Summary:
Zoro fights the world famous Dracul Mihawk and faces defeat. Mihawk then leaves, allowing Krieg to launch an invasion against Baratie.
Yosaku explains how he and Johnny lost the Going Merry. While their backs were turned to her, Nami pushed them both overboard. Stating that she needed to take care of “business”, she took the ship away, leaving the crew behind. Almost immediately after Johnny and Yosaku fell into the sea, they witnessed the destruction of the Krieg Pirates flagship.
Zoro recognizes the attacker as Dracula “Hawk-Eyes” Mihawk, said to be the greatest swordsman in the world. Mihawk states that he attacked the Krieg Pirates simply for his own amusement. Zoro immediately challenges him to a duel, which he accepts. However, seeing Zoro as comparatively weaker than him, he uses the kogatana. They start a battle.
Despite wielding three katanas, Zoro is unable to attack Mihawk, who blocks each of his attacks with his kogatana. He eventually manages to injure Zoro and stab him in the chest. Seeing Zoro’s strong will, Mihawk agrees to use his Meito, Yoru, against Zoro. With this weapon, Mihawk destroys two of Zoro’s katanas, leaving only Zoro’s Wado Ichimonji unharmed and further injuring him. Defeated, Zoro allows Mihawk to slash him across the chest, knocking him unconscious.
Mihawk intentionally let Zoro live and told him to become stronger so that Zoro could eventually overcome him. Zoro agrees and vows to never lose another battle until he defeats Mihawk. Satisfied with the duel, Mihawk decides not to pursue Krieg and leaves. With all the distractions gone, Krieg is now able to attack Baratie. Luffy orders Usopp and Zoro to chase after Nami while he confronts Krieg himself. Zeff agrees to cancel Luffy’s debts if he repels the invasion.
Episode Strengths: Shocking Betrayal: The episode gives you a primary plot twist with Nami’s robbery of the Going Merry, raising the stakes and adding suspense. Introduction of Dracule Mihawk: The episode introduces a mythical figure within the One Piece global, putting the level for a destiny epic battle. Zoro’s Determination: The episode highlights Zoro’s unwavering spirit and his willpower to becoming a stronger swordsman. Cliffhanger Ending Builds Suspense: The episode concludes with a hard preference for Luffy, leaving viewers eager to see his choice and its effects. Weaknesses (Optional) Limited Action for Luffy: While the episode makes a speciality of Nami’s betrayal and Zoro’s project, there is minimal action concerning Luffy himself. Overall: One Piece Episode 24 is a pivotal episode in the early story of One Piece. It offers a stunning betrayal, introduces a powerful antagonist, and forces the Straw Hats to confront a difficult choice. While the episode gives limited action for Luffy, it effectively utilizes plot twists, individual improvement, and a cliffhanger ending to create an attractive and suspenseful tale that leaves viewers keen to see how the crew navigates this complicated scenario.