One Piece: Revisited?

[Ninja Realist]

I couldn't find a One Piece thread in the last year so...

This is probably one of the best parts of the series yet. There are so many people all gunning for Straw Hats and also the up-coming fight with CP9 looks awesome. Hopefully when the dust settle's, Franky will be a crewmate.

I am still curious about a few things(a lot) if anyone has any insights.

What is White Beards ability(what makes him so strong)?

What is the story behing the Black Beard Pirates?

Who are the other two Admirals besides Aokiji?

What is the Buster Call?

But also I just wan't more of the Shichi Bukai. The Marines are cool enemies, especially CP9, but the other strong pirates, especiallly the shichi Bukai are so awesome.

Like who are the other 3 shichi Bukai who we haven't seen yet?

And the last thing on my laundry list. I wan't more Doflamingo T_T.

[Kei]

Ok, so, everything I'm about to say is a spoiler. So if you're not up to date with the manga, don't read.

Franky is my favorite character. End of story. He has "Mugiwara Kaizokudan" written all over him. Not to mention he meets all the "requirements" (He's had a traumatic past, and he's both a musician AND a shipwright). I'm really anxious to find out what the Devil Fruit's Kalifa and Kaku ate do. Gear 2: awesome. There is actually a process called vulcanization where you heat rubber to release steam. So Luffy's "power up" isn't just shounen-series bullshit. Most of all, ROBIN'S PAST. We're finally learning some stuff about her, and we'll probably learn what the Buster Call really is within the next few chapters.

On your questions, I have a few speculations about each one.

1) White Beard, for the one time we saw him, was massive. Not quite big enough to be a giant, but much more so than the average human. Possibly a half-giant? Either way, he has experience under his belt, thats for sure. Fun fact: Edward Newgate (Whitebeards name) is also the real name of the REAL whitebeard.

2) It seems like Blackbeard is trying really hard to become the replacement for Crocodile amongst the Shichibukai. My guess is that he realizes who Luffy is, and what he is capable of, which is why he was going after him. Also, there is the curious note about Blackbeards name: Marshall D. Teach. Possible relation to Ace and Luffy? Who knows. I'm still speculating that Gol D. Rodger was Luffy's grandfather, hence him kinda spazzing out when Ao Kiji brought it up before their fight.

3) The other two admirals (besides Ao Kiji, the "Blue Pheasant") were mentioned briefly but not shown, Akainu, the "Red Dog" and Kizaru, the "Yellow Monkey". I'm sure we'll see them eventually.

4) The Buster call is still a mystery. Some speculate it's some sort of WMD, some think it's a special ops force. I personally think that Ao Kiji is somehow involved, since he obviously has some past with Nico Robin.

5) From the Shichibukai, I mostly want to see Jimbei, the Merman pirate. I want to truly know what Arlong's relation to him was also. I personally think that Jimbei kicked Arlong out of his crew, sending him back to East Blue rather than staying in the grand line.

As for my list of things I want to know:

I would love to see more about the villians from East Blue. We know Buggy and Alvida are in the Grand Line, but what about Don Krieg, Arlong, and my personal favorite, Captain Kuro. Also, I think Buggy knows more about Shanks than he lets on.

Also... Spoilers about Usopp.
Will he re-join the crew as SogeKing? Or will he stay to try to rebuild Merry in Water 7? As much as I love Franky, Usopp is tied for first as my favorite character. I would hate to see him be "traded" for Franky.

I'm sure I'll think of other things.


~Kei

[etane]

I am watching the subed-anime... not sure if it has caught up with the manga...

I wonder who is stronger, Lucci or Mihawk, Lucci or Shanks. This Lucci dude seems invincible.

[Kei]

I doubt Lucci is as strong as Mihawk, but who knows about Shanks. For what we've seen, Lucchi seems unstoppable, but now that Luffy is starting to understand how their Rokushiki works, I imagine the final fight will play out alot differently than we'd imagine.

~Kei

[Ninja Realist]

Nah, Lucchi isn't invincible. Honestly, Crocodile and Eneru both seemed a lot tougher than him. He just punches and kicks. Punching and Kicking is what Luffy does best. I doubt Lucchi could beat him there.

But Aokiji, Mihawk, and Doflamingo seem, for all intents and purposes, totally invincible.

Aokiji can just freeze everything, you can't even touch him. Mihawk is just a totally invincible Swordsman. And with Doflamingo, how can you fight someone who is controlling you.

Also, I think the other two Admirals, based on their names and Aokiji's power, will be fire and lightning based. But I might be wrong.

[Kei]

Honestly, Eneru (Ener, Enel, whatever the hell you want to call him) was probably the strongest badguy they've faced yet. Luffy just happened to be SUPER lucky that he ate the Gomu gomu no mi. Otherwise this series would have ended abruptly.


~Kei

[Kei]

Bumpo

Wow. Saul was a Marine Vice Admiral. Which brings me to a point: I believe that Saul is Luffy's grandfather. Ao Kiji even mentioned something about Luffy's grandfather during their first encounter with him, which would lead me to believe that it was Saul, since they obviously knew eachother. I don't think Luffy knows the fate of Saul. Thus far, we're not sure either. At the end of the chapter, he was still alive, but loved ones do tend to die in characters flashbacks. As boring of a character as Robin is, her flashback is turing out to be something really great. I can't wait to see the conclusion. Hopefully it will answer some questions about Luffy's past as well as starting the battle with CP9.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

Bumpo

Wow. Saul was a Marine Vice Admiral. Which brings me to a point: I believe that Saul is Luffy's grandfather. Ao Kiji even mentioned something about Luffy's grandfather during their first encounter with him, which would lead me to believe that it was Saul, since they obviously knew eachother. I don't think Luffy knows the fate of Saul. Thus far, we're not sure either. At the end of the chapter, he was still alive, but loved ones do tend to die in characters flashbacks. As boring of a character as Robin is, her flashback is turing out to be something really great. I can't wait to see the conclusion. Hopefully it will answer some questions about Luffy's past as well as starting the battle with CP9.


~Kei
Robin isn't boring. She's just a little...calmer than the rest of the crew. Not that that's terribly hard, but still...XD

Anyways, I don't think Saul is Luffy's grandfather. Yeah, signs to kinda point that way with Aokiji saying he knew Luffy's grandfather and him and Saul both being on Ohara, but how then is Luffy not a giant? It seems to me that might be a characteristic that'd be genetically given to him. I'll bet Saul's related to Luffy somehow, but I don't think it's grandfather. I think his Grandfather's Roger, personally. The resemblence, even if we set aside the D, is too strong for it to be incidental. Lengthen Luffy's hair to cover his eyes and give him a moustache and it's Roger. I'm sure Oda will make it clear, though. We'll just have to see, I guess.

As far as character strength goes, Lucchi's almost definitely weaker than Mihawk or Shanks. I mean, Mihawk's obviously uber-powerful. There's no way Lucchi's that strong. Shanks used to be Mihawks equal, so even with one arm, I'd put him above Lucchi. Aokiji or any other elemental fruit would win against him because he'd have trouble hitting them. He's strong, but not on the absolute top-tier of strength which the Admirals and the Shichibukai occupy.

[Doodee]

This certainly was an interesting flashback, but I'm reaally waiting for Oda to get back to the present and get the battle on...
However, this recent chapter does lessen Robin's notoriety a little bit, since it seems that she was just blamed for Sauls actions, which were the destroying of the marine ships...Makes the pirates seem a whoole lot better since they're intentions are at least visible.
I sure hope Oda goes further into the world government's beginnings and the history in general, since they were cut short when Dr. Clover got shot.

[Zelyhon]

This certainly was an interesting flashback, but I'm reaally waiting for Oda to get back to the present and get the battle on...
However, this recent chapter does lessen Robin's notoriety a little bit, since it seems that she was just blamed for Sauls actions, which were the destroying of the marine ships...Makes the pirates seem a whoole lot better since they're intentions are at least visible.
I sure hope Oda goes further into the world government's beginnings and the history in general, since they were cut short when Dr. Clover got shot.
Unless more is done later, it does indeed seem like Robin didn't destroy the ships. Or, alternately, it could be something that happens later. I don't recall it ever saying she destroyed a fleet when she fled Ohara, just that it happened at 8. This means it's entirely possible Spandyne finds out where she is and, lacking Aokiji's restraint, sends warships after her, which she destroys, killing Spandyne. She gets her bounty and Aokiji comes after her, catches her, and she gets away. That's all just speculation, though.

Oh, and one quick discussion question: I just came up with a theory that I want opinions on. You know how way back when it went over that Shanks and Buggy were on a crew together as kids? Well, whose crew were they on? I highly doubt it'll be some no-name pirate.

My guess: Gol D. Roger.

It's a bit of a distance to get there, but consider these facts. Shanks is a famous pirate who is known and respected. This could be through his actions, but might also be related to him being a crewman of the Pirate King. Buggy isn't as famous or as powerful as Shanks and is farther from what I'd imagine Roger having on his crew, but he seems to have a wealth of information about Grand Line. He mentions knowing Whitebeard from when he was on Grand Line before. Whitebeard is the third point on which my theory rests. Whitebeard's the only one who fought Roger to a draw, right? So he'd be familiar with Roger's crew to some extent and they'd know about him as well. Buggy knows Whitebeard a bit. Shanks tries to write him a letter. The important part isn't the letter so much as how Whitebeard talks about Shanks. He refers to Shanks as "that boy" and "that red-haired little brat." These may simply be spawned from the fact that Whitebeard is older and, well, a lot bigger than Shanks, but also imply that he knew Shanks as a kid. If Shanks and Buggy were on Roger's crew, they would have the connections like that.

Yeah, this is all speculation, but I wanted to see what people here thought of it.

[Kei]

I had a similar theory, but rather than being "Whitebeard knew Shanks because he was on Gold Rodger's crew", my thought was "Whitebeard knows Shanks because they were on Whitebeard's crew". But that theory kinda falls flat as soon as you bring Ace into the picture. Then again, characters in One Piece have a habit of not devulging information.

I think Oda is going for the "Complete mystery" feeling as it comes to Gol D. Rodger. Heck, the only people we know of who have had actual physical contact and conversation with him is Whitebeard and Tom. If we ever meet any of Gold Rodgers crew, I can only imagine it will be at the place where Luffy will go and present Ace's scrap of paper (yet another One Piece mystery).

~Kei

[Doodee]

You can't forget Dragon! I'm still confused about what he has in plan for luffy's crew..He comes in for a split second and than he's out again..
so many questions~!

