Who Is Green Bull?
Admiral Ryokugyu, whose real name is Aramaki, is one of the most enigmatic figures in the Marine hierarchy. Introduced during the Levely Arc and making his full debut at the end of the Wano Country Arc, he filled the vacancies left by Kuzan and Sakazuki through the World Military Draft. Representing the color green in the Admiral color scheme, Green Bull One Piece fans were immediately struck by his wild appearance, long dark hair, and his unique ability to generate and transform into plant life via the Mori Mori no Mi, a Logia-type Devil Fruit. Unlike his predecessor Aokiji or even the blind Fujitora, Aramaki exudes a chaotic energy that makes his true role in the story a subject of intense debate.
His Ideology
Aramaki follows a philosophy known as "Deadly Justice." His worldview is built on a rigid, almost fanatical belief in hierarchy and the necessity of the World Government's authority. During his landing in Wano, he explicitly stated that humanity has only progressed by creating and maintaining hierarchies, arguing that prejudice breeds stability. To Aramaki, countries not affiliated with the World Government have no rights, and he believes that the "inferior" must be sacrificed for the sake of the "superior." This extreme stance has led to a popular Ryokugyu theory: is this outward fanaticism a genuine belief, or is it a calculated mask designed to hide a more complex objective? His admiration for Fleet Admiral Sakazuki's "Thorough Justice" seems absolute, yet his rebellious streak in ignoring direct orders suggests a more independent mind at work.
Wano Encounter
The Wano encounter provided the first real look at Aramaki in action. He arrived on the island with the intent of taking Monkey D. Luffy’s head to gain Sakazuki’s approval. His power was on full display as he effortlessly incapacitated the remnants of the Beast Pirates, including commanders King and Queen, by draining their nutrients with his wooden roots. However, his mission was cut short by the overwhelming Haki of Red-Haired Shanks, which forced the Admiral to retreat. This encounter was pivotal for many theorists; some saw it as proof of his cowardice, while others noted that his presence unintentionally helped the country. By spreading his forest-like powers across the barren, polluted lands of Wano, Aramaki effectively jump-started the nation's environmental recovery, leading to speculation that his "destruction" often leads to "rebirth."
Possible Hidden Motives
While his words are those of a tyrant, some fans suggest a deeper Ryokugyu theory involving hidden motives. One prominent idea is that Aramaki is actually a "wild card" who values the preservation of the world over the politics of the Celestial Dragons. His ability to go without food for three years through photosynthesis suggests a detachment from human needs, potentially mirroring a detachment from human greed. Some believe his "Deadly Justice" is a front to allow him to operate in high-risk areas where he can enact his own brand of order. His tattoo, which references a "double suicide" story (Shinagawa Shinju), hints at a tragic past involving betrayal or a lost love, which might explain his cynical view of the world and his obsession with "natural order" as a way to cope with personal chaos.
Connection to the Revolution
The most shocking branch of the Green Bull One Piece discourse is his potential connection to the Revolutionary Army. Despite his vocal support for the World Government, Aramaki’s behavior is often contradictory. He was seen conversing amicably with Fujitora, who openly opposes the Marine status quo. Some theorists suggest that Aramaki could be a sleeper agent, similar to Kuma, or a former associate of the Revolutionaries who became disillusioned. His "natural" powers represent life and freedom—concepts diametrically opposed to the stagnant, oppressive rule of the Gorosei. If Aramaki eventually defects, it would likely be because the "hierarchy" he claims to love becomes too unstable or "unnatural" even for him. Whether he is a true believer or a double agent, Aramaki remains a volatile element in the Final Saga.
FAQ
What is Green Bull’s Devil Fruit?
Aramaki ate the Mori Mori no Mi (Woods-Woods Fruit), a Logia-type Devil Fruit that allows him to create, control, and transform his body into plant life and entire forests.
Is Green Bull from Wano?
Current information states that Aramaki hails from the South Blue, specifically the Taya Kingdom, where he served as a police officer before joining the Marines.
Why did Green Bull leave Wano so quickly?
He retreated because he sensed the massive Haoshoku Haki of Shanks and the Red-Haired Pirates nearby. He stated he wasn't ready to fight them yet, as he was only there for Luffy.
What does the name Ryokugyu mean?
Ryokugyu literally translates to "Green Bull," following the Marine tradition of naming Admirals after a color and an animal.
