Introduction

As the year-end holidays come to a close and workplaces shift back into full work mode, I find myself taking a day off to relax and reflect on the world of One Piece. Today, January 10th, marks the birthday of Eustass ‘Captain’ Kid, one of the notorious members of the Worst Generation. Despite his current uncertain fate after the Wano Country arc, I can’t help but hold onto hope for his comeback. Let’s dive into the character of Kid, a pirate who embodies a punk rock spirit and a fierce loyalty to his crew!

First Appearance and Impressions

Eustass Kid made his debut during the Sabaody Archipelago arc, where he was introduced as one of the eleven Supernovas. With a staggering bounty of 315 million berries, he was the only rookie to surpass the protagonist, Luffy, in terms of bounty at that time. This high bounty was partly due to the collateral damage he caused, leading to the impression that he wasn’t exactly a good guy. However, during the auction incident where Luffy and his crew attempted to rescue their friend, the mermaid Camie, Kid stood alongside Luffy and Law to fend off the Marines, hinting at his potential as a rival to Luffy.

Kid’s Backstory

Before becoming a pirate, Kid was a delinquent in a non-governmental country in the South Blue. He led one of four delinquent groups, which included his future crewmate Killer. The turning point for Kid came when his childhood friend, Victoria Shilton Doryanika, was killed by a gang, prompting him and his friends to band together and form a pirate crew. This tragic backstory adds depth to Kid’s character, revealing a sentimental side as he named his ship after Doryanika.

Kid’s Character Development

Initially, I wasn’t fond of Kid due to his ruthless nature and the collateral damage he caused. However, during the Wano arc, I found myself appreciating his character more. His rivalry with Luffy, especially during their time in Udon prison, showcased a childlike competitiveness that was endearing. Their banter and challenges reminded me of a schoolyard fight, which made me see Kid in a new light.

The Bond with Killer

One of the most compelling aspects of Kid’s character is his relationship with Killer. Their bond was highlighted during the Wano arc, where Killer, under the influence of Orochi, became a different person. Kid’s reaction to Killer’s transformation was heart-wrenching, showcasing the depth of their friendship. Their unwavering trust in each other is a testament to their strong connection.

Unyielding Spirit

Kid’s resilience is perhaps his most defining trait. Despite facing overwhelming odds against Big Mom, he never wavered in his determination to win. His fighting spirit is reminiscent of Luffy’s, as both believe in their eventual victory. However, this same spirit led to his downfall against Shanks, where he lost his left arm. Even after this loss, Kid’s pride and determination pushed him to confront Shanks again, resulting in a devastating defeat.

Conclusion

As we celebrate Eustass Kid’s birthday, I remain hopeful for his return. Despite the challenges he faces, his indomitable spirit and loyalty to his crew will undoubtedly lead him to rise again. Let’s continue to support Kid and look forward to his future adventures in One Piece!