One Piece continues to captivate fans with its intricate plot twists and enigmatic characters, especially concerning Imu, the elusive leader of the World Government. Speculation around Imu’s identity, past, and motivations is rampant, and a fresh theory proposes that Gunko, one of the Holy Knights, might actually be an alternate persona of Imu currently wreaking havoc in Elbaph.
This theory draws parallels to a previous storyline involving Cavendish from the Dressrosa arc, where he reveals that he embodies another persona, Hakuba, during his sleep. The introduction of such dual identities in the One Piece universe makes it conceivable that Imu and Gunko may share a deeper connection, not only visually but also behaviorally.
Note: Spoilers for the series ahead.
Unpacking the Theory: Gunko as Imu
One intriguing similarity between Imu and Gunko is their shared fear of the character Nika, as expressed by both during the last two arcs. Additionally, Gunko’s unusual eye design may echo Cavendish’s condition, hinting that Gunko could assume control of Imu’s body during her slumber. Such characteristics point to a deeper psychological connection between the two characters.
Moreover, some translations imply that Imu is female, aligning with the notion that Gunko, who also exhibits distinctive traits such as elongated arms—emphasized by her outfit—could indeed be a form of Imu. Notably, Imu’s appearance while holding Luffy’s wanted poster features remarkably stretched arms, suggesting that her unique physique is a deliberate red herring meant to mislead audiences.
Additionally, both Imu and Gunko display arrow-based abilities, with Gunko wielding them through her Devil Fruit powers in Elbaph. Imu showcased a similar capability when confronting Cobra, which raises the possibility that the Holy Knight is operating on Imu’s behalf or that they share this unique power altogether.
Exploring Further Evidence
Adding to the credibility of this theory is the fact that characters like Cavendish and Dracule Mihawk also possess eye designs reminiscent of Imu’s. Cavendish’s Hakuba persona, characterized by distinctively colored eyes, draws a visual parallel to Gunko, suggesting a deeper narrative thread within the series. The shading of Hakuba during his transformation closely mirrors the portrayal of Imu, indicating a possible thematic connection established by creator Eiichiro Oda.
This consistency in design might symbolize a recurring theme of mental disorders or alter egos within the One Piece narrative, creating a potential link between Imu and Gunko through their shared psychological struggles.
Conclusion: The Stakes are High
Gunko has emerged as one of the most intriguing additions to the One Piece universe, sparking robust discussion and various theories among fans. The possibility of her being connected to Imu raises fascinating questions about the series’ overarching narrative and how these characters play into the larger conflict. As the story unfolds, these parallels could serve as an innovative way to introduce the series’ ultimate antagonist into the main storyline.