This article contains significant spoilers for One Piece.
Overview: The Marines and Their Recruits
The Marines stand as one of the most formidable forces within the world of One Piece, tasked with upholding justice and safeguarding citizens from the perils posed by pirates and other criminals. To maintain their strength and efficacy, the organization consistently seeks out elite fighters capable of handling any adversary.
Significance of the World Military Draft
A chief method used by the Marines to bolster their ranks is the World Military Draft. This initiative was established by the World Government to aggregate the finest combatants from allied nations. Notably, it facilitated the recruitment of two powerful figures: Fujitora and Ryokugyu, both of whom rose to the esteemed rank of Admiral. Their induction not only highlights their exceptional abilities but also reflects the growing stakes in the ongoing narrative of One Piece.
Fujitora: A Glimpse into His History
Born 54 years ago on a mysterious island in the Grand Line, Fujitora emerged as the military chief of the Aoi Kingdom. His tenure came to an abrupt end with the kingdom’s destruction during a violent conflict. This tragic event subsequently transformed him into a figure branded as a war criminal, relentlessly pursued by those seeking vengeance. It is widely speculated that the horrors he witnessed led Fujitora to blind himself as a means of coping with the guilt and grief that accompanied his failures.
If we lose credibility just by admitting fault, we didn’t have any in the first place! – Fujitora
In the aftermath of the Aoi Kingdom’s demise, Fujitora found himself on Soja Island, where he succumbed to a gambling addiction. His financial losses forced him into a bodyguard role, during which his impressive prowess caught the attention of the World Government, ultimately resulting in his recruitment into the Marines.
Impact of Fujitora’s Past on His Ideology
Fujitora’s harrowing experiences have significantly influenced his philosophical outlook on justice. He firmly advocates for Humane Justice, emphasizing the importance of protecting lives over merely apprehending criminals. This commitment to humanitarian ideals has often placed him at odds with his Marine colleagues.
For instance, his public apology to the residents of Dressrosa angered Akainu, the then Fleet Admiral, especially as Fujitora had failed to capture Monkey D. Luffy. Consequently, Akainu mandated that he refrain from returning to Marine headquarters until Luffy was apprehended. Additionally, Fujitora’s decision to allow the Revolutionaries to liberate enslaved individuals from Mariejois further incited Ryokugyu’s wrath, showcasing the internal conflicts within the Marine ranks.
Unwavering Beliefs Amidst Resistance
Fujitora’s legacy as the Aoi Kingdom’s military chief left him burdened with the responsibility to protect those who could not be saved during the obliteration of his homeland. His resolve to rectify his previous failures informs his actions as an Admiral, demonstrating a dedication to prioritize saving lives over adhering strictly to Marine orders.
Fujitora’s Powers: The Zushi Zushi no Mi
The strength of Fujitora is further amplified by his mastery of the Zushi Zushi no Mi, a Paramecia-type Devil Fruit that grants him the extraordinary ability to manipulate gravitational forces. His inaugural display of power happened during the Dressrosa arc, where he caused significant destruction by summoning meteors and creating substantial alterations in the environment around him. Moreover, he can levitate objects, showcasing the versatility of his abilities.
Fujitora’s fighting capability is not limited to his Devil Fruit; he also wields exceptional Haki, evidenced during intense confrontations with formidable opponents like Sabo and Luffy. His remarkable Observation Haki allows him to engage in battles effectively despite his blindness, and it’s reasonable to assume he possesses advanced Armament Haki, although it remains to be fully showcased in the storyline.
While Fujitora has demonstrated himself to be one of the strongest characters in One Piece, his limited screen presence has made it challenging to gauge his full potential comprehensively. Fans eagerly await more involvement of this complex Admiral in the forthcoming saga of the series.
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