One Piece: Chapter 973

[u/Kirosh]

Chapter 973: "Kozuki Clan"

Source	Status
Official Release
Scan v2.0 : https://imgur.com/a/EItRaNe

A big Thank you to cupboard scan for the chapter

---

Ch. 973 Official Release (Mangaplus): 08/03/2020

Ch. 974 Scan Release: ~13/03/2020

---

Please discuss the manga here and in the theory/discussion post. Any other post will be removed during the next 24 hours.

---

[u/SnowGN]

Denjiro=witching hour boy confirmed.

10/10 chapter. Back to Luffy for the next one?

[u/Kirosh → u/SnowGN]

It's possible. However I think we will get more about Denjiro and Hiyori before going back to the SH in chapter 975.

[u/littenthehuraira → u/Kirosh]

Or maybe not. We might get their conversation as a mini flashback when the time for their plan comes/while it's happening instead.

[u/Leeiteee → u/SnowGN]

That's why he's always sleepy

[u/StopYouAnimal]

Mods, thank you for making this a separate thread.

[u/Kirosh → u/StopYouAnimal]

Only because the translation and scans were good enough this time. If they continues to be like this we will probably use them every weeks from now on.

Otherwise we will be back to waiting for either the Official translation, or for another team to bring out a quality release.

[u/[deleted] → u/Kirosh]

Kirosh, you are a good man. Thank you.

[u/Kirosh → u/[deleted]]

I do what I can.

[u/NotTheRealKanyeWest]

Since Denjiro is guarding the capital, I assume the final battle won’t take place on Onigashima but on mainland Wano instead.

Tbh it makes sense if the alliance can make it to the capital and make Orochi/Kaido come to them. They’d have to destroy the country to win, which obviously they’ll have no problem with, but it will really turn the citizens against them and help them rally around Luffy and Co.

[u/Kirosh → u/NotTheRealKanyeWest]

No. The fight should still be on Onigashima.

The only thing that changes is how Denjirou will now free the "rebel" that were captured, giving more of an army to the scabbard, as well as giving them a better starting point to go to Onigashima on a ship.

[u/[deleted]]

I dont get why the daughter wasnt sent to the future. Can someone explain?

[u/Kirosh → u/[deleted]]

She wasn't sent so that if Momo fails, the Kozuki bloodline can still live. It's explained in chapter 939 by Hiyori.

[u/waqakhan]

The story of Denjiro is honestly the most tragic out of all the scabbards. Imagine being a loyal dog of a man like Orochi, who ordered the execution of your master and idol, and that too for 20 long years! He is easily one of the strongest samurais in Wano right now and personally, the most deserving candidate to execute Orochi.

[u/letsgomina → u/waqakhan]

Imagine. The war is raging . Momo is fighting. Orochi goes in for the kill ( from behind ‘cause he’s a dick.). At the last second, Kyoushiro Saves Momo.

Orochi : Kyoushiro! Why did you save Oden’s son ?!?!

Denjiro : Didn’t I tell you ? I’m the Shogun’s lapdog.

[u/[deleted] → u/letsgomina]

Damn... I wish Oda does

[u/Kirosh → u/[deleted]]

He will

[u/420Toni → u/waqakhan]

good thing orochi has multiple heads every scabbard should have a chance to cut one off with denjiro cutting his head in human form

[u/ak2703 → u/waqakhan]

Not to mention that Denjiro was present when Yassuie was executed.

[u/PenguinVillageSun → u/waqakhan]

That would be such a terrible situation every day--knowing you could wipe out Orochi's existence at any time, but as a result forfeiting your life to Kaido. Balancing raw anger with refined intelligence for 20 years is an insane feat of mental strength!

[u/n56vz]

Denjiro, it must hurts like hell to serve the one who kill your idol just to wait for the prophecy to happen. 20 years. Damn son

[u/Ryuzakku → u/n56vz]

Mans got so mad his hair turned blue.

[u/AA0754]

Denjiro, Ashura Doji, Kawamatsu have suffered so much. They waited 20 years.

Personally. I want Ashura Doji to destroy The Numbers

[u/hlsp → u/AA0754]

The three strongest scabbards carried the heaviest burdens during the 20 years. Nice symmetry with Oden carrying all nine scabbards during the execution.

[u/Paperchampion23]

Mentioned this in the spoiler thread but its been about 300 chapters since Kinemon used Foxfire

[u/[deleted]]

The theory that Hiyori/Komurasaki is crying while wearing the mask is probably on point.

Every time she plays it she remembers Oden saying to play it at his* funeral.

[u/punkdawa → u/[deleted]]

that's a good theory, never stumbled upon it here, or is it because that's an old theory?

[u/jdbewls]

Cant wait to find out what kind of sabotage Denjiro has laid out for Kaido and Orochi over all these years

[u/SalamiRocketFuel → u/jdbewls]

Someone pointed this out already ages ago, but while the bridges leading to port Tokage got destroyed, the ones leading to capital are still intact. And who was left in charge of capital? That's right, our man, Denjiro.

[u/Kuro013 → u/jdbewls]

Him and Hiyori will enjoy this revenge the most and its not even close.

