The latest installment of Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece has arrived, and chapter 1136, titled “Land Awaiting the Sun,” is packed with revelations. Released on January 14, 2025, the chapter delves deeper into the lore surrounding the Sun God and teases the past of the enigmatic Loki, the so-called “accursed prince.” The chapter also features the arrival of the Holy Knights, adding another layer of complexity to the unfolding Elbaf arc.
Giants Debate the Nature of the Sun God
The chapter begins with the giants of Elbaf discussing the nature of the Sun God. This deity, who has become increasingly significant, is viewed differently among the giants. Some regard the Sun God as a “liberator,” a figure of hope and freedom, while others see him as a “destructor,” a force of chaos and devastation. This division hints at the complex and potentially dual nature of the Sun God within the One Piece universe. This also seems to imply that there could be two sun gods; one evil (Loki) and one good (Luffy).
This disagreement also underscores the idea that the concept of the “Sun God” might be interpreted differently depending on one’s perspective and experiences. The giants’ divided opinions raise questions about the true identity of the Sun God and his ultimate purpose. It is theorized that the sun god is connected with the ancient kingdom.
Loki’s Past and the Intervention of Shanks
The giants then proceed to reveal the past of Loki and his father, King Harald, to the Straw Hat Pirates. Six years prior to the current storyline, Loki allegedly murdered his father, King Harald, in his pursuit of power through consuming a legendary Devil Fruit. After this act, Shanks, the Red-Haired Emperor, appeared on Elbaf and intervened, stopping Loki before his actions could escalate further. This event seems to coincide with Shanks’ rise to the status of Yonko and emphasizes the impact of his intervention in Elbaf’s history.
The details surrounding Shanks’ involvement with Loki are scarce, and fans are left to speculate whether Shanks was responsible for Loki’s imprisonment. This revelation highlights a previously unknown connection between the two characters and suggests that Shanks is potentially more involved in world affairs than previously believed.
Zoro’s Curiosity and Loki’s Potential
Roronoa Zoro, ever eager to test his strength against the strong, grows curious about Loki’s capabilities. The Straw Hats, driven by this curiosity, acquire the keys needed to release Loki from his chains. This indicates that the crew may be considering Loki’s potential as an ally, or possibly as a foe worth challenging.
This decision showcases the Straw Hats’ willingness to engage with powerful individuals, regardless of their reputation, and emphasizes their fearless approach to exploration. The release of Loki could have major implications for the unfolding events on Elbaf.
The Holy Knights Arrive
The Holy Knights, who have been a subject of speculation, finally make their presence known by arriving in the Dead Realm of Elbaf Island. They approach Loki with an offer to join their ranks. This confirms the fan theories about their identity and purpose. However, Loki refuses their offer, further fueling his animosity towards the world.
The identity of these Holy Knights is still shrouded in mystery. One of them reveals herself to be Gunko. However, much about their goals and motivations remains to be seen. Their arrival on Elbaf, coinciding with the Straw Hats’ presence, suggests a conflict is brewing.
Gunko’s Powers and a Mysterious Wolf
Gunko, one of the Holy Knights, attempts to use her powers to force Loki into submission. She displays unique abilities, manipulating her long, bandage-like sleeves as weapons. During this confrontation a giant wolf appears, seemingly to defend Loki from the Holy Knights. It is speculated that this is the same wolf that previously attacked Luffy. However, Loki rejects the wolf’s aid, implying that he wants to remain in his current state and continue to pursue his goal of world destruction. The Holy Knights then proceed to kill the wolf and Loki carries the wolf’s body, further emphasizing his hatred of the world.
This confrontation showcases the Holy Knights’ power and their apparent ruthlessness. The appearance of a giant wolf adds another layer of mystery to the situation and suggests that the island of Elbaf harbors many hidden dangers.
The Accursed Prince
Loki’s title as the “accursed prince” stems from his act of murdering his father, King Harald, to seize power. The motivation behind this act is his desire to obtain a legendary Devil Fruit. It is speculated that this Devil Fruit gives him immense power, possibly rivaling that of the Gura Gura no Mi, and solidifies his ambition to become the destroyer of the world.
His actions and desire to destroy the world solidify his role as a potentially major antagonist in the One Piece universe. His complex background adds depth to his character. His past actions are a direct contrast to those who see the sun god as a liberator.
The Sun God and Elbaf
The connection between the Sun God and Elbaf has become more evident in the recent arcs. The lore surrounding the Sun God is apparently older than even Joy Boy. It is also revealed that the people of Elbaf are familiar with stories of the Sun God and easily recognize Luffy when he takes on his Nika form, thus confirming his connection to the mythical figure.
This established connection between the Sun God and Elbaf positions the island as a pivotal location in the One Piece narrative. The island’s history and traditions are deeply intertwined with the myths surrounding the Sun God, further solidifying its importance.
Chapter 1136: A Pivotal Moment
Chapter 1136 of One Piece marks a significant turning point in the Elbaf arc. The expansion of the Sun God lore, coupled with the revelations about Loki’s past, positions these figures as central to the series’ future. The arrival of the Holy Knights, the exploration of Loki’s character, and Zoro’s eagerness to challenge him all point toward a turbulent future.
This chapter sets the stage for major confrontations and unraveling of mysteries in the world of One Piece. The events of chapter 1136 will likely have lasting implications for the Straw Hats and the world around them. The manga will not be on break next week and the next chapter is set to be released on January 27, 2025.