[Zelyhon]

I had a similar theory, but rather than being "Whitebeard knew Shanks because he was on Gold Rodger's crew", my thought was "Whitebeard knows Shanks because they were on Whitebeard's crew". But that theory kinda falls flat as soon as you bring Ace into the picture. Then again, characters in One Piece have a habit of not devulging information.

I think Oda is going for the "Complete mystery" feeling as it comes to Gol D. Rodger. Heck, the only people we know of who have had actual physical contact and conversation with him is Whitebeard and Tom. If we ever meet any of Gold Rodgers crew, I can only imagine it will be at the place where Luffy will go and present Ace's scrap of paper (yet another One Piece mystery).

~Kei
I really hopw that they do make this clear. I'm not sure they'd be on Whitebeard's crew, myself. If they were, Buggy would probably have said more than just he knew of Whitebeard from his last trip to Grand Line. It's possible, but with what Buggy said, I don't think it's as likely that they were on Whitebeard's crew. Ace might have heard of Buggy that way if they were, anyways.

I think/hope it'll go into the pirate summit after Enies Lobby finishes. It's been one of the mysteries that has been bugging me the most. Are all the major pirates going to be there? If they are, will Luffy run into Shanks again, or Zoro into Mihawk (assuming they let him in)? Will the World Government and the abmirals attack it? What will they talk about there? So many questions that I hope get answered.

[Kei]

On a complete side note: I really hope that "Meet Baroque" gets animated. So far only one cover story has been animated, but there is so much going on in Meet Baroque that they could squeeze a few episodes out of it. Plus I love Bon Clay.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

On a complete side note: I really hope that "Meet Baroque" gets animated. So far only one cover story has been animated, but there is so much going on in Meet Baroque that they could squeeze a few episodes out of it. Plus I love Bon Clay.


~Kei
A lot of the chapter beginning things would make interesting episodes. To my knowledge, the only one that has been was the Buggy one, which actually played into the plot later on. I guess we'll just have to see whether they do that later on.

[Kei]

Exactly. Plus, I'd rather see Wapol's Toyshop, Meet Baroque, or Gedatsu's Travels on Earth than...oh...say...Rainbow Mist or Apis.


~Kei


EDIT: Oops, forgot Ace's hunt for Blackbeard. That was a good coverstory also

[Zelyhon]

There's one advantage to One Piece never killing anyone off. You can use them for cover stories.

I don't see any of them stretching out as long as would be needed for a full arc, though. It would be cool to see them, though, even as single episodes.

[Doodee]

I'd like to see episodes of Ace's hunt too. A meeting is ineivitable and unless luffy or someone else gets to him first, it'd be pretty nice if Ace caught up to him...

[Kei]

I don't see any of them stretching out as long as would be needed for a full arc, though. It would be cool to see them, though, even as single episodes.

See, thats the thing though. With proper filler writing, they could be made into 6 episode arcs. Just think of Meet Baroque (since thats the latest one), there is so much going on. Escaping from Little Garden, Bon Clay escaping from Jail, and most importantly: Fullbody and Jango. (I'd like to go on record by saying that Pirate Hypnotist "1, 2" Jango is in my top 5 favorite characters of One Piece). With as much material they have, there is really no excuse for the mediocre filler we've seen so far. Heck, the only filler I've enjoyed is G8 and the extra games in Davy Back.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

Some would be more suited to it than others, like the Meet Baroque one. Others, I don't see going beyond an episode or two, like Wapol or Gedatsu. It would be an interesting thing to do for filler, I agree. We'll just have to see if they ever act on it.

[Zelyhon]

Unrelated Note: I've figured out the secret of Admiral Kizeru! I know who he is. Hear me out...

I'd post pictures, but, I aparantly don't have enough posts on the site to be allowed to yet. So, until I get enough and I can edit them in, you have to settle for text and I have to hope you know who I'm talking about.


Kizeru, the Yellow Monkey. His hair goes out to the sides at around shoulder level. Implied in the color of his name is that he dresses or wears some of his color. Aokiji's shirt is blue, so Kizeru probably has some yellow. This reminds me of someone...

Kabapu from Excel Saga. Same haircut. In the silouette, you wouldn't be able to see his mustache, and he wears yellow! He is Kizeru!

[Kei]

Two important things learned this chapter. One: One of Usopps new attacks. Amazing! Two: CROCODILE IS ALIVE. As is Das Bones, and Mr 4. I'm kind of dissapointed to see that Das Bones is still alive. I always thought that was the main reason Zoro had his bounty anyway, and that the attack at Whiskey Peak was secondary. Oh well. Just glanced at the chapter, didn't read the entire thing. Either way, it was nice to see Crocodile again, if only for two completely unrelated pages.

~Kei

[Zelyhon]

Small question: Why does Croc have both hands? Shouldn't one be a hook, or a knife, or a spoon or something? Or did he just wear that over his normal hand?

Honestly, I think he and Das should be dead by this point. Storywise, Arabasta was probably months ago. Crocodile's not someone you leave around, in my opinion. Das ought to have died in Arabasta, as Doublefinger ought to have. Mr. 4, I have fewer issues with being alive. He's not dangerous enough to warrant immediate evecution, nor someone who took enough hits to ensure a kill.

On another note, since both Croc and Das rely on Devil fruit to fight, would that mean that now that they're deprived of them, Mr. 4 could smack them both around? That might be moderately amusing. XD

Anyways, as far as the chapter goes, that's a good way to finish off Robin's story. I couldn't read it, but it seems to be that Spandyne goes on about justice and the World Government, then it focuses on Robin's string of people who've been destroyed because of her. Then, back in the present, Spandam probably goes on about justice again, whereupon Usopp uses a phoenix thingy and burns the flag and Robin comes out of her angst it seems.

Good chapter, I think. I haven't seen what it says, of course, but showing just a bit of what Robin did since then was a good way of wrapping it up, especially when it focused on Croc. Looks like the fights're going to be starting soon. Think Robin'll actually participate in any?

[Demonshadow9]

He declared war , huh? I guess we will see if luffy succeeds where roger failed....Now if shonen jump would get off their ass and start releasing the volumes a bit faster ,theyre only on volume 9 >_<.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Robin's backstory is re-affirming my theory as to what the treasure, One Piece, actually is ^_^
OP is getting more an more epic with each arc and I'm predicting that the future stories will change the grand line and the 4 seas as we know it XD
And Sokeking FTW.

[Kei]

On the topic of Sogeking, if the anime keeps going at the pace they're at, Sogeking should make his debut next sunday. Although after that, there will be a two week One Piece delay, due to Winter Olympic coverage.

On a side note: http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y89/kei_neko/blue_06chopper.png

The 4 koma from OP:Blue are hillarious.

~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

No wait, have I missed Ussops big fight then?
238 is Luffy vs Franky.. so 237 was luffy vs Ussop?

[Kei]

236 was.

~Kei

[Zelyhon]

Robin's backstory is re-affirming my theory as to what the treasure, One Piece, actually is ^_^
OP is getting more an more epic with each arc and I'm predicting that the future stories will change the grand line and the 4 seas as we know it XD
And Sokeking FTW.
Oho? What theory is that?

I would laugh so hard if they got there and it was just one piece of gold and Roger was just trying to piss the government off by creating so many pirates.

Personally, I think that after this arc, things are going to become even more epic. With the little war declaration, everyone on the crew will likely be wanted for over 30 million, with Luffy being highest, then Robin, then Zoro (like it is now). I'd like to see the pirate summit or whatever Ace was talking about happen soon after this.

Plus, with what Luffy's doing, I'm sure Shanks'll get word that Luffy's a pretty reknowned pirate at this point. Maybe he'll come to get his hat back. But then, that might be something for later on after Luffy wastes a few more Shichibukai.

Think Aokiji'll turn up later in this arc? Wouldn't that suck?

"Alright! We just got off Enies Lobby! We're all here and on the way to the next island"
"Arararara. Aren't you getting ahead of yourself?"
"Gah! When did you get on board?"

[Demonshadow9]

Though It kinda hard imagining the admirals NOT getting involved at this point.This isnt some little out post , its a major marine base. What I want to know is how will smoker react(its been awhile since we seen him)

[Zelyhon]

...Why can I picture Smoker going up to either Hina or talking to the world government and saying, in essence, "I told you so!" XD

[Kei]

Call it a gut feeling, but I imagine they'll meet Buggy and Smoker again at the next stop on the line. Buggy, because we haven't heard from him since Ace stopped by his ship during Jaya (I think it was then). And Smoker, because he has a knack for showing up during important moments. Be it during Buggy's attack in Loguetown or Sneaking into Arabasta.


~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

Im kinda hoping the kuro joins buggys crew as a strategist or something....he was an awsome villian.Also my memory is hazy, have we seen any other admiral besides Aokiji? It would be nice to see what , mihawks , don white/black beard and the other major pirates are doing( forgot what the devil they were called).So many side plots ...so little time

P.S. - Did they ever decide to bring jump superstars over here? Or was the idea scrapped because of licensing issues?

[Kei]

other major pirates are doing( forgot what the devil they were called)...

P.S. - Did they ever decide to bring jump superstars over here? Or was the idea scrapped because of licensing issues?


The government sanctioned pirates are the Shichibukai.

And no, JSS never came over here. The rights to all the manga either: A) Don't exist here in the states (Like Gintama and Busou Renkin, etc), or are split up between many copanies. Most of it is in english though, so IMPORT IT. Still my favorite DS game).


~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Oho? What theory is that?Let's just say that One Piece isn't a treasure in the traditional sense ;)

[Kei]

More and More I am convinced that Franky will join the crew. If nothing more than the fact that he will be right there with the action, rather than other popular candidate Pauly, who is fighting scrubs with the Franky Family. Also, big thumbs up for Franky for finally destroying the Pluton blueprints. My speculation: Franky spent the 200 million on materials for a ship for himself that will become the Mugiwara Kaizokudan's new ship.

~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

More and More I am convinced that Franky will join the crew. If nothing more than the fact that he will be right there with the action, rather than other popular candidate Pauly, who is fighting scrubs with the Franky Family. Also, big thumbs up for Franky for finally destroying the Pluton blueprints. My speculation: Franky spent the 200 million on materials for a ship for himself that will become the Mugiwara Kaizokudan's new ship.

~Kei
I'd been thinking that one all along too. It'll probably have some parts of the Going Merry for sentimental value too.
Also, the reasons why Franky did what he just did have given some very nice promises of what we can expect to happen later on in OP. It really is just getting bigger and bigger with every arc ^_^
I am now completely convinced that the treasure of One Piece is not a stash of gold at all. It is either one of two things and it is the reason that Gold D. Rodger was executed by the marines as the most wanted man in the world. What I can say is, the discovery of One Piece is something that will completely change the world as it is.

