With the conclusion of Oden’s backstory, finally“One Piece” chapter 973 is expected to go back to the series’ current timeline. Here are a few speculations on what the manga’s next chapter could cover.
What happened to Toki
The previous chapter ended with Lady Toki making a vow to the deceased Oden that things will be different 20 years into the future. “We are not your weakness,” she said. “Look ahead Oden—to 20 years in the future.”
Given this statement, there’s a possibility that “One Piece” chapter 973 will briefly touch on what Toki did in preparation for this future. It might show how she sent Momonosuke 20 years ahead and what eventually happened to her.
Nine Red Scabbards might attack Orochi
Since the ending also stated that the story will be back to the present day timeline, “One Piece” chapter 973 is expected to go back to the problems faced by the rebels. With every route to Port Tokage destroyed and the boats blasted to pieces by bombing, the remaining Nine Red Scabbards might be forced by desperation and prematurely attack Orochi, according to ShareItNow.
If this happens, Kinemon and the rest will likely fail to kill Orochi. It has been more than 20 years since Orochi rose to power that he must have beefed up his security detail by now. The assassination attempt will likely end up in failure and Kinemon and his group will end up being captured.
The Strawhats and the rebels will have no choice but take the longer route to their rendezvous point. This could also mean that they might run into various traps set up by Orochi along the way. Given Orochi’s personality, he will seize every opportunity to inflict damage on his enemies.
Kozuki clan traitor
It seems that their enemies knew the rebels’ plans and made preparations to dismantle them. This could only suggest one thing – there’s a spy amongst them. Epic Dope suggests that “One Piece” chapter 193 will give hints on the identity of the Kozuki clan traitor.
The figure mentioned by Oden
While Oden was immersed in the pot of boiling oil, he revealed that it was the Kozuki clan who decided to seal up Wano from the outside world. However, Oden also revealed that they’ve been waiting for a figure that will appear after an 800-year period. Who is this figure mentioned by the Daimyo of Kuri?
