Aikyet
July 26, 2009, 12:25 PM
Seven Moments of One Piece
Chapter 551:
Yonkou Whitebeard
Hallo MangaHelpers! :)
Another week - another chapter. And strange but true - another my review. Last week I was very late. This week I managed to finish my review earlier.
This chapter wasn't introducing any shocking truths therefore it was a bit easier to write. Well, I did enjoy doing this :)
Please read, enjoy and comment :)
Again, pictures were taken from Binktopia (http://mangashare.com/dl/One-Piece_550/11800) scanslation.
Moment I
http://i32.tinypic.com/5l6k5g.jpg
You sure are going to feel that in the morning, Usoppun!
As usual, this chapter begins with a cover story, with the continuation, and, actually, conclusion of Usopp’s side story. A big finale, if you will. And god, how big, huge even, has Usopp become! Just look at him – he’s twice as high and four times fatter than his new friend Heraclesun who was equal to him only a week ago. And Kabuto, Usopp’s trusted weapon can serve him as his previous pachinko weapon.
I am no Usopp fan, so it is fun for me to see that Usopp, along with Sanji, got the joke end of the Mugiwara separation deal and once more proved training/power up idea invalid. And because Usopp’s story ends for now, we probably won’t be seeing him anytime soon. So will he turn back to his normal size or continue to grow to become a true warrior of the sea? I am quite certain about this- everything should get back to normal.
Next week – next Mugiwara. Who will it be – an almost eaten Chopper or learning to fly Nami? I’d put my money on the Mani Nami.
Moment II
http://i31.tinypic.com/2hef3pf.jpg
This smile. I can’t help it and begin to smile as well.
And now, to the actual chapter. It begins slowly showing the reactions of the common Shabondy folks and the uncommon press. I guess, the reaction fits the situation – no one would have guessed whose kid Ace is.
On the next page Oda uses the famous “flying camera” technique to burst in the Marinford plaza and to give us a view of shocked Marines and Shichibukai. With a big Don, of course.
And with Sengoku’s words still echoing above the crowd, Garp continues to experience his flashback, which started on the last page of the previous chapter. Roger, already behind jail, or should I say, gaol, bars, tells Garp about his soon to be born child. As I already have said in my last review attempt, the bond forged by these two rivals and enemies is as strong as the one between true friends. And Roger has thoroughly thought and found the best solution - and security for his future heir.
Also, you could have noticed how cheerful Roger is. Just look at his kind smile – even with his freedom taken away – which portrays him as a real human and not a far away legend.
And take a look at Garp – he is awesome now, but how awesome he was 22 years ago?
http://i27.tinypic.com/28wikqt.jpg
Hey Mama, I wanna scream so loud for you, cuz I'm so proud of you
But the flashback continues, and now we are at the island of Baterilla in South Blue where Portgas D. Rogue lived. We see Marines, ferociously hunting for the loved ones of the pirate King, mercilessly killing all suspicious mothers, children and pregnant women. I might be thinking to deep into this, but the search for the Heir of the King reminds me on the biblical “Massacre of Innocents” ordered by cruel Herod. One certain theme is forming quite a parallel, doesn’t it? Well, no matter the assumption, once again Oda shows us the atrocities of the World Government and makes us wonder, what in the world could Roger have accomplished?
However, Rouge endures all the times of hardships and finally, with Marines gone and suspicions cleared, she bears a child and names him Ace s his father had wanted ( Roger was a clever man – would Ace have been a girl – his name would have been Anne ). Having blessed her newborn child with bloody tears of love, Rouge passes away.
http://i31.tinypic.com/2h5nvjs.jpg
Yes, Luffy, from now on you are going to live in a circus.
