The Elbaf arc in One Piece keeps getting more thrilling with each new chapter, delivering explosive revelations. From uncovering Loki’s unexpected dark origins to shedding light on the mysterious Rocks D. Xebec, the latest flashbacks continue to raise the bar.
Fans truly feel like the story is entering its final phase after a decade-long journey, starting to piece together clues revealed over the years. Notably, Rocks D. Xebec has emerged as a crucial puzzle piece, revealed as Blackbeard’s father and Loki’s idol.
Although the newest chapter hasn’t revealed much about Xebec yet, his appearance in the flashback has sparked plenty of speculation, especially about his powers and abilities. One theory rapidly gaining traction is that Rocks D. Xebec might have once possessed the Ope Ope no Mi, the Devil Fruit currently held by Trafalgar D. Water Law.
One Piece chapter 1154 offers several hints supporting this idea, including Rocks mimicking a gesture familiar to sharp-eyed fans.
Could Rocks D. Xebec Have Owned the Ope Ope no Mi Before Law?
The biggest clue leading many to believe Rocks once had the Ope Ope no Mi comes from his introduction at the end of chapter 1154. Rocks is seen raising two fingers while questioning Loki. This gesture immediately calls to mind Law using his “Shambles” ability, a skill granted by the Ope Ope no Mi. Adding weight to this theory, just before Rocks appears, the manga shows a distant mountain with its peak sliced off, likely caused by the Ope Ope no Mi’s power.
However, it’s worth noting that Rocks made this gesture while asking Loki two questions, so some might argue it’s just a coincidence or a natural gesture when posing a second question.
Still, the chapter also reveals that eight years ago at the Reverie, Rocks killed an admiral and escaped. Having the Ope Ope no Mi’s power would explain how Rocks managed such a swift getaway, as the ability to create a “Room” and manipulate objects or people inside it offers a perfect escape tool.
This also adds to the Ope Ope no Mi’s notorious reputation and the World Government’s desire to possess it, alongside rumors of the “immortal surgery” it might enable. This theory fits well with recent revelations that Imu can grant immortality to the Five Elders and Holy Knights with ease, and the Ope Ope no Mi could be the key.
The Connection Between Rocks and Blackbeard Through the Ope Ope no Mi
If Rocks did possess the Ope Ope no Mi, it opens an intriguing possibility that he somehow passed part of his personality into Blackbeard. The theory that Blackbeard has multiple personalities has been popular for years, ever since Luffy first met him in Mock Town and referred to him in the plural form “they.” If Rocks truly had the Ope Ope no Mi, could its power have been used to transfer some of Rocks’ will or soul into Blackbeard? This might explain Blackbeard’s mysterious ability to consume two Devil Fruits and the similarities in their personalities.
Of course, having Luffy face an old enemy of Roger instead of a new foe might seem dull if Rocks was simply a “rebirth.” But One Piece always surprises its fans, and the Ope Ope no Mi playing a key role in such a major mystery will surely add more excitement to the upcoming story developments.
Source: Comicbook