Oda names the chapter after the flames and shows three distinct reactions (worship, terror, confusion) without an explanation — classic withheld-mechanism chekhov. If the flames mark targets for death/claiming, whoever carries a mark (Loki) is under a live countdown. Cross-link Omen, Imu Identity, Gunko Regenerates The Unstoppable Countdown (the Arrow-Arrow “countdown” grammar this power echoes).