This week, the One Piece community is buzzing over the shocking events in episode 1155. Not only do we witness the brutal death of Saturn at the hands of Imu, but the anime also officially introduces the powerful new Gorosei member, Figarland Garling.
Imu Executes Saturn: The Price of Failure
Saturn, one of the main antagonists of the Egghead Island arc, has been decisively eliminated. Although he protected York, Punk Records, and the energy plant to maintain the Mother Flame, his biggest mistake was allowing Vegapunk Stella to broadcast the truth worldwide and letting “Joyboy” Luffy escape.
The execution scene is haunting. While speaking with subordinates, Saturn’s body suddenly emits thick black smoke, followed by fierce blue flames. This is Imu’s ruthless punishment.
Saturn and the other Gorosei gained immortality and yokai-like powers through the Abyssal Covenant with Imu. When Imu strips Saturn of these powers, the centuries-old man rapidly ages and crumbles into a skeleton in an instant. This moment highlights just how terrifying Imu’s power is, he can erase a formidable Gorosei member with a mere thought.
Figarland Garling Takes Saturn’s Place
Immediately after Saturn’s death, Figarland Garling appears in the Gorosei chamber announcing Imu’s special order. Garling officially assumes the role of Science and Defense Guardian and directly commands Vegapunk York.
Before joining the Gorosei, Garling was the commander of the Holy Knights. Fans are most shocked to learn that he is the biological father of Shamrock and, notably, the Four Emperors’ Red-Haired Shanks. With this new role, Garling promises to be one of the Final Saga’s most dangerous villains.
Garling’s background is filled with dark deeds. Thirty-eight years ago, he was the “champion” of the human hunting game during the God Valley incident. Impatient, he executed the island’s king before the game even began, willingly losing 10,000 points just to satisfy his brutality. He also placed King Harald as the “Devoted Sword of the Gods” to support the Holy Knights.
Like the other Gorosei, Garling gained mysterious powers and enhanced strength through his covenant with Imu. His weapon is a large sabre with a round golden pommel. Though his full abilities are yet to be revealed, Garling has used it to massacre countless slaves and even kill a weakened Rocks D. Xebec.
This shake-up at the top of the World Government shows Imu is taking more decisive steps in the final battle. Will Garling prove to be more ruthless and terrifying than Saturn? Stay tuned for the next developments!