The freakiest idea that I've had is that Franky would somehow be able to combine with the new ship and tranform into a giant cyborg... but I think I've just been watching too much Gundam XP

[Zelyhon]

Well, 400's out and it looks like the fights are being set up. I think they look pretty good, but I'll post more when I see the full chapter. May I just say I kinda hoped for Sanji vs. Kalifa fight.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Well, 400's out and it looks like the fights are being set up. I think they look pretty good, but I'll post more when I see the full chapter. May I just say I kinda hoped for Sanji vs. Kalifa fight.
Naaw, sanji can't hit women. Although I see where you're coming from:
"That's sexual harrassment!"

[Zelyhon]

Naaw, sanji can't hit women. Although I see where you're coming from:
"That's sexual harrassment!"
I actually kinda expected this fight earlier on the train rather than Sanji vs. Blueno. That didn't happen, obviously, so I'm intrigued to see it here. You've got to admit, though, they gave Sanji the one foe he really can't fight at the moment. We'll just have to see how he deals with it.

[Kei]

I am most anticipating SogeKing's fight. He's not up against a scrub this time. Lets hope his weapon packs a bigger punch than we're aware.

Also...

It appears as if Spandam isn't totally out of the fight. We've seen our second Devil Fruit object: Frunkfreed, Spandam's Sword which 'ate' the Elephant fruit. My bets? Franky vs. Spandam.


~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

You know what? Shonen is about beating the crap out of stuff , but one piece is different.I find myself caring alot about the people and their crews, theyre's also some really emotional moments, Nami's "help me" scene in arlong park and robins I want to live scene a few chapters back really impacted me emotionaly...does anyone else thinks so or am I weird >_>

[Kei]

You know what? Shonen is about beating the crap out of stuff , but one piece is different.I find myself caring alot about the people and their crews, theyre's also some really emotional moments, Nami's "help me" scene in arlong park and robins I want to live scene a few chapters back really impacted me emotionaly...does anyone else thinks so or am I weird >_>

There's at least one line or scene in everyones past that does that too me.


Luffy: This line really gets to me the most: "But Shanks...your ARM!"
Nami: Bellemere's death is probably the most well done, despite not knowing much about her. Although it wasn't biological, she was Nami's mother.
Zoro: Him asking Kunia's father for the Wadou Ichimonji.
Usopp: "The pirates are coming Mom, Dad is home!"
Sanji: Him actually seeing Zeff without food. That scene was far more grusome in the manga than in the anime.
Robin: her leaving Ohara crying trying to laugh like Sauro really got to me. Dereshihihi!
Franky: Tom, who was impaled by a spear, decking Franky because he denied that the Battle Frankys were his ships.

And that is just from people's pasts. There are so many many more moments that are very emotional that seperate it from your average shounen romp.

~Kei

[Zelyhon]

I am most anticipating SogeKing's fight. He's not up against a scrub this time. Lets hope his weapon packs a bigger punch than we're aware.

Also...

It appears as if Spandam isn't totally out of the fight. We've seen our second Devil Fruit object: Frunkfreed, Spandam's Sword which 'ate' the Elephant fruit. My bets? Franky vs. Spandam.


~Kei


Well, while it's not as likely, what I'd like to see personally is Luffy catching up with Lucchi, Robin, and Spandam. Lucchi is left to fight, naturally, which leaves Spandam and his ele-sword with Robin, who proceeds to try and fight them without her fruit. If the cuffs are as hard as diamond, they'd make a good bludgeoning weapon. Plus, against most normal sized, non-logia fruit users, Robin tends to dominate them with instant submission holds. Without her fruit, the fight would be much closer. Given, Spandam's not a challenge for anyone at their best, but we have never seen Robin fight without her fruit, so if she can't really, it'd be a much closer fight. Plus, with his threatening the Buster Call, she's got plenty of reason too. Not likely, necessarily, but I'd like to see her do something like that.

DS9: Nah. It's not unusual. One Piece has interesting characters who do really grow on you. The key to Shounen series isn't always just the action (though I won't deny that that's a major component), but how connected you are to the characters. One Piece does a good job making characters that are actually appealing in their actions and such. It's not something unusual to become attached. That's one of the better elements of the series.

[Demonshadow9]

I saw a few scans of 401 and

It would seem Kakus a freaking giraffe...swordsman, a giraffe swordsman>_> . That said Jyaburas wolf form is awsome hes easily my favorite cp9.Maybe Sanji will get a sexy cat girl to fight ? That would be an awsome fight indeed XD

[Kei]

Kaku being a swordsman is such a ****ing cop-out. For once I think it would be nice for Zoro to fight someone who isn't sword related somehow. Other than that, I'm also interested to see what fruit Kalifa got.


~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

Kaku being a swordsman is such a ****ing cop-out. For once I think it would be nice for Zoro to fight someone who isn't sword related somehow. Other than that, I'm also interested to see what fruit Kalifa got.


~Kei

Youre missing the point ......its a giraffe, with swords, thats 100 flavors of original ****ing awsome .But you have to admit that zoro needs to defeat competent swordsman to advance his goals.It just makes sense , seeing as how he really doesnt care about anything else.That said I wonder when they will wrap up his side story about the lieutenant that looks like his old friend(the one that hangs out with smoker

[Zelyhon]

I saw a few scans of 401 and

It would seem Kakus a freaking giraffe...swordsman, a giraffe swordsman>_> . That said Jyaburas wolf form is awsome hes easily my favorite cp9.Maybe Sanji will get a sexy cat girl to fight ? That would be an awsome fight indeed XD
I highly doubt Calipha's going to be a cat. Most of CP9 thus far has been African based Zoan-Types (Blueno being the exception with a paramecia fruit), so another big cat's not out of the question. I, however, think they'll continue the trend of African, but do something different. For example, what if she got something like a zebra or a gazelle? Those'd be fast, since both are running animals and they both kick exceedingly hard (and have hooves. Ouch). Or, alternately, she could get something like a hippo fruit. While that'd allow the "not pretty anymore, so I can hit her" situation, Hippos are also massively strong animals. Then there's stuff like wildebeast and water buffalo. I doubt they'll do another cat when they've still got Lucchi's fight coming up.

That said, Kaku being a giraffe just makes me laugh. It's at least something original. XD

Kei: I kind of expected Kaku to be a swordsman. Part of it is because Zoro only ever seems to fight them (aside from the guy with guns early on in Sky Island or when he tried to take on Enel or the Davy back game, none of which were the major fights this one's shaping up to be). That kind of fits his goal too, as DS9 mentioned. Another part, however, is based off of what we've seen Kaku do before. Remember back when CP9 was first revealed? Kaku pulled out a blade and blocked one of Zoro's attacks. I just kinda assumed from that that he was a swordsman. Still looks like it'll be a cool fight, though.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I agree that Kaku has always seemed to be a swordsman from the beginning to me, although it would've been cooler if his swords remained wooden and that was part of his power. The Giraffe, thing is just plain crazy. I swear he was more powerful without it haha :P
I'm guessing Kalifa will be a flemingo. It fits her kicking style.
Sogeking seems to be reverting back into being Ussop, I think he needs to at least kick a little more ass before we have that.

My OP theories are that this treasure is either related to (or is):

1) The Forbidden Weapons
2) The Missing History
3) The Lost Civilisation in the missing history

[Zelyhon]

I agree that Kaku has always seemed to be a swordsman from the beginning to me, although it would've been cooler if his swords remained wooden and that was part of his power. The Giraffe, thing is just plain crazy. I swear he was more powerful without it haha :P
I'm guessing Kalifa will be a flemingo. It fits her kicking style.
Sogeking seems to be reverting back into being Ussop, I think he needs to at least kick a little more ass before we have that.

My OP theories are that this treasure is either related to (or is):

1) The Forbidden Weapons
2) The Missing History
3) The Lost Civilisation in the missing history


Well, we haven't really seen him use it much yet. We've just seen him shift into it, so I can't really say which form is more powerful I'd be inclined to say the halfway form will probably be his best.

Flamingo'd work too. We haven't had a bird Zoan since Pell, so we are due for another one.

While all those are possible, I think there is some component of just pure treasure as well. The connection with Robin would be very strong if it did turn out to be any of those things (and that would explain why he could read/write poneglyphs). It could also be absolutely nothing. One Piece could be nothing more than Roger's metaphorical flipping the World Government and the Five Stars off one last time before he dies. That would certainly make for an interesting reaction from Luffy when he finally reaches One Piece and realizes there's nothing there. And with that, what if the top pirates (Shanks, Whitebeard, Doflamingo, Mihawk, Ace) all knew it and simply perpetuating the age of Pirates for whatever reason? That would be a very interesting twist for me. Luffy then proceeds to declare himself Pirate King (like he doesn't do that enough as is) and start assembling an actual hoard of various things (including ancient texts from Robin like you mentioned) there and makes One Piece himself. It's not likely, but it'd be interesting.

Also, what do you all think of the trailer for the new One Piece movie?

http://youtube.com/watch?v=z6HwvmKR41c

[Demonshadow9]

Going back a bit.....and I mean WAY back, I was re-reading the buggy the clown arc

Remeber the guy that buggy thought was making fun of his nose? Well buggy chokes him and lifts him in the air without touching him.( think darth vader) Did they ever explain that? I know buggys parts could fly but they never really went into detail if he can do it to others.Also im failry sure his hand didnt seperate because they give you a close up of the poor pirate and buggys hand isnt there.

edit concerning the movie- Sanji was badass "all I needed was a light for my cigarette"

[Kei]

That was probably just flavor, like the first time they showed Robin using her powers. To make it more mysterious, without giving away what the power actually was.

I'm only a little excited for the movie, as the odd numbered movies tend to well...suck. I loved 2, 4 and 6, but was so bored with 1, 3 and 5. (especially 5. Dear god.)


~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Since we're linking to cool things:
http://manylemons.co.uk/Sail_On.shtml

[Zelyhon]

Since we're linking to cool things:
http://manylemons.co.uk/Sail_On.shtmlI have that AMV. It's the best One Piece one I've found to date. I really love it.

Also, something else; there's been a lot of speculation about the Straw hats picking up some of the Rokushiki techniques from CP9. Luffy's already learned Soru, so it's not that far stretched either. Which techniques do you all think that each Straw Hat could/ought to learn? Here're my thoughts:

Here's the Rokushiki techniques, just for a reference.

