuniichi and Mihawk.

As the host, Kiyotsune Kuniichi arrived early and quietly closed his eyes to rest on the island.

The advance notice wasn't much, and it wasn't a secret that Mihawk's location had been under constant surveillance. They received news of Dracule Mihawk's arrival in this area as soon as they set off.

Apart from Kiyotsune Kuniichi, the island was deserted. In contrast, large and small ships were scattered and gathered around the island.

The most eye-catching ships are the Red-Haired Pirates' and the Night Pirates' dragon-headed ships.

Without Whitebeard's arrival, the few division commanders alone are unlikely to compare with the Night Pirates and the Red-Haired Pirates.

Now, here, whether it's redheads or the dark side, they all possess the power to easily annihilate them, if they so desire.

Even so, they are a powerful force that no one dares to provoke.

Moreover, the main purpose of this visit is to observe the game; there is no possibility of conflict.

As time passed, no one grew impatient; instead, their anticipation only grew stronger.

The World Economic News broadcast Mihawk's location in real time via video.

It's finally here!

That man is here!

The white spray at the stern of the rowboat traced a beautiful arc in the air.

The streamlined, predominantly dark-colored hull gives it an incredibly luxurious appearance.

This is Mihawk's ride, a luxury rowing boat named "Night Owl".

Using Reporter Bird in the sky, the live broadcast, viewed from above, provides a clear view of the situation inside the rowboat.

Mihawk sat there very leisurely, the pedals locked, the boat moving forward automatically, swirling a glass of red wine in his hand, his eyes fixed on the island ahead.

"That's really cool. More than ten years ago, I was rowing a small boat all by myself. Now there's something like this. It's much better than those motorboats." Shanks couldn't help but sigh as he watched the Night Owl approach.

"They are indeed very practical. The underworld sent two over, but they are both deluxe versions, unlike the Mihawk, which is a custom version that you can play with anytime you want."

Beckman offered a fair assessment: rowing boats are indeed very useful.

Of course, it's just for fun. As the Sea Emperor, it's impossible for him to carry a rowboat with him like some pirate crews.

Nowadays, many pirate crews have replaced the small boats on their ships with rowboats and motorboats.

It's necessary to be vigilant; who knows if the Night Pirates might have installed some kind of surveillance device in their boat?

After all, the Night Pirates' technology is widely recognized as powerful, and they could easily achieve it if they wanted to.

Moreover, the Red-Haired Pirates rarely provide support; they mostly operate together, given that the entire crew only numbers around a hundred people.

At its peak, the Red-Haired Pirates numbered nearly four hundred members, but more than half of them were killed or wounded in the war against the Demon Pirates, and they have yet to recover.

Most importantly, the Red-Haired Pirates place greater emphasis on the strength of their crew members, raising the bar and preferring to have fewer members, since stronger crew members are more likely to survive.

The successive deaths of their comrades were an extremely painful thing for the members of the Red-Haired Pirates.

They also had great confidence in the Red Firth, which, like the Red Firth, was designed by "Fish-Man" Tom and contained some high technology, enabling it to unleash astonishing speeds that could surpass those of naval warships.

Moreover, given the current strength of the Red-Haired Pirates, virtually no force dares to provoke them, so there's no need for them to seek support from all sides.

The battles are direct conflicts between the Red-Haired Pirates and other major powers.

"Should I get a new rowboat? Headquarters will reimburse me, that way it will be more convenient when I'm on missions."

Undoubtedly, Kuzan was somewhat tempted. He knew a lot about Kuzan boats; they offered more space and various functions compared to motorboats, and Mihawk looked so relaxed.

"Yes, to facilitate mission execution."

Kuzan added one more sentence.

Sengoku's expression turned grim.

A rowboat doesn't come cheap; it costs a whopping 20 million Beli, and that's just the standard version.

The Navy could certainly afford it, and so could Kuzan, but Kuzan wanted the headquarters to reimburse it, Sengoku was unwilling to do.

