Neptune embodies the old hierarchy of One Piece’s seas. Let’s see what we can find.
Eiichiro Oda is a lot like other world-building authors, using elements from the real world to build a somehow digestible array of fantasy. He takes from the Greeks, the Romans, the Hindus, Christians, etc. The amazing thing is that it all compliments each other beautifully, even when it can seem a bit nonsensical. Today, we only plan on taking a small bite out of that. It’s time to ask who Neptune is exactly in the expanding world of One Piece. What is his place in this increasingly complicated soup of mythologized material? Well, it’s time to try and figure it out.
Oda’s image of Neptune in One Piece
Neptune stands as a colossal figure in the form of a coelacanth merman, boasting a mighty, muscular physique. Despite his seventy years of age, he exudes a commanding presence. His striking features include a prominent red nose. Also, piercing eyes that seem to hold the wisdom of the ages. Plus, the regal aura around him is further accentuated by his choice of accessories. Atop his head rests a resplendent gold crown, intricately designed to resemble a tulip and adorned with glittering jewels. On each wrist, he proudly wears golden bracelets, gleaming in the light and reflecting his status.
In his grip, he wields a formidable gold trident, its design a testament to his royal heritage and authority. Every detail of this trident is exquisite, with intricate patterns and motifs that showcase his importance. To complement his bare-chested attire, matching black tattoos grace both of his powerful arms. In addition, these tattoos take the form of spirals, adorned with wavy, enigmatic protrusion designs, hinting at the depth of his character and the enigmatic history that surrounds him.
Whether you see his appearance as goofy or majestic, it’s clear that he is a great amalgam of other oceanic kings. Let’s dive into Neptune’s kingdom… figuratively of course.
What is Neptune’s Place In The Story?
King Neptune is the sovereign of the Ryugu Kingdom, which encompasses all of Fish-Man Island and its surrounding areas. His power is political and administrative, as he governs his kingdom with wisdom and benevolence. Plus, Fish-Man Island is a crucial location in the One Piece world, as it serves as a gateway to the New World, the second half of the Grand Line. Neptune’s control over this territory is significant, as it gives him leverage in the larger geopolitical landscape. He has the personality to match all of this.
A Personality Fitting a King
Neptune’s demeanor often comes across as straightforward and unpretentious, as evidenced by his direct invitation to the “Straw Hat humans” to the Ryugu Palace, lacking the usual formalities. His bluntness extends to his occasional mispronunciations of people’s names, as he affectionately calls Zoro “Zori.”. Also, this casual approach is a reflection of his easy-going, absent-minded, and carefree nature, which has occasionally earned him reprimands from his ministers for impromptu departures from the castle.
A Devoted Father and Leader
Beneath this laid-back exterior, Neptune’s heart is devoted to his beloved daughter, Shirahoshi, and he carries an immense worry for her well-being. To ensure her safety, he implemented several extreme yet necessary security measures aimed at shielding her from the relentless threats posed by Vander Decken IX. In moments of crisis, Neptune’s paternal concern is palpable, as he fervently implored the Straw Hats to rush to Shirahoshi’s aid, fearing for her safety.
Notably, Neptune possesses a deep understanding of the enigmatic Void Century and the significance of the elusive poneglyphs scattered throughout the world. He is acutely aware of the perilous potential they hold, capable of reshaping the world’s destiny. Despite his doting nature towards his daughter, Neptune carries the heavy knowledge that Shirahoshi is the embodiment of an ancient and lethal weapon, a revelation that adds an extra layer of complexity to his character.
How Strong is Neptune in One Piece?
One of Neptune’s most notable abilities is his ability to communicate with and command the sea creatures of Fishman Island. Being a merman, he has a natural affinity for the ocean and its inhabitants. This ability allows him to maintain harmony and order in his kingdom by controlling sea creatures and using them for various purposes, such as transportation and defense.
Additionally, as the ruler of Fish-Man Island, Neptune possesses considerable political influence within the world of One Piece. The island is a melting pot of different fishmen and merfolk, each with their unique abilities and skills. Neptune’s power lies in his ability to unite these diverse underwater communities under his rule, fostering cooperation and mutual understanding. So what does this kingdom look like? What is so special about the land he lords over?
Neptune’s Home: What is the Ryugu Kingdom in One Piece?
The domain over which King Neptune reigns is the Ryugu Kingdom. This vast realm encompasses not only the entirety of Fish-Man Island but also the adjacent regions that fall under its sovereignty. The architectural aesthetics of the Ryugu Kingdom are as unique as its ruler’s regal stature. Here, a significant portion of the structures take on the graceful appearance of seashells, seamlessly blending with the underwater landscape.
These remarkable edifices are ingeniously constructed upon sprawling coral reefs. Also, it incorporates the natural beauty of the ocean’s depths into their design. Moreover, within this extraordinary kingdom, one can marvel at buildings that defy gravity, seemingly suspended in the air. These remarkable structures are enveloped in shimmering bubbles, which lend them an otherworldly, ethereal quality. Such architectural marvels add to the enchantment and mystique of the Ryugu Kingdom, a testament to its exceptional and aquatic character.
How Important Is Neptune in One Piece?
One should note that Neptune’s strength is not in physical combat. At least, not anymore, as he has aged into more of a wise administrator. Rather, it lies in his leadership, diplomacy, and the unique abilities he possesses as a merman. His power is present to maintain peace, stability, and prosperity in Fish-Man Island, making him a key figure. He is one of the most memorable harbingers of truth in One Piece. Honestly, a fan cannot help but think he might have been underutilized, but that’s a subject for another day.