Geppou: Air walking
Tekkai: invincibility
Rankyaku: Sword leg thing
Shigan: Bullet finger
Soru: Super speed
Kamie: Excellent dodging

Luffy: He's already got Soru, so there's part of the general basis for the straw hats learning Rokushiki. Other than that, though, most of the techniques don't fit Luffy's style. Tekkai'd probably not work at all with his rubber body. Shigan's a possibility, but single strikes like that don't seem to be Luffy's thing. Rankyaku probably requires a leg that doesn't flex or stretch as much a Luffy's does. Kamie and Geppou both are better possibilities. I could see Luffy learning Geppou in particular.

Zoro: I don't think Zoro would learn any except Soru. Shigan's useless if you use swords, Geppou'd be interesting, but it, Rankyaku, and Soru all place an emphasis on the legs. Legs aren't Zoro's specialty, so learning those might be harder for him. Soru's at least ground based and non-attacking, so that might be easier. And he'll never learn Tekkai, as he must bleed in all his fights. XD

Nami: Nami's not a martial artist. At all. She fights with her mind. I don't think Nami'd learn any. If she did learn one, I think it would be Kamie, which seems to be the most basic.

Usopp: As a distance fighter, Usopp's not one to use many of these techniques. Maybe Soru and maybe Kamie, but Usopp's not physically very powerful, relying on dials and weapons to win. I don't think he'll learn Rokushiki techniques

Sanji: Here we go. Rokushiki's based on physical combat and making the body a weapon. Therefore, who better to learn it than the Straw Hat's resident (non-devil fruit) unarmed attacker? Soru, Rankyaku, and Geppou all rely heavily on the legs, making Sanji a prime target to use them. Rankyaku especially, as it's a combat kick technique he'd make good use of. Imagine the standing on hands and spinning with Rankyaku. Kamie'd be another good one, but since we know so little about it, I can't say whether Sanji'd be a good target to learn it. Shigan wouldn't be as good as the others, I believe. The most interesting choice would be tekkai. Tekkai would up Sanji's defense, naturally, but it would also give him a much more interesting advantage. We saw in the fight with Wanze that Sanji can move and use his hands in combat. He just doesn't for fear of injuring them. WHat would happen if suddenly, he was able to make his hands (and the rest of him) nearly invulnerable? That would open Sanji's style to many different moves.

Chopper: CP9's a lot of Zoan users, so Chopper's also in a good place to learn them. He's not as primary of a fighter as the others, but he'd be able to make good use of them. I'd think that, if Chopper learned some Rokushiki techniques, they'd be in certain Rumble Ball forms. I.E. Geppou in jumping point, Rankyaku in walk point, and Shigan in Arm Point. That'd add some new twists to the rumble ball forms.

Robin: I highly doubt that Robin, who's been out of action will learn any. However, if she does, it'd probably be either tekkai or Shigan. Tekkai would remove her one major weakness, a lack of defense. Robin's Devil Fruit is one of the only Paramecia fruit that hasn't somehow increased defense, instead allowing her to take more injuries from the grown arms. Tekkai would make Robin nearly invincible. Shigan's a more interesting, but still logical choice. Imagine Robin being able to grow 30+ arms out of a target and having each one hit a different point with Shigan. This would help against those who can't be submission holded.

Just my thoughts. What do you all think?

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

You've pretty much covered everything I have to say in that area except that the current match-ups for the fights are more than a very good indicator if who could learn what.
Didn't the crew learn some slightly telephic technique on the cloud islands that was used alot. I remember Sanji learning some of it pretty quickly.
The thing is that the majority of these techniques don't really become part of their arsenal but that their besting them becomes a stage of growth for each of the crew members, as if they were rpg characters :P
I'm looking forward to seeing how Zoro absorbs Kaku's style (as its pretty cool already). Hell, he should just mug him outright and take his natty threads too ^^

Also, part of Luffy's GEAR 2ND tech, "JET SHOT" seems to be a variant on Shigan.

Looking back at the earlier OP chapters, I've been wondering how the kid that joined the Marines after becoming Luffy's friend is doing. It'd be quite interesting it he turned out to be a prodigy that rose quickly through the ranks and had a Marine squad to rival the Strawhats later on. CPX anyone?

Oh yeah, they've also got those Blackbeard guys to contend with after this haven't they? That strange Mime pulling the strings..

[Demonshadow9]

You've pretty much covered everything I have to say in that area except that the current match-ups for the fights are more than a very good indicator if who could learn what.
Didn't the crew learn some slightly telephic technique on the cloud islands that was used alot. I remember Sanji learning some of it pretty quickly.
The thing is that the majority of these techniques don't really become part of their arsenal but that their besting them becomes a stage of growth for each of the crew members, as if they were rpg characters :P
I'm looking forward to seeing how Zoro absorbs Kaku's style (as its pretty cool already). Hell, he should just mug him outright and take his natty threads too ^^

Also, part of Luffy's GEAR 2ND tech, "JET SHOT" seems to be a variant on Shigan.

Looking back at the earlier OP chapters, I've been wondering how the kid that joined the Marines after becoming Luffy's friend is doing. It'd be quite interesting it he turned out to be a prodigy that rose quickly through the ranks and had a Marine squad to rival the Strawhats later on. CPX anyone?

Oh yeah, they've also got those Blackbeard guys to contend with after this haven't they? That strange Mime pulling the strings..


You mean kobe? He was on the cover side story for awhile...dont know what happened at the end though.Black beards creepy , period.White beard on th other hand is fricking awsome.I just wonder whys hes hooked up to that life support system...though I wouldent mind be surounded by those nurses of his :)

[Zelyhon]

You've pretty much covered everything I have to say in that area except that the current match-ups for the fights are more than a very good indicator if who could learn what.
Didn't the crew learn some slightly telephic technique on the cloud islands that was used alot. I remember Sanji learning some of it pretty quickly.
The thing is that the majority of these techniques don't really become part of their arsenal but that their besting them becomes a stage of growth for each of the crew members, as if they were rpg characters :P
I'm looking forward to seeing how Zoro absorbs Kaku's style (as its pretty cool already). Hell, he should just mug him outright and take his natty threads too ^^

Also, part of Luffy's GEAR 2ND tech, "JET SHOT" seems to be a variant on Shigan.

Looking back at the earlier OP chapters, I've been wondering how the kid that joined the Marines after becoming Luffy's friend is doing. It'd be quite interesting it he turned out to be a prodigy that rose quickly through the ranks and had a Marine squad to rival the Strawhats later on. CPX anyone?

Oh yeah, they've also got those Blackbeard guys to contend with after this haven't they? That strange Mime pulling the strings..
You mean Mantra? I don't remember them ever fully learning it. Picking up elements, maybe, but they don't have it mastered anywhere near the level that the Priests did.

I did forget one: Franky. I doubt he'll learn the Rokushiki techniques, as we know so few of his own techiques at the moment.

I guess, but Shigan always seemed to me to imply a certain hardening of the finger as well, to make it pierce the way it did. Jet shot struck me as more of a modification on Pisol rather than SHigan.

Zoro might pick up Rankyaku, but I'm not so sure. It does require more leg speed and power than we've seen him use. If anything, he'd incorporate elements of it into the three sword style.

Yeah, there's a lot of places the story can go from here. Ace, Whitebeard, Blackbeard, Doflamingo, and so on. I wouldn't be surprised if Coby did turn up again somewhere. Heh. Maybe he'll get assigned to Smoker. XD\


DS9: I always imagined that those life support systems were either a) because he's old. b) The result of him fighting Roger, or c) Something else we don't know about yet.

[Ninja Realist]

I think you guys are overthinking Jet Shot. He is heating his rubber body in order to expell air from his skin at a high velocity and pressure. I think that's all there is to it.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I think you guys are overthinking Jet Shot. He is heating his rubber body in order to expell air from his skin at a high velocity and pressure. I think that's all there is to it.
True, but do think that Luffy's Gear2 was derived/inspired from the concepts of the CP9 techniques.

I'm quite certain that Zoro will learn to airwalk. He has been gradually upping and destroying the limitations of what we think a swordsman is capable of.
Firstly, in the desert, he became able to cut steel.
Second, in the sky, he learned to make projectile cuts using air.
Now, he will probably be no longer restricted by gravity after learning airwalk.

Remember, he will eventually become a swordsman that can fight Hawkeye on equal ground and that guy was able to dice a fleet of ships while standing in a floating coffin.

[Kei]

Honestly, I don't want them to learn Rokushiki techniques at all. It only makes sense for Luffy.

Luffy has had quite the habit of taking existing things and techniques (Be it enemies or friends) and working on the fly with them. Example: Gomu Gomu no Pinwheel (From Arlong arc). A better example would be Luffy's attacks at the end of Skypiea when he has the ball of gold attached to his hand. Luffy constantly thinks of new ways to improvise and work with what his enemies give him. It was only really EXPECTED of Luffy to copy some of the Rokushiki techniques.

As for the comment about Gear 2, Luffy stated he came up with the moves after the encounter with Ao Kiji. The whole thing (Heating and releasing steam) is reminicient of this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vulcanisation.

~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

Well I just saw the raw for 402, The big thing here is that the fights start..also sogeking ****'s up ....real bad XD

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Best teamup ever.
Kaku makes me laugh too.

[Zelyhon]

Best teamup ever.
Kaku makes me laugh too.
They have been doing more dual techs as the story's progressed, haven't they.

Sanji and Luffy did the uber rocket thingy in Drum Island
The Usopp-Chopper Hammer in Arabasta's a pretty clear example.
I can't think of a terribly clear one from Sky Island at the moment.
Sanji and Zoro did some interesting double techs in the Davy Back second round.
Zoro and Luffy both went after Aqua Laguna on the way to Enies Lobby.

I'm not terribly surprised that someone's taking this route in this fight. Both of them have skills that play into team techniques. Others, like Robin, Nami, and Chopper, don't seem to me to work as well for those techniques, as their attacks are far more focused most of the time. Nami's needs planning and set up. Robin tends to beat most everyone on her own easily (Pell, Yama) or get owned in one hit (Croc, Enel). She might have some interesting double techniques with sprouting arms out of companions or holding the enemy to open a weak point, but her single attacks have had more focus. Chopper could, but he mostly just goes for single strikes to end his fights.

[Kei]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CSRF9vVtYo

OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD

That is too perfect for SogeKing.

(This is from 258)

~Kei

[Zelyhon]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6CSRF9vVtYo

OH MY GOD OH MY GOD OH MY GOD

That is too perfect for SogeKing.

