Shiryu is a surprisingly multi-dimensional character in the world of One Piece. Our beloved series definitely has its fair share of haters, who question the narrative’s integrity when compared to other notable anime and manga. However, Shiryu is one of those characters that fans highlight to sing the series’ praises.
One Piece does a pretty amazing job at creating the conflicted character; figures who often choose different life paths when presented with the opportunity. Admirals become pirate captains, Fish-men learn to accept humanity and much more. In this case, a harbinger of judicial punishment decides to raise hell at sea. So, who is Shiryu really? How has he managed to entertain us?
Shiryu’s Crew: Who are The Blackbeard Pirates?
Shiryu, often referred to as “Shiryu of the Rain”, can humorously be attributed to his notorious tendency to bring misery wherever he goes. He is notable as a member of the Blackbeard Pirates, a group led by the ever-hostile Marshall D. Teach, also known as Blackbeard. This band of powerful and ruthless pirates becomes a pivotal force in the ever-evolving world of One Piece, setting them up as central antagonists within the saga. As one of Blackbeard’s Ten Titanic Captains, Shiryu is granted a high-ranking position within the crew, indicating his exceptional strength and influence.
A Sinister Look
Shiryu’s physical appearance sort of conflicts with his station. While incarcerated, Shiryu retained his Head Jailer attire instead of being compelled to don prisoner attire. His ensemble included the standard officer’s peaked cap, featuring a dark blue upper section and a black visor positioned low. Additionally, a crimson cap band secured a frontal emblem displaying the emblem of Impel Down – a winged and crowned symbol. Below this cap, he sported a white aviator-style headpiece, complete with earflaps that incorporated integrated hearing devices. These devices were comprised of perforated rings encircling diaphragms, designed to aid his auditory perception.
Shiryu of The Rain: Devil Fruit and Combat Skills
Shiryu wields the abilities of the Suke Suke no Mi, categorized as a Paramecia-class Devil Fruit. This unique fruit bestows upon him the remarkable capability to render himself invisible at will. His acquisition of this power transpired shortly after his crew’s demise of its former possessor, Absalom. Beyond this, Shiryu possesses the capacity to extend invisibility to objects he holds, enabling him to inconspicuously approach his adversaries. This covert advantage facilitates his ability to launch unexpected assaults, catching his opponents off guard and maintaining the element of surprise.
Shiryu’s Sword
What truly sets Shiryu apart, however, is his exceptional combat prowess. He is a master swordsman, exhibiting precision and power in every strike. Shiryu wields a notorious sword named “Raiu”, a massive and menacing blade that mirrors his own disposition. This weapon becomes an extension of his identity, representing his commitment to destruction and the inevitability of death. Shiryu’s swordsmanship is a reflection of his worldview, characterized by an unyielding acceptance of the harsh realities of existence.
Where Did Shiryu Come From?
The character’s complexity is further explored through his background and personal history. Prior to aligning himself with the Blackbeard Pirates, Shiryu served as the Head Jailer of Impel Down, one of the world’s most notorious prisons. This position allowed him to cultivate a deep understanding of human suffering, cementing his disillusionment with the conventional notions of morality and justice. This disillusionment serves as a driving force in his transformation into a fearsome and merciless pirate under Blackbeard’s banner. Shiryu’s past experiences within Impel Down undoubtedly contribute to his cold and calculating demeanor, as well as his skewed perspective on life and death. The man is truly a psychopath, and he saw an outlet with the Blackbeard crew. Let’s pass forward a bit to make the case.
Stabbing Garp
Throughout the series, Shiryu’s actions and decisions have far-reaching consequences that reverberate through the overarching narrative. His involvement in pivotal events, such as the Egghead arc, change the world of One Piece forever. Mid-combat, Shiryu reappeared using his Devil Fruit and attempted to stab Koby, but Garp stepped in front of him and took the attack instead, resulting in Garp taking significant damage. Garp then angrily punched Shiryu into the ground, while recognizing him as the “punk” from Impel Down.
Shiryu’s Future in One Piece
Personally, it looks like Shiryu is going to face a gruesome end eventually. The series occasionally hints at layers beneath his seemingly malevolent exterior. This leaves room for potential character development and revelations about his motivations. That said, it’s doubtful that the ex-prison administrator will see the light. He’s a sadistic warmonger who spends untold amounts of time abusing the innocent for his own pleasure.
A Dark (Albeit Entertaining) Legacy
One of the most compelling aspects of Shiryu is his air of mystery. His brooding demeanor and dark history, as the former Head Jailer of Impel Down, immediately pique the audience’s curiosity. As a member of the Blackbeard Pirates, his allegiance to the enigmatic Blackbeard adds an extra layer of intrigue, leaving viewers eager to understand his motivations and endgame. If any. What could make someone so innately brutal?
Shiryu’s combat prowess is another source of entertainment. His mastery of his favorite sword style and his Devil Fruit powers grant him a unique and formidable skill set. His ability to turn invisible not only adds an element of surprise to battles but also showcases the creative ways in which Devil Fruit’s powers can be utilized. This sets the stage for intense confrontations, especially when pitted against other skilled characters like Zoro. Furthermore, Shiryu’s interactions with other characters add depth and excitement to the narrative. His clash with Garp, a legendary Marine figure, not only demonstrates his audacity but also highlights his connection to Impel Down, a pivotal location in the series. Recognizing him as the “punk” from Impel Down adds a layer of continuity and intrigue. Fans are left to wonder about the nature of their past encounters.
In essence, Shiryu’s compelling blend of mystery, combat strength, and interwoven connections within the One Piece universe make him an entertaining character. His appearances are eagerly anticipated, as each reveal and confrontation add layers of complexity to the overarching story. As the series unfolds, fans are left excited to see how Shiryu’s character evolves (or devolves) and impacts the ever-expanding narrative.
