The Black Cat Pirates

With the Black Cat Pirates scheduled to land on the coast at dawn, Usopp, Monkey D. Luffy, Zoro Roronoa, and Nami prepare an ambush to protect Syrup Village. Their efforts are complicated by the slippery coastal slope, allowing the pirates to gain an early advantage despite the defenders' careful planning.

The attack is led by the feared Kuro, who abandons his disguise as Klahadore after years of secretly living as Kaya's butler. His officers, including Jango, Sham, and Buchi, engage the Straw Hats in a series of intense battles while Kuro pursues his plan to inherit Kaya's fortune.

As the battle escalates, Usopp overcomes his fears to stand alongside Luffy despite being badly injured. Zoro faces the Nyaban Brothers in a difficult sword fight, while Nami demonstrates resourcefulness despite not being a frontline combatant. Luffy eventually confronts Kuro directly, whose incredible speed and lethal claw techniques make him one of the crew's strongest opponents to date.

The volume concludes with the defeat of the Black Cat Pirates and the salvation of Syrup Village. Inspired by Luffy's determination, Usopp chooses to pursue his dream of becoming a brave warrior of the sea, and Kaya offers the Straw Hat crew a ship that will allow them to continue their voyage.