The manga One Piece is currently in the Elbaf arc, where the Straw Hat Pirates have arrived at the legendary land of the Giants. The atmosphere is filled with excitement as everyone welcomes them, a feeling unlike anything they’ve experienced so far. Elbaf is not connected to the World Government, and Luffy’s crew is getting acquainted with some of the Giants they meet, so they are enjoying a leisurely time on this new island.
However, Shamrock and Gunko have infiltrated Elbaf to disrupt their fun. The two members of the Blackbeard Pirates have attempted to convince Loki but have not succeeded. Shamrock, however, has a more cunning plan to seize Elbaf.
Unaware of the impending danger, Luffy is still trying to establish a rapport with Loki. The two have struck a firm agreement, where Luffy is allowed to escape Loki, and the prince will tell Luffy about Shanks. Although Zoro is not on board with this, Luffy is determined to escape Loki because he desperately wants to meet Shanks.
During his quest to rescue Loki, Luffy encounters one of the most legendary pirates in history. Previously, this pirate had been introduced in a chapter of the manga, but the colored version has revealed a hint.
The manga One Piece mistakenly portrays the legendary pirate Gaban as Shiki
The cover image of One Piece Chapter 631 features Crocus and Gaban drinking at Twin Cape in Reverse Mountain. Crocus and Laboon have been living at that spot for over ten years. Considering that Gaban and Crocus were once crewmates under the legendary Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, it makes sense for the two to be drinking together if they meet again.
Interestingly, Gaban’s hair was originally depicted as golden instead of white. Combined with a yellow and orange jacket, wearing a straw hat, anyone would easily mistake the character on this cover for Shiki.
Shiki is a member of the Rocks Pirates and was the first known character to escape the Impel Down prison. He was first mentioned in Chapter 530 but has yet to appear in the manga. Moreover, he is also the main antagonist in One Piece Film: Strong World, which is not considered canon.
With Shiki’s past and actions, it’s quite clear when he sits down to drink with Crocus that they are old friends. Since the colored version published by Shueisha is official, no one doubts the legality of the cover page. Since Chapter 631 was released in July 2011, fans have speculated that the character depicted is Shiki. It wasn’t until Chapter 1139 that the misidentification was clarified.
The character depicted as Shiki is actually Gaban, who is currently living in Elbaf. He meets Luffy and discusses his relationship with Ripley in Chapter 1139 of One Piece.
Gaban immediately recognizes Luffy’s reckless enthusiasm, similar to what Roger would have done. However, Luffy wants to rescue Loki, while Gaban is someone who feels responsible for chasing down criminals. He is only willing to negotiate if Luffy proves himself worthy.
