After a brief hiatus, it’s great to be back and immersed in the world of One Piece! Episode 231, “231: “The Franky Family and Iceburg!””, was a fantastic return, packed with introductions and further development of intriguing characters. This episode truly shines a spotlight on the personalities that are shaping the Water 7 arc, most notably the enigmatic Franky Family and the influential Iceberg. Let’s break down some of the key players introduced and expanded upon in this episode.
The Enigmatic Kaku
Kaku makes an immediate impression. It’s remarkable how much character is established in such a short span of time. Despite his youthful appearance (Luffy even jokingly calls him an old man, despite Kaku being only 23), he exudes a polite and almost formal demeanor. His skills are immediately apparent – he’s an exceptional freerunner, showcasing incredible agility and parkour skills that are truly breathtaking. Beyond his athleticism, Kaku is revealed to be a highly respected shipwright from Dock One, solidifying his expertise in shipbuilding. His affiliation with Galley La indicates his fighting prowess, and he quickly becomes a valuable source of information regarding his boss, Iceberg.
Kaku’s design is also quite telling. His casual, sporty attire hints at his active nature, yet there’s an underlying intensity to his appearance. Perhaps it’s his round, unblinking eyes, reminiscent of Illumi from Hunter x Hunter, or the shadow cast by his hat, creating an air of mystery. And then there’s his undeniably comical, long nose – a classic One Piece visual gag that adds a touch of levity to his otherwise sharp persona. The scene where Zoro mistakes Kaku for Usopp due to the nose and refrains from attacking instantly is a perfect example of the show’s humor.
Iceberg: Mayor, President, and Mouse Enthusiast
Through Kaku’s exposition, we learn about the multifaceted Iceberg. He’s not just anyone; he’s the Mayor of Water 7, the President of the renowned Galley La Company, and even oversees the Sea Train project. Adding to his impressive resume, he’s also revealed to be an old drinking buddy of Kokoro, further painting a picture of a man deeply connected to Water 7’s history and society. His accomplishments are clearly substantial, marking him as a figure of significant influence.
Despite his high standing, Iceberg displays a rather nonchalant attitude. He seems to operate on his own whims, even canceling appointments if he simply doesn’t feel like attending them. In a humorous moment, he’s seen picking up a small, cute mouse and naming it Tyrannosaurus – a name that is both unexpected and utterly comical.
However, beneath the comedic surface, there’s a sense that Iceberg is more than he initially appears. While presented as an eccentric and powerful figure, his position likely comes with its own set of challenges and untold stories. A subtle but significant detail is his reaction to Nico Robin’s name when Califa informs him of the Straw Hats’ arrival. His eyes widen noticeably, suggesting a deeper knowledge or concern regarding Robin. Furthermore, his decision to cancel his appointments only after hearing about Robin raises questions about his motivations. His offer to personally show the Straw Hats around the shipyard also feels unusual. Does the mayor extend this courtesy to every visiting pirate crew? It seems unlikely, hinting at a specific interest in the Straw Hats, or perhaps specifically in Robin.
Califa: The Loyal and Efficient PA
Califa’s role is further clarified in this episode. While initially suspected to be simply Iceberg’s fighter, she’s revealed to be his Personal Assistant, highlighting her organizational and administrative skills. It’s clear she has a demanding job, managing Iceberg’s chaotic schedule and capricious nature. Her dedication and loyalty to Iceberg are strongly emphasized. When Luffy and Usopp disrespectfully refer to him as “that guy,” Califa’s immediate and sharp rebuke underscores her deep respect for her boss.
The Franky Family: More Than Just Fodder?
Initially perceived as minor antagonists, the Franky Family are proving to be more persistent and potentially more significant than initially anticipated. Their theft of Usopp’s money sets them in direct opposition to the Straw Hats, and their continued presence throughout this episode, and beyond into episode 232, suggests they are not simply throwaway characters. While the initial thought might be that they are agents of a larger organization like the Marines or the shadowy CP9, their actions seem driven by their own volition. They are explicitly after the Straw Hats’ bounty money and the cash they possess.
Franky Family Introduction in One Piece Episode 231
However, their fighting capabilities, at least those encountered on the Merry Go, seem no match for Zoro. This raises questions about their true strength and purpose. Are they merely opportunistic street thugs, or is there something more to the Franky Family? Their continued involvement warrants close attention as the Water 7 arc unfolds.
In Other News: Robin and CP9
Meanwhile, Sanji, in his typical fashion of getting lost, stumbles upon a more ominous development. He witnesses Robin in conversation with the mysterious masked man who uttered the chilling phrase “CP9, desu.” Sanji’s pursuit of Robin leads him around a corner, only to find she has vanished without a trace. This sudden disappearance raises significant questions. Is it a secret passage leading to a hidden organization? Or perhaps a manifestation of a strange and unsettling power? This brief encounter injects a palpable sense of mystery and foreboding into the narrative, hinting at darker forces at play beneath the surface of Water 7.
Episode 231 masterfully sets the stage for the Water 7 arc, introducing a compelling cast of characters and planting seeds of intrigue that promise a captivating storyline ahead. The Franky Family, Iceberg, Kaku, and Califa are all compelling figures in their own right, and the mystery surrounding Robin and CP9 adds a layer of suspense that leaves viewers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
