Episode 463. Sanji and the others were utterly dumbfounded by what they saw. They had never imagined that the World's Greatest Swordsman could be so terrifying, breaking Zoro's weapon with nothing more than a small knife.
Uh... we're dead!
We're dead!
Under the table, Usopp squeezed his eyes shut in terror.
Dracule Mihawk put away his small knife, turned, and prepared to leave.
It was over!
No, he's really leaving!
Zoro struggled to his feet, bracing himself with his sword as blood spilled from the corner of his mouth. Mihawk stopped, then slowly turned around. For the first time, his gaze behind the sunglasses truly focused on Zoro.
As a swordsman, I will not allow my back to be wounded.
There was no mockery or contempt in that gaze, only a cold appraisal, as though he were examining an uncut jade that was about to be sculpted.
Oh?
What are you trying to prove?
There was a faint trace of interest in Mihawk's voice.
That I have the right to challenge you!
A swordsman's honor was no longer about victory or defeat, but the courage to face a powerful enemy!
Zoro abruptly raised his head. Wado Ichimonji, his only remaining sword, supported his body, its blade glinting with unwavering resolve beneath the sunlight.
Courage!
A cold curve formed at Mihawk's lips. He put away his small knife and drew the Black Blade that symbolized his identity.
Then let me see how much pain your courage can endure!
Before his words had even faded, the Black Blade became a streak of cold light that shot toward Zoro's chest, moving too fast for anyone to react.
Sanji only had time to let out an enraged roar.
Luffy had just sprung from his seat, while Nami's cry was still caught in her throat.