"And then, Unlimited Blade Works explodes inside the enemy's body," Arton continued, his tone matter-of-fact but laced with a quiet menace.
"Imagine an entire micro-world detonating within a person. Unless they're a Logia user with unique regenerative capabilities, most people would die instantly. Even among Logia users, only the absolute top-tier might survive... and even then, they'd probably be left in a dire state—or dead as well."
Arton's explanation sent chills through the female Marines who held diary copies, their fear and respect for him deepening.
Mihawk, however, found his interest rekindled for a moment. Yet, glancing down at his own injuries, he shook his head.
"Enough. This battle ends here," Mihawk said, his voice calm but firm.
"My body no longer has the strength to continue."
He paused, gazing at Arton with a slight frown.
"And to be honest, seeing you wielding guns... it's rather disappointing."
After a moment, he added, "Your last move—the one that injured me. What was it called? And how did you manage to make those four short swords fly back to me? Their flight pattern seemed different from the way you controlled the larger swords earlier."
Hearing this, Arton considered for a moment before responding. While Mihawk could no longer help him reach the pinnacle of Senji Muramasa's template, the duel had pushed him far enough to unlock the Blackened Emiya form. Mihawk had even paused during their battle, giving Arton the time he needed to advance his power. Out of gratitude—and with no concern that Mihawk could easily counter the move in the future—Arton decided to explain.
"That move is called Triple-Linked Crane Wings," Arton began.
"As for the four short swords, Gan Jiang and Mo Ye, they were drawn back by the gravitational pull of the same swords I held in my hands at the time. The connection between them made it possible."
"Ah, I see…" Mihawk nodded, his expression one of understanding.
"Using the inherent properties of your swords, then."
Despite his weakened state, Mihawk's voice carried a note of respect as he processed Arton's explanation.
Mihawk paused briefly, then asked again:
"Can you still evolve your current state?"
Arton nodded confidently.
"And if you do, will you fight with swords or guns?" Mihawk pressed further.
"Swords," Arton replied after a moment of thought. He added with a subtle smile, "At that time, I will forge a single, unparalleled blade from the infinite swords around me."
"Is that so? Now that truly sounds intriguing," Mihawk said, his expression revealing genuine satisfaction. Clearly, he preferred the idea that Arton's ultimate power would center on swordsmanship. The concept of "forging a single blade from infinite swords" only heightened Mihawk's curiosity about Arton's potential.
"This time, I've been defeated by you, Arton," Mihawk admitted with dignity.
"But I will return.
"When I do, whether it's to challenge your current Unlimited Blade Works or the strength you speak of—'forging the singular blade from infinite swords'—I'll be here to test them."
Mihawk then paused, a faint smile forming as he reflected on their battle.
"Triple-Linked Crane Wings... even if it utilized the special properties of your weapons, you still bested me with a blade. For now, I'll leave the title of World's Strongest Swordsman in your hands. But one day, I'll return to reclaim it."
Turning toward Zoro, Mihawk addressed him next:
"You saw it, didn't you, boy? The world is vast. If you truly seek to become the World's Strongest Swordsman, you must challenge this man standing before you."
Zoro nodded solemnly, his resolve unwavering.
"You don't need to tell me. I'll defeat him, and I'll defeat you as well."
At this, Nami let out a scoff.
"How about you focus on beating me first?"
Zoro's expression darkened as he glanced toward her. Mihawk, too, looked at Nami with curiosity.
"I almost forgot about you," Mihawk remarked with a faint smile.
"Arton may have borrowed your strength in a rather unconventional manner earlier, but it's clear you also possess the makings of a formidable swordsman.
"I hope that the next time we meet, you'll be able to wield that slash by your own skill."
With that, Mihawk chuckled softly, turning to head toward his small raft.
"Umm… does anyone need medical attention?" Kaya timidly asked as Mihawk passed by her.
"No need," Mihawk replied coldly, his tone firm. Without another word, he stepped onto his raft. The idea of being treated by the crew of someone who had just defeated him clearly didn't sit well with the proud swordsman.
*
Reactions from the diary copy holders
Charlotte Smoothie: "So, has the title of the World's Strongest Swordsman been officially passed on now?"
Whitey Bay: "I never expected Mihawk himself to acknowledge such a thing."
Boa Hancock: "Even though Arton used the abilities of his template transitions, he truly defeated Mihawk. And now, in this black form, he hasn't even revealed the full extent of his power... Damn it, with him this strong, can I really stop him from exposing my connection to the Celestial Dragons in his diary?"
Tashigi: "Arton will become the goal of swordsmen everywhere."
Kozuki Hiyori: "Not only for the treasure trove of swords he holds, but also for the throne of the World's Strongest Swordsman."
Black Maria: "If news of Arton defeating Mihawk spreads, the world will be thrown into chaos."
Charlotte Galette: "First, Shiki, and now Mihawk... If Mama learns of this, her interest in Arton will skyrocket."
Charlotte Cinnamon: "It's a shame. Given how things are now, it's unlikely Arton will agree to becoming Mama's son-in-law."
Doll: "Do you think reporters were present at the Baratie? If this news gets out, it could greatly impact our plans."
Gion: "Perhaps the chance to stop Arton from fully becoming a pirate is a fleeting one now."