In a high-stakes duel on Onigashima, Luffy winds up a massive punch to take down Kaido. Instead of dodging, Kaido envelops himself in a cloak of flames and transforms into a magma-like dragon. Undeterred, Luffy plans to use Hyogoro's touchless technique to deliver his blow. They clash, their energies collide, and the air is thick with the tension of Conqueror's Haki.

Below, through a hole in the ceiling, eyes are fixed on the spectacle. Luffy is cheered on, but not everyone joins in. Hyogoro and Kawamatsu seem lost in memories of past hardships, stretching back to the days after Oden's death.

A flashback reveals a series of dark events led by Kaido and Orochi. Villages are destroyed, and regions like Hakumai, Ringo, Kibi, and Udon lie in ruins. The suffering is further compounded by the distribution of defective Smile fruits. Meanwhile, Orochi revels in the misery he causes, his actions driven by a twisted sense of justice.

As the scene shifts, Orochi lunges at Hiyori on the second floor, but his attack is intercepted. Denjiro, blade in hand, lands a decisive strike, ending Orochi's tyranny once and for all.

Meanwhile, Momonosuke struggles with paralyzing fear. Only the thought of his deceased parents gives him the courage to act. With no other choice, he gathers his strength and pushes Onigashima away, using his own body to avert disaster.

Back in the main hall, the air is heavy with anticipation. The samurai kneel, eyes closed, their hopes and prayers united. They yearn for liberation from years of oppression, and all eyes are on Luffy, the one who will bring them that freedom.