A Pirate's Life Begins with Watching Roger's Execution

Atlas split the dark-green slash, taller than she was, straight down the middle. It flew on behind her without losing momentum and plunged into the sea!

Splash!

Two long, narrow gashes appeared across the calm surface. They closed only after the slash's power faded.

"That's the feeling..."

Hawkeye felt his blood stirring. The thrill of constantly challenging powerful opponents was intoxicating.

"The best part's still to come!"

Atlas grinned as she charged forward.

Her swordsmanship was nowhere near Hawkeye's. Her style had never been delicate or intricate. She lacked Hawkeye's meticulous control and Vista's flashy flourishes.

It came down to one thing: brute force!

If I'm strong enough, I can cut you down!

"Waterfall!"

In an instant, Atlas flashed above Hawkeye and brought her blade down. No tricks, no elegance—just raw power!

This swordsmanship...

Hawkeye had never encountered swordsmanship like hers. That power was not bound to swords at all; she could probably wield a spiked club to the same effect. If he pursued the pinnacle of technique, Atlas pursued the pinnacle of strength!

A heavy sword needed no edge; true mastery needed no ornament!

"But there's no superior path in swordsmanship!"

Hawkeye raised his blade and swept it upward!

Clang!

The sound rang clear. His arms trembled slightly, but his grip held firm. He had blocked it!

Seeing how deeply his legs had sunk, Hawkeye brought his blade across his chest, pushed off, and retreated at speed!

Atlas grimaced inwardly.

The World's Strongest Black Blade lived up to its name. Sandai Kitetsu could not compare to that hardness. Luckily, her Haki was strong enough. If Vergo had been in her place, both he and his blade might have been finished.

"That sword doesn't suit you," Hawkeye said evenly. Who would believe that a swordsman worthy of being called a