Flames Incarnate, Courting Death (4)

Rumble!

The deep rumbling went on and on. Waves of force swept across the battlefield, leaving everyone stunned.

The girl was terrifyingly strong. Her opponent was Drought Calamity Jack, the most capable subordinate of Kaido, one of the Four Emperors, with a bounty of one billion Beli.

To an untrained eye, Sakura seemed to have the upper hand, driving Jack back with her attacks. But those with experience could see that she was already losing ground.

"He's too strong! At this rate, the captain will run out of strength!"

Conis was frantic. She tried to move, but her whole body felt weak and limp.

"Maximum Wheel: Rokuogan!"

Sakura's pretty face was drained of color. She poured the last of her strength into a blow to Jack's abdomen. He grunted, spat a mouthful of blood, and flew backward with an earthshaking crash.

Return Life faded, and the Undying True Flames on her body went out. Sakura dropped to one knee, her sweat-soaked pink hair clinging to her chest as she gasped for breath.

"Did it work?"

Sakura raised her head and stared wearily at the dust-shrouded spot in the distance. Blood kept spilling from her mouth.

Nekomamushi and the other members of the Mink Tribe watched the rubble beneath the billowing dust, all of them praying.

"Captain Jack?"

Sheepshead and the other pirates drew sharp breaths, their hearts in their throats.

Boom!

A powerful gust swept through, sending dirt and stones flying. Jack emerged in his original form, blood coating his mouth. He glared at Sakura with a face twisted like a demon's, the savage aura around him almost suffocating.

"I'm going to tear you apart today."

Jack roared, his eyes bloodshot.

"Damn it."

Seeing that Jack's injuries were far from enough to stop him, Sakura struggled to her feet and