At headquarters today, every penny is crucial and must be spent wisely.

Besides, the motorboat is sufficient for Kuzan's mission, although rowing is more comfortable.

Seeing the appearance of the Fleet Admiral Sengoku, Kuzan stopped talking. He had only said it casually, and he was quite satisfied with the speedboat for the time being, especially since it had been specially modified by the Naval Science Department.

It just doesn't have that much storage space, no mini-fridge for storing food and drinks, can't play music, can't be used for sleeping, and doesn't keep out the rain.

After thinking it over, Kuzan still really wanted it, because he was afraid of comparisons.

Looks like I'll have to use my own savings.

At the Combat Pyramid, many people are watching the live stream. Compared to the Transponder Snail, the live stream on the large screen inside the Combat Pyramid is larger and more comfortable to watch.

"It's such a pity that we can't be there to watch the battle for the world's number one spot." Zoro was somewhat disappointed, looking at those who were there in person with great envy.

"It's nothing. The gap between our levels is too great. Even if we were there, we wouldn't feel anything. Apart from the pressure, we wouldn't even be able to see how they were fighting." Garron shook his head slightly at Zoro's words.

"Through live video streaming, we can observe things more clearly. For now, we just need to appreciate their strength and proceed step by step."

Garron was rational, Zoro and the others understood this as well. After all, the gap between them was simply too large. Even if they had become Great Swordmaster, they wouldn't last more than a few moves against Mihawk and Kiyotsune Kuniichi.

The more you learn, the more you realize the immense gap that exists between you.

But that doesn't mean they'll give up or that they'll be able to catch up eventually.

Zoro, now fifteen years old, has quite a reputation within the Combat Pyramid, known for his beast-like fighting style.

He is only one step away from Swordmaster. His powerful accumulation has made his foundation extremely solid. Once he breaks through, he will soar to new heights and his combat power will increase dramatically.

"I know, I'm just a little envious of Kuina."

Because Kuina was watching the battle live on the Night Pirates' ship.

Compared to Zoro, Kuina broke through to become Swordmaster much earlier, joining the Night Pirates a year ago. She believes that joining the Night Pirates will allow her to improve her strength much faster.

She easily became Esdeath's subordinate, often following Esdeath into battle, and would also return to challenge the Combat Pyramid when she had free time.

Kuina, who is already seventeen years old, is two years older than Zoro and has entered her growth period much faster. Through the tempering of killing and the strengthening of her foundation, Kuina's strength is improving at a rapid pace.

There is a very noticeable improvement every one or two months.

She also became a Devil Fruit user, possessing the Paramecia Smooth- Smooth-Smooth Fruit, which allows her to maximize her speed advantage. And the Smooth-Smooth Fruit is not as simple as it seems.

Mijela is now used to working at the bar, handling everything with ease. She can wipe glasses and mix drinks, and the bartenders are familiar with her presence but dare not show the slightest disrespect.

Under the watchful eyes of countless people, Mihawk landed on the island and quietly walked towards the Kiyotsune Kuniichi.

Only a few could sense that as Mihawk advanced, it was as if a restriction had been lifted, and an increasingly powerful aura gradually erupted.

At that time, Mihawk's Sword Intent was as vigorous as a pillar of heaven.

Facing the approaching Mihawk, Kiyotsune Kuniichi also opened his eyes and unleashed a powerful aura, the two facing off against each other in a stalemate.

With eyes closed, all is darkness, yet one can sense the soaring golden and azure light, representing the powerful Sword Intent of Kiyotsune Kuniichi and Mihawk respectively, intertwining and colliding with each other.

Although no action has been taken yet, the battle has already begun, and the two sides have engaged in a fierce confrontation without anyone noticing.

The two stood a hundred meters apart, their eyes meeting. Mihawk slowly drew his Black Blade, Night, its blade adorned with chaotic, intricate patterns—the supreme greatsword, the World's Strongest Black Blade.