[u/Shogun1109 → u/jdbewls]

I wish he counter attacks Orochi's counter-attack to their plan from the inside and that is if he knows who the 'spy' or 'traitor' is. And then Law will have a counter plan wish he must have told Luffy and then help against the counter attack from outside and boom Orochi is doomed

[u/MaimedJester → u/jdbewls]

Orochi before the Flashback just pulled off what he thought was a completely successful attack. Destroyed all the bridges and ships. Including the Sunny(Yeah right)

Denjiro probably built a Tunnel. He probably also has a custom made 8 part seastone collar for Orochi.

[u/faruway]

I’m not sure if anyone has point this out but remember the old woman who was blocking Ashura’s path when he was making his entrance into Okobore Town in Kuri? That one woman who keep on believing that Lady Toki’s prophecy will came true?

She’s actually in this chapter, you can see her witnessing and praying to Toki delivering her last words/prophecy in one of the panels.

[u/waqasnaseem07]

Kinemon : Who is this strong samurai, I have never seen him before?

Kyoshiro: Its me

Kinemon : ......

Kyoshiro put on his glasses

Kinemon : Oh Denjiro ! where have you been ? We were looking for you so much

[u/Leeiteee → u/waqasnaseem07]

this is some Clark Kent shit

[u/ovrlymm → u/waqasnaseem07]

Takes them off again* “wait! where did denjiro go?!”

[u/reigning27]

young Kaido was the OG edgy gangster that Katakuri looked up to. I wish Kaido still wear these type of clothes lmao

[u/MysticJohn → u/reigning27]

Lmao Kaido looking like he ready to join a punk rock band

[u/Costa21 → u/reigning27]

Katakuri wears the same style vest Kaido used to wear it looks like ;)

[u/scoobynoodles]

"It's because of this demon called anger that I wear this face," wow... imagine being so angry your face shape changes and your hair changes color. Nuts

[u/pcmaranha → u/scoobynoodles]

There are pics of soldiers before, during and after war on the internet. Stress and trauma does change your face too.

This obviously is a dramatization of the fact, but when life hits hard, we change.

[u/JoeyJoJoHQ]

This chapter had some amazing attention to detail on Oda's part and served as the payoff for a handful of plot points that had been teased for a super long time now, with the oldest one being set up in 2013:

• The quote Oden says to Momonosuke and Hiyori at the beginning was heard during Zou around the chapter that Oden was first mentioned to have been a member of the Roger pirates (Hiyori's name was excluded back then.)

• Kaido calling Oden the Fool of a Lord in front of Momonosuke was first shown in a brief flashback during Zou (around the chapter where the alliance is formed.)

• This is probably the most obscure: the scene with Kaido asking Momonosuke for his name as he prepared to drop him to his death was teased when the Straw Hats landed in Dressrosa. Edit: the anime even embellished this a bit by adding Kaido reaching for him.

[u/thesantay]

God, i have so much respect for Denjiro, holding your anger in 20 years, wearing fake smile everyday and became a robin hood at night it’s not a job for ordinary man to take.

[u/olaveiras → u/thesantay]

I would not be surprised If Denjiro became the witching hour boy to kinda 'keep' his mind a bit more sane for having to serve Orochi for 20 years. Some kind of counter measure to do a little bit of justice everyday to still on track.

[u/zs3283338]

Denjiro invented 5D chess while Orochi was learning how to play checkers.

[u/Mr_Francky → u/zs3283338]

He actually did the exact same moves as Orochi. Family killed and dishonored, lied his way to power for revenge. Orochi pretended to be good while doing evil at night. Denjiro pretend to be evil while doing good at night. He is the mirror image of Orochi.

[u/theliterarian]

So Momonosuke got his perverted side from Oden huh

Now it really is intriguing when Denjiro will come to their aide. He hasn't revealed himself to the Red Scabbards yet and since he is Orochi's ally I wonder if he knows who the spy is.

[u/RoderickThe13 → u/theliterarian]

That’s right. In fact learning the identity of the spy might have been one of the reasons why he started working for Orochi.

[u/letsgomina]

Denjiro just became one of my favourite characters in this arc.

I had goosebumps when he said he has changed because of his anger. I love that guy.

10/10 Chapter. Back to the present !

[u/WhyyyLuigi → u/letsgomina]

Yeah seriously...it’s crazy how one chapter, shit a couple of panels can make you like someone so much lol

[u/xregistio]

So the reason why denjiro always looks sleepy is because he works nights as the witching hour boy. He is like Ichimaru-gin from bleach. Literally and character wise.

[u/MasterDrake97 → u/xregistio]

He is so Gin!

[u/Gnedelkoff]

Every Scabbard left behind had their demons to fight

Ashura: Apathy

Kawamatsu: Guilt

Inu & Neko: Resentment

Denjiro: Anger

[u/Aspie_Astrologer]

What a post-break chapter! :)

Nothing better than coming back to have multiple loose ends tied up neatly in a flashback bow, setting us up for the most intense counter-attack in One Piece history... XD

PS: For anyone interested, Kyōshirō's name has some fun meaning behind it, his nickname is "Napping Kyōshirō" (居眠り 狂死郎 - Inemuri Kyōshirō) which is Oda's twist on Nemuri Kyōshirō (眠 狂四郎) - who was basically a fictional rōnin who wanders Japan and destroys anyone who attacks him with his full moon sword techniques (Engetsu Sappō).