Some time - around ten years, since Luffy already wears his scar and Shanks’ hat – later, we see an already gray-haired Garp who ahs brought his own grandchild Luffy to a certain person. This person is none other than Dadan ( who was mentioned for the first time in chapter 440 by Woopslap ), Garp’s friend and possibly something much more, but aside from his one exclamation, we don’t se anything of him. Also, we see a young Ace’s back who stares at Luffy. This is the beginning of their friendship and brotherhood – even though they know they aren’t blood related and share no heritage, it makes the strength of their bond even more impressing.
And as the logical conclusion to Garp’s flashback, we see his recent discussion with Ace in Impel Down. After this little flashback we understand how greatly Ace loved and respected Rouge and her sacrifice and why he chose her name to carry. And yet his bitter words towards Roger aren’t clear.
Moment III
http://i31.tinypic.com/107rzac.jpg
Sieg Heil!
As we see Garp doing a facepalm because Ace has turned out to be such a whining emo, Sengoku goes on with revelations. We learn that Ace has made it to the top not alone, but as a captain of the Spade Pirates – Ace of Spades? Not really original, Oda – he rapidly grew in fame and power. At that time Marines could realize who Ace actually is, but he reached New World by that time – and became a part of Whitebeard’s crew in order to make Newgate a new King.
Little did Ace know that Newgate recognized Roger’s son in him and decided to make him Pirate King instead. That sure is some irony, no, sarcasm of Life. And if you consider that Ace gets all of those facts in such an emotional state you can only feel sorry for the boy.
Sengoku explains that with the aid of Whitebeard, the son of Roger was fated to surely become Pirate King and the leader of the new era. Therefore World government must execute Ace at all cost – even though Whitebeard’s attack will become inevitable. Once more, such a statement makes you wonder what a man Roger was.
Moment IV
http://i26.tinypic.com/effgjo.jpg
Why oh why my God above!..
When Sengoku pauses his speech to take a drink, an urgent and unbelievable report is brought to him. The Gates of Justice are opening on their own! And on the other side of the Gates Luffy and his crew freeze in awe before the self opening Gates. Surely, it is the Heavens who favor one certain man – Buggy the Clown! Oh yes, Buggy is still ascending high – from a legendary pirate- to a godly prophet. I enjoy how Oda makes Buggy come through without him actually doing anything. And he won’t stop here – I seriously want to see Buggy being credited for some of the War losses. Though, Buggy has to consider, that from such heights he will have a long way to fall down.
On a more serious note, I still don’t understand who could have opened the gates if the control room is located in Marinford. All the possible traitors are still in place –if you mean Hancock, Kuma or Garp. Does it mean that Luffy has some more allies among Marine lines? Or New World pirates at fault here?..
Moment V
http://i29.tinypic.com/2uj30gg.jpg
Sunny-go is bigger than Merry-go, but you know, it won’t really matter if all New World ships are like that.
Wait, what New World pirates? Oh, those 43 ships that suddenly have appeared out of nowhere.
This was one of the surely unexpected steps of Oda and Whitebeard.
Ann allied fleet of New World pirates an total of 43 ships with infamous captains on board of each would be quite an useful asset in such a battle. With a whole fleet appearing around the isle of Marinford, Whitebeard has covered the gathered fleet of Marine battleships in order to not get distracted by them and to concentrate on the land forces. After such display of tactics, you understand they don’t call you a Yonkou for being a bishounen, right?
You won’t call these pirates bishounen as well, but Oda has done a good job with their design nonetheless. Take a look at them – these are one bizarre bunch. Ulqiuorra with a pet monkey, Gerard Depardieaux with lightning like moustache, huge and curly potato-nose man and many more. Their ships are creative and fun as well – pandas and giraffes, bulls and cthulhus – and still they manage to look powerful and menacing compared to Merry-go or Sunny-go.
However, I don’t really see them doing any leading roles in the coming War – for that purpose we will have Newgate himself.
Moment VI
http://i28.tinypic.com/2qmg382.jpg
... to the last I grapple with thee; from hell's heart I stab at thee; for hate's sake I spit my last breath at thee.
