One Piece: Episode 125

Lucky. After configuring settings and installing various software, codecs, etc., to my new PC, how nice it is to christen the new addition to my household with an excellent installment of One Piece. As always, the episode is packed with a fusion of comedy, action, suspense (well, just a touch), and drama.

The final players of the Arabasta arc are making their last stance. Surrounded by falling debris (which defies the laws of gravity), Crocodile and Luffy are in still locked in a draw. The fabulous Tashigi chooses to believe in her sense of justice and assist the Straw Hat crew any way she can. The gang faces the annoying duo Mr. 7 and Miss Fathersday. Although the crew were successful in their attempt to stop the bombers, Crocodile unveils his devious plan in the final seconds. In case of such event where the bombers are failed to ignite the cannon, a timer is installed for automatic detonation. And in order to prevent the loss of thousands of lives, sacrifices are made. Pell, the falcon, pays the ultimate price to protect his beloved royal family and their citizens. In his final act of heroism, he removes the bomb from the clock tower, flies towards the sky, and meets his fate.

Manipulation or not, the flashbacks from Vivi’s childhood are an effective method to trigger enough emotional attachments to Pell. (Yes, I admit. A tear or two did escape my tear ducts.) Also, it’s fascinating to watch the crew’s teamwork in play where each of their special skills are highlighted.