Shanks, one of the Four Emperors or Yonko, surprised One Piece fans when he expressed interest in obtaining One Piece in chapter 1054. Many wondered why it took him so long to claim what could be the greatest treasure in the world of One Piece. Here are some possible theories to explain why Shanks only now wants to go after One Piece.
1. Seizing the Opportunity after the Downfall of Kaido and Big Mom
One obstacle in the path of the Yonko engaging in full-blown warfare has always been psychological. The original Four Emperors were cautious not to attack each other recklessly. With three out of four of the original Yonko no longer around, it might be less risky for Shanks to take more aggressive action towards claiming One Piece than when all four were standing.
2. Waiting for the Revelation of Two Kings
In chapter 968, Roger asked Rayleigh about the possibility of an individual that can surpass them in reaching One Piece. In this context, the emergence of two kings: Poseidon and another one to be born in a far-off sea, might be necessary to uncover the way to One Piece. Poseidon’s power was gradually unveiled in Fishman Island, while the awakening of the Hito Hito no mi, Model: Nika (human-human fruit, model: flower) might have brought about a “new” Joy Boy. In chapter 1054, Shanks attacked the CP9 ship, even though he knew that the ship was under CP9’s watchful eye. This could suggest that Shanks might have already known that awakening the power of the Hito Hito no mi, Model: Nika, would be crucial in achieving One Piece since the Gear 5 form of Luffy is clear on the wanted poster.
3. Timing is Everything
Whether or not one subscribes to the previous theories, timing seems to be the key factor. Shanks may have simply been waiting for the right time to acquire One Piece. With Poseidon and Joy Boy possibly in play, and two of the strongest Yonko deposed, he has essentially waited for his moment. The question remains: what will he do next? Will he directly take his chance to Laugh Tale (Raftel), bring along Luffy and Shirahoshi, encourage Luffy in his quest to find the remaining Poneglyphs, or something entirely different?
These are some of the theories that may explain why Shanks has only now decided to pursue One Piece. It might be a combination of these reasons or something else entirely, but the elusive nature of the ultimate treasure only adds to the complexity of the narrative. For One Piece fans, the journey towards the discovery of One Piece’s location and uncovering the narrative behind it is undoubtedly an unpredictable, yet exciting one.