Speaking of which, where is The Strongest Man In The World himself? Or at least s ship of his?
Well, the storming waves and bubbles coming up from the water might be hinting at something. As well as Akainu’s ear which received 2 panels – not only to hint at someone’s arrival, but to prepare us for the powers of the last admiral.
And simply like that, without wasting anymore of our time, Whitebeard’s personal fleet rises up from the depths in the middle of the Marinford haven. The idea of coated ships was always out there – how else could have pirates travel from the New World to Marineford without passing through the Underater island? But really, I didn’t expect t to be executed so very effective – with this tactical move, Yonkou’s forces got marines encircled both from outside and inside. This is no easy task for Marines to break out of such a stranglehold.
What is really important, Whitebeard’s own ships sure have got some style – you have got to love those smiling whale heads which distinguish the colossal Moby Dick and 3 other ships. Also, this simply explains all the disappearing scout ships of Marines –the world of One Piece was only now introduced to underwater warfare by Whitebeard himself.
And returning to a previous moment, no, Whitebeard couldn’t have opened the Gates from under water. Even ignoring the possible physical impossibility of that feat, there is one other important point. Pirates simply came from the other direction and didn’t pass the Gates.
Moment VII
http://i27.tinypic.com/2qta8sh.jpg
Am I great? This moustache proves I am great!
As awesome Moby Dick can be, it is much more important who is on board of this and other ships: the 14 Division Commanders and all 1600 pirates of 16 Divisions of Whitebeard!
( You do remember that 2 missing commanders are Thatch killed by Teach and Ace beaten by Teach and waving from the execution platform at the moment? )
But what are those Commanders compared to the Legend Himself – Edward “The Whitebeard” Newgate is actually here on stage. For the first time in 11 years we see The Strongest Man In The World standing tall and proud before the gathered forces of Marines and us, readers, talking to Sengoku like to an old buddy of his.
To tell the truth, we all know for sure this scene doesn’t need any commentaries – Whitebeard is here, he has his terrifying kwan do spear lance weapon and he is going to be all kinds of awesome right here and right now for a long time of this War. And we know for sure that after such a sight many Marines will have to wash their pants – well, only after this all is over and they are alive.
The Legendary Rival of the Pirate King has come. Thou shall be amazed, mortal!
Even Ace welcomes his old man with awe and fear – he does realize how hard it will be for him when all of this is over.
No, actually, change that “when” to this “if” – and we come to the conclusion.
Conclusion
Once again, we get a superb exposition chapter by Oda. Both of the fighting sides have arrived to the scene of the War. After the formal greetings and insults, The War will eventually begin. In the meantime, Luffy with his prison crew are going to arrive as well. With Oda’s current pace it shouldn’t take more than 2-3 chapters.
Also, we have gotten quite a meaningful although short flashback which did some explaining and some grounding for the next one to come. Roger was displayed as a real flesh human and A Legend even more, Rouge was really beautiful and brave while Ace was whining like usual.
In my view, this chapter had something in it, even more of it than the previous one.
It makes you excited and gives you a strange feeling: The War Has Come.
Am I right?
Bonus Moment
No Pandaman this week. Sad but true.
Although the pwngoat is there. How could he not? His old rival, Whitebread, is here!
http://i25.tinypic.com/5u3v6.jpg
However, I want to dedicate the bonus Moment of this review to another detail and another character – Portgas D. Rouge.
Look at the sixth page. We see the house of Ace’s mother – Rouge. And before the house we see a flower blooming at Ace’s birthday – when the marines are gone and Roger’s son is safe. This flower is none other than Rouge Cardinal which Rouge has worn in her hair.
Truly beautiful. I love Oda for those details.
http://i26.tinypic.com/28mg5cn.jpg
Thanks for reading and feel free to comment! Feel very free, don’t be shy, comment!
