Dude, Otama is One Piece’s Momotaro!

One Piece Chapter 1004 Review/Recap

You guys ever hear the story of Momotaro? It’s an old Japanese tale about a boy born from a giant peach. In the legend, Momotaro goes to Onigashima to defeat the demons residing there. And during his journey, he convinces three talking animals to join him in exchange for the Kibi Dango he has. The four beat up the demons, take their loot, and come home as heroes.

Why am I bringing this up? Because the latest chapter of One Piece made me realize that cute little Otama’s the manga’s version of Momotaro.

Recap

As the fight continues on Onigashima, many of the injured Gifters meet up with the Beast Pirates Headliner, Speed. She gives out these dango dumplings she claims are filled with medicine from Queen.

They’re not, though. They were made by Otama using her Devil Fruit powers. And like Momotaro, when the Gifters and Headliners eat them, they become loyal to Otama! With the help of the ones she’s already recruited (and Ussop) Otama’s able to feed dozens of the enemy all over the island. Once that’s done, she sics them on the other Beast Pirates. Chaos erupts as the enemy suddenly finds themselves fighting their own comrades. It also gives Nami and Franky a chance to strike back at the Page One, Ulti, and Sasaki.

Elsewhere, though, Sanji finds himself at the mercy of Black Maria, who tries to force him to contact Robin so they may capture her, but he refuses. However, to his horror, the enemy discovers where Law put the Red Scabbards, in the second floor treasure room. They’re not alone, though: an unknown being’s there, and they’re trying to save the Scabbards.

Review

I will come out and say it: I did not see this scenario coming. I completely forgot that Otama’s dangos could tame the Devil Fruit users, natural or SMILE made. And as such, the thought of her using them to turn what looks like a good portion of the enemy Gifters and Headliners against the Yonko flew over my head. Color me impressed, Oda-Sama.

In all honesty, though, this was the best thing that could happen to the Alliance. Gaining the Gifters and Headliners as allies gives the heroes a huge boost in numbers whilst simultaneously decreasing the enemies. Momotaro has turned the tide back in the Alliance’s favor; or rather, Otama has.

The only major concern I have is the identity of the person tending to the Scabbards. They don’t seem to be an enemy, but I also cannot tell if they’re an ally. And with the manga on break for another week, we’re going to have to wait for a while to learn who this person may be. I’m really hoping they’re a new ally, though. But I would love to hear what you guys think.

I Give “Kibi Dango” a 3/5

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