(This is from 258)

~Kei
...XD

Usopp now has his own second theme song.
Best thing I wasn't really expecting in the anime ever. XD

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

...XD

Usopp now has his own second theme song.
Best thing I wasn't really expecting in the anime ever. XD
Lies! Sokeking has a theme song ^_^
100 shots, 100 hits!
* PsychoSaiya-jin wonders who Sogeking's va is. He sounds familar :D

Snuck as peek at 403. Sanji was the man this chapter. His chivalry even touching the hearts of others for once.
Interetingly though...
G3 makes you chibi?
Chopper has new Rumble-Cross?

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Looking up to 404 now.
I'm interested to see Franky's fighting style seems to be based on boxing + little super-robot references too (the sideburns were great).
The 3-ColaBottle system of his seems very close to Chopper's Rumble Ball.
I wonder that Number Key Franky will get.

[Kei]

405 is out now, Fukurou and Franky continue their fight. God I love Franky.


~Kei

[Master O]

405's a good chapter. Franky has weapons everywhere.

[Kei]

Yeah, I really enjoyed seeing the "BF 36" on him. That he himself is Battle Franky #36. I can't wait to see what Chopper and Franky pull out against their respective opponents.


~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

405 is out now, Fukurou and Franky continue their fight. God I love Franky.


~Kei

If anything else , he will fit right in with the rest of the strawhats.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

If anything else , he will fit right in with the rest of the strawhats.
I have the perfect theme tune for him:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=8I0UwRFXUzg&search=one%20piece%20frankinator%202

[Zelyhon]

405 is out now, Fukurou and Franky continue their fight. God I love Franky.


~Kei
Indeed. I look forward to when he joins (assuming he does join, which is looking more and more likely as it goes).

[Kei]

I have the perfect theme tune for him:
http://youtube.com/watch?v=8I0UwRFXUzg&search=one%20piece%20frankinator%202


I can one-up that!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrvUqKK59UE


~Kei

[Ninja Realist]

I guess it's pretty safe to say, at this point, that Franky will be the next addition to the Mugiwara Pirates. I mean at this point it's down to a formula, any future member has always been a local who helps the straw-hats fight off the people threatening their homeland, and then after fighting with them, they've joined up. That's basically what happened with with Sanji, Chopper, and to some extent, Nami. Of course we could be surprised, but I doubt it.

Not that I rellay want to be either. Franky is ****ing awesome, and I'd be happy to have him as one of the straw-hats.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I guess it's pretty safe to say, at this point, that Franky will be the next addition to the Mugiwara Pirates. I mean at this point it's down to a formula, any future member has always been a local who helps the straw-hats fight off the people threatening their homeland, and then after fighting with them, they've joined up. That's basically what happened with with Sanji, Chopper, and to some extent, Nami. Of course we could be surprised, but I doubt it.

Not that I rellay want to be either. Franky is ****ing awesome, and I'd be happy to have him as one of the straw-hats.
Sofar though, they seem to be helping Robin. This looks more like her initiation (similar to Nami's Arlock arc).

[Zelyhon]

I guess it's pretty safe to say, at this point, that Franky will be the next addition to the Mugiwara Pirates. I mean at this point it's down to a formula, any future member has always been a local who helps the straw-hats fight off the people threatening their homeland, and then after fighting with them, they've joined up. That's basically what happened with with Sanji, Chopper, and to some extent, Nami. Of course we could be surprised, but I doubt it.

Not that I rellay want to be either. Franky is ****ing awesome, and I'd be happy to have him as one of the straw-hats.Not to mention the fact that all the Straw Hats have father issues, which Frankey fits the mold of.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

But when will learn about Sokeking's hidden past?
I hope he joins the crew :)

[Kei]

*sigh*
http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/3033/242137sx.jpg

From the latest issue of Jump. Oda is sick, and One Piece is thus on Hiatus untill his recovery.


All the best to you, Oda-sensei.

~Kei

[Demonshadow9]

*sigh*
http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/3033/242137sx.jpg

From the latest issue of Jump. Oda is sick, and One Piece is thus on Hiatus untill his recovery.


All the best to you, Oda-sensei.

~Kei

Yes I heard about that , its bad news . Hope its nothing serious .

[Zelyhon]

*sigh*
http://img57.imageshack.us/img57/3033/242137sx.jpg

From the latest issue of Jump. Oda is sick, and One Piece is thus on Hiatus untill his recovery.


All the best to you, Oda-sensei.

~KeiAlas. Can't be helped though. If I were him, I sure wouldn't want to work when ill.

[Master O]

Does anyone know what his illness is?

I wish they'd say so all the theories and DoomsDay scenarios would be dispelled...

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Probably season or stress related. I'm hoping he'll be fine and back on form after a good rest. Manga-kas are human too afterall.

[Zelyhon]

Anybody else think that Uber Chopper is really cool, kinda scary, and a bit reminiscent of the nightwalker from Princess Mononoke?

[Kei]

I was thinking the same thing. Lots of good stuff happened in this chapter as well. We finally learn what Kalifa's Devil Fruit is! I was amused at the CP9 bar of soap as well.

And finally, Luffy catches up to Robin, Luuchi and Spanda...m.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

'S an interesting fruit. When she first said what it was, I didn't think it was as useful as it's turning out to be. It seems like this fruit is far more multi-use than a lot of the others. Most of the other paramecia fruits don't have as variable abilities as this one. She can glossify things, shield herself, drain energy, and do the dishes all at once. Seems to have more multi-purpose use than a lot of the others we've seen. Interesting change, I think.

[Ender]

Ara ra,

Anybody else think that Uber Chopper is really cool, kinda scary, and a bit reminiscent of the nightwalker from Princess Mononoke?

I knew he reminded me of something. Especially those creepy eyes. I just hope they don't pull a Yu Yu Hakusho--i.e. that whole thing about how Hiea using the Black Dragon was supposed to be a last resort that could have killed him, yet he kept using it as if nothing was going to happen...really sucked out all the fun--and have Chopper use this ability ever single fight from now on after discussing how much of a detriment it's supposed to be.

But this Nami vs. Kalifa fight has me screaming "wet tee-shirt contest!" ^_^

-Prof. Ender

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

But this Nami vs. Kalifa fight has me screaming "wet tee-shirt contest!" ^_^So its meeting fans expectations then?
Good clean fanservice ^_^

[Kei]

Ara ra,



I knew he reminded me of something. Especially those creepy eyes. I just hope they don't pull a Yu Yu Hakusho--i.e. that whole thing about how Hiea using the Black Dragon was supposed to be a last resort that could have killed him, yet he kept using it as if nothing was going to happen...really sucked out all the fun--and have Chopper use this ability ever single fight from now on after discussing how much of a detriment it's supposed to be.

But this Nami vs. Kalifa fight has me screaming "wet tee-shirt contest!" ^_^

-Prof. Ender

I'm pretty sure this will be a one, maybe a two time thing. Like Zoro using Sanzen Sekai on Mihawk. He hasn't used that "ultimate move" since. I have faith in Oda still. Now I want to see the effects of different drinks on Franky as well >_>

P.S. With as much as you say Ara ra Ender, you should change your ava/sig theme to Ao Kiji, proud supporter of "Ara ra" usage :D

~Kei

[Zelyhon]

But this Nami vs. Kalifa fight has me screaming "wet tee-shirt contest!" ^_^
Sanji would be so pissed off if he missed that on account of being Shinyfied. XD

[Ender]

Ara ra

I'm pretty sure this will be a one, maybe a two time thing. Like Zoro using Sanzen Sekai on Mihawk. He hasn't used that "ultimate move" since. I have faith in Oda still. Now I want to see the effects of different drinks on Franky as well >_>

Hey that's right. I have no doubt that Oda will keep me hooked. Just mildy afraid of a series as swanktastic as One Piece falling into the same pitfalls that claim other shounen series. But then again, that's my mistake for thinking--no matter how miniscule a thought--that One Piece is like other shounen series.

P.S. With as much as you say Ara ra Ender, you should change your ava/sig theme to Ao Kiji, proud supporter of "Ara ra" usage :D

Heh heh heh. I would, Kei, but for some reason I can't relate to an eleven-foot tall fuzzy-haired ice guy who rides schwins and works for the Marines as well as my current angry, bald writer of an avatar...imagine that. ^_~

-Prof. Ender

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

The buster call

[Kei]

So, looks like all the Baroque Works members are accounted for and at what will probably become the new Spider Cafe. The ones left behind? Bon Clay, Mr 3., Crocodile, and Daz (Mr. 1). I would be -so- happy if we got to see some older bad guy action in this arc. I mean, we have to assume that since EL is the high security prison for the Marines, that we'll see someone. Kuro, Arlong, anyone. I don't care. Ideally, I'd like to see Croc and Mr. 1 come in to fight their way out, encountering the Buster Call. I mean, how fitting would it be to have Crocodile accidently helping the Mugiwara's by destroying the Buster Call. He probably has no clue they're there.

Most people will say "Wait, but what if he's not held at Enies Lobby?". I refuse to accept anything else. I mean, seriously. He was a Shichibukai. He worked for and undermined the Marines. If he's not at Enies Lobby, I'm scared of who is.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

So, looks like all the Baroque Works members are accounted for and at what will probably become the new Spider Cafe. The ones left behind? Bon Clay, Mr 3., Crocodile, and Daz (Mr. 1). I would be -so- happy if we got to see some older bad guy action in this arc. I mean, we have to assume that since EL is the high security prison for the Marines, that we'll see someone. Kuro, Arlong, anyone. I don't care. Ideally, I'd like to see Croc and Mr. 1 come in to fight their way out, encountering the Buster Call. I mean, how fitting would it be to have Crocodile accidently helping the Mugiwara's by destroying the Buster Call. He probably has no clue they're there.

Most people will say "Wait, but what if he's not held at Enies Lobby?". I refuse to accept anything else. I mean, seriously. He was a Shichibukai. He worked for and undermined the Marines. If he's not at Enies Lobby, I'm scared of who is.


~Kei
Wouldn't he be in Impel Down, then? Those are the holding cells, interrogation rooms, and execution blocks for criminals, right?

Plus, it didn't look like they were in Enies. They already kinda blew up whatever prison they were in. In all likelyhood, they were on their way there. However, with such dangerous criminals, it would take a while (not to mention sailing right from Arabasta to Enies without the sea train would take a long time. Longer than Skypiea and Davy back, I dunno. Those were both pretty much 2-3 day events).

