This marks a major milestone in the series: Monkey D. Luffy's adventure to become an Emperor of the Sea. The following article will review the episode where Luffy is referred to as the "Fifth Emperor" and what that really means for the story.
The Pivotal Episode
Episode 878 of the One Piece anime is the episode where Luffy is called the Fifth Emperor of the Sea. The episode is entitled "The World is Stunned - The Fifth Emperor of the Sea Emerges!". This was March 31, 2019, and it turned out to—well, be a pretty key point in Luffy's journey to become the Pirate King.
Manga Counterpart
This event, corresponding to Chapter 903, which has been appropriately titled "Fifth Emperor," comes as a big surprise to manga readers. The anime adaptation remains true to the manga storyline in this very important development.
Context of the Declaration
Consequently, Luffy is titled the Fifth Emperor after so many periods of being the wonder and achieving huge wonders. Most of these heroic deeds include the events that happened during the Whole Cake Island Arc, especially his interaction with Big Mom, one of the current Yonko (Four Emperors) which helped him to attain this title.
Reaction of the World
As the heading describes, the world is in a state of shock. Since the last release of One Piece, Luffy can now be said to be an Emperor. Both friends and foes will prick up their ears to this shriek. This is the power behind the commotion created by the title of Emperor.
Luffy's Realization
An interesting vagueness relies on fans to determine if Luffi himself knew immediately that his name was raised as an Emperor. Two instances have emerged where his fans wonder if or when Luffy discovers the new status. This interesting vagueness casts an interesting spin on his character: not so much of one concerned with the title, but it does keep him concerned about his goals.
Becoming recognized as the Fifth Emperor is a big stride in Luffy being the Pirate King. It explains why he has been raised to the ranks of the strongest and most influential pirates in the world of One Piece: Shanks, Blackbeard, and Kaido.
This development really shifts the entire balance of power within the One Piece world. It illustrates that the Straw Hat Pirates are now centered at the core of the entire story, empowering the potential danger both from the World Government and rivaling pirates to unprecedented levels. This recognition also becomes a mark of proof for Luffy's rising strength and power.
Fan Reaction
The episode where Luffy became an Emperor was received enthusiastically by the One Piece fanbase. Many fans regarded this as well-deserved recognition of Luffy's achievements and growth throughout the series.
Future Challenges
While the name "Emperor" alone is a feat, more challenges will come from this. Luffy now must live up to the title and grow stronger to rival the other Emperors in order to find the One Piece.