"Definitely. The Marines will summon the Shichibukai to fight Whitebeard alongside them. Zoro, are you sure about this?"
Zoro gripped the swords at his waist and grinned. "I've trained so hard to defeat Hawk-Eye. Of course I'm going!"
Luffy still refused to give up. "Uncle, can't we really go save Ace?"
Rubick tried to reassure him. "Ace won't die in prison. We can join Whitebeard when he makes his move. Don't worry, Luffy. With my fruit power, Ace won't die."
Luffy was moved. "Uncle, thank you for doing so much for me."
Rubick shook his head. "Ace's identity could determine whether the truth about the Void Century comes to light. I won't let him die like that."
Robin understood at once. "You mean that, when the day comes, Ace can reveal himself as Roger's son and confirm the truth?"
"That's right."
Rubick added, "As for the rest of you, spend these next few days thinking carefully about whether you want to enter the battlefield. Even with me watching over you, you could die there. Make sure you've decided before you say anything."
For a moment, no one aboard spoke. Only the wind could be heard.
Rubick knew most people would not take such a tremendous risk to save Ace, especially the three most timid members of the crew. He could not force them.
Rubick asked, "Luffy, how far has your Haki come?"
A black sheen appeared over Luffy's body. Armament Haki covered both his forearms and lower legs, but it did not extend to his upper arms, thighs, or torso.
Rubick said, "Training can increase the amount of Armament Haki a person has. Those who are skilled enough can cover their entire bodies with it."
Usopp exclaimed, "Wouldn't that give them all-around defense with no openings?"
Rubick shook his head.