Two less than three times the original number of turtles is (9*3)-2=<<9*3-2=25>>25.
Thus, The original 9 were joined by 25 more, for a total of 25+9=<<9+25=34>>34 turtles.
But half of the 34 turtles scurried away, leaving half remaining, or 34/2=<<34/2=17>>17 brave turtles
#### 17