It’s absolutely atrocious that Tashigi who’s been around since East Blue still ended up doing nothing.
Oda is never beating the allegations. Looks like the “future of the Marines” still doesn’t have room for strong women
At least, I didn't have to use my magnifying glass to find Tashigi this time
After reading it and taking a step back. I actually enjoyed that chapter. I have always liked Coby's arc and the marines more than rival pirates in the NW. I love his mindset of training even beyond Garp's requirement despite feeling a bit like an asspull. The marines are arguably the most interesting foil to the main characters because of friend and enemy nature + gray of it. Whether its Garp wanting Luffy to be one, Ace's death, Smoker's respect for the MC, Zoro x Tashigi, Bellemere, Coby, the OG Admirals (representing different faces of Justice), corrupt vs good, CP units (acting in the shadows), the Gorosei, Void Century, and Celestial Dragons. They really make the most engaging foils to the main characters & some of the best moments of the series tend to involve these characters.
The issues is that relationship should have been a major component of part 2. Garp raising a new generation of marines is awesome and more interesting than the Supernovas (except for Law and Kidd). I think it should have gotten more attention cause Oda is getting old, and his health is not helping the quality of his art.
I am happy that we are going back to Egghead. I think Smoker is in the group surrounding the island. If Oda can set up off screen power ups for Coby then he can do it for the Vice Admiral. I hope he went through the Garp's training regimen to catch up or has awakened his fruit or both. Goddamn it this is the finale I don't mind if likable foes/rivals get sudden power ups.
As for Tashigi, I actually like that she protected the civilians and effectively took charge of the group when Garp could not. I believe this is not her time yet and Oda is saving her big moment or reveal & whatever connects Kuina and her for later. Vegapunk's genius has no ends and Kuma can literally break the laws of Human's physics to bring an answer. I am curious what will her group do from now on and how Garp's capture will affect the Straw Hats. They are arguably the good marines and the better future of the world will depend on them and now Smoker has to make his decision.
I am cautiously excited Oda. Please do not disappoint.
