Truly epic chapter. I've been waiting for the shichibukais to strut their stuff since the moby dick came out of the sea.
I finally get to see Hancock in action and DAMN, she is just so fine. Apparently, getting within close contact with her is enough to turn anyone to stone, a very powerful anti-melee ability. And the fact that she admits to taking no sides in the war reinforces the idea that she will come assist Luffy in his attempt to rescue Ace. The point of this chapter is to stress the impenetrability of the Marine bay. And because it is so impenetrable, it leaves me to believe that it will be Luffy, with the help of Hancock who will save Ace.
Oars' death was just sad. Yeah, he only lasted two chapters but the flashbacks this chapter show just how close oars and ace were.