New One Piece Spoilers Suggest Stronger Connection Between Loki and Shanks Than Fans Anticipated

After a brief two-week hiatus, renowned One Piece creator, Eiichiro Oda, has returned to delight the fanbase with the initial spoilers for chapter 1131. The leaks suggest a strong continuation of the dialogue between Luffy and Loki, setting the stage for pivotal developments in the Elbaph Arc that fans have eagerly anticipated.

Central to the spoilers is an intriguing interaction where Loki refers to Shanks as a “chicken.”Many fans interpret this comment as Loki expressing disapproval of Shanks. However, the broader context of their conversation indicates a more nuanced relationship that deserves closer examination.

Exploring the Ties Between Shanks and Loki with Luffy’s Devil Fruit at the Forefront

According to the latest leaks, when Loki jokingly calls Shanks a “chicken,” it prompts Luffy to activate Gear 4 and retaliate. Loki quickly clarifies that his intention was merely to provoke Luffy, highlighting their strong camaraderie. This comedic banter does raise several questions.

Firstly, it seems improbable that their initial discussion would shift to Shanks so quickly. Additionally, given that Loki’s eyes are bandaged, he may not have been able to recognize Luffy’s straw hat as belonging to Shanks, even with the aid of Observation Haki. It appears unlikely that Loki would speak ill of Shanks in front of Luffy—an ally of Shanks—especially when he presumably needs Luffy’s assistance.

The interpretation that Loki intended to tease Luffy adds another layer to this exchange. Loki possesses enough insight to know that insulting Shanks would provoke a reaction from Luffy, suggesting he is aware of Luffy by name and understands his relationship with Shanks prior to their encounter.

This theory gains further support from the concluding moments of chapter 1130, where Luffy confidently declares his ambition to become the King of the Pirates, a claim that visibly impresses Loki. This admiration could hint at a past connection between Loki and Shanks, as Shanks is known for discussing Luffy’s aspirations with others.

The potential tension between Loki and Shanks may stem from Luffy’s Devil Fruit, which Loki might believe he possesses. This twist not only adds emotional depth to the developing situation between Luffy and Loki in the Elbaph Arc but also sheds light on the long-standing enigma surrounding Shanks’ acquisition of the Gum-Gum Fruit.

Concluding Remarks

Loki's relationship with Shanks might have soured after the latter took the Mythical Zoan-type Human-Human Fruit, Model: Nika — Loki’s relationship with Shanks likely soured when the latter stole the Mythical Zoan-type Human-Human Fruit, Model: Nika (Image via Toei Animation)

While much of this analysis remains speculative, it lays a compelling foundation for understanding the dynamics between these characters. As we await the full summary spoilers, it’s clear that Oda is crafting a narrative that deepens our understanding of these relationships and adds complexity to the One Piece storyline.

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