Luffy learning new applications for what he already has like applying what Gaban said concering being mindful of his CoC seems like a neat way to have Luffy advance in his journey without needing him to actually get way stronger, I kinda expect the same if he improves his CoO or if that was VOAT. Basically Luffy polishing and refining what he already has, once he extends his G5 time limit, he'll really be even more of a force to be reckoned with whilst using a lot of the same tools he's had for some time.
Zoro having adjusted to CoC but not being aware of when he's using it offers a pathway to him improving since now he'll be conscious of what he's doing with CoC and King of Hell, should make his fight this arc really good. I also like how in a similar way to Rayleigh offering his teachings to Luffy on his path to Pirate King, Gaban is firm with Zoro regarding what's expected of the people supporting the Pirate King. As for Sanji, he'll have to figure things out on his own and do some catch-up.
Sanji against Sommers makes a lot of sense. Against Gaban, the idea of the thorns being most difficult because they use people's love against them didn't really come into play for the Missionary/Minister of Love since he handled Sommers quite easily, so Sanji using the Power of Love seems like a given if that's the match-up. Plus, Robin's tied up, so Sanji being ticked is a given. I was hoping for Future Sight from Sanji, but to overcome the Holy Knights (or any immortal enemies) it seems to come back to CoC, so we'll see how far Sanji goes in that department. Does he display that he has the stuff and win his fight or does he just stall his opponent and remain frustrated, I bet on the former but we'll see soon enough.
Regardless we'll probably be stuck with the flashback for the next month. It's alright though, I'm patient, plus I'm interested to see Harald's story.