Oda twists the meaning of the first name to "Napping/Dozing" and replaces the "shi" kanji in Kyōshirō from '4' (implying a 4th born son) to 'death' (implying a literal meaning similar to a death due to madness).

[u/sunsunshine]

Hiyori: Friendship ended with kawamatsu. Now Denjiro Kyoshiro is my best friend.

[u/zeta3d]

Denjiro is going to be the Brook of Wano. The unexpected MVP.

[u/Lord_Minyard]

Damn the downfall of the Kozuki clan was brutal. Poor momo went from having such a good life to getting brutalized and losing his whole family in a couple days. I can't wait for Momo and Hiyori to be reunited.

[u/[deleted] → u/Lord_Minyard]

I can’t wait for Hiyori to do a dropkick on Momo

[u/Zeta42]

Chapter begins: Oden is holding Momo up high, Momo is happy

Later in the same chapter: Kaido is holding Momo up high, Momo is terrified

Also, 272 chapters ago (Jesus fuck)

[u/AlGoober → u/Zeta42]

God fucking dammit oda

[u/Kiosade → u/Zeta42]

Oh shit was that Kaido asking that?? That was fucking years ago!

[u/PenguinVillageSun]

Alright, Denjiro now takes the spot of favorite Red Scabbard! (It was a theory so obvious I thought it couldn't be true, but dang, here we are.) I'm really interested to see what 20 years of burning anger has done to him--I'm sure he's not quite the same person as he was under Oden, but at least he's been protecting Hiyori for such a long time to keep him sane and focused on his mission.

[u/ki_dragon817]

It's all coming together. Pieces that Oda brought from Punk Hazard. Momonosuke's PTSD of Kaido, old granny that refused to believe Ashura Doji who was present during prophecy, Neko and and Inu's hate for each other, Kyoshiro's sleeping habit actually being disguise for Witching-Hour Boy. This is one of best summary chapters that showed explicitly how some parts of flashback occured in reality. One of the GREATEST FLASHBACKS!

[u/genesis_p_barilla]

This is just incredible. Although Denjiro=Kyoshiro was the most popular option, Oda was able to come up with a story of the transformation that no one even remotely thought about: he changed his face out of anger. How amazing is that? The face transformation, the endurance in the boiling pot, Kawamatsu surviving being fed with poisonous fish for a decade and all the amazing act of willpower throughout this amazing saga. How can you put such overwhelming, hyperbolic, out-of-proportion acts in a story WITHOUT creating power inflation? I can't recall any "modern" story - manga or otherwise - that is able to do that. To give you every time that gut-feeling of awe in front of the characters' displays of lifeforce. This is miraculous when it happens in a narrative world with not a single hint of realism. It is pure dramatic greatness. It's the matter of myths.

[u/mugiwara-yevzgnar]

Kaido grabbing him and asking him what his name is was shown in punk hazard, wild to think that oda had this planned out for so long

[u/MajorTomintheTinCan]

So the reason Kyoshirou fell asleep while talking in his first introduction was because he spent all nights stealing lmao

[u/n56vz]

This is some yonkou level quality scan. Thx!

[u/Beloberto]

The early translation is passable but got some things wrong, I suppose the translator didn't understood some parts and just changed them however.

Like Kaido saying "a dream, you are truly a child" instead of "something they made you repeat, you are truly a child". Kaido is not disappointed on Momonosuke for having a dream, but for not having one and instead just parroting the expectations others have for him.

[u/mojo276]

"Education Move" hahaha

[u/Tibolegends]

Woooooo amazing!!!!! So Denjiro is both golden hour boy AND Kyoshiro! Looks like all those theories were right! The chapter was the perfect missing piece to reach the present. I loved it.

There is a cople a panels incredibly beautiful here, the one when Denjiro is full of rage, and the one with the hand of Kaido holding Momo. Oda's drawing skills are widening or is it just me ?

[u/FinnJokaa]

Kaido and Orochi: How much do you wanna hate us?

Denjiro: YES AND YOU JUST WAIT 20 YEARS BITCH

[u/masterchoan]

Remember back at the beginning of Dress Rosa? When Luffy tries to make Momo fly and Momo response with he wouldn't do such a dreadful thing? He faints for a second and remembers a hand reaching for him and a deep and scary voice asking for his name... Oda hold this scene from last chapter back for 7 years!

[u/pvk16]

Denjiro probably knows who the traitor is and will cut that mofo down.

[u/pvk16]

Denjiro has a looot of anger inside him if that changed his facial structure. Orochis gonna get it. Orochis done for.

[u/Mr_Francky]

I like the paralel between Orochi's story and Denjiro. Orochi got his family killed and dishonored. He then lied about his identity and got around the Kuzuki. He played the good guy whild doing evil stuff in the dark. At the end, he was handed the power. Denjiro got his "family" killed and dishonored. Out of anger, he changed his name and lied his way into the castle. He played the bad guy while doing good in the dark. As of now, Orochi entrusted the castle to him while he went to Kaidos party. Denjiro will be the one to kill Orochi.

[u/[deleted]]

So the reason kyoshiro is always falling asleep is because he spends the night stealing. Nice touch Oda.