Similarly, Kiyotsune Kuniichi also drew his current sword, the Supreme Greatsword - Twilight.

He felt a surge of excitement; he hadn't felt this way in a long time.

Since the end of the Kendo tournament.

Although he has faced numerous challengers over the years, none of them have satisfied him or allowed him to unleash his true potential.

Even Himuro Kenshin, who ranked second in the kendo tournament, was far behind him and was just a junior in his eyes.

His real rival is a monster like Golden Lion Shiki.

After the kendo tournament, he visited Mr. Genryuusai Shigekuni, and the two had a friendly sparring session. He was able to personally experience Genryuusai Shigekuni's strong skills and profound accumulation in kendo.

He was also quite proficient in the Flame Style Swordsmanship, but compared to Genryuusai Shigekuni, he was worlds apart.

The blazing Sword Intent unleashed flames that were even more terrifying than those of Devil Fruit User.

He has been keeping an eye on Mihawk and is looking forward to Mihawk challenging him.

He could sense that Mihawk had already embarked on that path, with the Sword Qi tempering his body and bones.

He knew very well how terrifying Genryuusai Shigekuni's physique was, partly due to this constant tempering.

Once a certain level is reached, the competition comes down to how strong each person's foundation is.

Without a word, Mihawk unleashed a basic attack Kiyotsune Kuniichi Jienichi, a terrifying cyan slash that easily sliced through the ground, leaving a deep trench in its wake.

The air vibrated; the powerful slash seemed to devour everything.

"Flying Wheel Sun Flame!"

With a light breath, Kiyotsune Kuniichi slash.

This was a golden, sun-like slash; though it contained no flames, the intense Sword Intent within seemed poised to incinerate everything.

This already showed the beginnings of his all-consuming Sword Intent.

Or rather, he didn't use his full strength; the Demon Slayer Sword Intent was derived from it.

Boom!

The two terrifying slashes collided, and the sky and earth were slightly brightened, making it difficult to see what had happened.

The next moment, Mihawk's figure disappeared from the spot, bursting with astonishing speed, and slashed fiercely at Kiyotsune Kuniichi.

The clash of blades was not only a battle between two world-class swordsmen, but also a clash between two supreme swords.

With astonishing willpower, the blades resonated and trembled incessantly!

The powerful air currents swept across the entire island in an instant, causing the sea to surge.

This is a comprehensive competition: swordsmanship, Two types of Haki, physical strength, and reaction speed.

Completely absorbed in the battle, Mihawk unleashed six strikes in the blink of an eye, but each one was blocked by Kiyotsune Kuniichi.

The next moment, the roles reversed, and what came next was a slash containing terrifying Sword Intent.

Mihawk reacted quickly and blocked the attack.

The blades clashed, and although they weren't slashing blows, each collision produced an astonishing sound.

The sky cracked open early on, splitting into pieces.

The cracks are even increasing, like a pancake being repeatedly cut.

However, this terrifying commotion was merely a warm-up; they hadn't even used their full strength yet, at least not their Conqueror's Haki.

This is a monster; it can cause terrifying destruction with a mere wave of its hand.

Huge waves surged up, capsizing some small boats.

Many people had to hold on tightly to their chains.

Seemingly anticipating this scene, and considering the needs of residents who could watch the battle from a distance, the Land of the Sun had already prepared long iron chains connecting the Land of the Sun to this island.

The two islands are only a little over a kilometer apart, and the iron chains can prevent one from being swept away by the giant waves.

After a full hour, seemingly the warm-up was over, Mihawk mobilized all his power, unleashing a powerful aura, with lightning crackling around him, and the color of his Black Blade Night became even deeper and more terrifying.

"Then let's go!" Kiyotsune Kuniichi's gaze turned fervent, and he began to feel the vitality and passion of his youth.