Oh, and it has since showed Kuro on his ship (when Luffy got his bounty) and I'm pretty sure Arlong's already been executed.

[Kei]

You know, I forgot completely about Impel Down. Also, I thought the flashes to everyone when Luffy got his bounty was filler? (aside from Mihawk and Shanks).


~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Y'know, I had completely forgotten about those guys.
It would be interesting to see Croc being defeated easily by Akoiji or another Admiral to put the power of the World Goverment into context.

On second thought, people like Croc would probably be on the other side of the Gate of Justice.

[Kei]

410:

Damnit. Chopper gets in on Nami v. Kalifa. I was really hoping that Nami would show her stuff, but it looks like Chopper may end this fight for her. *sigh*

Also, Hana-Arashi ftw

~Kei

[Kei]

Haha, you should have left that post undeleted PSJ, hillarious.

Anyway, a new OP and ED for One Piece started on Sunday.

http://www.gametrailers.com/umwatcher.php?id=3550

The opening has tons of Enies Lobby manga spoilers in it. But then again, OP openings are known for their huge spoilers (Robin chilling with the crew a good 20 episodes before she actually joins, etc).

At first I was a little pissed at the Sanji scene in the opening, but then again if you watch closely, Kalifa attacks first, and Sanji is just defending. Best part of the opening though? Fukuro vs. Franky.

Oh, don't know if any of you saw this episode, but Fukuro's voice is ridiculous. He sounds exactly like a little kid (Which is fitting, due to comments made about him by other CP9 members). Kumadori's voice sounds exactly like you would expect.

Fun stuff, give the OP a good watch!

~Kei

p.s. The ending is great also, it features sent-in artwork from Fans...and CHOPPERMAN!

[Zelyhon]

Haha, you should have left that post undeleted PSJ, hillarious.

Anyway, a new OP and ED for One Piece started on Sunday.

http://www.gametrailers.com/umwatcher.php?id=3550

The opening has tons of Enies Lobby manga spoilers in it. But then again, OP openings are known for their huge spoilers (Robin chilling with the crew a good 20 episodes before she actually joins, etc).

At first I was a little pissed at the Sanji scene in the opening, but then again if you watch closely, Kalifa attacks first, and Sanji is just defending. Best part of the opening though? Fukuro vs. Franky.

Oh, don't know if any of you saw this episode, but Fukuro's voice is ridiculous. He sounds exactly like a little kid (Which is fitting, due to comments made about him by other CP9 members). Kumadori's voice sounds exactly like you would expect.

Fun stuff, give the OP a good watch!

~Kei

p.s. The ending is great also, it features sent-in artwork from Fans...and CHOPPERMAN!I think that opening, animation wise, might be my favorite ones thus far. Gotta hand it to the people behind the anime, they do a good job bringing the series to life. All the openings, both song and animation wise perfectly convey the feeling of the series.

I'd be interested in downloading that episode, but I don't know where to get the episodes as they come out in Japan.

Also, is it just me, or was that one longer than the others? Not complaining or anything. Just noticing.

Gear 2 is pink?
Monster Chopper's in the intro? Man, they are taking these intros right up to where the manga is, aren't they? I'd have liked to see Lucchi in Zoan form, though. Since, as mentioned before, I don't typically keep up with the Japanese releases, I haven't seen how it looks animated yet.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Haha, you should have left that post undeleted PSJ, hillarious.

Anyway, a new OP and ED for One Piece started on Sunday.

http://www.gametrailers.com/umwatcher.php?id=3550

p.s. The ending is great also, it features sent-in artwork from Fans...and CHOPPERMAN!
Yeah, i know, I'm just trying cut down on the 4chan-isms. I'm glad it turned out to be funny anyways :D

Here's a direct download:
http://giggedygiggedygoo.com/kajzokku/Stuff/OnePiece-OP06.mpg
You were right about the spoilers, you could almost get away without watching half of the arc now [although that wouldn't be fun now. would it?].

CHOPPERMAN??
I need to see these new eps now :D

[Kei]

If the spoiler is true, the Ms. Goldenweek story ends this week.


The title? "Prison Transfer to Impel Down", with pictures of Croc, Daz, Bon Kurei and Mr. 3. So, considering that the Mugiwara's will have to go to Impel Down eventually, they will hopefully encounter these guys again. Woo hoo!


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

If the spoiler is true, the Ms. Goldenweek story ends this week.


The title? "Prison Transfer to Impel Down", with pictures of Croc, Daz, Bon Kurei and Mr. 3. So, considering that the Mugiwara's will have to go to Impel Down eventually, they will hopefully encounter these guys again. Woo hoo!


~KeiLove the new icon. XD

And it would be quite interesting for Robin and Spandam to get right up to the door and open it to reveal Croc, 1, 2, and 3 running at them. That'd be bad for most of the fights, as Spandam would take Robin and run, I'd think, with Croc et al chasing. So much chaos. XD

[Ender]

Ara ra,

So, who's been keeping up? Ah well, for those who haven't...The fight in Chapter 415 was pretty cool. I'd call it Crouching Wolf, Hidden Chef. I like Sanji's new "fire-kickin'"...umm, kicks. Other than the fight Luffy's gonna have with Rob Lucci, we just have Zoro and Kaku's fight to watch. I'm wondering what new move Zoro's gonna pull out this time...or will he? Hrm.

-Prof. Ender

[Kei]

Well, Jump came out yesterday. Another week, an new chapter!

This week...

Some interesting moves pulled out from both sides. Firstly, Kaku's square defense! Secondly: Zoro's gorilla stance! Thats a quick way to buff up. However, Zoro put his bandana on. So no matter what happens, I give Kaku two chapters total before our man in green beats him.

~Kei


EDIT!

It looks like Franky and Luffy have teamed up against Lucci. I would not have predicted that. Hopefully this makes Franky a shoie-in as new Mugiwara!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Indeed! lol "Gorilla"

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

420
Could this be the last we see of the great Sogeking?
Gear 2nd explained?
The Buster Call has arrived!

[edit] More random funs http://youtube.com/watch?v=eZESIJakL3A

[Kei]

It was nice to see those random 5 Vice-Admirals. I was kinda hoping that Garp would be one of them, and possibly Coby-meppo. Oh well.

I still think Lucci looks goofy in Neko-neko mode.


~Kei

[Kei]

Double post! Whee!


272 aired last night. Luffy used Gear Second right before the "To Be Continued". Wake me up next week when 273 airs.


~Kei

[Zelyhon]

It was nice to see those random 5 Vice-Admirals. I was kinda hoping that Garp would be one of them, and possibly Coby-meppo. Oh well.

I still think Lucci looks goofy in Neko-neko mode.


~Kei
It would indeed have been interesting. But we'll just have to see where he goes with the new Admirals he brought in. I for one am fairly curious, even if I don't think the Straw Hats will fight them now. They've already had their big fights this arc. XD

[Kei]

I personally am hoping for more SogeKing sniper action against the Buster Call ships. Or maybe Robin will regain enough energy to take some down with some Hana hana action.

~Kei

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I think that the Buster Call is exactly the type of thing that Sogeking is born for.
If we lose Sogeking, maybe we'll see some more SniperIsland folk.
Kamen Sniper!

[Kei]

Hooooooooooooooooooooooly crap!

Wow. Gear 3rd. Not what I had expected at all. But seriously, pumping air through your -bones-? That can't be good for the body. People are speculating this is the end of the Luffy/Lucci encounter. I don't think Rob is out for the count just yet. Sure, he got knocked out of the tower, but he can just use geppou to get back to Luffy. I'm sure like Gear 2nd, Gear 3rd is probably tons of strain on Luffy and wont be able to do it alot. You have to give him credit for thinking of new ways for using his fruit!"

Gomu Gomu no Giant's Pistol!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Well this is a huuuuuuge suprise [no pun intended],
especially to all those who'd thought/worried that the Gears where going to be some dbz-style power-up.
I couldn't care much if this is the end of Lucci, since he wasn't that great a baddie. Besides, there's still the Buster Call and Spandam to contend with.
I love OP more and more with each chapter.

[Ninja Realist]

I think it's awesome how the fight's in One Piece manage to get more ridiculous without being stupid. Sure, Zoro, "turning into" a six armed, three headed, demon swordsman is ridiculous, but it's still pretty damn cool. While, IMO, 3rd Gear or Sanji's Spicy Kick aren't quite as cool as Zoro's new ability, their still a far cry from the traditional massive balls of energy seen in most shonen fighting manga. But what's even more incredible about One Piece isn't just that almost every character has interesting and unique abilities, but it mangaes to do so, with a staggeringly large cast of well over 50 Characters who actually end up fighting.

[Zelyhon]

I too think Gear 3 is pretty awesome. This whole arc has been great as far as move developments for the Straw Hats. As has been echoed by, well, the three other people who haunt this thread, the Gears are an excellent addition and ought to have dissuaded the "Oh yeah, I'll go Gear 19!" people fearing a DBZation of the fights. Good explanation, use, and unique. That, like Realist said, is one thing that marks One Piece as very different from some shounen series. Each character, even the inconsequential bad guys or side characters, have their own unique moves, languages the move names are in, and no generic fireballing of stuff. Over the top? No question about it. But would we have it any other way? And, with all that it has done, it still manages to throw the fans off with all their speculation. Remember the massive debates of Kaku and Kalifa's fruits? Did any of those guesses end up being anywhere close? XD Or even the speculations about Gear 3. You've just got to love a fighting manga that manages to stay fresh, funny, and surprising.

[Ender]

Ara ra,

I think it's awesome how the fight's in One Piece manage to get more ridiculous without being stupid. Sure, Zoro, "turning into" a six armed, three headed, demon swordsman is ridiculous, but it's still pretty damn cool.

That, like Realist said, is one thing that marks One Piece as very different from some shounen series. Each character, even the inconsequential bad guys or side characters, have their own unique moves, languages the move names are in, and no generic fireballing of stuff. Over the top? No question about it. But would we have it any other way?

Heh heh. I can honestly say, after reading these posts, this is probably my favorite thread of all time. ^_^

My brother and I were actually having this discussion the other day. Again, the beauty of One Piece's "over-the-opera-top" fights is something you rarely see in shounen manga nowadays--the only two contenders that come to mind are JoJo's Bizarre Adventure and Rurouni Kenshin.

What I love is that the fights are conducted more like poker games; each combatant knows, more-or-less, their own strengths and weaknesses and play their hands accordingly.