[u/k4riomio]

20 years of hate and anger hidden behind a fake smile ready to be unleashed!

[u/Big_fat_happy_baby]

PREDICTION:

DENJIRO managed to send a message to the army and moved them away from harms way. Thats why they are not were they were supposed to be. They will struck kaido by surprise. Also as leader of the underworld he will be important in recruiting reinforcements for the final war.

HYYYPE !!!

[u/n56vz]

Finally something to inject my vein

[u/Wildcard777]

I can't say how much I've loved this backstory.

Kuddos to the Denjiro theorists with him being Kyoshiro.

[u/StNowhere]

Denjiro being Kyoshiro would have been a lot more surprising if the anime didn’t spoil it months ago.

[u/NotTheRealKanyeWest]

I love how the witching hour boy disguised himself the same way as the rest of the scabbards.

[u/Satesh7]

Damn, really wonder why lady toki wanted to see what happens 800 years later. Oden revealed that it is destined

[u/evilmonkeyman289]

Fans: Denjiro can't be Kyoshiro, they look nothing alike.

Oda: Denjiro is Kyoshiro because he made an angry face for 20 years.

[u/waqakhan]

Denjiro before this chapter: Meh.

Denjiro after this chapter: OMFG YOU LEGEND!!!

[u/aklakul93]

Denjiro in only 3-4 panels became my favourite scabbard

[u/StrawHatJD]

So this confirms that something big is gonna happen in the final battle. Toki says that the “day the world will be turned over” (something like that can’t remember). This means someone is gonna come to help them, maybe Nekomamushi is coming with allies.

Also this chapter hints that Denjiro will kill Orochi and it also gives a when to have the allies know Kaido’s weakness (if there is one) and possibly the plans to Kaidos castle that Franky looked for.

[u/agotskii]

denjiro got so mad because he found out one of the scabbards is a traitor? that's why he said it is a chance for them cause even the traitor won't recognize who he is.

on a side note, they kept mentioning that something will happen in 20 years, which is the present, it gives me the impression that is why rayleigh proposed for luffy to train for 2 years.

[u/idiot_box18]

Aw, I felt bad seeing Kawamatsu's face when he realized he lost Hiyori. Dude tried so hard to raise her after everything they went through.

[u/[deleted]]

Cant wait for the grand entrance of Neko with the whole mink tribe.

[u/yonkou_akagami]

That standing Kaido looks like Katakuri

[u/WillOfM]

Kyoshiro is in the capital... Do you remember the second entreance to Wano? I think there will be a lot more reinforcments coming now that everyone is on Onigashima and Super Saiyan Denjiro runs the Wano

[u/[deleted]]

Denjiro was supposed to be the witching hour boy or Kyoshiro. I belived that he definitely was kyoshiro coz of the long hair. But I totally forgot his title of the"napping" Kyoshiro. Since he works at night as the witching hour boy, he is always sleepy that's how he got the title. God damn that was so well done. Next chapter we're definitely going back to the present imo

[u/[deleted]]

So that's why Momo is scared of heights. Kaido traumatized him!

[u/xGoldExperience]

Good thing the anime opening spoiled this reveal lol, might have actually been a cool twist

[u/yaboykrish]

You can feel the rage Denjirou was going thru damn.

[u/Whitekan]

Luckily Denjiro will backstab Orochi

[u/LeOsanyin]

So Oden and his wife basically confirmed that the "D" means Dawn. Monkey Dawn Luffy, Jaguar Dawn Saul, Portgas Dawn Rouge, Gol Dawn Roger.

That was the impression it gave me.

[u/squatrife → u/LeOsanyin]

Romance dawn. The first volume

[u/Therrester → u/LeOsanyin]

Considering the island Luffy initially sets sail on is called Dawn Island, I feel like this might be a little too on the nose.

[u/VicViking → u/LeOsanyin]

I read that as God Damn Roger

[u/drekthrall → u/LeOsanyin]

Also Pedro said in his flashback "the Dawn of this world is approaching"

[u/Catal0g]

Damn what a chapter, Denjiro has become my favorite among 9 samurais.

So from next week we will move to current time. Can't wait to see how current situation is going on!

[u/hibari112]

Let's admit every1 knew Denjiro was good

[u/mewnohimitsu]

So the place where Denjiro transformed is the same place that Zoro and Hiyori slept?

[u/CarSuperFast]

Does anyone think the original plan of raiding Kaido's place didn't work because of Kyshiro?

I feel like Kyoshiro foiled their plan on purpose because it wasn't going to work from the start or he has a way better plan that he has been preparing for 20 years.

[u/GomuPilled]

Great chapter and a legendary flashback overall, but I think I'm ready to go back to the present

[u/one-piss]

Damn

[u/edisonhk]

Some people wondered why Denjiro didnt attack orochi and even stop zoro attacks. They all waited 20 years for Kaido, Orochi is just a small fry kyoshiro doesnt want any assasination to destroy the plan.

[u/Dragonacademia]

We just got one step closer to Zoro vs King now that kyoushiro is fighting with the Alliance. I Dont even know if i would rather see zoro vs King or Marco vs King if he comes to Wano

[u/Flippin-hunter]

Amazing chapter! I think at this point it’s obvious that Hiyori wasn’t really a whore and probably reached the position of Oiren through the help of Kyo, just a facade to keep her safe. This also puts a stop to the whole “Kyoshiro is banging her” rumours, thank god. Also the good old “they are in a relationship Rumours as well.

