One Piece is known for its deep mysteries and complex storylines, with many unanswered questions and hidden clues. One of the most intriguing is the enigmatic character of Imu, who holds the highest authority in the world but remains shrouded in mystery. Recently, a theory has emerged that connects Imu to a well-known historical figure in the series: Nefertari Lily, the queen who disappeared after the Void Century. Could Imu actually be possessing Lily’s body? Let’s explore this compelling theory and the evidence behind it.
Imu’s Striking Resemblance to Vivi: A Clue to Possession?
When we look closely at Imu, there is an undeniable resemblance to Nefertari Vivi, Lily’s descendant. This connection raises an interesting question: could Imu actually be in possession of Nefertari Lily’s body, the ancestor of Vivi?
One clue supporting this theory is that unlike the other 19 kings who founded the World Government, Lily did not leave her sword at the Empty Throne. Could this mean that Lily herself never truly left the throne at all? If Lily was possessed by Imu, she could have taken her place as the ruler behind the shadows, while her sword—the symbol of her legacy—remained by her side.
The Sword Behind the Empty Throne: Lily’s Sword?
One intriguing visual clue is the sword placed behind the Empty Throne, where Imu now sits. Could this sword be Lily’s, left behind as a symbol of her possession? It seems possible that after Imu possessed Lily’s body, she (or they) continued to occupy the throne. The sword’s presence suggests that Lily’s physical form may have remained bound to the throne, now controlled by the dark and mysterious Imu.
The Significance of Lily Flowers in Imu’s Room
In Imu’s private chambers, the presence of Lily flowers seems to offer another hint. These flowers could signify a deep connection between Imu and Lily, possibly pointing to their shared past. In one scene, we see Imu gazing at Lily’s portrait—an act that may represent a reflection on her own past or the body she now inhabits.
A Biblical Parallel: Lily and Lilith
In biblical lore, Lilith—a figure closely associated with night, chaos, and rebellion—was believed to have become a demonic figure after rejecting the role set for her. The name Lily could be a deliberate allusion to this mythology, hinting that Lily, too, transformed into a dark force under Imu’s control. Like Lilith, Lily might have fallen into darkness, becoming the host of a demonic entity, in this case, Imu.
Imu’s Devil-Like Features: The Eyes of a Demon
Imu’s appearance is marked by devilish features, such as sharp, piercing eyes that many have referred to as “Devil’s eyes.” There’s also a tail-like silhouette that has sparked speculation about Imu’s true nature. Could Imu actually be some form of devil? The visual clues strongly support the idea that Imu represents a malevolent, perhaps even Satanic force, with the pentagram and Baphomet symbolism often associated with Imu’s imagery reinforcing this interpretation.
The Sea Devil: Imu as the Ultimate Yokai?
Building on this idea, some have speculated that Imu could be a powerful Sea Devil (Umibōzu)—an ancient yokai from Japanese folklore. The Sea Devil is said to inhabit the deep ocean, causing chaos and destruction for sailors. If Imu is indeed the embodiment of this entity, it would make sense why the Devil Fruits are considered “incarnations of the Sea Devil.” Perhaps Nefertari Lily ate a Devil Fruit that allowed the Sea Devil (Imu) to incarnate through her, using her body as a vessel to rule the world.
This theory is strengthened by the appearance of the Gorosei, who themselves resemble yokai-like beings. If the Gorosei serve as Imu’s minions, it would fit the pattern of a powerful yokai king surrounded by his demonic followers.
The Black Hellfire: Imu’s Destruction Power
One of the most compelling images of Imu is the black hellfire that surrounds them. This imagery could represent hellish destruction under Imu’s control, with flames symbolizing their grip over life, death, and chaos. In many mythologies, fire is a symbol of purification or destruction, which could suggest that Imu is not just any devil but one capable of wielding absolute power and punishment.
A ‘Pact with the Devil’? Imu’s Influence Over the Gorosei
It’s possible that Imu’s control over the Gorosei and the Devil Fruits may stem from some kind of “pact with the Devil”. Imu may grant power and immortality to those who serve them, only to take it back at will. This “deal with the Devil” concept is common in folklore, where those who seek power must pay a price—often their own soul or eternal servitude.
In this case, Imu might control the Gorosei and other powerful figures through such a pact, ensuring their undying loyalty. The black cloud surrounding certain Devil Fruits may symbolize Imu’s possession or influence, while the white cloud, seen around Luffy’s fruit, could represent a force in opposition to Imu’s control.
Binks’ Sake and the Sea Devil: A Missed Offering?
One final piece of evidence for this theory lies in the tale of Binks’ Sake. In Japanese folklore, offering a barrel of sake was said to calm the Sea Devil. Could it be that JoyBoy’s failure to deliver Binks’ Sake led to the chaos of the Void Century, allowing the Sea Devil (Imu) to rise and take control?
Imu’s True Desire: Returning Home?
In a symbolic twist, Imu may not just desire power and control. Their ultimate wish could be to return to a long-lost origin or home. This idea parallels the children’s book Where the Wild Things Are, where Max becomes king of the beasts but ultimately longs to return home. Perhaps Imu’s rule over the world is not just about domination but about reclaiming a lost legacy or fulfilling an ancient promise.
Conclusion: A Shocking Possession Unveiled?
The theory that Imu is possessing Nefertari Lily opens up new possibilities for understanding the larger mysteries of One Piece. From the strange absence of Lily’s sword to the devilish imagery surrounding Imu, the clues suggest a dark and twisted history that binds Imu and Lily together.
As the story progresses, we may uncover even more hidden connections between Imu, Lily, and the Sea Devil, revealing a centuries-old plot that shaped the world of One Piece as we know it.
What do you think of this theory? Is Imu truly possessing Nefertari Lily? Could the Sea Devil be the ultimate enemy Luffy must face? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
