This post contains spoilers for One Piece.

One Piece's Elbaf arc has been absolutely incredible. Not only has it been full of action, but it has also included important reveals related to the story. So far, Eiichiro Oda has written nearly 50 chapters for the Elbaf arc, and every single one has been amazing. Therefore, it won't be an exaggeration to say that Oda has been saving the best for last. The author knows his audience too well, which is why he is giving them what they want, and that's the highest quality of writing.

One Piece Next Straw Hat Pirate Strongest
The Next Member Of The Straw Hat Pirates Will Officially Be The Strongest In One Piece

The Straw Hat Pirates are about to gain a powerful member. This member will be the strongest Yonko Commander of all time in One Piece.

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While the Elbaf arc is still ongoing, most One Piece readers already seem to have made up their mind regarding the biggest highlight, and it's none other than Prince Loki. From his first appearance, it seemed that Loki would be an important cog in the story, and with time, it has become even more apparent. Considering where the story is at the time, it is possible that Loki might even be the key to Luffy's dream.

Loki Could Have Changed The Course Of History

Loki's Mythical Zoan Fruit Is Godly In Nature one piece
Loki from One Piece

Loki's name was originally mentioned hundreds of chapters before the Elbaf arc had even started. It was during the Whole Cake Island arc that Big Mom mentioned Loki. It was revealed that Big Mom wanted to form an alliance with the giants of Elbaf, and the easiest way was through marriage. However, Lola ran away from home, which is why the marriage never happened, and Big Mom's dream of conquering the world took a hit. Additionally, it caused a further rift between Big Mom and the people of Elbaf, because she was responsible for causing widespread destruction on the island.

While fans were familiar with Loki's name, they didn't know what he looked like, but that changed in the Elbaf arc. From his appearance alone, Loki looked like an interesting character. This was solidified when Loki was attacked by Figarland Shamrock, who wanted to force him into joining the Holy Knights. However, Loki refused to do so, which resulted in Shamrock assaulting the prince. After injuring him enough, Shamrock left him to die.

Loki Is The Savior Of Elbaf

Prince Loki stands in the snow.
Prince Loki stands in the snow.
Image by Viz Media

Before Luffy's group even met Loki, they had been told how he was the Accursed Prince, who was responsible for killing Harald. Hajrudin, in particular, was apprehensive of Loki, and he couldn't forgive him for murdering their father. However, the group did give Loki an opportunity to share the truth of what happened on that fateful day.

Before divulging the details of Harald's demise, Loki shared the story of his birth and how his own mother resented him. She considered him a monster and stayed away from him. Loki's only source of motherly love was Ida, who was Harald's true love. Ida did not care about Loki's appearance in the least, for she only saw a kid who needed affection. Due to being mistreated by his own mother, Loki never fully opened up, but that didn't stop Ida from trying.

Who’s That Character?

Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.

Who’s That Character? Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
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Her continued efforts won over Loki's heart, and he felt true affection for the first time. Years later, when Ida was poisoned by some nefarious individuals, Loki burned the entire village, which goes to show how much she meant to him. Aside from Ida, Harald was the only other person in Elbaf who truly loved Loki. Naturally, Loki cared about his father and would do everything to protect him.

Loki Prevented Elbaf From Falling Into Imu's Hands

harald-begs-loki

However, things took a shocking turn when Harald came back from Marijoa with the Depths Covenant. At the time, Harald didn't know that the Covenant was a means used by Imu to gain control over people's bodies. Upon arriving at Aurest Castle, Imu ordered Harald to open up the Abyss so that they could turn the giants into warriors. The latter was perplexed by Imu's behavior because he had been led to believe that Elbaf's future would be devoid of any bloodshed.

Harald tried to resist Imu's command, but there was little he could do. So, he immediately called for his sons, but only Loki came since Hajrudin was away. The prince was accompanied by Jarul to the king's location. Upon reaching the location, Harald ordered Loki to eat the legendary Devil Fruit of Elbaf and kill him. The King of Elbaf knew that the Devil Fruit would be able to stop him, so he asked Loki to hurry.

Loki attacks king Harald with Ragnir.
Loki attacks king Harald with Ragnir.
Image via Shonen Jump.

Loki was flummoxed, but he had no other option. So he went to the room where the Devil Fruit was being kept. After dealing with Ragnir, Loki devoured the Devil Fruit and returned to his father's location. Loki and Harald saw each other one last time before the former used his newly acquired power to put an end to the king's misery. It was an overwhelming moment for Loki as he had to kill his own father. Tears were rolling down his face, but there was nothing else that he could do.

Before dying, Harald had ordered Loki and Jarul to tell everyone about what had transpired in the room. However, Loki refused to drag his father's reputation through the mud. Instead, he chose to be branded as a killer. After learning the truth, Hajrudin apologized to Loki. However, they knew that time was running short, and Elbaf needed to be saved.

Loki Will Join The Straw Hat Pirates

The Chances Of Loki Going With Luffy Are High

The Straw Hats Would Become Unbeatable one piece
  • Loki joining the Straw Hats would be highly beneficial
  • He can take the crew to new heights

With Loki on their side, Luffy and the rest of the heroes have a much better chance at beating the Holy Knights and Imu. Loki and Gaban have the necessary experience, as they have dealt with the Holy Knights in the past, which is invaluable in the current situation. Once the enemies have been dealt with, Loki will have to make an important decision—whether to stay in Elbaf or travel with the Straw Hat Pirates.

The people of Elbaf dislike Loki because of his brash personality, and while there is no doubt that his name will be cleared, it would be rather underwhelming if the prince's mind was changed. Even though Loki rejected Luffy's initial proposal, there is a much better chance of Loki joining the Straw Hats than staying in Elbaf.

Shut your mouth, pipsqueak!! Why would I ever be a henchman for you?—Loki

Not only is Loki an integral part of the story, but he's also a dangerously powerful character. From here on out, the Straw Hats will face enemies that are on the same level as the Holy Knights, if not stronger. Currently, only Luffy and Zoro have the necessary means to deal with them, so Loki's addition would certainly be valuable in that regard. Naturally, the more fights the Straw Hats win, the closer they get to their goals. Obviously, this means Luffy will also get closer to the One Piece. So, Loki's insane strength will help Luffy become the Pirate King.

Of course, it all depends on Oda. The author is highly selective about who he allows to join the Straw Hats, which is understandable, as they are at the center of attention. Having an average character join the crew would have a negative impact in the long run. But from what fans have seen so far, Loki is far from a paltry character. He has an amazing backstory, personality, and phenomenal strength. His induction will unquestionably make fans overjoyed.

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One Piece
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Release Date
October 20, 1999
Network
Fuji TV
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  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Mayumi Tanaka
    Monkey D. Luffy (voice)
  • Cast Placeholder Image
    Kazuya Nakai
    Roronoa Zoro (voice)

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