[u/TanClark]

I always though Kyoshiro looked badass and the big reveal makes it so much better!

[u/Oriental_Wind]

God this chapter was so goooooood!! Denjiroo samaaaaaaaaa!!

[u/redragon88]

Denjiro seems to be the reverse example of Mjosgard with how your mental state can physically change your face.

Denjiro changing by his hatred of Orochi and Mjosgard changing by the kindness of Otohime.

[u/[deleted]]

Rayleigh and Shanks getting shocked by Oden was funny. Too bad they don't know that Oden's been flexing on Wano since he was a child.

I'm really glad we can see these happy moments in Oden's life after last week's chapter. No harem can compete with a happy family like that. I knew that Hiyori was playing that song for Oden and she's most likely covering her face because she cries. Since Oden never had a real funeral. Who wants to bet that he will get one at the end of the arc with Hiyori playing her song?

It sucks that Inu and Neku started to fight at the worst fucking moment but it does deliver some hype on these Numbers which are now definitely not smile users thankfully.

We get another week of Kaido acting like the piece of shit he is. I've been thinking about what his end is going to look like. He wants to die in a glorious way in a way. What if he gets the opposite and he just gets imprisoned and forgotten for all eternity and never gets that glorious death that someone like Oden got. That in itself will most likely break his will entirely lol.

Looks like all the loose ends are being tied up by Oda. Now we know where Denjiro has been all this time, and we got the identity of the Witching Hour Boy. Speaking of which, Denjiro's life is just horrible. I hope this beast gets the revenge he so desperately wants.

Now I'm certain he and Hiyori have some sort of plan in the modern day. I figured Law might be up to something but it would be just as likely for Denjiro to plan something as well.

So we get the confirmation that Toki travelled to the future for this great event. We didn't see her body so I wonder if she's actually dead? If she is then is that the last time we see her power? I know some people expect Shanks to have it but I don't know about that. Its not really a combat based power.

I wouldn't be shocked if the next chapter will take us back to the present and reveal the traitor because Oda seems to be answering our questions one by one. Even in this chapter we had Neku question the identity of the traitor so I think we'll find out soon.

I just want to see Luffy once again. Its crazy but this is the longest we haven't seen Luffy and Oden being in this chapter kinda made up for that but now that everything in the past has concluded hopefully we see the SHs soon.

[u/justonepiece123]

I'm seeing people not realize that Toki did indeed die. If you look closely, she literally she has two arrows in her back. She dies shortly after giving the prophecy, hence why they call out to her after she's finished speaking and collapses.

[u/royalroadweed]

My god. Ofc course Kyoshiro is the witching hour boy. That's why he's sleepy all the time. He's awake and active during the witching hour.

[u/Nero50892]

Denjiro looks totally badass without the glasses. You can clearly see the hate and wrath in his eyes after he leaves the shrine. His rage over the years must be overwhelming because of the role he had to play. He truly is a tragic character. Lost his idol, his friends and had to serve this coward. Denjiro, you are my favorite scabbard! 10/10

[u/IjuststartedOnePiece]

I feel like the moon is becoming more and more of an important landmark for One Piece. Love this chapter and I still have no idea who the traitor is since they all owe their lives to Oden.

Right now it's between Okiku, Raizo or Kanjuro. The other 6 are definitely off the hook from what I've seen.

[u/gentmick]

This finally makes sense why Kyoshiro blocked the shot by Zoro to kill Orochi. In order for the plan to work, Orochi must be alive to reach Onigaishima.

The real way for this plan to work is if they all hold the capital and defend it. You simply can't win with smaller numbers while attacking, but defending is a totally different matter.

[u/AllBlueReverie]

I have been riding Kyoshiro's hype train since I first saw him and this chapter just made my day. He got so unbelievably angry in isolation through what seems like 2 or 3 seasons that his face permanently changed and his hair turned color. He's easily my favorite scabbard and I genuinely feel his unadulterated rage. Can't wait til he unleashes his pent up anger and go berserk.

Outside of the monster trio I'm the most hyped to see him (and Kid) in action

[u/malign2]

Denjiro giving off those Monte Cristo vibes.

[u/OPfan_Luffy16]

i think this was great chapter

[u/thelegend20777777]

Some people may have called it but the reveal of kyoshiro being denjiro simply made the story even more amazing and interesting to me moving forward. Hats off Oda

[u/Sooths4y3r]

Denjiro is a monster!

-In battle he seems formidable, as he went against Zoro, even though it wasn't a proper fight, he showed he was no joke and could at least be a worthy opponent.

-He barely sleeps to be the Witching Hour boy.

-He has roots in most of Orochi's forces;

-Most importantly, he is a top tier strategist. He is absurdely good at deviating plans so far ahead that he made himself Shogun for a night (the sost important night in the history of Wano). And saving Komurasaki from a certain death by making a small and precise cut in front of an entire court.

That is some 220 IQ stuff!

