Ch. 161Princess Shirahoshi Joins, Setting Sail into the Deep
Summary
Key Plot Points and Events
- The purge of Fish-Man District ends, and Shark begins organizing the fish-men into the Eclipse Pirates' underwater army.
- Ace leads the officers, King Neptune, Jinbe, and Shirahoshi back to Ryugu Palace.
- Ace invites Shirahoshi to join the Eclipse Pirates as an external member.
- Buggy returns with a treasure chest containing an ancient manuscript about awakening and controlling sea king power.
- Ace reveals Shirahoshi's true identity as Poseidon, the Sea King, to her and the Ryugu Palace high command.
- The Eclipse sets sail for the New World.
Character Developments
- Shirahoshi gains confidence and determination after being acknowledged by Ace and learning about her true identity.
- Ace demonstrates his strategic thinking and long-term planning by inviting Shirahoshi to join the crew and entrusting her with protecting Fish-Man Island.
- Buggy accidentally discovers a valuable ancient manuscript that could significantly impact the story's future.
Significant Themes
- Power and Responsibility: Ace acknowledges Shirahoshi's potential and entrusts her with protecting Fish-Man Island, highlighting the responsibility that comes with power.
- Growth and Self-Discovery: Shirahoshi begins her journey towards self-discovery and growth, embracing her true identity as Poseidon.
- Loyalty and Betrayal: The fish-men's loyalty to Whitebeard and their eventual integration into the Eclipse Pirates' army raises questions about loyalty and betrayal in the One Piece world.
Character Interactions
- Ace and Shirahoshi: Ace's faith in Shirahoshi's potential and his decision to entrust her with protecting Fish-Man Island strengthens their bond.
- Ace and King Neptune/Jinbe: Ace's revelation about Shirahoshi's true identity to King Neptune and Jinbe shows his trust in them and his desire for their support in guiding Shirahoshi.
- Buggy and Ace: Buggy's accidental discovery of the ancient manuscript highlights his luck and Ace's ability to recognize the value of such finds, further solidifying their bond as captain and crewmate.