Poised for Battle

Brook walked over to Zoro and gave his shoulder a firm pat.

"Zoro..."

His voice was full of approval.

"The fact that you could think of all this, consider things from the perspective of the entire crew and everyone's safety, and restrain your desire to fight... means you've truly started to grow. You're beginning to possess the responsibility and vision an Emperor's Second-in-Command should have. I'm happy for you."

Then his tone abruptly changed, and the smile faded from his face. "But—Zoro, listen to me."

"You, Roronoa Zoro, are a member of my crew, Brook's crew. Behind you stands this entire ship, all of your companions. Whoever you want to challenge, that's your swordsmanship, that's your pursuit. As long as you think they're worth fighting, then go fight them. There's no need to give a damn about the 'big picture' or 'sensitive timing.'"

Brook's gaze swept across Nami, Sanji, Chopper... every single companion.

"And all of you, remember what I said today. Even if you really punch a hole through the sky, so what? We act according to our hearts and walk our own paths, fearing no consequences."

As his words fell, the deck went silent for a moment.

Zoro stared blankly at Brook. The fighting spirit he had suppressed out of concern blazed back to life, burning even more fiercely than before.

It was the immense resonance and exhilaration born from being completely understood, unreservedly supported, even "indulged."

A steadfast resolve that severed every invisible shackle, leaving his sword heart crystal clear.

Hermione stood not far away, her gaze practically clinging to him, the smile and pride at the corners of her lips impossible to hide.

This was her man.

That domineering protectiveness was truly... reassuring and captivating.

Sanji muttered under his breath, though the corners of his mouth