Support Girls, Oda? Uh huh. That’s like a vegan supporting ribeye steak.
With the plan revealed, everyone will soon go their separate ways to prepare. We learn Tsuru is Kin’emon’s wife. So, what’s up with Kiku? Is she just the friendly type? Sanji is in full goofball mode. We get it, Oda. He’s horny. When Brook looks more reserved than you concerning girls, you need the calm the fork down.
So, yeah. Three of Lord Oden’s old ruffneck samurai followers got to be tracked down so they can help. These were probably the strongest lawless samurai the shogun had working for him. Pretty straightforward. The problem will be getting them on board. Sure, revenge is nice, but it sounds like they (or at least Shutenmaru) want a strong leader/general. Luffy may have to prove why he’s not to be messed with.
We get another mention of Lady Toki’s 9 samurai prophecy. Let’s see: Oden’s 3 ruffnecks + Luffy + Zoro + Law makes 6. Add Dogstorm… Em, who else has a sword… Brook? Nah, I doubt he’s one. Let’s just throw in Hawkins and Kin’emon for now. I’m not sure if the prophecy equates to sword users or not (Luffy has a sword for the time being), but if it’s not a factor then Kidd (or even Killer) could get a spot too.
Now for the two biggest shockers this chapter.
Shutenmaru is on par with Jack! Wowsers! That’s some Grade A hype right there. Those 3 samurais are definitely among the 9 destined samurais. And, Kaido’s a dragon, Y’all. People called it a while back so congrats if you’re one of them. The bigger theory is Kaido originally being a dragon who ate the human-human fruit: Oni model. If that’s the case his animal/human hybrid form will be crazy strong. Think back to Sengoku and his Budda model human fruit. That guy’s power was insane. Basically, Kaidou VS Luffy + The Top Tiers will be incredible. And, I’m sure Kaidou awakened his devil fruit. Yikes!
Things are finally progressing nicely. We’re still months and months and months away from the final fights and full backstory but I’m cool with it. This is an arc that’ll last for years. Strap in and enjoy the ride.
Mammoth Base Opera Castle 