The island's former tyrannical king, Wapol , returns to Drum Island. Having fled when Blackbeard attacked the island previously, Wapol arrives with his "Tin Plate" army and his pet hippo, Robson, intent on reclaiming his throne.
Although he primarily appears in the shadows or at a distance alongside Dr. Kureha, this episode marks the official anime debut of the future Straw Hat doctor.
Dalton, the former captain of the royal guard who initially helped the Straw Hats, learns of Wapol’s return. Realizing the danger to his people, he rushes to the village to confront the tyrant.
While carrying the ailing Nami toward the peak of Drum Rockies, Luffy and Sanji are relentlessly pursued by a pack of Lapahns —aggressive, giant carnivorous rabbits. Sanji instructs Luffy not to fight back, as any impact from the battle could worsen Nami’s condition.