To understand the gravity of this episode, we must look at where the characters stand. The Straw Hat Pirates have split up in Dressrosa:
Meanwhile, the subplot at the Corrida Colosseum has reached its fever pitch. The competition, ostensibly for Ace’s Devil Fruit, was a trap set by Doflamingo. However, the unexpected appearance of Sabo (Luffy’s other brother) threw a wrench in the plan. By Episode 778, Sabo had consumed the Mera Mera no Mi and was effortlessly dominating the final block of fighters. One Piece Episode 779
Kaido is shown in a state of drunken despair, grieving over the loss of Doflamingo and the end of his "SMILE" (artificial Devil Fruit) supply. His mood swings are erratic, shifting from weeping to uncontrollable rage. To understand the gravity of this episode, we
From the clouds above, Kaido, in his dragon form, descends upon their hideout. The episode ends with Kaido landing on the ground, destroying the alliance’s headquarters, and demanding to know who is responsible for attacking his men. However, the unexpected appearance of Sabo (Luffy’s other
This reckless waste of food leaves the crew starving and vulnerable as they face a sudden, massive storm, perfectly highlighting how essential Sanji is to the crew’s survival. The Fall of Baltigo and Dragon’s Face
To fully appreciate the weight of Episode 779, one must understand the exhaustion and triumph felt by both the characters and the audience at this point in the story. The Straw Hat Pirates had just pulled off the impossible. They had infiltrated Totto Land, the territory of one of the Four Emperors, Big Mom. They had survived an assassination attempt on the Emperor’s life, destroyed her castle, and escaped with Sanji and Pudding in tow.