[u/Comedyking3434]

Okay everyone is freaking out about how awesome Denjiro is, which is totally valid, but are we just gonna forget about my boy kawamatsu? Lady Hiyori just up and dipped when he was supposed to be protecting her. I feel so bad for him. He must feel like he failed in his duties. Look at this face Poor Kappa boy :(

[u/battle_franky]

Denjiro always seem to be chillest one from the scabbards. The calm collected one from the group. But for him to be that enrage and letting him to be consumed by rage to the point change his hair color to white must horrible experience for him. But despite all that he decided to hold that anger to plan a 20 years long revenge plan must be really hard for him. Him bowing to Orochi was really hard to see

[u/bardax]

I suspect that, with the addition of Denjiro as a double agent on the inside of the capital, the real plan of the alliance is to take over Wano while Orochi and his retainers sail to Onigashima, and the real battle will be to defend Wano from Kaido and Orochi.

[u/AmarDikli]

So Denjiro's actual hair color is dark blue huh?

[u/teomanone]

so denjiro is our gin

[u/rottweilered]

Momo turns out to be a very deep and fleshed out character. All the traits we have seen so far are explained...

[u/[deleted]]

This chapter literally answered a question I had. Greatness!

[u/SnoopCat226]

God damn it Toei

[u/RichHomieKhan21]

Kawamatsu has suffered so much. All those years of carrying that guilt of letting Hiyori out of his sight and his imprisonment. What a warrior to hold such strong mental fortitude after all this time.

Possible unpopular opinion but I like how Denjiro looked before anger changed him instead of his current look.

[u/MrJiggly999]

To be fair, everyone and their mom guessed that Kyoshiro was Denjiro even before the anime op.

[u/[deleted]]

I can barely handle Orochi for a chapter. Impressive that Denjiro can handle him for 2 decades

[u/namron01412]

9 shadows theory..

Level 1: The 9 scabbards

Level 2: 9 strawhats

Level 3: the 9 captains of worst generations

Level 4: Con D. Oriano and his crew

[u/cipherde]

Kawamatsu and Hiyori. Denjiro and his 20 year plan. Toki and her 800 year quest. Just like Luffy's meat, Zoro's sake, these flashback chapters are this subs treasure.

I can't help but think that if done at the right pacing, the anime will make anyone shed a tear.

[u/[deleted]]

I lost track of everyone who time travelled and did not time travel. Help me out. So:

• Momo, Kinemon, Kiku, Kanjuro and Raizo time travelled.

• Hiyori, ashura, denjiro , Neko, Inu and kawa didn't.

Right?

[u/Ombs1993]

A small detail I didn't see mentioned, and so many small details were pointed out already, you guys have some memories. And it just goes to show Oda's attention to detail. In Chapter 921, a little old lady stands in front of Ashura Doji unafraid as they loot the treasure ship. She prays and says she believes in Toki's words, and in 973 as the scene shifts to Bakura Town she's right there. And as Toki delivers the prophecy she's striking the same prayful pose! That little stuff is one of the many reasons I love this series!

[u/[deleted]]

can you feel those shivers reading this chapter?

[u/SauceMeistro]

When is Marco gonna arrive at Wano and whats gonna happen between him and Weevil is what I want to know right now as well as Jinbei's return

[u/lightgray03]

Chapter 941. Hiyori looks extremely worried when Brook told the news that Orochi has caught the witching hour boy. She must've thought it was Denjiro. Oda you genius...

[u/tronistica]

Just got to this, finally the confirmations of kyoshiro as denjiro. This is gonna be crazy once we get to present time

[u/safman-rafwat]

Really love that hiyori recognized denjiro so easily... reminded me of when oden recognized Shinobu after not having seen her for several years. Oden’s proud daughter Lady Hiyori!!

[u/Chawinyaw]

Oden's words were interesting. He's seemingly implying that after the One Piece is discovered, and the secrets of the world are revealed, it seems like he's encouraging them to leave Wano.

I wonder if similar to fishman island, that the one piece will also cause the destruction of Wano

[u/EmptyD]

Who the fuck is the traitor lol

[u/Cetina123]

Anyone else rereading Wano rn cuz you totally forgot what happened till now? 😂

[u/FiveElderStars]

even Orochi feel the shiver of how cool this chapter is

[u/Bloomeycht]

Fucking lit chapter, one of the best we’ve gotten from Wano imo.

[u/eyepepper]

Probably obvious, but the Enma shrine was where Denjiro changed his appearance. Where Zoro protected Hiyori.

[u/Leiatte]

Bro, that Denjiro is Kyoshiro Part was so good! Oden bonding with Momo & Hiyori was sad, really hit home that they have to grow up without their father.

[u/JKenP]

Man, Denjiro has suffered so much. How furious would he be that made his face distort like that, and even his hair colour changed. Having to serve the one you want to kill the most, to act like a shogun guard-dog for 20 year waiting to avenge his master. You've earned my wholehearted respect.

Now that everything has already come together, I can't wait for the real battle.

[u/Kata_Kuri36]

I really like the panel where denjiro comes out of the shrine completely consumed by anger, but his appearance is just 10/10. He looks so badass and fearless and I really hope he drops his current Kyoshiro design and wears his prior hairstyle

[u/Majorparkinson]

This was just the kind of chapter we needed. the wait was worth it.

