One Piece Episode 1126, titled "Looming Despair! Admiral Kizaru's Depressing Mission," continues the World Government's offensive on Egghead Island. The episode introduces unexpected characters amidst the chaos of battle, making it a significant addition to one of the most cherished shonen anime series, despite a slow start. The episode holds major implications for the latter half of the Egghead Island Arc.
Bartholomew Kuma's Brief Appearance
The episode opens with Bartholomew Kuma, whose appearance is fleeting. Although his clash with Akainu sets the stage for greater conflict, it falls short of expectations in terms of visual spectacle. This scene, while not egregiously poorly animated, does not align with the high production values seen in recent episodes, making it one of the lower points of the Egghead Island Arc. Kuma's journey remains ambiguous, but his impending arrival on Egghead adds urgency to the overarching narrative.
Admiral Kizaru's Internal Conflict
Admiral Kizaru stands out as one of the most complex and morally ambiguous characters in One Piece. Unlike other Marine Admirals, Kizaru operates under ambiguous notions of justice, often following orders without question. His internal struggles begin to unfold in Episode 1125 and continue in Episode 1126, providing insight into his character. Notably, Kizaru expresses a reluctance to kill Vegapunk, indicating a deeper connection with the character.
The Duel with Luffy
As the clash between Admiral Kizaru and Luffy unfolds, fans are reminded to expect the unexpected, especially following Luffy's Gear 5 transformation. The episode highlights this moment, showcasing a blend of Luffy's formidable form, Kizaru's deadpan humor, and the awakening of an ancient robot on Egghead. Although Episode 1126 may not be flawless, it effectively sets the stage for the much-anticipated climax of the Egghead Arc.
