Ch. 701A Fight at the Drop of a Hat
Key plot points and events
- Ye Chen encounters the Vinsmoke Family’s Yonji, who focuses on the women aboard Ye Chen’s ship and leers at them. Perona uses her ghost ability to make him collapse in despair.
- Yonji attacks Ye Chen with a powerful punch. Ye Chen dodges easily, then dislocates Yonji’s arm and leg, humiliating him in front of the women.
- Yonji returns with his brothers and father, Judge. Judge recognizes Ye Chen as the “Death God” and is alarmed, but Niji ignores the warning and attacks. Ye Chen knocks him into the sea; Niji’s Jet Shoes allow him to return.
- Judge orders his fleet to surround Ye Chen’s ship. Ichiji commands the soldiers to attack. Ye Chen warns that his crew will retaliate, while Lucci asks Stone to extend the ship’s Protective Barrier to make room for a fight. The chapter ends as battle is about to begin.
Character developments and interactions
- Ye Chen remains calm and overwhelmingly confident, responding to the Vinsmokes’ aggression with controlled force. His willingness to escalate changes after they surround his ship.
- Yonji is boastful and lecherous, then becomes embarrassed and angry when Perona and Ye Chen make him look foolish.
- Perona openly mocks Yonji and delights in using her ghost ability against him.
- Niji acts impulsively and defiantly, attacking Ye Chen despite Judge’s caution; he is swiftly defeated.
- Judge recognizes the danger Ye Chen poses but ultimately orders the fleet to surround him.
- Lucci appears eager for the coming fight, and the crew begins preparing the ship’s defenses.
Significant themes
- Arrogance and consequences: The Vinsmokes’ confidence and habit of throwing their weight around lead them into a confrontation they cannot control.
- Power and composure: Ye Chen’s calm, precise responses contrast with the brothers’ aggression.
- Loyalty and protection: Ye Chen’s warning makes clear that threatening his ship means provoking his companions as well.
- Technology and combat: The Den Den Mushi-powered ships, Jet Shoes, and extendable Protective Barrier highlight the Vinsmokes’ and Ye Chen’s reliance on unusual technology.