387. Flame VS Magma

Buggy's voice was very weak. "I never expected you to appear here... The World Government sent you, didn't they?"

"Do I need to explain myself to a pirate who has committed every evil imaginable?"

Akainu coldly tilted his head slightly, revealing a large patch of charred burn scars along the side of his neck, likely left behind after his battle with Aokiji on Punk Hazard.

"So it seems the World Government intends to completely break with me..."

Buggy did not believe Akainu had appeared here for no reason, merely to enjoy watching him fight Blackbeard. His greater purpose was likely to finish off whichever side won after both sides had been badly wounded, eliminating a major threat once and for all.

"Don't misunderstand. The World Government and pirates have never been allies. It has always been exploitation..."

Akainu pressed forward step by step, the scorching heat of the magma on his body beading fine sweat across Buggy's forehead.

"Do you think you can kill me... Or do you think you can leave this place under the combined forces of two pirate crews?"

Buggy tried to stall for time while secretly gathering the last remnants of strength within his body.

"They're nothing but a rabble!"

As soon as Akainu spoke, he drew back his magma-covered right fist, preparing to strike Buggy.

But at that very moment, a fist formed from flame came hurtling in amid a blistering wave of heat!

Akainu spun around swiftly and drove his magma fist into the incoming fire fist from the side. The surrounding temperature abruptly soared, and the light warped like a desert mirage, projecting the distant scenery in distorted waves.

When the roaming flames faded, Ace appeared at the side, one hand pinching the brim of his hat and his head lowered. "Mr. Buggy,