As Assertn mentioned above the flashback did miss the turning point in the relationship between WB and Ace but other than that the chapter was great. I'm fine with WB being a devil fruit user and his power really fits the scenario - he may shake the foundations of the world government.

And I'm pretty certain that's not Lafitte:
http://www.onemanga.com/One_Piece/234/09/
Lafitte has no eyebrows and no moustache but he wears earrings and lipstick(?). Can't spot the earrings on the other guy.

Can't wait to see the next chapter =)