The One Piece universe has always been filled with intricate storylines, mysterious elements, and multifaceted characters. One particularly enigmatic character is Imu, who was introduced in the series. Initially seen as a shadowy figure sitting on the Empty Throne, Imu holds absolute power over the World Government and even commands the highest authorities known as the Gorosei, or the Five Elders.
As more information about Imu has gradually emerged, fans’ intrigue has only grown. One topic that has captivated the One Piece community is Imu’s fascination with Nefertari Lili. This article explores the idea that Imu’s fixation on Lili may stem from romantic motives rather than the commonly believed theories.
Saint Imu and Nefertari D. Lili: A Deeper Connection in One Piece
In the 1116th chapter of One Piece, readers are shown a scene where Imu gazes at a large framed portrait of Nefertari Lili. This moment, along with several hints scattered throughout the series, implies a profound and romantic bond between Imu and Lili. Additionally, Ivankov’s disclosure about Imu’s eternal life and his past as Saint Imu of the Nerona family, one of the founding families of the World Government, lays the foundation for a timeless love story.
Nefertari Lili, a member of the Nefertari family who ruled one of the first 20 kingdoms, made the decision to forego becoming a Celestial Dragon and instead returned to Alabasta. However, her return journey was never completed and her younger brother ultimately took over the throne, adding to the enigma surrounding her disappearance and Imu’s fixation on her.
One Piece: The History Between Saint Imu and Nefertari D. Lili
To fully comprehend Imu’s fixation, it is crucial to examine the historical and political backdrop of their connection in order to understand any potential romantic motivations.
Eight hundred years ago, the 20 kingdoms came together to establish the World Government in the One Piece world. This historic alliance was formed with the goal of maintaining a balance of power, represented by the Empty Throne, to prevent any one kingdom from dominating the rest.
The Reverie, an assembly created by the World Government, provides a forum for leaders from around the world to meet and address global concerns. The inaugural Reverie is estimated to have occurred 800 years ago, enabling direct communication and exchanges between the original 20 kingdoms.
Throughout history, political marriages have been a popular tactic for strengthening alliances and consolidating power. This is exemplified in the series by Big Mom’s plan to wed her daughter Lola to Prince Loki of Elbaf, in order to gain the support of the Giant race. It is reasonable to speculate that a similar arrangement may have been made between Imu of the Nerona family and Lili of the Nefertari family.
This alliance would not only bolster their individual positions, but also guarantee their shared objectives in establishing the World Government.
Episode 875: The Truth Behind Lili’s Betrayal
If Imu’s feelings for Lili are indeed genuine, it brings a more intimate aspect to his character. In the Chamber of Flowers, Imu is portrayed with a picture of Shirahoshi impaled and cut bounties of Luffy and Blackbeard displayed. However, he is seen holding an unscathed picture of Nefertari Vivi, who is a descendant of Lili. This contrast implies a significant and unbreakable bond between Imu and Lili.
Upon hearing King Cobra’s revelation that the Nefertari family in Alabasta had maintained their rule while the other 19 families had not, Imu was triggered and chose to reveal himself to the Gorosei. This unexpected reveal left even the Gorosei surprised and emphasized the personal stakes at play.
Despite Imu’s confusion and lingering doubts, his anger towards Lili for scattering the Poneglyphs worldwide may stem from a sense of betrayal. This raises the question of whether her actions were a calculated defiance or a genuine mistake, indicating a potentially complicated emotional history between the two.
One Piece: Ope Ope no Mi and the Immortality Surgery
The Ope Ope no Mi’s ability to grant immortality is a crucial aspect of this story. Doflamingo’s conversation with Law regarding the fruit’s power to perform the Immortality Surgery offers insight into Imu’s extended lifespan. It is possible that Lili, the previous user of the Ope Ope no Mi, was coerced by Imu into using the fruit to perform the surgery on him, ultimately sacrificing her own life. This could explain her sudden disappearance and the mysterious fate that continues to haunt Imu.
Lili’s encounter with Joyboy, a prominent figure in the One Piece universe, may have had a significant impact on her. It is possible that Joyboy’s ideals inspired Lili to embrace a more selfless viewpoint, much like how Luffy inspires Vivi. This change in ideology could have motivated Lili to disperse the Poneglyphs, defying Imu’s oppressive vision and causing their anger.
One Piece: The Legacy of Nefertari D. Lili
The strong resemblance between Vivi and Lili is yet another indicator of Imu’s fixation. The untouched photograph of Vivi, in contrast to the other targeted images, suggests a lingering fondness and unresolved emotions. Vivi symbolizes Lili’s legacy, embodying the same rebellious and self-sufficient nature that Imu once adored and then felt betrayed by. Imu’s fixation on Vivi may stem from a complicated blend of yearning, remorse, and a desire to recapture or make amends for what was lost with Lili.
By examining Imu’s actions and motivations, one can gain insight into the perspective of a heartbroken monarch who has endured a tragic love story. The Ope Ope no Mi, which takes the form of a heart, serves as a powerful symbol for the romantic and emotional elements of this tale. Imu’s eternal life, obtained through Lili’s sacrifice, may in fact be a burden, trapping him in a never-ending existence haunted by the memory of his beloved.
Final thoughts
If Imu’s admiration for Nefertari Lili is motivated by love, it could bring more complexity to his character and the overall One Piece storyline. This idea highlights Eiichiro Oda’s talent for emotional storytelling and intricate plots, even though there is no definitive evidence.
The enduring love between Imu and Lili has spanned more than eight centuries, adding depth to Imu’s character and driving him with powerful emotions such as the pain of love. As the series progresses, viewers eagerly anticipate uncovering more about this inevitable secret and Imu’s true feelings for her.
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