Episode 405 of One Piece, “Vanished Crew – Straw Hat Day,” primarily focuses on Roronoa Zoro’s intense and brutal training under Dracule Mihawk on Kuraigana Island, while briefly showing the other Straw Hats continuing their individual journeys following their forced separation at Sabaody Archipelago. It culminates in a growing sense of unease as the island is enveloped by a massive storm, foreshadowing future challenges.
Zoro’s Path to Power: The Mihawk Connection
Episode 405 offers a vital glimpse into Zoro’s growth in the two-year timeskip. We see firsthand the rigorous, almost merciless training regimen Mihawk puts him through. No longer battling weak fodder, Zoro now confronts ferocious Humandrills, apes mimicking human fighting styles, but possessing superior strength and agility. This represents a significant leap in the caliber of opponents Zoro must overcome.
Humandrills and the Imitation Game
The Humandrills serve not just as physical obstacles, but also as psychological ones. Their ability to mimic human fighting styles forces Zoro to adapt constantly, preventing him from relying solely on his brute strength. This introduction of intelligent opponents is crucial to Zoro’s development, pushing him to think strategically in battle. We see him struggle against their relentless attacks, showcasing the gap he needs to bridge to reach Mihawk’s level.
Mihawk’s Unwavering Gaze
Mihawk’s presence looms large, even when he isn’t actively engaged in Zoro’s training. His critical observation and infrequent but pointed advice guide Zoro’s efforts. He doesn’t offer easy solutions; instead, he allows Zoro to learn through trial and error, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and problem-solving. This reinforces the understanding that Zoro’s strength must come from within.
Meanwhile, Across the Grand Line…
While the primary focus remains on Zoro, brief scenes showcase the other Straw Hats. These snippets, although short, serve to maintain the narrative thread and remind the audience of the crew’s dispersed status. They highlight the diverse environments each member is navigating and subtly hint at the challenges they face in their individual training.
The Calm Before the Storm (Literally and Figuratively)
The episode concludes with a menacing storm engulfing Kuraigana Island. This isn’t just a meteorological event; it’s a symbol of the impending threats lurking on the Grand Line. It underscores the urgency of the Straw Hats’ training and foreshadows the powerful adversaries they will inevitably encounter upon their reunion. The storm effectively serves as a dramatic cliffhanger, leaving the audience anticipating the next stage of the Straw Hats’ journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about One Piece Episode 405
Here are some common questions viewers have about episode 405, answered to provide a deeper understanding of its significance.
1. Why is Zoro training with Mihawk?
Zoro asked Mihawk to train him, recognizing that he needed to become significantly stronger to protect his captain, Luffy, and his crew. He humbled himself, setting aside his pride, understanding that powering up under Mihawk was the only way to survive in the New World. This moment showcases Zoro’s unwavering loyalty and commitment.
2. What are Humandrills and why are they important?
Humandrills are ape-like creatures on Kuraigana Island that mimic human fighting styles. They’re important because they force Zoro to adapt and think strategically, rather than relying solely on brute strength. They represent a significant increase in the complexity and difficulty of his opponents.
3. Does Mihawk actively train Zoro, or just observe?
Mihawk primarily observes and offers occasional, crucial advice. He believes in Zoro learning through experience and self-discovery. His guidance, though infrequent, is invaluable in pointing Zoro in the right direction. He doesn’t coddle Zoro; instead, he pushes him to overcome challenges independently.
4. What is the significance of the storm at the end of the episode?
The storm is a symbolic representation of the dangers of the Grand Line and the New World. It foreshadows the powerful enemies the Straw Hats will face and highlights the need for them to become stronger. It acts as a cliffhanger, creating anticipation for the challenges ahead.
5. Are there other Straw Hats shown in this episode besides Zoro?
Yes, there are brief glimpses of other Straw Hats, showcasing their locations and hinting at their ongoing training. These short scenes serve to connect the dispersed crew and remind viewers of their individual journeys.
6. How long has Zoro been training at this point in the storyline?
At this point in episode 405, Zoro has likely been training for several months. The full timeskip is two years, and this episode occurs relatively early in that period. The exact timeframe is intentionally vague, but the progression in Zoro’s abilities is noticeable.
7. What does Mihawk think of Zoro’s progress?
Mihawk’s thoughts are not explicitly stated, but his continued training of Zoro implies he sees potential. He likely recognizes Zoro’s determination and raw talent, even if he believes there’s still much room for improvement.
8. Is Kuraigana Island the only place Zoro trains?
Yes, during the timeskip shown in the anime and manga, Zoro remains on Kuraigana Island under Mihawk’s tutelage. The entire focus of his training for this period is dedicated to mastering his swordsmanship in that environment.
9. Does Zoro ever use Haki in this episode?
There is no explicit demonstration of Haki use in this episode. However, it is implied that he is beginning to learn and understand the concept under Mihawk’s guidance, which lays the foundation for his later mastery of Haki.
10. How does Zoro feel about being separated from his crew?
While not explicitly stated, Zoro’s dedication to his training clearly demonstrates his desire to become strong enough to protect his crew and reunite with them. His willingness to swallow his pride and learn from Mihawk underscores the pain of separation and his unwavering loyalty.
11. What is the next major challenge Zoro faces after this training?
The next major challenge Zoro faces after completing his training is reuniting with the Straw Hats and entering the New World, where he will face significantly stronger opponents than he has ever encountered before.
12. Where can I watch One Piece episode 405?
One Piece episode 405 can be legally streamed on platforms like Crunchyroll and Funimation. Ensure you are using official sources to support the creators and avoid pirated content.