Chapter 217 Crew's Determination

Translator: PapaSmurf0700

After making their way through the first main gate of Enies Lobby, the crew faced a long, narrow road leading to the second gate. Nami glanced at Bai Ye, her voice laced with concern: "Bai Ye, why didn't you stop Luffy this time? He just dashed off again."

Just moments before, they had reached the second main gate, gearing up to hear Bai Ye's strategy. But before anyone could react, Luffy had charged ahead, causing a ruckus inside.

From the chaotic noises echoing from beyond the gate, it was clear that Luffy had encountered the island's troops.

Bai Ye seemed unperturbed, explaining his rationale: "According to Granny Kokoro and Iceburg, Enies Lobby is manned by around 10,000 troops. Even if they're not particularly strong, dealing with such numbers could bog us down significantly. Letting Luffy draw some of their attention first might actually help us."

In the original events, Zoro and others managed to swiftly reach the courthouse largely because Luffy was creating havoc everywhere, distracting many of the guards.

Nami's brows furrowed with concern: "So, do we just charge in after him?"

Before Bai Ye could respond, Robin interjected, "Enies Lobby is vast. If we're unclear about our target's location, it might be wiser to split up."

Bai Ye nodded at Robin's suggestion, then turned to the others, excluding Zoro and Sanji. "Rather than stick together and risk getting surrounded, we should divide our efforts. It may sound harsh, but this raid is more than a battle—it's a test."

"We're testing not just our strength and combat readiness," Bai Ye continued, "but our resolve to stand up against the World Government."

At Bai Ye's words, Zoro and Sanji exchanged knowing smiles behind him. In moments like this, Bai Ye showed a reliability that Luffy rarely did. After all, such thoughts would never even cross Luffy's mind.

As Bai Ye finished speaking, the crew fell silent, each processing the gravity of their situation. They had been operating as high-bounty pirates, constantly brushing against the World Government. But this direct challenge was something else entirely. It seemed that following Luffy's fearless lead had somehow delayed their grasp of the full implications of their actions.

Bai Ye watched the crew's faces, understanding their apprehension. In the original story, Luffy, Zoro, and Sanji were always at the forefront, growing stronger with each challenge. The others, though, had been less focused on their power and the need to grow. Bai Ye hoped this situation would ignite a realization: while their ship wasn't governed by the brutal laws of survival of the fittest, readiness and strength were still crucial.

It was Robin who broke the silence. "I've been marked by the World Government since childhood," she began, her voice steady. "I used to think about hiding, staying safe. But now…" She paused, lifting her gaze to meet the eyes of her crewmates. For the first time, a fiery determination blazed within her.

Luffy had been the first to defend her life, to offer her sanctuary on his ship. With him, she'd sought adventure and glimpsed the true meaning of camaraderie. These experiences had reshaped her, yet the threats from Aokiji and CP9 had sparked a shift within her. No longer content to flee, she was ready to confront her past and fight back.

"As much as I've run, this time, I'm choosing to stand and face it," Robin declared, her demeanor shifting from the scholarly, composed archaeologist to a resolute warrior ready for battle.

As Robin's resolve shone for the first time, it drew an enthusiastic response from Sanji: "Wow~ Miss Robin is so gorgeous~~~"

"Perverted cook~" Zoro muttered with a roll of his eyes, not quite sharing the sentiment.

Franky's laughter boomed beside them: "Wa hahaha!! Fighting the World Government?!" His face, usually cheerful, now took on a determined edge. "That's exactly what I've been waiting for! This is the most SU.PER thing ever!" Franky wasn't just talking big—if Robin harbored fear of the World Government, Franky's feelings leaned hard into outright hatred.

Following Robin and Franky's bold declarations, Usopp, donning his Sogeking persona, proclaimed proudly: "As Sogeking, I am a brave warrior of the sea! No matter who faces me, I'll show them the might of my elemental guns—"

He even broke into his own theme song, striking a heroic pose that was surprisingly impressive.

Meanwhile, Nami groaned, rubbing her temples. "Really, how did I get into this mess?" she lamented. "I just wanted to draw a map of the world." But as she gripped her Clima-Tact, with sparks of electricity crackling around it, she added defiantly, "But if anyone tries to stop us—"

A bolt of thunder leapt from the weapon, and Nami's eyes sparkled with fierce determination. "I won't hold back!"

Even Sanji couldn't resist commenting again, "Nami-san is truly incredible!!"

Chopper, not to be outdone, piped up, his voice earnest: "I'm the ship's doctor, and it's my job to heal wounds. But if joining the fight means fewer injuries to treat, then count me in!" He stood taller, trying to sound formidable.

His attempt at seriousness only made him look more adorable, prompting chuckles rather than the awe he'd hoped for.

Robin gently rubbed Chopper's head, smiling warmly: "You really are the best doctor on our ship~"

Chopper, trying to hide his pleasure, grumbled in return: "Even if you praise me as a doctor, it doesn't make me happy, you dummy!"

While Chopper squirmed, Merry raised her little hand enthusiastically and declared, "And me too!" She looked earnestly at her companions. "As the spirit of the ship, I exist because of all of you!"

Her voice grew stronger as she continued, "Carrying you through your adventures is my purpose. Together, we'll face whatever comes our way!"

"I will help defeat any enemy that threatens our journey!"