One Piece‘s most recent episode, episode 1114, was an emotional rollercoaster with lots of action-packed combat sequences and an amazing entrance by Monkey D. Garp. Garp uses his notorious Galaxy Impact to save Koby from the pirate group, nearly destroying the Island of Beehive in the process. However, this episode also displays Garp’s tragic side and the reason behind his intense affection for Koby.
In a key scene from Episode 1114, Garp faces his old subordinate Aokiji (Kuzan), who has since joined the Blackbeard Pirates. The deep disappointment on Garp’s face upon seeing Aokiji is a reflection of the internal conflict he felt as his former pupil took sides with infamous pirates. This encounter is not just a moment of personal betrayal but a stark reminder of the moral complexities that define the world of One Piece.
The Complex Relationship Between Monkey D. Garp and Aokiji
Garp and Aokiji had a long and complex history together as Marines, with Garp acting as the younger Marine’s mentor. Their relationship was developed over years of common experiences, conflicts, and a shared commitment to justice.
Just Like Garp, Kuzan was a Vice Admiral in the Navy and was utterly mesmerized by this legend’s presence. Kuzan was so devoted to Garp that he followed him everywhere and thought he was the greatest person alive.
However, the turning point that changed everything was the fierce battle for the position of Fleet Admiral. The intense duel between Aokiji and Akainu was not just a fight for leadership but a clash of ideologies. The battle ended in Aokiji’s defeat, leading to his resignation from the Marines. After resigning, He joined the Blackbeard Pirates as the captain of the Tenth Ship. This betrayal was a significant blow to Garp, as it marked the departure of his first apprentice and the collapse of the values they once stood for.
Adding to Garp’s turmoil, Hibari was frozen by Aokiji during this encounter in the latest episode. This act further resonated with the emotional and moral conflict Garp faces, highlighting the brutal reality of Aokiji’s choices and their impact on those Garp cares about.
That is exactly what Garp has had to go through his entire life, the betrayal from the people he chose to care about. As Kuzan put it before, he has a habit of raising enemies. Koby is Garp’s last apprentice, which is another reason why he holds him in such high regard as he does not want to make the same mistake with Koby.
Koby is the Final Hope for Garp
Once a timid cabin boy, Koby has grown under Garp’s guidance into a devoted Marine. Koby is the only pupil of Garp’s who still has an intense commitment to justice, making him the final living testament of his legacy in the Marines. Garp made a very personal decision to put his life in danger for Koby because he wanted to preserve the Marines’ future and the values he believed in.
Garp finds hope in Koby’s unwavering dedication and potential to bring about positive changes inside the Marines. Their relationship goes beyond that of mentor and student; it is a tie similar to that of a father and son. Garp uses protecting Koby as a means of securing the continued existence of his ideals and his aspirations for the Marine Corps.
The scene of Garp’s disappointment upon encountering Aokiji in Episode 1114 is a powerful and emotional moment that reveals the sad reason behind his willingness to risk his life for Koby. It is evidence of Garp’s persistent commitment to justice, his overwhelming regrets, and his hope for a brighter future within the Marines. As we continue to follow this compelling story, we are reminded of the profound emotional depth and the complexly connected relationships that make One Piece a truly remarkable series.
You can watch One Piece on Crunchyroll.
