One Piece’s Journey Continues Beyond Laugh Tale: Oda Explains Why Fans Should Expect More

The final saga of One Piece is unfolding, leading fans to speculate that Eiichiro Oda’s iconic series may be nearing its long-anticipated conclusion after two decades. As the Straw Hat Pirates edge closer to uncovering the ultimate treasure, attention turns to how Oda will wrap up the adventures of Monkey D. Luffy.

While many fans anticipate Luffy’s journey to mirror that of Gold Roger, with a potential disbanding of the Straw Hats following the treasure’s discovery, the reality may be more complex. Alongside the search for the ultimate prize, the Straw Hat crew has several commitments to honor, including reuniting with Laboon and Nefertari Vivi.

Disclaimer: This article may contain possible spoilers from the One Piece manga series and reflects the author’s opinions.

One Piece: Why Laugh Tale is Not the Final Destination for the Straw Hat Pirates

Nami in the Elbaph arc (Image via Eiichiro Oda/Shueisha)

The One Piece manga is currently on a two-week break, with a return expected in November 2024. The series is in the midst of what might be its final saga, featuring the Elbaph arc. This arc could signify a crucial juncture for Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates before their arrival at Laugh Tale, according to various hints from the author.

Fans are starting to see the Elbaph arc as more than just a narrative transition; it could be fundamental preparation for a climactic battle against the World Government. What lies ahead once the Straw Hats uncover the final treasure? Will Luffy choose to disband his crew, akin to Roger’s decision? Given the commitments awaiting them, this scenario seems less likely.

Yamato in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

Upon discovering the One Piece at Laugh Tale, the Straw Hat Pirates would likely revisit every island they previously visited to resolve outstanding matters. An initial stop could be Wano, where they reunite with both the Samurai and Yamato, a prominent candidate for joining the Straw Hats permanently.

Next, Fisherman Island may serve as a significant location where Jinbei is dropped off, and this could also be the moment Madam Shyarly reveals the true implications of her prophecy regarding Luffy’s supposed role in the island’s fate. An additional stop at Water Seven would see Franky dropped off, and they would then head to Arabasta Kingdom to reconnect with Nefertari Vivi.

Laboon in the anime (Image via Toei Animation)

One of the more significant stops would involve revisiting Reverse Mountain, where Brook could finally reunite with Laboon, potentially leading to a long-awaited rematch with the whale. Upon re-entering the East Blue, each member of the Straw Hat crew could be dropped at their respective hometowns.

Additionally, they might stop at various other islands such as Zou and Amazon Lily, primarily for celebrations of their achievements rather than business. Furthermore, Nami may use this journey back from Laugh Tale as an opportunity to map the world, suggesting that Laugh Tale might not indeed be the ultimate endpoint for the Straw Hat Pirates on the Grand Line.

Analysis and Final Thoughts

While this theory offers an intriguing perspective on life after One Piece, several questions remain. For instance, do all crew members wish to return to their homes, and could some be planning marriages? Moreover, Luffy’s lifespan raises uncertainties regarding his survival beyond the conclusion of the series, leaving the possibility of a post-Pirate King saga in question. Hence, readers should consider this article a form of entertainment.

Source