One Piece thrives on a unique blend of chaos and individual freedom, where even the most structured institutions like the Marines can harbor corruption, while pirates might carry noble intentions.
This dynamic is exemplified by characters like former Admiral Aokiji, also known as Kuzan, whose allegiance shifts from the Marines to the enigmatic Blackbeard Pirates.
Fans of One Piece have long pondered Kuzan’s motives since his surprising alliance with Blackbeard. In Chapter 1081 of the manga, some clarity is provided regarding the events following Kuzan’s monumental clash with Akainu for the position of Fleet Admiral.
This revelation offers insight into the circumstances that led to his unexpected affiliation with Blackbeard.
Why Did Aokiji Join Blackbeard?
Many fans of One Piece found themselves questioning Admiral Kuzan/Aokiji’s motives for his unexpected alignment with Captain Blackbeard‘s unconventional pirate crew.
The recurring theme of betrayal and distrust between pirates and the Marines throughout the series only heightened this skepticism.
In the fierce battle between Aokiji and Akainu for the esteemed title of Fleet Admiral, Aokiji came to a profound realization. He understood that achieving the power he desired would necessitate abandoning the strict codes of conduct upheld by the Marines.
Regardless of the Navy and the World Government’s claims of upholding justice and honor, characters like Aokiji and Akainu exposed the flawed nature of their institutions.
One Piece Chapter 1081 goes into a key flashback, recounting the aftermath of Aokiji’s defeat by Akainu on Punk Hazard. It depicts Aokiji’s encounter with the Blackbeard Pirates on Fullalead Island, where he intervenes as they attempt to seize his formidable Logia-type Devil Fruit.
Initially hesitant to associate with pirates after his years of service in the Marines, Aokiji eventually finds common ground with Blackbeard’s crew. Over drinks and a thawing of tensions, Aokiji opens up about his clash with Akainu, forging an unexpected connection with the pirates.
Following Aokiji’s exchange with the Blackbeard Pirates, where both sides shared valuable information, tensions momentarily escalated when Lafitte, a member of Blackbeard’s crew, plotted to steal Aokiji’s Devil Fruit power.
However, Blackbeard’s intervention defused the situation, and in a surprising turn of events, he extended an invitation to Aokiji to join his crew as the 10th Titanic Captain.
Blackbeard’s offer resonated with Aokiji, who recognized the potential for pirates to unite in pursuit of their own aspirations and interpretations of justice. Accepting the offer,
Aokiji made the pivotal decision to transition from a Marine to a pirate, aligning himself with the Blackbeard Pirates. This decision was perhaps influenced by the themes of destiny and opportunity associated with Blackbeard’s crew, offering Aokiji a new path divergent from the strictures imposed by Admiral Akainu and the Marines.
Former Admiral Kuzan Has Not Become A Completely Evil Person
Recent chapters of the ongoing Final Saga in One Piece have shed light on former Admiral Kuzan’s motivations for aligning with Blackbeard. Contrary to loyalty, Kuzan’s decision stems from the Emperor’s offer of freedom.
By leveraging Blackbeard’s support, Kuzan aims to enforce justice on his own terms, shielded from undue interference from the Marines. The formidable power wielded by each Emperor in One Piece makes them practically untouchable by the Marines, further solidifying Kuzan’s choice.
However, Kuzan’s association with the ruthless Blackbeard Pirates raises concerns about his moral trajectory. While he hasn’t succumbed to darkness yet, the potential for his ideals to erode under the influence of the crew’s amorality looms large.
Kuzan’s true intentions remain shrouded in mystery. It’s plausible that his alliance with Blackbeard serves a deeper purpose, perhaps as part of an undercover operation or a complex scheme yet to unfold.
Speculation abounds regarding Kuzan’s role in the inevitable showdown between Monkey D. Luffy and Blackbeard in the Final Saga. Analogous to other anime characters who initially turned to darkness but ultimately sided with the heroes, Kuzan’s character arc may take a similar trajectory.
His unwavering sense of justice hints at the potential for redemption, even as he teeters on the brink of corruption fueled by power and vengeance.
Until further revelations from author Eiichiro Oda, Kuzan remains an enigmatic figure, capable of surprising fans with his allegiance and actions during One Piece’s final conflict.
Whether he emerges as a stalwart ally or a formidable adversary in the ultimate war for the fate of the world remains to be seen.
Understanding Aokiji’s Alliance with the Blackbeard Pirates
At first glance, the notion of a formidable Navy figure like Admiral Aokiji/Kuzan joining forces with one of the most infamous pirate crews might seem perplexing. However, several factors contribute to making this seemingly odd alliance more comprehensible.
One significant aspect is Blackbeard’s deliberate recruitment of powerful Devil Fruit users to bolster his crew’s strength.
Given Kuzan’s possession of one of the most potent Logia-type fruits, it’s no surprise that Blackbeard saw him as a valuable addition, appointing him as the Titanic Captain of the 10th ship.
In shonen villains, strength commands respect and authority, a principle evident in the Blackbeard Pirates’ recruitment strategy, which also includes figures like Shiryu of the Rain and Pizarro from Impel Down.
One Piece has long portrayed a complex overlap between the pirate world and the Navy, regardless of their perpetual conflict. The Seven Warlords of the Sea system exemplifies this dynamic, where powerful pirates collaborated with the Navy in exchange for amnesty.
Characters like Dracule Mihawk blurred the lines between hero and villain by serving the Navy’s interests. This fluidity between the two factions established a precedent, further highlighted by the Final Saga’s portrayal of Navy officers defecting to the pirate side.
Considering these factors, it’s not entirely outlandish for a Navy Admiral like Aokiji/Kuzan to seek refuge in a powerful pirate crew amid a world growing increasingly chaotic.
The shifting allegiances, from pirates joining the Navy to Navy officers embracing the pirate life, reflect One Piece. Aokiji’s departure from the Navy signifies a search for personal destiny and freedom, aligning with fellow misfits like Blackbeard as the world braces for its ultimate conflict.