Obligatory P.S. As you can see, I am not a native english speaker. Fell free to bash me for my mistakes :)
Chapter 551:
Yonkou Whitebeard
Hallo MangaHelpers! :)
Another week - another chapter. And strange but true - another my review. Last week I was very late. This week I managed to finish my review earlier.
This chapter wasn't introducing any shocking truths therefore it was a bit easier to write. Well, I did enjoy doing this :)
Please read, enjoy and comment :)
Again, pictures were taken from Binktopia (http://mangashare.com/dl/One-Piece_550/11800) scanslation.
Moment I
http://i32.tinypic.com/5l6k5g.jpg
You sure are going to feel that in the morning, Usoppun!
As usual, this chapter begins with a cover story, with the continuation, and, actually, conclusion of Usopp’s side story. A big finale, if you will. And god, how big, huge even, has Usopp become! Just look at him – he’s twice as high and four times fatter than his new friend Heraclesun who was equal to him only a week ago. And Kabuto, Usopp’s trusted weapon can serve him as his previous pachinko weapon.
I am no Usopp fan, so it is fun for me to see that Usopp, along with Sanji, got the joke end of the Mugiwara separation deal and once more proved training/power up idea invalid. And because Usopp’s story ends for now, we probably won’t be seeing him anytime soon. So will he turn back to his normal size or continue to grow to become a true warrior of the sea? I am quite certain about this- everything should get back to normal.
Next week – next Mugiwara. Who will it be – an almost eaten Chopper or learning to fly Nami? I’d put my money on the Mani Nami.
Moment II
http://i31.tinypic.com/2hef3pf.jpg
This smile. I can’t help it and begin to smile as well.
And now, to the actual chapter. It begins slowly showing the reactions of the common Shabondy folks and the uncommon press. I guess, the reaction fits the situation – no one would have guessed whose kid Ace is.
On the next page Oda uses the famous “flying camera” technique to burst in the Marinford plaza and to give us a view of shocked Marines and Shichibukai. With a big Don, of course.
And with Sengoku’s words still echoing above the crowd, Garp continues to experience his flashback, which started on the last page of the previous chapter. Roger, already behind jail, or should I say, gaol, bars, tells Garp about his soon to be born child. As I already have said in my last review attempt, the bond forged by these two rivals and enemies is as strong as the one between true friends. And Roger has thoroughly thought and found the best solution - and security for his future heir.
Also, you could have noticed how cheerful Roger is. Just look at his kind smile – even with his freedom taken away – which portrays him as a real human and not a far away legend.
And take a look at Garp – he is awesome now, but how awesome he was 22 years ago?
http://i27.tinypic.com/28wikqt.jpg
Hey Mama, I wanna scream so loud for you, cuz I'm so proud of you
But the flashback continues, and now we are at the island of Baterilla in South Blue where Portgas D. Rogue lived. We see Marines, ferociously hunting for the loved ones of the pirate King, mercilessly killing all suspicious mothers, children and pregnant women. I might be thinking to deep into this, but the search for the Heir of the King reminds me on the biblical “Massacre of Innocents” ordered by cruel Herod. One certain theme is forming quite a parallel, doesn’t it? Well, no matter the assumption, once again Oda shows us the atrocities of the World Government and makes us wonder, what in the world could Roger have accomplished?
However, Rouge endures all the times of hardships and finally, with Marines gone and suspicions cleared, she bears a child and names him Ace s his father had wanted ( Roger was a clever man – would Ace have been a girl – his name would have been Anne ). Having blessed her newborn child with bloody tears of love, Rouge passes away.
http://i31.tinypic.com/2h5nvjs.jpg
Yes, Luffy, from now on you are going to live in a circus.
