As the Straw Hats prepare to leave Water 7 on their brand-new ship, the , one major piece of unfinished business remains: Usopp. After his departure over the fate of the Going Merry, Usopp spent the day practicing various ways to ask for his position back, foolishly assuming the crew would beg him to return.
: This episode reinforces Zoro’s role as the crew’s moral anchor, insisting on the weight of a pirate’s pride and the sanctity of the captain's authority. One Piece Episode 323
, titled " Departing the City of Water! Usopp Mans Up and Brings Closure to the Duel! ," marks one of the most emotional and pivotal moments in the series. Airing as part of the Post-Enies Lobby Arc, this episode concludes the long-standing tension between Usopp and the Straw Hat crew. Plot Summary As the Straw Hats prepare to leave Water
: This episode officially ends the rift that began back in the Water 7 Arc, allowing the crew to move forward as a unified team once again. Episode Details Information Title , titled " Departing the City of Water
However, Zoro maintains a firm stance—the crew cannot respect a captain who allows a member to leave and return without a formal apology. As the ship sets sail to escape incoming Marine fleet, Usopp realizes the ship is actually leaving him behind. In a desperate, tear-filled moment, he abandons his pride and screams a sincere apology to Luffy. Luffy, also in tears, reaches out his hand, and Usopp finally rejoins the crew. Key Highlights
: The scene where Usopp shouts "I'm sorry!" is widely considered one of the top emotional peaks of the series.
: While the reunion takes center stage, the crew is also under fire from Garp, who is forced by Fleet Admiral Sengoku to attempt to capture his own grandson.