Overview of the Elbaf Arc
- The Gods Knights are formidable Celestial Dragons introduced in the Elbaf arc of One Piece, showcasing a range of powerful abilities.
- These adversaries represent a significant challenge for the Straw Hat crew, particularly for key members like Zoro, Sanji, and Jimbei.
- In addition to the Gods Knights, fans are speculating about the potential emergence of the Blackbeard Pirates or Cross Guild as the main villains in this storyline.
The World Government is viewed as the primary antagonist by the heroes in One Piece. Originating from a coalition of 20 ancient and powerful kingdoms, this organization has dominated the world for over 800 years, advancing xenophobic ideologies and enforcing a reign that subjugates all but the privileged Celestial Dragons. Their widespread influence enables them to operate above the law, rendering them an omnipresent force.
Accordingly, it’s no surprise that the Gods Knights have emerged as the most immediate threat in the Elbaf arc, illustrating the organization’s military might.
Unveiling Their Power
|
First Appearance |
One Piece, Chapter 1134, “The Owl Library” |
|---|---|
|
Story Arc |
Elbaf |
Initially referenced in the storyline, the Gods Knights truly made their presence felt in the Elbaf arc. Their abilities, particularly those of Shamrock and Gunko, have showcased immense potential, leading fans to speculate that they could be the principal antagonists of this arc. Following Shamrock’s return to the Holy Land, Gunko teamed up with Sommers and Qillingham—both of whom possess equally impressive powers.
While Shamrock’s exact abilities remain enigmatic, it appears that he, similar to his brother Shanks, may not boast a Devil Fruit power, instead relying on his exceptional Haki. However, hints suggest his sword could wield the powers of the Mythical Zoan Devil Fruit, Inu Inu no Mi, Model: Cerberus.
In contrast, Gunko wields the Aro Aro no Mi, which allows her to shape arrows from her body or shadow, creating a formidable and unpredictable attack pattern. Her arrows must follow a designated trajectory, amplifying the damage dealt upon impact. Complementing her powers, Sommers possesses a Devil Fruit ability that enables him to create invisible thorns capable of penetrating the toughest armors.
The most impressive ability on display in the Elbaf arc, however, belongs to Qillingham. His Ryu Ryu no Mi, Model: Qilin, is an Awakened Mythical Zoan Fruit that grants him the capacity to manipulate the dreams or nightmares of his targets, which is critical to the Gods Knight’s plan to abduct children in Elbaf. This unique power, which allows for a sense of reality warping, has been highly anticipated by fans.
All of these abilities make the Gods Knights among the most daunting challenges the Straw Hats have faced so far. While Luffy’s Nika fruit abilities are expected to vastly outscale these newfound powers, each adversary presents a challenging matchup for Zoro, Sanji, and Jimbei. Likely confrontations could pit Zoro against Sommers, Sanji against Qillingham, and perhaps Jimbei against Gunko, though creator Oda is known for unexpected twists.
Meanwhile, the remaining Straw Hats will stand alongside the Giants to combat the nightmares orchestrated by Qillingham. As for Luffy, his primary challenge may be his eventual duel with Loki, another user of a Sun God Devil Fruit, promising an intense climax that could end with Loki siding with the heroes.
Potential Additional Villains in the Elbaf Arc
Who Else Might Be the Final Villains?
In a parallel theory alive in the One Piece fandom, there are speculations that the Blackbeard Pirates may finally make their move within the Elbaf arc. Many believe this island could house the final Road Poneglyph, leading to a potential clash with the Straw Hats, especially if Scopper is indeed the Man Marked by Flames.
Similarly, Cross Guild could also emerge prominently in this arc, potentially leading to an intense showdown between the crews of the Yonko after the Gods Knights have been subdued. While these predictions are currently speculative, they certainly ignite excitement among the fans.
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