One Piece chapter 1169, titled “I Must Die,” treats readers to a stunning double-page color spread featuring the Rocks Pirates dressed in mysterious black outfits. However, the heart of this chapter lies in the flashbacks and the massacre unfolding in Elbaph.
The story takes us back 14 years when Red-Haired Shanks visits Elbaph and stays with Gaban and Ripley. There, Scopper Gaban, a former Roger Pirates member, reveals a shocking secret. Garp tells him that Roger actually had a son, Ace. Shanks’ reaction moves many as he declares the boy was like a little brother to him.
But Shanks’ true purpose for coming to Elbaph is not just a friendly visit. He warns King Harald never to accept the title of the God Knights.
The Secret of the “Sea Pacts” and Imu’s Power
Chapter 1169 reveals Imu’s terrifying control mechanism based on two types of sea pacts. The shallow Sea Pact, like the one Shanks holds, allows Imu to manipulate within a limited radius. The God Knights carry the deep Sea Pact, granting Imu full control over them anywhere in the world.
Tragedy strikes at Aurust Castle when King Harald realizes he is being controlled by Imu. He orders all his soldiers to take their own lives to avoid being used. At that moment, Loki and Jarul rush in. Harald explains he once worked for the World Government but has now been betrayed.
The Massacre at Aurust Castle and the Rise of “Evil King Harald”
In his final moment of clarity, Harald orders Loki to end his life immediately and tells his son to eat the legendary Devil Fruit stored in Elbaph to defeat him. Soon after, Harald loses all control.
Unlike typical devil transformations, Imu turns Harald into an extremely evil version of himself. This “evil self” claims he is the one who should consume the legendary Devil Fruit, not Loki. A fierce battle erupts, with elder Jarul stabbed in the head by Harald and all soldiers defeated.
Even Shanks and Gaban sense the unusual Haki and intervene, but these two legends struggle against a completely deranged Harald.
The Final Twist: The Appearance of Iron Thunder Ragnir
Following his father’s orders, Loki rushes to the treasure to find the legendary Devil Fruit to turn the tide. However, just as he reaches for the last hope, the Elbaph prince is suddenly attacked by a mysterious figure: Iron Thunder Ragnir.
Ragnir’s arrival at the treasure in the heat of battle makes Elbaph’s fate even more uncertain. Will Loki gain the legendary power in time to stop his own father, or will Elbaph fall under Imu’s control?
Next week’s chapter is expected to be on break due to Christmas.