One Piece Episode 965: Crossing Swords! Roger and Whitebeard!

Kozuki Oden continues his journey aboard Whitebeard's ship, the Moby Dick. We learn he and Kozuki Toki have a son, Momonosuke, a name signifying greatness. Meanwhile, Gold Roger reads a newspaper article about a samurai from the closed-off Wano, sparking his curiosity. Roger recognizes a kindred spirit, someone strong enough to escape the isolated country.

In Wano, a gravely ill Shogun Kozuki Sukiyaki lies bedridden, coughing blood. He laments Oden's absence, knowing his son should be his successor. He then introduces a seemingly humble man, Kurozumi Orochi, naming him temporary Shogun proxy. Orochi, a former servant, bows deeply, promising only to hold the seat until Oden's return, fooling the present Daimyos.

A flashback plunges into Orochi's childhood, revealing the source of his profound bitterness. Young Orochi runs through a forest, terrified and crying, as citizens pursue him. They scream for the death of all Kurozumis, punishing him for his grandfather's failed coup. This hunt leaves a scar, sowing deep hatred and fear in the boy's heart.

Orochi finds refuge in a temple, encountering an old woman, Higurashi, and a man playing a biwa. Higurashi, with her terrifying Mane Mane no Mi powers, changes her face. She manipulates Orochi, blaming the Kozuki family and Wano's citizens for his suffering. She offers him a Mythical Zoan Devil Fruit, the Hebi Hebi no Mi, Model: Yamata no Orochi, promising power. Orochi consumes it, transforming monstrously, sealing his dark path.

Orochi begins his deceptive rise, working for Shimotsuki Yasuie, appearing loyal and hardworking. Secretly, he steals money from Yasuie's treasury to fund his schemes with Higurashi. He fakes tears and begs forgiveness, which the kind Yasuie repeatedly believes. Later, Orochi infiltrates the palace, working as a servant while subtly poisoning Shogun Sukiyaki. Sukiyaki's health declines, making him dependent on Orochi, who relishes his master's slow demise.

Sukiyaki "dies," and a false testament, delivered by Higurashi impersonating the Shogun, names Orochi as temporary successor. The Daimyos, confused but bound by the Shogun's supposed last words, accept the decision. Orochi assumes power in the Flower Capital, his internal monologue confirming his ecstatic triumph. He finally holds the power to destroy the country that hated him.

Back on the Moby Dick, the crew observes island animals behaving strangely, indicating a powerful presence. Oden, sensing immense strength, is eager to explore. Whitebeard recognizes a familiar, formidable aura. On the island, Gold Roger and his crew, including Silvers Rayleigh and Scopper Gaban, have just fought the Marines. Roger, despite his illness, is invigorated, sensing Whitebeard's arrival and the chance for one last legendary clash.

Oden leaps from the Moby Dick, charging onto the island. He easily brushes past Rayleigh and Gaban, confronting Gold Roger directly. Roger welcomes the "samurai" before delivering a devastating "Kamusari" strike. The attack sends Oden flying through several trees, demonstrating the vast power difference between the Wano warrior and the Pirate King.

As Oden recovers, attempting to re-engage, Whitebeard steps in. His bisento clashes with Roger's cutlass. Their Haki collision is so immense that their weapons don't even touch. The resulting shockwave rips through the island and the clear sky, creating a legendary stalemate. The episode concludes with this monumental display of power, an unparalleled clash of titans.