Shanks, one of the most enigmatic and beloved characters in One Piece, is once again at the center of attention. Although he has not directly appeared in the current Elbaf arc, his role in the storyline is extremely significant, possibly even more so than in many previous arcs.
As the manga explores the true identity of Shanks and his past, fans are engaged in heated debates about whether he has been to Mariejois during the Reverie event.
The “Meme Legend” and the Encounter with Gorosei
In chapter 907, fans of One Piece were thrilled to see “Shanks” meeting with the Gorosei to discuss the identity of a “certain pirate.” Numerous theories have been proposed regarding the identity of this pirate, but the manga has not made it clear. Many fans speculate that it could be Luffy, Blackbeard, or even someone entirely different.
On the other hand, the release of this chapter has sparked numerous debates and theories. Some believe Shanks is a secret agent working for the World Government, while others think he has a twin brother.
As of now, the manga has not revealed much about Shanks’ Celestial Dragon lineage or the existence of the Figarland family, leaving these theories somewhat unsubstantiated. However, it has also led to a popular “meme” within the fan community, referring to Shanks as “the rat,” implying that he works covertly for the government and that the name could be a cover. His connections with the Figarland family have not helped dispel rumors about his being a nefarious character.
Shamrock Figarland Appears, Illuminating Many Details
Chapter 1134 introduced Shamrock Figarland, Shanks’ twin brother and the chief of the Holy Knights. This detail helps clarify some of the discussions about who encountered the Gorosei in chapter 907. The character design of Shamrock, who bears a resemblance to Shanks, suggests that he could be the pirate in question.
However, the theory about Shanks being a “rat” gained traction after chapter 1152 when Shanks confirmed he had been to Mariejois at one point. Following this introduction, Shamrock is said to have a special connection to Shanks, who had previously visited Mariejois but now leads a life as a pirate. The Figarland family seems reluctant to associate with him. Furthermore, chapter 1152 also contains a flashback where Shanks confirms he met Harald at Mariejois, suggesting he spent considerable time there.
This also explains why the Gorosei seems familiar with Shanks, indicating that they have known him for a long time. Although the backstory has not yet fully revealed Shanks as a villain, one cannot accurately predict what Oda plans to do with this character. Notably, while some hints suggest Shamrock might be the one in the yellow coat, the hints about Shanks are more prevalent.
Elbaf: A Crucial Arc Revealing Secrets about Shanks
The current Elbaf arc is shaping up to be one of the most significant arcs in One Piece. Not only is it where Luffy faces new challenges, but Elbaf also holds many secrets about Shanks and the Figarland family that are waiting to be unveiled.
Shanks’ appearance in Elbaf in chapter 1152 indicates he will play an important role in this arc. Will he be Luffy’s ally, or could he turn out to be an antagonist? What is his true intention? All these questions are making fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming developments in the storyline.
Oda always knows how to keep fans guessing, and the secrets surrounding Shanks are undoubtedly among the most crucial elements in the concluding phase of One Piece.
Source: Comicbook