I remember a few months ago I posted stating that I was afraid of One Piece turning into YuYu Hakusho, in that innovation would give way to yelling and powering-up. Kei quickly re-assured me that this would not be the case and so far this has been true. Now, after Luffy's Gear-3, I am all that more certain that Kei was right.

-Prof. Ender

P.S. Giant Punch Pistol? Hrm. Mayhaps we'll be seeing more of Luffy's giant-side in future chapters. ^_^

[Kei]

I thought the same thing Enders. Perhaps this is even more foreshadowing that Saul was indeed Luffy's grandfather.

Oh, and incase anyone was curious how it went in the anime...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=hy60DCSvrGw Gear Secondo! This aired last night.

Gear 2nd is definitely faster animated than I imagined from the manga. I knew he was fast, but not -that- fast.


~Kei


EDIT: After re-reading and watching Skypiea recently (my least favorite of all the arcs), there was actually one case of your worry that dire techniques would become commonplace: Wiper's reject dial. He used that stupid thing like 5 times! And was fine! Shenangians! Other than that though, we are fine! :D

[Ninja Realist]

Oh Damn, Gear 2nd looks awesome in animated form. In the manga it always looked liked he was shooting air out of of his hands, I didn't realize he was just punching THAT quickly.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Oh Damn, Gear 2nd looks awesome in animated form. In the manga it always looked liked he was shooting air out of of his hands, I didn't realize he was just punching THAT quickly.
I was thinking that the animators where going to try and keep some of the mystery behind it there by not animating some of it but I can't complain since it looks awesome [plus, anyone keeping up with the manga would already know].
I'm looking forward to seeing some Sogeking pyrotechnics soon.

[edit]I've been watching some of the movies recently. Kei was right about 2+4. 1 was really slow. 6 Was bloody weird though XD
I really want to see the new one, it looks good.
I've been watching some of the old OP anime too. I've been picking up some interesting things that'll go towards my predictions.
In the first ep, Luffy says that he'll need about 10 people for his crew. Not including himself, he has about 6 and Franky could be the 7th to join. I have a feeling that the 10th may be the musician he keeps going on about or maybe even Koby from the Marines.
He hasn't appeared since very early on, I hope he's become strong :D

I still hold onto my theory that One Piece isn't your normal treasure. I have a feeling that it'll be key to overthrowing the current World Goverment. Could Gold D. Roger have orchestrated the Great Pirate Era to counter the force of the current rulers? ^_^

[Ninja Realist]

I still hold onto my theory that One Piece isn't your normal treasure. I have a feeling that it'll be key to overthrowing the current World Goverment. Could Gold D. Roger have orchestrated the Great Pirate Era to counter the force of the current rulers? ^_^

I thought that One Piece was the Rio Poneglyph that tells the history of the world.

422:

Bleh. More backstory on Lucci, but he's such a lame villain that I hardly care. It's cool to see other Giant Moves Though. Giant's Axe was ****in g huge.

[Kei]

I thought the little but on Lucci seemed a tad uneeded, but I think it was just proving the point about how he is practically just the WG's dog, when it comes down to it. That one VA was really brutal though, using the "Fire on your own men to win the fight" tactic. Giant Whip and Giant Stamp were fantastic. Also, I'm curious whats going to happen to the rest of the crew + Kokoro etc. I am so glad One Piece is good.

[Kei]

Well, no chapter this week.

But, Robin's past started in the anime yeserday. It's being handled perfectly. Saul's voice is great, and the Dereshi scene was so heartwarming.

That aside, someone at another forum I frequent made this animated gif
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y89/kei_neko/Gearthird.gif

[Ninja Realist]

Meh, ok chapter. Not much happened besides a little Lucci pounding. I guess the whole thing with the elephant sword was kind of cool too. I hope something actually happens next week though.

[Zelyhon]

Well, no chapter this week.

But, Robin's past started in the anime yeserday. It's being handled perfectly. Saul's voice is great, and the Dereshi scene was so heartwarming.

That aside, someone at another forum I frequent made this animated gif
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y89/kei_neko/Gearthird.gif

Good to hear that it'd being handled well. I can't wait till I see it. I don't tend to watch the raws, so likely I'll have to wait a while.

Also, I'm totally stealing that gif, as it is really cool. XD

I liked the last chapter, despite not a whole lot happening. We got chibified Luffy from Gear 3 again, so it does seem it's a normal reaching, which is an amusing side effect to a power up.

[Ender]

Ara ra,

One thing from Chapter 423 scared me though. "Dugong."

This is what happened when Ariel let herself go. -_-

-Prof. Ender

[Zelyhon]

Ara ra,

One thing from Chapter 423 scared me though. "Dugong."

This is what happened when Ariel let herself go. -_-

-Prof. Ender

Also, we got what, if memory serves, is the first Vivi-Crew-ish chapter intro we've had in a while. This ought to start a lot of semi-empty speculation on the part of a lot of fans. XD

[Kei]

Wow. Looks like this chapter makes up for the last few. Usopp takes off his mask...and from one image, it looks like one of the Marine Captains breaks one of Zoro's swords. We'll have to see for sure when the full chapter comes out.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Wow. Looks like this chapter makes up for the last few. Usopp takes off his mask...and from one image, it looks like one of the Marine Captains breaks one of Zoro's swords. We'll have to see for sure when the full chapter comes out.

??? Have you been reading someone's text summary or something? I'm only just getting 425.. RAW!
[edit] actually, looks like I've read this raw, I just haven't read a translation for it yet :P

[edit2] Okay, finally seen the raw today.
I've always known that Zoro's Yubashiri would meet some kind of end. I never knew it would be destroyed like this though, amazing. I'm still convinced that he'll eventually inherit his last sword from Tashigi, possibly to replace Kunia's Wadō Ichimonji.
I was also suprised that Sogeking became unmasked but it was done a a very good time.

[Zelyhon]

Well, I'm impressed by this chapter. Wonder if all the various fruits and other abilities used by the Marine Captains will be revealed or if people will just have to guess the names. XD Similarly, are they just throwaway characters or might some make reappearances later? I could see Zoro wanting a rematch with the one who melted his sword.

On that note, Tashigi's gonna be even more pissed than usual at Zoro since he let one of the named swords get melted away. XD Wonder how long before it cuts to Smoker and her to see their reactions to this whole mess. I'd be interested to know how he's taking the fact that Luffy broke into Enies and won (as he will inevitably do)

Sogeking taking the mask off this chapter was a good touch. I'd guess this signals the fight with Lucchi's coming to a close after Usopp says something to Luffy. At least this'll probably end the speculation of Sogeking getting a bounty and Usopp not.

I for one am eagerly waiting to find out where they go from here

[Ender]

Ara ra,

Like you swankers (and swankettes?), I got to read 426 earlier...

Everybody sing-along! This is the fight that never ends! Yes it goes on and on my friend! Some people started fighting it not knowing what it was. And they'll continue fighting I'll tell you just because this is the fight that never ends... I have to wonder how the crew will get past this, though, seeing as how they're in bad shape and the enemy is all...fruity. Plus, I'd imagine that Franky would be pretty close to out of cola by now.

What happened to the rest of CP9?

I'm kind of skeptical about Zoro's sword's just "melting/breaking" like that. You'd figure that Oda would make a bigger deal out of it. Hell, might have even given a full-page splash if something like Zoro's swords actually breaking happened. Color me quizzacle.

Ahhhhh crap, won't Luci just die already!?! I wanna see what's beyond those gates!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I'm wondering that, maybe at this rate, the Strahats may end up getting caught and imprisoned or otherwise wind up on the other side of the gates of justice.
An actual "Prison Break" arc could be seriously awesome.

[Ender]

An actual "Prison Break" arc could be seriously awesome.

So we'd have Franky come up with an ingenious plan to break out of Impel Down; due to tattoos on his body that somehow form a map? All the while, Sanji becomes the "prag" of a white supremicist, Nami ends up in 'The Hole', Zorro gets a life sentence and becomes friends with Morgan Freeman, Usopp tries to dig his way out with spoons and a Racquel Welch poster, Chopper rallies up with his Mafia connections, Robin somehow becomes obsessed with a bunch of canaries, and Luffy is put on the Long Walk to the electric chair.

Hey I'd read that. ^_^

-Prof. Ender

[Zelyhon]

I'm wondering that, maybe at this rate, the Strahats may end up getting caught and imprisoned or otherwise wind up on the other side of the gates of justice.
An actual "Prison Break" arc could be seriously awesome.

I think they might actually have to head through the gates, which would be an interesting place for them to go. I could really see it going either way. Either they're forced through the gates (by being captured or nowhere else to go, I'm not sure) or they slip through and make it back out to Grand Line and onto the next place to go. Either would be interesting.

And from the translation I found, looks like Luffy vs. Lucchi's over in 427. I liked the fight, but it is time to move on to new people to beat up. XD

[Kei]

Jet Gatling! That is all.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Jet Gatling! That is all.
It makes me terrified at the prospect of him ever being able to achieve a Gear 3rd gattling. Luckily for now, the drawback to 3rd seems to prevent that ^^;

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

428
MERRRY!!!!

[Kei]

Yeah, uh, what the hell.

[Ender]

Ara ra,

Merry's back!! WOOOOOOOO!!! Good old weird phantom ship elf...thing. I forget the name. But now that the Merry's back, Usopp will not be Mr. Angst anymore. I wonder though...does the Merry have enough room on it for Franky? Hrm.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Ara ra,

Merry's back!! WOOOOOOOO!!! Good old weird phantom ship elf...thing. I forget the name. But now that the Merry's back, Usopp will not be Mr. Angst anymore. I wonder though...does the Merry have enough room on it for Franky? Hrm.

Oh it will once Franky upgrades it to SUPER GOING MERRY

[Zelyhon]

Ara ra,

Merry's back!! WOOOOOOOO!!! Good old weird phantom ship elf...thing. I forget the name. But now that the Merry's back, Usopp will not be Mr. Angst anymore. I wonder though...does the Merry have enough room on it for Franky? Hrm.

I'm still betting that this may be Merry's last arc. I have no idea how it got there from being aparantly smashed to bits (that's One Piece for you. Not even their kind-of characters can die. XD), but it's there and was too badly damaged to continue. I wouldn't put it past Franky to build parts of it (like the figurehead) into whatever they get next.

[AqueousMessage]

I'm still betting that this may be Merry's last arc. I have no idea how it got there from being aparantly smashed to bits (that's One Piece for you. Not even their kind-of characters can die. XD), but it's there and was too badly damaged to continue. I wouldn't put it past Franky to build parts of it (like the figurehead) into whatever they get next.

