Hmmm.  Typical yes, but its not really needed.  I remember Zoro facing the big boss of an arc, and winning at least once.  Though if I had to chose I'd say the second in command since my character isn't too far familiar with her fruit.

Yes.  I think it would be a little bit better to control each other's characters because fighting our own opponents would be kind of boring.  i think we just need to discuss the main plot points of our characters fights.

So are we only going to have two names opponents in this arc?