Oda’s Editor Reveals Key Clue About the True Nature of the One Piece

This article includes spoilers from the Elbaf Arc of One Piece.

Important Points

Luffy is on the verge of securing the One Piece with three Road Poneglyphs already acquired.
Editor Sugita indicates that the One Piece is a multifaceted treasure that defies simple description.
Oda clarifies that the One Piece is unrelated to themes of friendship or bonds within the narrative.

One Piece is currently navigating through its Final Saga, signaling that the conclusion of this epic tale is imminent. Oda initially aimed to wrap up the series by 2024, yet it appears that the journey continues to unfold further. Despite nearing the finale, the comic’s pacing and the extensive arcs still to be explored suggest that the narrative could extend for over five additional years.

Fans are gradually receiving clues about the One Piece, with more insights expected in the near future. Recently, Oda’s editor, who has been closely associated with him for a significant period, provided an intriguing hint about the One Piece; although it doesn’t disclose what the treasure is, it sheds light on what it is not and what it might potentially represent.

Luffy’s Pursuit of the One Piece

Luffy and Franky marvel at Egghead Island in One Piece.

Luffy is determined to obtain the One Piece
The Straw Hat Pirates have been in search of the One Piece for two years now

From the early days of his adventure, Luffy embarked on the journey to acquire the One Piece, motivated by his admiration for Shanks. Luffy vowed to form his own crew and to outshine the Red-Haired Pirates while seeking the treasure for himself. Beginning his voyage at 17 from East Blue, Luffy faced skepticism but ultimately silenced his critics by rising to prominence as a pirate. He quickly garnered a bounty of 30 million berries, gaining notoriety as the most wanted pirate in East Blue. Luffy then made his way to the Grand Line, battling formidable foes such as the Shichibukai Crocodile and Moria, along with powerful government figures like Lucci. He overcame every challenge until he reached the Sabaody Archipelago, marking the end of the first half of the Grand Line.

At this juncture, Luffy had ascended to the status of a “super rookie,” achieving a bounty of 300 million berries. It was evident that Luffy had become a force to be reckoned with, inspiring confidence in fans about his potential. Despite encountering significant challenges, particularly the loss of Ace, Luffy maintained his resolve. After training with Rayleigh for two years, he returned stronger than ever and harnessed Haki with remarkable skill. Since then, Luffy has shown exceptional growth in the New World, even defeating an Emperor, Kaido, during the Wano Country Arc.

Currently, Luffy ranks among the Four Emperors of the Sea, edging closer than ever to the One Piece treasure. He possesses three of the four Road Poneglyphs, placing him at the forefront in the quest for this elusive treasure. The last remaining Road Poneglyph is hidden, known only to the Man with the Burn Scar, but it won’t be long before Luffy uncovers it and ultimately claims the One Piece.

Sugita Offers Insight on the One Piece

Editor Sugita Weighs In on the One Piece

Recently, Sugita, Oda’s editor, shared thoughts regarding the One Piece treasure and its nature. It’s well known among fans that Oda’s editors are typically privy to the details surrounding the treasure. Oda has even shared this information with select individuals and offered Straw Hat voice actors a glimpse into the secret, although they graciously declined. Sugita is one of the individuals in the know and has teased the essence of the One Piece before. He recently emphasized that this treasure is so extraordinary that it resists being summed up in a single word.

Here’s what Editor Sugita shared:

Editor Sugita: Describing the One Piece as a treasure is challenging in a single word. Editor Naito: Enough! Since you’re hinting at the secret, I must counter to protect our jobs.

Sugita’s statement strongly suggests that the One Piece transcends simple definitions. It is neither mere wealth, weaponry, nor even the connections of friendship—categories easily described with straightforward terms. Instead, the One Piece embodies something much more intricate, hinting that its true essence is beyond fan predictions.

Theories have posited that Binks’ Sake could be the One Piece; however, Sugita’s assertion that it cannot be conveyed in just one word effectively rules this out. This insightful hint offers fans clarity in what the One Piece is not. Additionally, Oda has previously hinted at what the One Piece does not represent—fans may find this information compelling.

Oda Clarifies What the One Piece Isn’t

Oda Asserts that the One Piece is Not About Friendship

Luffy unlocks Gear 5 in his battle against Kaido.

Oda has often been questioned regarding the true nature of the One Piece. Naturally, an author concealing a significant secret from fans would be reluctant to divulge details. Oda has stated that the revelation of the One Piece’s true form will occur at an appropriate moment. However, for now, he has clarified what it is not. He explicitly mentioned that the One Piece does not imply something intangible, such as the friendships forged along the journey or the bonds between crewmates. Here’s what Oda articulated about the treasure:

Oda (2019): The One Piece is not the camaraderie among the Straw Hats. That concept frustrates me. As a child, I was dissatisfied with the ending of The Wizard of Oz, which suggested that the adventure itself was the treasure. That interpretation is unacceptable. Luffy deserves a fitting treasure for his incredible journey.

At the very least, fans can affirm that the One Piece exists as a tangible treasure. It is not merely an abstract notion tied to friendships or a story. While connections and the narrative of the Void Century—a potentially profound and possibly amusing saga—will likely contribute to the broader tale, the One Piece itself will presumably feature a specific and significant value. Although the precise nature of this treasure remains a mystery, fans eagerly await the day it becomes clear. Ultimately, Luffy will receive a reward at the journey’s conclusion, and anticipation is building to witness that moment.

Fans can read One Piece through Viz Media. The series is officially available for free on the Shonen Jump and Manga Plus platforms. The upcoming chapter, One Piece 1130, is scheduled for release on October 20, 2024.

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