One Piece Chapter 1168 is almost here, and excitement across the fandom is higher than ever.
The Elbaf flashback has now reached a turning point, especially after Shanks officially stepped into the story as one of the most central figures alongside Harald.
With both characters now sharing the spotlight, it is becoming clear that this flashback is building toward an emotional and decisive conclusion.
In the previous chapter, readers witnessed Shanks being introduced as a God’s Blade, instantly elevating his importance in the world’s balance of power.
As the flashback progresses, he and Harald will only grow closer—a connection that will ultimately lead to the tragic death of the King of Elbaf. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how Oda develops their relationship in Chapter 1168.

Their first encounter already hinted at history between them. Harald felt strangely familiar with both Shanks and Shamrock, suggesting that he may have met Shanks long ago during Roger’s visit to Elbaf. One Piece Chapter 1168 is widely expected to explore this connection further.
Shanks’ cold attitude toward the “lower world” is also suspected to be an act. Harald likely sees right through it. A deeper conversation between the two has been teased ever since Shanks told Gaban that he and Harald once spoke in the Holy Land but couldn’t do so freely. That is exactly why Shanks returned to Elbaf 14 years ago.
The upcoming chapter is expected to show Shanks and Harald talking privately—about the Sun God Nika, the World Government’s darkest secrets, and the kind of future the world truly needs.