Shanks, one of the most mysterious and beloved characters in One Piece, has once again become the center of attention. Although he hasn’t appeared directly in the current Elbaf arc, his role in the story remains crucial, even more so than in many previous arcs.
While the manga is exploring Shanks’ true identity and past, fans continue to debate whether he was present at Mariejois during the Reverie event.
The “Spy Meme” and the Meeting with the Five Elders
In chapter 907, the One Piece community was shocked to see “Shanks” meeting with the Five Elders to discuss a “certain pirate.” Many theories have circulated about who this pirate might be, but the manga never clarifies. Some believe it could be Luffy, Blackbeard, or someone else entirely.
This chapter sparked intense debate and speculation. Some fans suggested Shanks might be a double agent working for the World Government, while others theorized he has a twin brother.
At that time, the manga had not revealed Shanks’ Celestial Dragon bloodline or the existence of the Figarland family, making these theories seem baseless. However, it gave rise to a popular fan “meme” labeling Shanks as a “spy,” implying he secretly works for the government while pretending to be a pirate. His connection to the Figarland family also fueled rumors that he might be an antagonist.
Shamrock Figarland Emerges, Clarifying Much
Chapter 1134 introduced Shamrock Figarland, Shanks’ twin brother and commander of the Holy Knights. This detail helped clarify the debate about who met the Five Elders in chapter 907. The man without Shanks’ scar was likely Shamrock.
Yet, the theory that Shanks is a “spy” resurfaced after chapter 1152, when Shanks confirmed he had spent time in Mariejois. After Shamrock’s introduction, he mentioned that Shanks had been to Mariejois but chose the life of a pirate. It seems the Figarland family also wants nothing to do with him. Moreover, chapter 1152 includes a flashback where Shanks confirms meeting Harald in Mariejois, indicating he spent significant time there.
This also explains why the Five Elders seem familiar with Shanks, as if they have known him for a long time. Although the series has never portrayed Shanks as a villain, nothing about Oda’s storytelling can be predicted with certainty. Especially since we don’t truly know what Oda plans for this character. While some clues point to Shamrock as the cloaked man, others lean more toward Shanks.
Elbaf: A Key to Unlocking Shanks’ Secrets
The current Elbaf arc is becoming one of the most important arcs in One Piece. It’s not just where the Straw Hats face new challenges, but also where secrets about Shanks and the Figarland family are gradually revealed.
Shanks’ appearance in Elbaf in chapter 1152 shows he plays a significant role in this arc. Will he be an ally to Luffy or an opposing force? What are his true motives? These questions have fans eagerly awaiting the next developments.
Oda always knows how to surprise fans, and the secrets surrounding Shanks will surely be one of the most crucial elements in the final stages of One Piece.
Source: Comicbook