Admiral Aokiji has one of the most fascinating stories in the One Piece universe.
There are few figures that have held high positions in the World Government like Admiral Aokiji. Yes, we are using the title he once held to start the article. Today, we do our best to answer the question: “Who is Admiral Aokiji?” Also, what makes his story so different from other Marine officers to hold the position? Let’s get on with it.
Admiral Aokiji: The Marine
Admiral Aokiji, whose real name is Kuzan, is a prominent character in the renowned manga and anime series One Piece. Aokiji was previously one of the three admirals of the Marine organization. Most know this is essentially the law enforcement agency in the world of One Piece. He possesses a distinctive appearance and a calm, laid-back demeanor that contrasts with his formidable abilities and responsibilities
Aokiji’s Devil Fruit Abilities
Admiral Aokiji’s Devil Fruit abilities are derived from the Hie Hie no Mi. It’s Logia-type Devil Fruit that grants him control over ice. This unique power allows him to manipulate, generate, and transform into ice at will.
Aokiji’s mastery over ice is showcased through his ability to freeze objects and landscapes instantly. He can solidify the moisture in the air, creating weapons and barriers made of ice. This affords him both offensive and defensive capabilities, enabling him to create weapons like ice spears or shields for protection. His icy attacks are not only powerful but also versatile, as he can freeze opponents in their tracks, immobilizing them with sheer cold. One of Aokiji’s most extraordinary feats is his ability to create massive ice constructs, such as colossal icebergs and even entire islands. He famously used this ability to freeze the ocean around the island of Punk Hazard, effectively changing the island’s climate and terrain. This incident had long-lasting consequences in the world of One Piece.
Furthermore, Aokiji’s power extends to his own body, allowing him to become intangible like a true Logia user. When attacked, he can transform into ice, causing attacks to pass through him harmlessly. This unique defensive ability makes him exceptionally difficult to injure or capture in combat. Aokiji’s control over ice also extends to his surroundings, allowing him to create a chilling atmosphere that can freeze opponents and disrupt their movements. His mastery over temperature manipulation gives him a wide range of tactical options during battles.
How Does Admiral Aokiji (or Kuzan) use Haki?
In the midst of the Summit War, Kuzan demonstrated his mastery of advanced-level Busoshoku Haki. He employed this potent Haki to counteract a tremendously powerful shockwave unleashed by Whitebeard. Alongside his fellow admirals, Kuzan skillfully melded their Haki energies, forming a collaborative shield that effectively dissipated the force of the quake shockwave. This, in conjunction with his clear ability to trade blows with Garp, is enough to show he is a borderline master in the expanding One Piece universe.
Why Did Kuzan Leave the Marines?
Admiral Aokiji’s departure from the Marines in the One Piece series stemmed from a fundamental ideological clash with Admiral Akainu (Sakazuki), his fellow admiral, and a rival for the position of Fleet Admiral, the highest rank within the Marine organization. It was a series of events following the two-year time skip in the series. Aokiji engaged in a ten-day battle with Akainu on Punk Hazard to determine the new Fleet Admiral. It was sparked after the death of Admiral Sengoku. The confrontation was intense, showcasing the immense power and determination of both admirals. Ultimately, Akainu emerged victorious due to his uncompromising belief in the Marines’ Absolute Justice.
Aokiji, on the other hand, was more lenient and compassionate in his approach. He believed in a more balanced form of justice, one that considered the well-being of civilians and the world at large. His ideals clashed with Akainu’s ruthless stance, leading to a disagreement on how the Marine organization should operate. After his defeat, Aokiji chose to leave the Marines rather than serve under Akainu’s leadership, as he found himself unable to align with the latter’s harsh and uncompromising methods. This decision highlighted Aokiji’s integrity and his unwillingness to compromise his principles, even for the sake of power or position.
Aokiji’s departure had a profound impact on the Marines and the world at large, as his absence left a void in the organization’s leadership. His decision also had significant repercussions for the Straw Hat Pirates and the unfolding events in the series. In summary, Admiral Aokiji left the Marines due to a stark ideological divide with Admiral Akainu regarding the nature of justice and the approach to enforcing it. His departure showcased his commitment to his own principles. Also, his unwillingness to serve under a leadership that contradicted his beliefs.
Admiral Aokiji: The Moral Compass
Aokiji is distinguished by his balanced and compassionate approach to justice. Unlike his more rigid counterpart, Admiral Akainu, Aokiji’s belief in a more humane and considerate form of justice makes him a character of moral depth. This contrast is evident in his refusal to serve under Akainu’s leadership after their battle for the position of Fleet Admiral, a decision that demonstrates his commitment to his principles.
Aokiji’s involvement in pivotal events, such as the Summit War, his battles with key characters like Akainu, and his influence on the storyline during the two-year time skip, cements his importance in the overarching narrative. His interactions with characters like Monkey D. Luffy and his interactions with the Straw Hat Pirates also shape their journeys and perspectives.
Ultimately, Admiral Aokiji’s significance lies not only in his remarkable abilities as an admiral. It is also in his role as a moral compass in the often morally gray world of One Piece. His departure from the Marines and his ongoing influence on the series’ events continue to make him a compelling and vital figure in the story. His decision to stab Garp in the Egghead Arc further emphasizes how far this man will go to bring peace to the world of One Piece. One can only imagine what the next chapters will bring.
