One Piece Online: Character Origins – Sakazuki
Introduction
In the vast world of One Piece, Sakazuki, famously known as Admiral Akainu, stands as one of the franchise’s primary antagonists. He plays a central role in the Paramount War Saga and serves as one of the chief adversaries in the Marineford Arc. Following the tragic death of Luffy’s brother, Portgas D. Ace, at his hands, Akainu becomes one of Monkey D. Luffy’s arch-nemeses.
Troubled Origins
Sakazuki’s journey began in a troubled childhood, depicted by his worn-out clothes and the dagger he carried, symbolizing the rough life he led. As a young adult, he joined the Marines alongside Kizaru.
Debut and Moral Event Horizon
Akainu’s entry into the series shocked both his comrades and the audience when he destroyed a ship filled with innocent refugees from Ohara. His reasoning was the mere possibility of a criminal being on board. This act horrified even his fellow Marines and marked his crossing of the Moral Event Horizon.
Rise to Power and Ace’s Demise
Having climbed the ranks, Akainu eventually became one of the three Admirals, alongside Aokiji and Kizaru. It was during the Marineford War that he killed Portgas D. Ace, overpowering Ace’s fire with his devastating magma. In a heart-wrenching moment, Akainu shattered Luffy’s spirit, forever becoming his nemesis.
Fleet Admiral and Cruelty
Following the war, Akainu was appointed the new Fleet Admiral, succeeding Sengoku. Under his leadership, the Marines embraced a noticeably cruel approach due to his adherence to Absolute Justice. This shift in ideology was relayed to the Straw Hat Pirates by Jinbe at Fishman Island.
Conflicts and Controversies
Akainu’s fury ignited when Admiral Fujitora revealed the truth about the Dressrosa incident without consulting him. He believed that covering up such incidents was necessary to maintain the World Government’s image. Akainu’s anger was further fueled by the news of the kidnapping of Princess Koname in Totto Land.
Calculated Patience and Wano
When the Marines intercepted the conversation between Kaido and Big Mom, Akainu advised caution, waiting to gauge the strength of the samurais in Wano. With the abolishment of the Shichibukai, Akainu shared his thoughts with Fujitora, placing hope in Vegapunk’s SSG. He also revealed the alliance between Kaido and Big Mom, shocking the admiral.
Hunt Begins and Unveiling Secrets
After the defeat of Kaido and Big Mom, Akainu dispatched Ryokugyu to Wano with orders to arrest Luffy, Law, and Kid. The Fleet Admiral grew impatient when Law clashed with Blackbeard, forcing him to wait for the outcome. Learning of Luffy’s presence on Egghead and the alliance with Vegapunk, Akainu sent Kizaru to intervene.
Personality and Extremism
Akainu claims to uphold justice and righteousness, but his actions reveal a cruel, heartless, and fanatical psychopath driven by his belief in Absolute Justice. His lack of mercy, even in desperate circumstances, has drawn criticism from those who share his beliefs. His black-hearted behavior has earned him a fearsome reputation and hatred of those under his command.
Bias and Manipulation
Akainu’s extremist beliefs lead him to target individuals based on their bloodlines, as seen in his pursuit of Luffy and Ace due to their fathers’ criminal histories. He manipulates others, exploiting weaknesses
Abilities and Powers
Akainu possesses formidable abilities that make him a force to be reckoned with in the world of One Piece.
Superhuman Strength
Akainu’s physical strength is extraordinary, enabling him to overpower formidable opponents such as Ace, Marco, and Jinbei. He has displayed immense durability, enduring attacks from powerful individuals like Marco and Vista, while also surviving a near-fatal encounter with Whitebeard himself. Additionally, Akainu’s speed allows him to pursue his enemies relentlessly.
Devil Fruit – Magu-Magu no Mi
Having consumed the Magu-Magu no Mi, a Logia-class Devil Fruit, Akainu gained the power to control and generate magma. This ability grants him the status of a Magma Human, allowing him to transform his body into magma and manipulate it at will. Akainu’s magma possesses extreme heat and destructive capabilities, capable of incinerating anything it touches. His magma even has the power to overpower fire-based Devil Fruit abilities, as seen in his confrontation with Ace.
Devil Fruit Weaknesses
Like all Devil Fruit users, Akainu is susceptible to drowning and weakened when in contact with Seastone, a substance known to neutralize Devil Fruit powers.
Haki
Akainu possesses two forms of Haki:
- Busoshoku Haki (Armament Haki)
Akainu employs Busoshoku Haki to imbue his attacks and defenses with invisible armor. This allows him to bypass the intangibility of Logia users and inflict damage on them. Akainu’s mastery of Busoshoku Haki is evident in his ability to block powerful attacks, such as those from Whitebeard, along with Kizaru and Aokiji.
- Kenbunshoku Haki (Observation Haki)
Akainu possesses Kenbunshoku Haki, which heightens his perception and allows him to sense the presence and intentions of others. This Haki enhances his dodging abilities and enables him to react swiftly to incoming attacks.
In conclusion, Akainu’s powers, including his superhuman strength, control over magma as a result of the Magu-Magu no Mi Devil Fruit, and his proficiency in both Busoshoku and Kenbunshoku Haki, makes him an incredibly formidable opponent. Combined with his ruthless personality and unwavering belief in Absolute Justice, Sakazuki remains a powerful and relentless force in the world of One Piece.
