The seventh episode of One Piece delivers an emotional rollercoaster as it reveals Nami's past while advancing the current plot. The episode kicks off with the crew in pursuit of Nami and the villainous Arlong. This happens all while enduring Buggy's ceaseless taunts. That is until Zoro unceremoniously dumps Buggy's head into a bucket.
The team finally arrives at Conomi Island, which holds significance for Nami. Raised in Coco Village on this island, Nami's complex relationship with her guardian comes to light. Initially caught stealing a book, Nami expresses her disdain for poverty and denies any familial bond with her guardian. In return, her guardian recounts how she took in Nami and her sister Nojiko after an island skirmish, resigning from the Marines to raise them.
Peace is short-lived as Arlong and his Fishmen crew invade, forcing the villagers to comply through intimidation and destruction. Nami and Nojiko find temporary refuge in their home. This happens only for Arlong to discover and demand a hefty tribute from their guardian. In a selfless act, she sacrifices her only 100,000 Berrys to save her daughters.
Fast forward to the present, Nami's exceptional navigation skills prove valuable to Arlong's mission of marine base and pirate hideout reconnaissance. Meanwhile, the crew happens upon Coco Village, where Nami is collecting overdue tribute payments. She rebuffs Luffy's attempts to reconnect, despite visible emotional strain.
Luffy and his crew seek guidance from Officer Genzo, previously seen receiving a stolen book from young Nami. He directs them to Nojiko, who reluctantly opens up after Sanji offers to cook her a meal. She shares further insights into Nami's past and her shocking agreement with Arlong: Nami has been collecting funds to buy back Coco Village for 100 million Berrys.
Amidst these revelations, Captain Nezumi arrives with a marine force, implying a more complex hierarchy where Nezumi seems to be the ultimate authority. Arlong navigates this tension while renegotiating deals, preparing to betray Nami who has collected the promised 100 million Berrys.
Despite the looming betrayal, Nami continues her clandestine activities. Unbeknownst to her, Arlong plans to double-cross her, leading to an emotional meltdown as her hard-earned money is seized and her dreams of freeing her village are shattered. Arlong sets Coco Village ablaze, pushing Nami to a breaking point. Luffy intervenes, placing his straw hat on her, vowing to defeat Arlong.
The episode masterfully juggles multiple perspectives, including those of the Marines led by Garp, who tries to glean information from retired pirate Zeff at the Baratie restaurant. Zeff stays mum but acknowledges Luffy's unique qualities, hinting at future developments.
As the episode concludes, the focus returns to Nami's heartbreaking backstory. Her actions, misunderstood by many, including her sister Nojiko, are put into context. She had joined Arlong to protect her village, a detail only revealed as the episode winds down.
Tension ramps up for an impending showdown between Luffy and Arlong, encapsulating viewers in a high-stakes, emotional narrative that has been compelling throughout the series. As we move toward the climax, the burning question remains: who will emerge victorious in this battle for justice and freedom?