Some time - around ten years, since Luffy already wears his scar and Shanks’ hat – later, we see an already gray-haired Garp who ahs brought his own grandchild Luffy to a certain person. This person is none other than Dadan ( who was mentioned for the first time in chapter 440 by Woopslap ), Garp’s friend and possibly something much more, but aside from his one exclamation, we don’t se anything of him. Also, we see a young Ace’s back who stares at Luffy. This is the beginning of their friendship and brotherhood – even though they know they aren’t blood related and share no heritage, it makes the strength of their bond even more impressing.
And as the logical conclusion to Garp’s flashback, we see his recent discussion with Ace in Impel Down. After this little flashback we understand how greatly Ace loved and respected Rouge and her sacrifice and why he chose her name to carry. And yet his bitter words towards Roger aren’t clear.
Moment III
http://i31.tinypic.com/107rzac.jpg
Sieg Heil!
As we see Garp doing a facepalm because Ace has turned out to be such a whining emo, Sengoku goes on with revelations. We learn that Ace has made it to the top not alone, but as a captain of the Spade Pirates – Ace of Spades? Not really original, Oda – he rapidly grew in fame and power. At that time Marines could realize who Ace actually is, but he reached New World by that time – and became a part of Whitebeard’s crew in order to make Newgate a new King.
Little did Ace know that Newgate recognized Roger’s son in him and decided to make him Pirate King instead. That sure is some irony, no, sarcasm of Life. And if you consider that Ace gets all of those facts in such an emotional state you can only feel sorry for the boy.
Sengoku explains that with the aid of Whitebeard, the son of Roger was fated to surely become Pirate King and the leader of the new era. Therefore World government must execute Ace at all cost – even though Whitebeard’s attack will become inevitable. Once more, such a statement makes you wonder what a man Roger was.
Moment IV
http://i26.tinypic.com/effgjo.jpg
Why oh why my God above!..
When Sengoku pauses his speech to take a drink, an urgent and unbelievable report is brought to him. The Gates of Justice are opening on their own! And on the other side of the Gates Luffy and his crew freeze in awe before the self opening Gates. Surely, it is the Heavens who favor one certain man – Buggy the Clown! Oh yes, Buggy is still ascending high – from a legendary pirate- to a godly prophet. I enjoy how Oda makes Buggy come through without him actually doing anything. And he won’t stop here – I seriously want to see Buggy being credited for some of the War losses. Though, Buggy has to consider, that from such heights he will have a long way to fall down.
On a more serious note, I still don’t understand who could have opened the gates if the control room is located in Marinford. All the possible traitors are still in place –if you mean Hancock, Kuma or Garp. Does it mean that Luffy has some more allies among Marine lines? Or New World pirates at fault here?..
Moment V
http://i29.tinypic.com/2uj30gg.jpg
Sunny-go is bigger than Merry-go, but you know, it won’t really matter if all New World ships are like that.
Wait, what New World pirates? Oh, those 43 ships that suddenly have appeared out of nowhere.
This was one of the surely unexpected steps of Oda and Whitebeard.
Ann allied fleet of New World pirates an total of 43 ships with infamous captains on board of each would be quite an useful asset in such a battle. With a whole fleet appearing around the isle of Marinford, Whitebeard has covered the gathered fleet of Marine battleships in order to not get distracted by them and to concentrate on the land forces. After such display of tactics, you understand they don’t call you a Yonkou for being a bishounen, right?
You won’t call these pirates bishounen as well, but Oda has done a good job with their design nonetheless. Take a look at them – these are one bizarre bunch. Ulqiuorra with a pet monkey, Gerard Depardieaux with lightning like moustache, huge and curly potato-nose man and many more. Their ships are creative and fun as well – pandas and giraffes, bulls and cthulhus – and still they manage to look powerful and menacing compared to Merry-go or Sunny-go.
However, I don’t really see them doing any leading roles in the coming War – for that purpose we will have Newgate himself.
Moment VI
http://i28.tinypic.com/2qmg382.jpg
... to the last I grapple with thee; from hell's heart I stab at thee; for hate's sake I spit my last breath at thee.