He was also enveloped in Conqueror's Haki, and more importantly, the Sword Intent that annihilated everything was even more terrifying than before.

Unlike Mihawk's "Hawk Eyes" with their Conqueror's Haki.

A golden light flashed in Kiyotsune Kuniichi's eyes.

"Clear World!"

Unconsciously, Mihawk felt as if everything about him had been seen through.

"Be careful." Kiyotsune Kuniichi kindly reminded him, but showed no mercy, flashing his figure and launching a storm of attacks on Mihawk.

The days of simple head-on confrontation are over. Kiyotsune Kuniichi perfectly predicted Mihawk's actions, saw through Mihawk's next move, and launched an attack, changing his offensive trajectory at any time.

Mihawk felt immense pressure. He knew something about Kiyotsune Kuniichi's Observation Haki, but he hadn't expected it to be this terrifying.

If it were Shanks, it would definitely be easier. Shanks' Observation Haki is extremely powerful, and when applied to himself, it makes his actions unpredictable, or rather, difficult to predict.

In other words, when facing Shanks, Observation Haki is mostly ineffective, and one can even be immune to the ability to Future Sight.

However, it is impossible to suppress him simply by enhancing one's perception; his strength is no longer what it used to be.

Pressure can actually ignite his fighting spirit.

The battle lasted for two whole days, a fierce fight with everyone giving their all and completely disregarding the depletion of their physical strength.

By this time, Mihawk was exhausted and had little strength left. He was also in a very sorry state, with many injuries, but even so, he did not fall.

Kiyotsune Kuniichi, on the other side, gasped for breath; his condition was somewhat better than Mihawk's.

The battle with Kiyotsune Kuniichi made Mihawk realize the gap between him and Jien Kunio. In terms of the Three Types of Haki, physique, swordsmanship, and all aspects, Mihawk still needs more training and accumulation.

"I lost," Mihawk said calmly, without any sign of discouragement.

"No, you don't, young swordsman. We're not from the same era." To Mihawk's words, Kiyotsune Kuniichi smiled and shook his head.

"No excuses are needed; defeat is defeat."

"Very good. Keep this mindset, and you will definitely surpass me in the future," Kiyotsune Kuniichi praised, showing his high regard for Mihawk.

He slowly sheathed the sword.

"From now on, you are the World's Number One Swordsman, Mihawk!"

"I'm no longer involved in matters of the high seas. In ten or twenty years, when you're at your strongest, I'll be too old."

"The way of the sword is endless. Carry this title, continue to pursue even greater heights, and meet the challenges of those who come after me!"

After saying this, Kiyotsune Kuniichi turned and left.

Mihawk stood there, stunned.

And the words of Kiyotsune Kuniichi were clearly conveyed to the whole world.

This is what inheritance is all about!

Kiyotsune Kuniichi chose Mihawk as the successor to the title of "World's Number One Swordsman".

Undeniably, Kiyotsune Kuniichi is getting old. As he said, he will retire to the Land of the Sun and no longer interfere in matters of the sea, nor will he be able to face endless challenges in the future.

Mihawk is still young and has not yet reached his true peak. In the future, he will definitely be able to represent the swordsmen as the top combat force of the sea.

Mihawk's skill is undoubtedly recognized worldwide; he is one of the world's top swordsmen today.

From now on, "Hawk Eyes" Jora Mihawk will officially become the "World's Number One Swordsman," possessing this title that represents the glory of swordsmen.

Countless people cheered, and no one dared to say that Mihawk had lost; such a legacy was truly inspiring.

From now on, the opponent that all swordsmen on the high seas will have to challenge has changed; it is now "Hawk Eyes" Mihawk.

Gripping the hilt tightly, Mihawk sheathed the Black Blade Night and stood quietly.

After a long while, carrying the Black Blade Night, Mihawk walked back to where his rowboat was.

He was ready to face any swordsman's challenge.

They aspire to become even stronger, to become the true World's Strongest swordsman, not just a title.