Since its inception in the 1990s, One Piece and its main character, Luffy, have continually evolved. The Straw Hat pirate has had to grow stronger as threats become increasingly powerful. However, facing the Five Elders, Luffy seems powerless—a transformation is imminent, and it appears that Oda has already hinted at it.
The Five Elders: An Insurmountable Challenge for Luffy
In the Elbaf arc, One Piece has partially showcased the immense power of the Five Elders. This council represents the highest authority of the World Government, yet its full potential remains shrouded in mystery. These extraordinarily powerful beings have abilities that remain largely unknown. As the Elbaf arc progresses, however, more information about its members is gradually being revealed.
The Five Elders are known to have some form of psychic connection among themselves and with Imu. They may be immortal or possess extraordinary regenerative abilities, allowing them to use abysses for free travel. Additionally, they can wield various types of Haki and transform into gigantic demonic beings. These powerful entities currently outclass Luffy, compelling him to reach an entirely new level of strength.
Fortunately, Luffy has been continuously improving. Recently, the captain of the Straw Hat crew unlocked Gear 5, a transformation that allows him to envelop himself in both Armament Haki and King’s Haki. He has showcased this new power against formidable opponents such as Kaido, Lucci, and Kizaru.
However, Gear 5 alone is not enough. While Luffy’s abilities can indeed affect the Five Elders, they possess divine regenerative powers that continually replenish their strength. Faced with this reality, Luffy opts to retreat, postponing their essential confrontation.
A Final Transformation for Luffy
It is likely that Luffy will achieve his final transformation during the Elbaf arc. Gaban has advised Luffy on the importance of mastering his Haki. This is significant because Gaban has demonstrated the ability to bypass the immortality of the Divine Knights and inflict injuries that cannot regenerate. For instance, Shepherd Sommers lost an arm that did not regenerate. The method behind this feat remains unclear, but it may relate to his mastery of Supreme King Haki.
Despite Luffy’s formidable power, he has yet to reach the levels of Gaban, Shanks, Roger, or Whitebeard. Nevertheless, it is hard to imagine that Oda will not ultimately crown him as the true Pirate King, envisioning him defeating Imu, toppling the World Government, and restoring the honor of piracy. However, for Luffy to achieve this, he must reach a new transformation. As Kaido, through Oda’s words, pointed out: “Such obstacles can be overcome through Haki. Roger is proof of that!”
In a potential final transformation, Luffy will likely master Gear 5 and Haki. Once utilized to their full potential, these two abilities will help him conquer all his enemies. Unless Eiichiro Oda has more surprises in store after Imu, which seems unlikely, given that One Piece is approaching its end.
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