Shanks is one of the most enigmatic characters in the manga One Piece from the very beginning. Although Shanks is a source of inspiration for Luffy, his deeper connections and ambitions with the World Government have left fans curious about his true nature.
This intrigue has intensified in the Elbaf arc, where a character remarkably similar to Shanks makes an appearance. This character, introduced in chapter 1137, is named Figarland Shamrock, the commander of the Giant Warrior Pirates and the son of Figarland Garling, who is known to be one of the five Elders.
Chapter 1138 of One Piece finally reveals crucial information about the identity of this Shanks-like figure and addresses the mystery surrounding the father of Trafalgar D. Water Law. This chapter also teases the appearance of another important character.
Key Revelations in One Piece Chapter 1138
One Piece chapter 1138 is titled ‘Sacred Texts.’ The cover page continues Yamato’s adventure in Wano, featuring Who’s Who in a hidden form.
This chapter begins with shocking information: Shamrock and Shanks are actually twin brothers. When Loki remarks and questions Shamrock, saying: “A Devil Fruit user and a Celestial Dragon are two entirely opposite entities; why do they share such similar features?”
Shamrock reveals that Shanks is his twin brother, and they were separated during their childhood. Shanks had previously visited Mary Geoise, but he preferred to live a lifestyle that was less noble than the Celestial Dragons. Loki observes that the bond between the two brothers is quite strong.
This finally confirms the long-held theory that Law’s lineage is connected to the Celestial Dragons. This also implies that Shanks has a blood relation to Uta, his adopted daughter.
Despite Loki’s failed attempt to persuade Shamrock, Shamrock decides to attack the Elbaf kingdom with his own sword. Shamrock’s sword is revealed to possess the strength of Cerberus (it is unclear whether it is truly the power of the mythical beast).
When Shamrock draws his sword, a three-headed dog named “Cerberus” emerges. This Cerberus resembles Moria’s shadowy minions but appears much stronger. It possesses dark, shadowy auras surrounding it, and each head wields a sword drawn from its mouth.
Gunko creates a giant bird using dark energy to assist Shamrock and Gunko in their flight. Shamrock does not hesitate to command the three-headed Cerberus to attack, while the remaining part of Cerberus transforms back into a sword.
On the bird’s back, Shamrock speaks to Gunko: “The immediate pressure we face is daunting. We will begin by capturing the target… Let’s send one more person down…”
As Luffy and his crew approach the destination, the guards mention that Shanks has already attacked them. Luffy cannot believe Shanks would do such a thing and expresses that Shanks’ actions are quite shocking and unreasonable. He reflects on Shanks’ connections to Roger, Rayleigh, and all the pirates who once sailed with Roger, including Buggy.
While Luffy is discussing all these matters, the shadowy figure Kasa, previously seen drinking with Crocus in chapter 631, also recognizes Luffy’s growing strength as he progresses towards the Aurust region, which is close to the main storyline. This character is notable for being a member of Roger’s crew.
Meanwhile, Franky and Ripley are standing before the Adam tree. There is a mural on the tree that is significant in cultural heritage related to Elbaf. This mural is estimated to date back between 800 to 900 years, contemporaneously with the Void Century.
In the Library of Ohara, Saul presents a book called Harley, containing ancient texts about Elbaf for Robin to examine. The book is a relic adorned with the symbol of the Eye. Saul explains that there are many interpretations of the “Eyes of God,” but Nika and the tales of the old man appear frequently in legends worldwide. The book “Harley” consists of three chapters, each representing “one world.” The third chapter is said to represent the world where they currently reside, with the last part of the chapter warning of events yet to unfold.
The book details two major wars in history and the impending third war. This chapter concludes here.
The final page of the chapter features a mural filled with text from “Harley” translated by Robin. It is highly detailed, marking one of the most exciting conclusions to a chapter in One Piece thus far and features some of the most unique illustrations that Oda has ever created.
One Piece chapter 1138 will be released on Sunday, February 2, 2025. Next week, One Piece will continue its regular serialization.
