Chapter 1000 was almost panel for panel what I envisioned. Fanfiction-esque predictions were out of hand, so I understand some fans’ disappointment. Sorry, this was always going to be about Luffy’s ascent to the throne. Last chapter, every past and present character declared, explicitly or by their actions, that they’re awaiting Joy Boy’s arrival. Events of chapter 1000, regardless of landmark number, were simply what naturally follows. The wait is over. The samurai can rest. Joy Boy is finally here.
Luffy’s aura is sovereign. King shit. He’s finally ready to carry 800 years of history on his shoulders. Kaido thought he was the same Punk from a few days ago. Sucker forgot this is a shounen manga. It wouldn’t be an overstatement to say One Piece as a narrative boils down to Luffy punching assholes in the face. In that sense, this was the perfect One Piece homage chapter.
Law’s swag is so on point. The man’s drip is so effortless. He fired the first shot 300 chapters ago, and he’s here to witness the conclusion. Kid, Killer and Zoro round up the main team. All five will deal serious damage in this fight. It’s really cool to see how far Luffy and Zoro have come.
Yamato and Ace is wholesome. Yamato starting to turn the corner as a character. Luffy and Roger’s synchronized dream is teased again. It can’t be “Pirate King” or “The freest man on the sea” since they’ve already been revealed.
The way Kinemon and the scabbards’ fates was handled annoyed me to no end. Absolutely hated it. Since this is a landmark chapter on Christmas, not in the mood to rant on it. I’ll just say a few of them better die later in the arc.
Also I can't be the only one that thought this when I saw this panel