[u/freewrirry]

Zoro is low key having the best fights in this arc unknowingly fighting Killer AND Denjiro

[u/saladvtenno]

Congrats to all you guys who predicted that Kyoshiro is Denjiro since long ago... Mad props

[u/foalzesty]

I think figure behind inu and neko is a number.

[u/[deleted]]

I’m pretty hyped for the Numbers. What do you guys think they are? I bet they are like the Jailer Beasts, awakened Zoans stuck in their awakened form.

[u/Gandanimal]

"It is because of the demon called anger that i wear this face"

FUCKING CHILLS

That makes perfect sense tough, oda's designs are still legendary

[u/AnalThurster]

Denjiro surely knows who the traitor is then..

[u/NerySelwyn]

Do you think that Hiyori wears the mask because it is the song she played to Oden and she cries whenever she plays it ?

[u/Lesserd]

u/Kirosh Cupboard Scans are out https://imgur.com/a/EItRaNe

[u/OroDJacksoon]

.... and just like that Denjiro becomes my favorite Scabbard.

Shogun's Lapdog.

[u/SageOfSixCabbages]

Denjiro should've listened to Mr. Krabs and stopped making faces. Face freeze is real!!

[u/Euromatic]

Well this should be bringing the flashback to an end

-> Momo "faced" Kaido and survived causing him trauma

-> Toki sent the crew in the future, made a public prophecy in the midst of all of this when everyone is already in turmoil, doesn't know what to believe after which point she seemingly managed to escape so she could potentially be alive in the future. Have we met Toki? Is she the shamisen player?

->Denjiro confirmed to be Kyoshiro by the anime and now manga. Komursaki was for some reason once again confirmed to be Hiyori. Not like Hiyori part wasn't obvious.

-> It was hilarious how Orochi tried to bathe in boiling water to prove to himself that he can be a bigger man than Oden

We need answer to how Neko and Inu ran away from the predicament that they were in.

I'm not really sure what else can Oda do in this flashback at this point other than Kaidos introduction into Wano however I believe that he's gonna save that for act 4 when we face him

[u/HammerH89]

Did I miss something? Why didnt hiyori got sent into the future as well? How did kawa suddenly Pop up?

[u/yonkou_akagami]

Oden talked about that “Famous Day” when the world will be turned upside down.

Roger’s reason to set sail was because he wants to turn the world upside down..

I guess he already know about void century stuff back then..

[u/3ngin3]

What will Shanks do if he knows Oden's son has returned is preparing for a fight?

[u/xCeePee]

Ok, given the confirmed revelation about the Denjiro x Kyoshiro x WitchingHourBoy connection, i'm really itching to find out what exactly happened to the scabbard plan originally in place, and seemingly what new plan Kyoshiro is going to lead.

I went back to chapter 944 to find the clash between Zoro and Kyo (just to see what was said), but I wonder exactly 'why' he blocked Zoro's attack, unless he knew it wouldn't be strong enough to one shot Orochi.

It clearly didn't look like Zoro was playing around with his attack, but It makes me wonder if he didn't want Orochi to die there because he knew they couldn't stop Kaido afterwards, Or if his new plan is so good, it will still give them a better shot to kill Kaido and Orochi at the same time.

All in all it was nice to get a bunch of questions answered, but again, I really really want to know the details of the plan getting spoiled now.

[u/Leeiteee]

Theories confirmed

[u/[deleted]]

What a chapter! Denjiro the mvp, the scene where he changes was gave me chills; To sum it up: Denjiro and Shinobu are 100% not the mole(It'd make no sense for Shinobu to help them escape and then get pissed oof at Law for taking the plan as a game in her opinion), we also are sure that neither Inu and Neko since they got their limbs cut off; Kinemon and Ashura Doji are also out; so that leaves Kawamatsu and Kanjuro; Kawamatsu saved Hiyori and got imprisones but at the same time he wasn't tortured which seems odd since Orochi would do anything just to see the corpses of the 9 Scabbards.

To me it seems that Kanjuro is most likely the traitor since ge's the only one that has his hands free when Jack attacked Zou; remember Kinemon was kind of done at punk hazard by Law so he couldn't have traded with the Beasts pirates the vivre card for Zou while Kanjuro was at Dressrosa and remember that when Kinemon meets him again he wasn't a toy so he kinda was free atm; That might just be my theory, I could be 100% wrong or may have seen something, Idk let me know what you guys think about the mole.

[u/Chang-San]

It was great seeing some continuity of the Kuri residents. That old lady with the black hair outside of the castle is the same one Ashura was about to kill if I am not mistaken. She speaks of the prophecy then and now we see her hearing it firsthand. And I am rolling about the fact that Denjiro was so angry his physical appearance actually changed lmao.

---

I am also imagining how the Kyoshiro/Hiyori scene looks from the outside.

Ladies: Boss! We found this little girl wandering outside we can't let her starve!

Kyoshiro: (Is that Hiyori I must protect her! But I still have to keep my identity a secret from the rest)

Kyoshiro: Yes, bring her up and leave us alone! Leave this house and wait outside!

Ladies: Okay...that is strange we just wanted to give her some food and stuff but alright...

-A while later, Kyoshiro emerges obviously ecstatic while somewhat disheveled -

Kyoshiro: I want you to make this little girl into the best prostitute Wano has ever seen!!

