Angel Island Zone: Act 1 [One Piece 997]

Oda started the clock, so shall we begin?

A common way to instill urgency plot is writers giving the protagonist a set time limit to accomplish their goal. It’s not exactly a new concept for Oda whether is Doflamingo’s shrinking cage or Sir Crocodile’s time bomb, it’s an effective way to up the dramatic anti. It not only sets the stage for Kaido’s defeat being the only option for survival but it’ll be seen by Wano’s citizens so it’s a win-win for Oda and us, the audience.

You know what? I’m convince the main reason Oda created Smile Fruit was showing off strange animal fusions. Good on you, Oda! Feed that fetish. We don’t judge here at the Opera Castle. We just form opinions or conclusions about whatever we want. Totally not the same thing.

Team Black Maria did something. That was surprising. Sure, they don’t seem like a threat but I’ll take what I can get. And, you all think I’m crazy for kicking Sanji out the Monster Trio for Jimbei. See? This is what I’m talking about. Sanji is the fool and Zoro…

Gets the cool moments. This is why he’s Luffy’s #2 person. It’s great seeing Zoro more focused. Not focused enough to hit Queen directly with his attack, but I’ll take what I can get.

Marco/Zoro team-up coming? Mr. 3-Swords (4 if you’re a Rule 34 fan) needs a ride and Uber, oops, I mean Marco, fits that role perfectly (after he flame heals all the Ice Oni). So, that’s your possible Zoro VS King fight right there. Who’s gonna end up defeating Queen? Chopper? Hm, Monster Chopper laying the smackdown would be fun. Maybe it’ll be a Chopper/Brook/Robin/X-Drake team-up. This is Queen we’re talking about here. My favorite Animal Kingdom Pirate. He better only go down in the most awesome way possible. And, no Oda. I don’t consider high cholesterol awesome.

This was a pretty good chapter. I like the focus on Zoro and Sanji, and also Kaido flexing his power. Now, if someone would vote kick Page One and Ulti off the island I’d be happy. But, hey, I’ll take what I can get.