Ace rushed forwards, his hands flaming as he swung at Zoro. The swordsman dodged, and whipped his katana around, but they dealt no damage to his fiery opponent. The fight continued, but neither man seemed to make any headway.
Ace's fist darted past Zoro, singeing the side of his head, and causing his vision to darken. Wadou Ichimonji struck Ace's leg, and he was forced to step back a little. As they continued Zoro's wounds began to take a greater effect on him. His reactions slowed, and each attack used less power. Ace hit Zoro square in the chest, and he rolled to the ground, his wound burning, and his mind racing. I can't get any solid hits. I need something to cut. If I could keep him from transforming . . . Zoro's eyes darted around their small camp searching for water to drown out the flames with, but he found none.
"Giving up already? What a shame. I was hoping you'd be more of a challenge," Ace taunted. What else does fire need . . . air! Ace turned away. "I guess I should take care of your doctor next. Then the sharpshooter," as he continued Zoro struggled to his feet, and raised his swords. Ace turned around as the blades spun rapidly.
"Tatsumaki!" Zoro shouted as his man made tornado circled Ace. As it gained speed, the tornado became a vacuum, sucking the air out the center. He tried to morph, but the fire wouldn't start, and he choked as it became harder to breathe. Ace gasped in pain, and looked down to see a red handled katana plunged into his stomach, and then up into Zoro's dark eyes.
"You picked the wrong crew to mess with," he whispered as he withdrew the cursed blade. Ace dropped to his knees, and clutched his hand to his stomach. Zoro took a few steps back, but his eyes never left his opponents.
Zoro reached up and touched the side of his face. It felt like it was getting hotter. He squeezed his eyes shut and his stance wavered as he began to feel dizzy. Ace didn't waste any time. The fire slammed into him, and Zoro shouted as he was shoved back. He was disoriented as the flames crackled in his ears, and his skin burnt. He kept his grip on the swords and tried to listen for Ace. Zoro coughed, and the next attack hit him from behind. He sprawled forward on the sand.
Zoro brought his head up and squinted through the smoke trying to see Ace. He was met with a different sight entirely. Luffy stood at the edge of the camp, the sun rising behind him. His fists were clenched tight, and the brim of his hat was pulled down over his face. His head then snapped up as he bellowed one word,
"ACE!" Zoro smiled as Luffy's fury and he let his guard down. His fight was over. It was time for Luffy's brother to face the Captain of the Straw Hat Crew.
So, the story's almost done. Get ready for the last chapter!
Tatsumaki - tornado . . . I think.