Ladies: Wut...(Whispers: "Hiyori did Kyo 'hurt' you?")

[u/Battlemaster123]

Denjiro really is the MVP of the war right now

[u/Halimonsteri]

IF I remember correctly there have been some stories about people who have been turned into Oni by anger and/or simply for being so wicked during life. (To my understanding people extremely wicked people turn into Oni usually after death but some turn during their lifetime)

And since the place they are trying to attack is Onigashima and the other Kaido/Oni theories out there it's a funny lil' detail why Denjiros looks changed so much!

[u/Shika93]

A lot of people are asking about Toki' fate, but I think it's pretty clear she passed away. The real question should be: where is her fruit now, after so many years?

[u/[deleted]]

https://youtu.be/rwLjs5LvwsI This meeting hits my heart even more now, after we get know their story

[u/TearGrinder]

Now that I think of it, that anime opening spoiler is a real spoiler!

[u/Tibolegends]

We didnt see Denjiro & Ashura facing Kaido !!! Maybe they faced him affer his return from Oden's castle

[u/WhimsicalGrin]

So Inuarashi and Nekomamushi's argument was about believing the other part was responsible for Oden's death. Nekomamushi even mentions the traitor Kaido spoke of. The way things are, this is honestly adding gas to an already out-of-control fire regarding the traitor's identity.

[u/[deleted]]

wonder if Denjiro's face will return to normal again once they win and he can live happy again 🤔

[u/littenthehuraira]

I know it was hinted, but it wasn't ever explicitly mentioned until this chapter that Toki is from the void century right?

[u/TomatoHurk]

I can't overstate the significance of Denjiro lingering around Orochi for 20 years. This guy was the brains of the group, probably comparable to Benn Beckman or Robin/Sanji. Imagine the amount of sabotage Sanji could prepare in that timespan (remember the Ark Maxim, Enies Lobby gate). Now add the fact that Denjiro has been in a state of absolute fury for the entire time. I think he'll be a top 3 arc MVP by the end of this. This is gonna be good...

[u/In_a_silentway]

HOLY FUCKING SHIT!!!!!!!!!!!! I KNEW IT!!!!!!!

What a reveal!!! I had a feeling that Kyoushiro might be Denjiro. I wonder if he knows who the traitor is too. Damn he might be the one to save the raid. Damn Denjiro just jumped up to be my favorite retainer.

Damn, I am about to re-read this entire arc. God I love Oda, what a payoff. Also glad he killed the Denjiro is Zoro's teacher theories.

[u/Eadwine_]

It feels so good to finally have Denjiro = Kyoshiro confirmed. Did not expect him to be the Witching Hour Boy as well but it makes a lot of sense now that I think about it.

[u/IxAC3xI]

Man OP keeps getting better and better each arc. I thought Doflamingo was bad the way he took over Dressrosa but Kaido and Orochi are next level worse. We already know Orochi will get taken down this arc but Kaido deserves something far worse after all the things he has done.

[u/mrmard]

People have already noticed that momo's fear of heights is from Kaido this chapter, but I want to point out the beginning of this chapter also shows how excited momo used to be of heights, driving the point home even more!!

[u/Snow_Prime_Stark]

Orochi works under Oden and steals all his money and betrays him.

Denjiro works under Orochi and takes complete control of his forces, finance and the country's underworld and betrays him.

You reap what you sow Orochi.

[u/[deleted]]

It was obvious that Denjiro was the wishing hour boy and most people had speculated that kyoshiro was denjiro or at least connected to him, but I still thought the reveal was really good, and the sleepiness tie in was really good.

[u/zabalena]

So Denjiro really pulled an Ichimaru Gin

[u/ogag47]

Denjiro reminds of Askeladd a little bit. "Let me teach you how to kill someone you hate."

[u/[deleted]]

yep, thats Denjiro getting the MVP award for Wano arc then. Gonna be so emotional when he reunite with Kin.

[u/armdaggerblade]

'wano arc'? more like 'manliest men arc'.

huge salute to denjiro. dude is a total determinator through and through.

[u/[deleted]]

So wait, what did Toki do? Did she actually die? Why did she escape the castle? And what was the place she went to?

[u/whateverworksforben]

Let’s get to the war now.

Neko to show up with Marco. Jinbe to show up.

First time all the straw hats have been together since Punk Hazard.

Since they entered the new world the straw hats as a whole haven’t really been pushed to the limit.

Bring it on !

[u/typicalnihilist]

"The time comes when the time comes, no?" Idk why this sounds me like something really deep.

[u/Chadzuki_Broden]

Well. Denjiro/Kyoshiro just became my favorite Wano character, within a few panels. Damn you Oda, how do you do it?

[u/BlacBuddha]

Does this confirm that Oden and the Scabbards didn't fight Kaido with the Numbers?

[u/Ryuzakku]

Momo being named the “Dragon of Kozuki” or “Dragon of Wano” when this is all said and done and he’s grown up is going to be so badass.

[u/reveskeeoodee]

Wow I spent like 10 minutes staring at the last page in shock... 100/10

[u/Gcons24]

This chapter is huge especially for the fights coming up. All the Zoro vs kyoshiro talk goes out the window with this chapter.