Speaking of which, where is The Strongest Man In The World himself? Or at least s ship of his?
Well, the storming waves and bubbles coming up from the water might be hinting at something. As well as Akainu’s ear which received 2 panels – not only to hint at someone’s arrival, but to prepare us for the powers of the last admiral.
And simply like that, without wasting anymore of our time, Whitebeard’s personal fleet rises up from the depths in the middle of the Marinford haven. The idea of coated ships was always out there – how else could have pirates travel from the New World to Marineford without passing through the Underater island? But really, I didn’t expect t to be executed so very effective – with this tactical move, Yonkou’s forces got marines encircled both from outside and inside. This is no easy task for Marines to break out of such a stranglehold.
What is really important, Whitebeard’s own ships sure have got some style – you have got to love those smiling whale heads which distinguish the colossal Moby Dick and 3 other ships. Also, this simply explains all the disappearing scout ships of Marines –the world of One Piece was only now introduced to underwater warfare by Whitebeard himself.
And returning to a previous moment, no, Whitebeard couldn’t have opened the Gates from under water. Even ignoring the possible physical impossibility of that feat, there is one other important point. Pirates simply came from the other direction and didn’t pass the Gates.
Moment VII
http://i27.tinypic.com/2qta8sh.jpg
Am I great? This moustache proves I am great!
As awesome Moby Dick can be, it is much more important who is on board of this and other ships: the 14 Division Commanders and all 1600 pirates of 16 Divisions of Whitebeard!
( You do remember that 2 missing commanders are Thatch killed by Teach and Ace beaten by Teach and waving from the execution platform at the moment? )
But what are those Commanders compared to the Legend Himself – Edward “The Whitebeard” Newgate is actually here on stage. For the first time in 11 years we see The Strongest Man In The World standing tall and proud before the gathered forces of Marines and us, readers, talking to Sengoku like to an old buddy of his.
To tell the truth, we all know for sure this scene doesn’t need any commentaries – Whitebeard is here, he has his terrifying kwan do spear lance weapon and he is going to be all kinds of awesome right here and right now for a long time of this War. And we know for sure that after such a sight many Marines will have to wash their pants – well, only after this all is over and they are alive.
The Legendary Rival of the Pirate King has come. Thou shall be amazed, mortal!
Even Ace welcomes his old man with awe and fear – he does realize how hard it will be for him when all of this is over.
No, actually, change that “when” to this “if” – and we come to the conclusion.
Conclusion
Once again, we get a superb exposition chapter by Oda. Both of the fighting sides have arrived to the scene of the War. After the formal greetings and insults, The War will eventually begin. In the meantime, Luffy with his prison crew are going to arrive as well. With Oda’s current pace it shouldn’t take more than 2-3 chapters.
Also, we have gotten quite a meaningful although short flashback which did some explaining and some grounding for the next one to come. Roger was displayed as a real flesh human and A Legend even more, Rouge was really beautiful and brave while Ace was whining like usual.
In my view, this chapter had something in it, even more of it than the previous one.
It makes you excited and gives you a strange feeling: The War Has Come.
Am I right?
Bonus Moment
No Pandaman this week. Sad but true.
Although the pwngoat is there. How could he not? His old rival, Whitebread, is here!
http://i25.tinypic.com/5u3v6.jpg
However, I want to dedicate the bonus Moment of this review to another detail and another character – Portgas D. Rouge.
Look at the sixth page. We see the house of Ace’s mother – Rouge. And before the house we see a flower blooming at Ace’s birthday – when the marines are gone and Roger’s son is safe. This flower is none other than Rouge Cardinal which Rouge has worn in her hair.
Truly beautiful. I love Oda for those details.
http://i26.tinypic.com/28mg5cn.jpg
Thanks for reading and feel free to comment! Feel very free, don’t be shy, comment!
Obligatory P.S. As you can see, I am not a native english speaker. Fell free to bash me for my mistakes :)