Luffy learns that his brother Ace has been captured and sentenced to execution. He infiltrates Impel Down — the underwater maximum-security prison with six levels of hell. Descending through boiling blood, frozen wastelands, and starvation, Luffy allies with former enemies: Buggy, Mr. 3, Mr. 2 Bon Clay, and the revolutionary Emporio Ivankov. On Level 6, he finds Ace — but Ace has already been transferred to Marineford. The breakout is one of the most chaotic events in One Piece: 241 prisoners escape, including the terrifying Blackbeard who descended to recruit the worst criminals. Mr. 2 Bon Clay sacrifices himself to open the Gates of Justice for Luffy's escape, in one of the most heartbreaking acts of friendship in the series.
Mr. 2's sacrifice at the Gates of Justice
Luffy poisoned and near death
Blackbeard descends to Level 6
The great prison break
What did you think of this arc? Any theories about how it connects to the endgame? Share your impressions and debate with fellow nakama.
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