One Piece Episode 962: Changing Destiny! The Whitebeard Pirates Cast Ashore!

Forty-one years before the present, we are introduced to Kozuki Oden, a man whose mere presence can stir the Flower Capital. He is shown with his future Red Scabbards, who already admire him and gather around. The narration tells us Oden enters the desolate, lawless land of Kuri, a place crying out for order. The scene sets a mood of foreboding expectation, hinting at the destiny that awaits this unconventional leader.

In the dusty, desolate landscape of Kuri, Oden draws his two powerful swords, Ame-no-Habakiri and Enma. He is quickly surrounded by a group of rugged, menacing men, the very outlaws he means to subdue. With a confident grin, Oden declares his dominion, stating he is the only rule in this land, unleashing a furious, powerful two-sword attack upon them. The battle is a whirlwind of Haki-infused slashes, ending with Oden standing victorious as the rain begins to fall.

Amidst the downpour, Oden confronts Ashura Doji, the most formidable of Kuri's outlaws, asking if he is the boss. Ashura, enraged, promises death, but Oden's eyes gleam with excitement, challenging him to try. Their swords clash with incredible speed and force, a flurry of sparks in the rain. Oden unleashes his 'Paradise Waterfall' technique, a devastating two-sword attack that finally fells Ashura.

With Ashura Doji defeated and lying heavily injured, Oden tells him it took all night to subdue him. Ashura, in his despair, expresses regret for a future he might never see. Oden then turns to his vanquished foes, asking if they still love him, before demanding their wisdom and strength. This moment marks a turning point, where submission transforms into the first seeds of loyalty.

The lawless Kuri is dramatically transformed, evolving from a desolate wasteland into a bustling, vibrant town under Oden's rule. He stands confidently, announcing his new title as daimyo of Kuri to his overjoyed retainers. The celebration is immediate and fervent, with dancing and cherry blossom petals falling, symbolizing the peace and prosperity he has brought.

While many celebrate Oden's new status, not all reactions are uniform. Kanjuro expresses anger, accusing Oden of deceiving the Kozuki house, while Denjiro looks on with worry. Yet, Kin'emon joyfully reads Oden's letter, confirming his success, igniting excited cheers from the retainers, including Nekomamushi and Kawamatsu. Even Hiyori smiles in appreciation, and the retainers proclaim themselves samurai under Oden's banner.

Oden, holding a baby Momonosuke, beams with paternal pride as he declares his retainers have become true samurai. He laughs heartily, praising their transformation and celebrating his new role as daimyo. Confetti and splashing water accompany their joyous revelry, showcasing the deep bond and shared triumph between Oden and his loyal followers. His actions clearly cement his role as both their leader and their champion.

The Red Scabbards are seen expressing their exuberant joy, running through the streets of the Flower Capital, filled with admiration for their daimyo. Oden laughs with amusement at their enthusiasm, content in his leadership. A time skip is then introduced, signaling three years have passed, bringing us to thirty years before the current events. This shift suggests new challenges and adventures lie ahead, even as his achievements are celebrated.

Now in the Flower Capital, Oden's retainers draw curious and even mocking comments for their strange appearance. Yet, they are shown undertaking rigorous training, practicing stealth techniques with grim determination and learning the intricacies of reading and writing. This suggests a concerted effort to not only refine their fighting skills but also their intellectual capabilities, despite initial public perceptions. Their silent movements hint at a deeper purpose.

Kanjuro and Kin'emon are depicted struggling comically with their studies, a stark contrast to their usual competence. Even with Shinobu attempting to teach them, the retainers appear bored and disengaged. Oden, though worried about their intellectual shortcomings, simply laughs it off, referring to them as

Oden continues to charm, popular with women and flaunting his wild, energetic side. However, his demeanor shifts as he gazes towards a distant mountain, his expression serious as he contemplates Wano Country's future. The Red Scabbards, now transformed, appear in formal attire, looking formidable and united. They look up at Oden with profound reverence, and he returns their gaze with a triumphant smile, proud of their development and their shared vision.