One Piece's Elbaf arc may not be right after Egghead, and for good reason

Modified Jul 11, 2024 08:30 GMT

One Piece fans have been eagerly waiting for the Elbaf arc, a much-hyped storyline that will delve deep into the depths of the series and reveal some of the much-awaited secrets of the Void Century.

However, looking at the way the Egghead Island arc is heading, it becomes more and more probable that the next arc may not be Elbaf at all. On the contrary, the Straw Hats might end up at the island of Sphinx first, and then they will journey to the legendary land of the giants without a doubt.

One Piece: Aftermath of the Egghead Island arc

Since the Straw Hats are trying to leave Egghead Island, it is very likely that the Gorosei, the World Government elders, will follow them. These powerful antagonists have been keeping a watch on the Straw Hats for a long time and finally made a move against them and Dr. Vegapunk. While they managed to finish off Dr. Vegapunk, it is almost certain that they'll continue chasing the Straw Hats for a while more.

Since the Gorosei are extremely powerful and dangerous, Luffy and Zoro will inevitably get hurt while fighting them, as the two manga characters do not avoid battles with dangerous opponents. Hawkins’ foreshadowing in the Wano arc that Zoro's chances of survival in the next month is only 19% may turn out to be true.

One Piece: Reunion at Sphinx Island

Marco, the Phoenix (Image via Toei Animation)

Looking at the impacts that these battles are going to have on Luffy and Zoro, the Straw Hats may consider stopping at Sphinx Island before proceeding to Elbaf. This decision would be in the wake of finding a place to rest and get assistance from Marco the Phoenix.

It would be great if Marco was on Sphinx Island as Chopper would be able to use his knowledge to treat the wounds Luffy and Zoro received on Egghead Island. This reunion would also be a time for the Straw Hats to relax and heal, something that they would need in preparation for the trials that are in store for them at Elbaf.

One Piece: Marco and Miss Bakkin's potential role in the upoming storyline

Sanji's conversation with Bartholomew Kuma (Image via Shueisha)

Another key factor that may contribute to the Straw Hats' decision to stop at Sphinx Island is Sanji's conversation with Kuma from the Thriller Bark arc. Sanji's sense of honor and duty will likely compel him to fulfill this promise, which may involve a tactical sabotage plot aimed at disrupting the plans of Gorosei and the Navy.

This sabotage plot may intersect with the storylines of Kaku, Stussy, Miss Bakkin, and Marco. Bakkin and Marco are believed to be already en route to Egghead Island, and Stussy's encounter with her original self could play a crucial role in these events. Additionally, Kizaru's reluctance to get involved further may eventually lead him to help Bonney escape, mirroring Garp's actions.

One Piece: The Blackbeard Pirates and Kizaru's potential death

Amidst the battle in Egghead Island, Blackbeard Pirates members Van Augar and Catarina Devon are likely to take advantage of the situation. This could lead to a confrontation between Blackbeard Pirates and Kizaru which could have the possibility of ending the lives of the latter.

These events would pave the way for the Straw Hats to head towards Sphinx Island to meet Marco and to get ready for the showdown at Elbaf. While they are on Sphinx Island, Luffy can probably visit the graves of Ace and Whitebeard which will be emotional before the final battle.

Dorry and Broggy (Image via Toei Animation)

Moreover, this respite on Sphinx Island would provide the Straw Hats and their allies, including Luffy, Marco, Dorry, and Broggy, the chance to engage in training and discussions about the looming battle at Elbaf. Luffy may even decide to summon the Grand Fleet, recognizing the need for their support in the upcoming conflict.

One Piece: Upcoming role of Holy Knights and the Great Cleansing

Monkey D. Dragon speaks about the Holy Knights (Image via Toei Animation)

While the Straw Hats are on Sphinx Island, the scene may shift to another island where Shanks is confronting Bartolomeo for burning his flag. This confrontation is likely to be interrupted by one of the Holy Knights, the official law enforcers of Mary Geoise.

The involvement of the Holy Knights marks the beginning of the "Great Cleansing" mentioned by V. Nasjuro in chapter 908. As the Holy Knights target the Grand Fleet, the final war will commence, with all of Imu's forces actively engaged on the battlefield.

Conclusion

As the pieces fall into place, the attention of all the factions will inevitably turn towards Elbaf, the legendary land of the giants. This realization will serve as the catalyst for the Elbaf saga, as the Straw Hats and their allies prepare to unite at this pivotal location.