Chapter 618: I like you, Locke!

She raised the long sword in her hand, and the surrounding temperature began to plummet, the cold air biting. She let out a sharp whistle, and the power of frost on the long sword grew stronger, freezing the entire island.

Locke felt this powerful cold air; he knew he had to end this battle as soon as possible. He doubled his use of his fist technique, quickly approaching Boa Hancock, attempting to break her Frost Sword.

The two engaged in a final duel on the ice-covered island; their attacks intertwined, emitting astonishing sounds. Locke utilized his speed and technique to constantly strike Boa Hancock's Frost Sword, attempting to break its power.

Boa Hancock felt Locke's determination, and her attacks became more violent.

She launched her final move—Ten Thousand Snakes Condensing Cold.

The power of frost on her sword became even more powerful, wrapping around Locke like ten thousand snakes, completely enveloping him. Locke felt the cold air permeating the air; he knew he had to get rid of this power as soon as possible, or he would be frozen.

He used all his strength, attempting to break the shackles of Ten Thousand Snakes Condensing Cold. He struggled, a powerful momentum erupting from his fists, and finally, he broke free from Boa Hancock's attack and launched a fatal strike.

Boa Hancock fell to the ground; she clutched her chest in pain, knowing she had lost. She looked at Locke and smiled: "You are very strong, Locke. I lost."

Locke looked at Boa Hancock lying on the ground, his heart filled with excitement and the joy of victory. He knew this battle was one of the most difficult challenges he had encountered so far, but he also knew he had passed this test, proving his strength and courage.

Boa Hancock slowly climbed up; she looked at Locke, revealing a hint of shyness and admiration: "You are really very strong, Locke. I have never met an opponent like you."

Locke smiled and responded: "Thank you, Boa Hancock. You are also a very excellent warrior."

"I like you, Locke," Boa Hancock suddenly said. "I like your courage and strength. Would you consider being with me?"

Locke was stunned for a moment; he knew Boa Hancock was a very beautiful and powerful woman, but he did not have any special feelings for her. "I'm sorry, Boa Hancock, I don't want to be with you," he said. "I am just a free traveler; I don't want to be bound by anyone."

A look of shame and disappointment appeared on Boa Hancock's face. "I know, you are a free person. But if one day you need my help, I will always be by your side."

"Thank you, Boa Hancock," Locke answered with a smile. "I also hope we can become good friends."

Boa Hancock nodded, then suddenly turned and left. Tears shimmered in her eyes, but she did not let Locke see them.

Locke watched her departing back; he knew he had hurt her feelings, but he also knew he had to stick to his own beliefs and values.

Locke left the frozen island and continued on his journey. During his journey, Hawkeye invited Locke to have a drink at his tavern.

Locke felt somewhat surprised upon hearing Hawkeye's invitation. He knew Hawkeye was a Navy Admiral, but he did not think there was anything in common between himself and Hawkeye.