Chapter 1138 of One Piece , titled "The Harley," released on February 2, 2025, brought one of the biggest revelations of the series in recent years. Since the story entered its final saga, Eiichiro Oda has been unraveling mysteries built up over two decades, and this new chapter may even give clues about how One Piece will end. But among so many revelations, one in particular is drawing attention: the confirmation that Shanks has a twin brother .
- One Piece 1140: What to expect from the fight against Scopper Gaban?
- Netflix is planning a 3rd season of the live-action One Piece series
Shanks and Shamrock Garling: The revelation that changed everything
Before delving into the chapter's big mystery, the manga introduces Shamrock Garling in action, officially confirming that he is Shanks' twin brother . Fans have theorized about this connection for years, and now Oda has finally validated the hypothesis. However, more than just a blood relationship, the chapter highlights the significant differences between the two brothers, suggesting an inevitable confrontation in the future.
Shanks has always been shrouded in mystery, but the uncertainty increased when he was seen meeting with the five Elders during the Levely . This scene raised questions about the pirate's true role in the story. Some believed he might be allied with the World Government, while others speculated that someone resembling him was behind the meeting. This theory gained traction when chapter #1095 revealed a young Figarland Garling with an extremely similar appearance to Shanks.
Now, with chapter 1138, this hypothesis has been confirmed. Shamrock Garling is, in fact, his twin brother and the one truly responsible for the meeting with the Five Elders, dispelling any suspicion of betrayal on Shanks' part. The revelation not only changes the perspective on the character but also adds a new layer to the central plot of the final saga.
The clash between the Garling twins and their powers
After Shamrock reveals his identity, Loki demonstrates his hostility towards Shanks' family and vows to pursue them. This angers Shamrock, who draws his sword Cerberus and, without even needing to attack directly, easily subdues Loki. The way the weapon acts on its own raises questions about its powers, possibly related to a Devil Fruit.
What's most intriguing is that both Shanks and Shamrock wield swords inspired by Greek mythology. While Shanks wields Gryphon, reminiscent of the griffin guarding the sacred lands, Shamrock carries Cerberus, the three-headed dog that guards the underworld. This duality reinforces one of the central themes of One Piece : the true nature of "nobles" and "pirates." Although Shamrock is an aristocrat of the World Government and Shanks a feared pirate, their actions show that the true "monsters" are often among those who should represent justice.
Oda is clearly setting the stage for an epic showdown between the brothers, which could occur in the series' final war. Furthermore, an important detail remains unclear: why did Shanks visit the Holy Land?
Shanks' true role in the One Piece story
One Piece chapter reveals that Shanks has already been to the Holy Land, indicating that he always knew about his lineage. Before this information, fans only knew that he had been found by Gol D. Roger's in the Valley of God. Now, everything indicates that Roger may have separated Shanks from his tyrannical family on purpose.
This revelation could explain Shanks' emotion when saying goodbye to Roger. Perhaps the former Pirate King told him the truth about his origins and encouraged Shanks to visit his homeland after his execution. If Shanks did indeed return to the Holy Land, it's possible he discovered crucial secrets about the Five Elders, Imu, and the forgotten history of the world.
Furthermore, it may have been at this moment that Shanks understood the importance of the legendary Joyboy and the Sun God Nika. This reinforces the theory that he obtained the Rubber Fruit, actually the Hito Hito no Mi, Model: Nika, with the purpose of ensuring that its true bearer consumed it. And we know what happened next: Luffy ate the fruit, and Shanks sacrificed his arm for him.
Now that One Piece has confirmed that Nika , that is, Luffy , is destined to liberate the world from the tyranny of the World Government, everything indicates that Shanks always had a hidden role, working to ensure the liberator's return. The pieces are finally falling into place for the climax of the final saga.
However, what do you think of these revelations? Share your opinion in the comments and follow AnimeNews for more news about One Piece , anime, and geek culture!