I agree with you. I think this is the Merry's last voyage over open waters. It never showed the Merry shatter to it's demise. We all just assumed it did 'cause it fell from so high up. Iceburg-san may have fixed it up? >>;;

[Kei]

429
Sanji closes the gates of justice! Merry gets away! Ao Kiji admits defeat! Eneru reaches the moon!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

429
Sanji closes the gates of justice! Merry gets away! Ao Kiji admits defeat! Eneru reaches the moon!
And so we are coming to close the greatest story arc of One Piece sofar ^^
WHY IS ENERU ON THE MOON!?!?!?

Hehehe. It's only morning and OP has already made my day :D

[Kei]

Thats where he thought Fairy Vearth was, after Luffy punched him in the head!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

What on earth [or not] was Fairy Vearth?

[Kei]

Fairy Vearth was the holy land that Eneru was trying to get to with the Arc he built.

[Zelyhon]

430

Well, that was a good send-off. And an explanation of how it got there (sort of), so this chapter had everything I expected of it. Merry's gone now, so it remains to see what they'll get in the next few chapters. That, and I expect the new bounties to be out any week now.

[Kei]

Easily one of the most emotional moments in the series.The spread in this chapter is amazing.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Indeed. I shed manly tears.

[Ender]

For the first time in a long time, I cried while reading a shounen manga.

Then my girlfriend read the chapter and she cried. I felt like a bastard. Yet I was strangely relieved.

What made it bad was that I read One Piece at work...at a call center. Thanking someone for calling while choking back tears has never been more painful.

Except for that time I ordered grilled salmon with wasabi mustard for lunch...

But this is up there...this is up there.

[Zelyhon]

One thing that kinda struck me just now is, with a chapter like this, how in the world are they going to follow it up? It strikes me that with a chapter that was moving enough to get shounen readers to cry, the next chapter might be harder to write. We will just have to see, I guess.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

We can expect 2 things in the next coming chapters:
1) The world goverment's reaction and new bounties - followed by the world's reactions
2) The Strawhat crew tending to wounds and the issue of a new ship [not to mentions offcial crew roster]. Anyone placing bets on a cross between Pluton and Going Merry?

[Kei]

Holy. Dear. God.

The revelation of Franky's 200 million spending spree...oh...and COBY HELMEPPO AND GARP SHOW UP... and...

Breaking this into two different spoilers

and...GARP IS LUFFY'S GRANDFATHER

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Holy. Dear. God.

The revelation of Franky's 200 million spending spree...oh...and COBY HELMEPPO AND GARP SHOW UP... and...

Breaking this into two different spoilers

and...GARP IS LUFFY'S GRANDFATHERAnd here was me thinking that the next few chapters would be a slow-down period. Boy, was I wrong.
I can't wait to read the scanlations.

[Zelyhon]

Well, that's one way to follow up the last chapter; with a major revelation like that. XD

It also said that Garp cornered/took down Roger, so there's another major revelation. Good turn. This is one of the things I do really like about One Piece over some other Shounen manga. I mean, how much speculation was there about who took Roger down? How much has there been about Luffy's Grandfather? How many people would have said Garp, a minor cover character, to either of them? And now we get this great turn of events. Bravo.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

More to the point, I think I spotted both Coby and Whats-his-name too. I want to see how strong Coby has become. Working and training under Garp must've surely paid off.

[Kei]

And the name of his father is...



Monkey.
D.
Dragon.

[Zelyhon]

And the name of his father is...



Monkey.
D.
Dragon.


DUN-DUN-DUNNNN~!

Maybe now we'll finally learn more about him instead of just seeing or hearing of him twice before. I sure hope so.

Boy, the revelations are coming one right after the other, aren't they?

[Ender]

Ara ra,

And the name of his father is...



Monkey.
D.
Dragon.


Hooray! I just won fifty bucks and a Pepsi Vanilla!

I had this bet with my friend since 2001. It's five years later and now I can finally cash in...if he remembers...and if Pepsi Vanilla is still on the market. O_o

Also...


If Garp is Luffy's grandpa -- he hasn't changed appearances from that one-shot; Eichiro no-lazy-da -- then where do Gold Roger and Jaguar fall into the lineage? Uncles? Cross-dressing cousins? Bastard stepkids?

Hrm, and I guess I was wrong about Zorro's sword. Broken like a Meatloaf record at a grunge concert.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Ara ra,



Hooray! I just won fifty bucks and a Pepsi Vanilla!

I had this bet with my friend since 2001. It's five years later and now I can finally cash in...if he remembers...and if Pepsi Vanilla is still on the market. O_o

Also...


If Garp is Luffy's grandpa -- he hasn't changed appearances from that one-shot; Eichiro no-lazy-da -- then where do Gold Roger and Jaguar fall into the lineage? Uncles? Cross-dressing cousins? Bastard stepkids?

Hrm, and I guess I was wrong about Zorro's sword. Broken like a Meatloaf record at a grunge concert.


Dammit, I should've placed a bet on the Coby!

[Zelyhon]

Well, spoilers for 434 seem to be out

Buggy and Shanks are Gold Roger's ex-crewmates.
They often fought with White Beard, so White Beard knows about Shanks.
Shanks' scars on his eye were made by Black Beard.
Ace is after Black Beard, but since Shanks and Black Beard's strength are about the same, (Shanks) thinks it's still early for Ace, and trying to stop him.
Scene skips to Black Beard.
They talk about stuff, and when they are about to set sail, Ace appears and says "Wait up, Teach." That's it for this week.

Hehehehe. I called it. Didn't see Coby and Helmeppo being back and awsome yet or Garp being Luffy's Grandfather, but I called the two of them on his crew back on page 1.

I can't wait to actually see the whole chapter.

[Kei]

I heard that Whitebeard's flag is being changed to the Anime version also this chapter. I wonder if Ace's tatoo will reflect that change also.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

I don't remember how the Manga version of whitebeard's flag looked but I see the tattoo on Ace's back is the same as the current flag.
That being said, the tattoo was all-black so there's a weird possibility of Ace being involved with BB.
Then again, that could be a translational error and me jumping to conclusions.

Either way, this chapter has gone and shown further that there's going to be no slowing down with the beginning of the new story arc.
With the pieces that Oda has already managed to innocently set in place beforehand, we may well have ourselves one mother of an epic on the horizon.

[edit] Ah, you're right Kei.
http://www.gumgum.org/gg_lay.php?x=info/flag
Personally, I like the new WB flag better.

Question, has Black Beard already been revealed yet?

[Kei]

The manga version used to be the Skull with a manji around it, not the crossed bones. Looks like both were changed.

[Zelyhon]

Well, assuming the spoilers I saw for the next chapter aren't just a fan yanking around everyone's collective chains, we've got our new bounties for the whole crew.

Straw Hat Luffy, 300 million
Zoro the Pirate Hunter, 120 million
Robin the child of Demons, 80 million
Sanji the black leg, 77 million
SogeKing the sharp shooter, 30 million
Nami the burglar cat (?), 16 million
Chopper the cotton candy lover, 50 beri, lol
Franky the Cyborg, 47 million

Franky also seems to officially join and the course, again assuming the spoiler's correct, looks like it's heading over to Fishman Island.

My main reaction: Good bounties for most everyone. Nami might've been a bit higher, but is understandable. The main thing I see that I don't understand is why Robin got a boost of a mere 1 million. True, she didn't do anything this arc, but from the wider perspective of the World Government, she's either the most or the second most dangerous on the crew, since she can read the history they seek to hide as well as the text of the weapons. She's only possibly second most dangerous to them because of Luffy's relation to Dragon.

Ah well. Aside from that, I like 'em.

[Kei]

All seems to be legit!

Sanji's poster is hillarious looking.

[Zelyhon]

All seems to be legit!

Sanji's poster is hillarious looking.

He just continues to get the short end of the bounty stick. First he doesn't get one for a while, then the picture that will likely stick with him the rest of his career is...that. XD

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

He kind looks like Onizuka like that. lol sanji.

But I do have to ask myself where or how on earth did the World Govt. get the pictures that they did? They still used the same funny picture they had for Luffy but they've changed Zoro's.
...I like Nami's <3

[Kiba]

New ship! New ship! New ship!

Behold

THE KING OF BEASTS! (http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/2/23/King_of_beasts.png)

[Kei]

and Franky's stolen speedo.

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

And [now that I've read the translation]:
Why does Sanji not appear in photos!?!?!

[Kei]

4Kids Marketing Director Roz Nowicki has confirmed that the company will not adapt additional episodes of One Piece. 4Kids has dubbed 104 episodes of the series into English, 78 of which have aired in the United States.

score.

[Lupin the 3rd]

Yeah i just read that from anime news network. Im glad that they're not going to dub more eps of hack piece (Don't get me wrong i do love one piece! lol)d. But the problem is 4kids has the license till 2009!

[Kei]

Good. Maybe then someone decent will pick it up and do the series justice, but I doubt that will happen.

[Lupin the 3rd]

Good. Maybe then someone decent will pick it up and do the series justice, but I doubt that will happen.

I don't think the series is very popular enough in america to get uncut dvds. Kinda like what happen to Detective conen, it's very popular in japan (just like one piece), but have failed over in the US to become popular. If some company DOES pick it up, it would be a very expensive investment for that company. But who knows, someone will probably pick it up.

One of these day's Kei, one of these days! ;)

[Zelyhon]

I heard about this too, and while I too wish for them to do a better version of the series, we've got to keep one thing in mind. Just because 4Kids isn't adapting further episodes doesn't necessarily mean that the license is up for grabs again. I mean, if they're not using it, they might be more willing to sell it off if someone like Viz or Funimation made a good offer, but it doesn't automatically mean someone else will grab it.

[Kei]

Usopp finally realizes he was a ****-wit, swallows his pride, and rejoins.

yaaaaaaaaaay

[Kei]

zomg. double post.

Franky is in this week's color spread!

[PsychoSaiya-jin]

Fantastic chapter and closure on the greatest arc in OP so far.

Thousand Sunny is awesome. A true successor to Going Merry.

Also, I got to see Tashigi again ^_^

[Ender]

Hrm,

Looks like more of that swanky downtime Oda does pretty well...

I liked seeing the reactions of people around the world to the Strawhat posters. Dragon looks particularly evil on one panel. A fight between father and son coming up? I guess only after Luffy loses a hand and resuces Zorro from Jabba the Hutt. And it looks like Ace bit off a lot more than he could chew by confronting Blackbeard.

I really enjoy how Oda manages to continually raise the stakes not just for his main characters but for the world they live in.

Sure,