Chapter 115: Han’s Rescue
Ōnoki's Dust Release struck the Rock Golem with pinpoint precision. The massive construct dissolved into nothingness within the translucent barrier, taking Kawakaze's sword with it. In the aftermath, only a single fragment untouched by the Dust Release fell to the ground alongside the remnants of the rock.
At the same moment, Kawakaze's Heavenly Thunder of the Nine Skies descended from above. Ōnoki, still finishing his Dust Release, had no time to evade. His expression shifted drastically as he saw the lightning, as thick as an arm, streaking toward his head. With no other options, he swiftly encased himself in a thick layer of rock, wrapping himself tightly for protection. He activated the Added-Weight Rock Technique, dropping toward the ground at a faster speed.
However, even with his accelerated descent, he could not escape the lightning. It struck him midway with a deafening crack.
"Ah~!" A scream escaped from Ōnoki. Though his rock-covered face betrayed no expression, Kawakaze imagined it would have been quite something to see.
"Old man, let me see you fly again," Kawakaze taunted, his voice filled with disdain.
"Fists of Thunder!" With a burst of power from his feet, the ground beneath Kawakaze blackened and scorched as he vanished in an instant, reappearing in front of Ōnoki.
"Pay for my sword!"
Kawakaze's punch landed squarely on Ōnoki, sending shockwaves rippling through the air. The lightning-split, blackened rocks encasing Ōnoki shattered with a resounding crack. He was launched through the air, electricity still crackling across his battered form. Upon hitting the ground, he rolled several times before coming to a stop, his tattered clothes hanging from his frame and his face charred.
"Cough~"
A mouthful of blood erupted from Ōnoki's lips as he knelt, struggling to remain upright. Kawakaze's lightning-imbued Chakra coursed through his body, paralyzing him momentarily and leaving him unable to stand.
For all his injuries, Ōnoki's Earth Release training had rendered his defenses extraordinary. Even after such a devastating blow, he clung to life.