As fans of the One Piece universe, we are always on the lookout for the next thrilling developments in the story. One character who has been notably absent is Smoker, the Vice Admiral of the Navy. His return is highly anticipated, and many are speculating about where he might show up next. In this article, we will explore the potential locations for Smoker’s reappearance and what it could mean for the ongoing narrative.

Speculations on Smoker’s Return

Smoker, the Vice Admiral of the Navy and commander of the G-5 base, has been absent from the story for quite some time. Fans are eagerly anticipating his next appearance, and it seems there are three potential locations where he could show up: Egghead, Pirate Island Hachinosu, or Cross Guild. Given the current narrative developments, I have a strong feeling that he will make his return in one of these places.

Current Status of Smoker

Smoker’s last appearance in the main storyline was in Chapter 793, titled “Tiger and Dog.” This scene takes place during the latter half of the Dressrosa arc, where Smoker and his team are escorting the children they rescued from Punk Hazard to Dr. Vegapunk’s research facility. At that time, Smoker was still recovering from his injuries inflicted by Doflamingo and was seen lying in bed. However, by Chapter 797, he is depicted as having fully recovered, celebrating with a cotton candy party.

Since then, the story has progressed through arcs including Zou, Whole Cake Island, Wano Country (and the World Conference), and now to Egghead. It raises the question of what Smoker was doing during the World Conference and whether he was on a mission. This remains unclear.

Tashigi’s Current Situation

Meanwhile, Smoker’s usual companion, Captain Tashigi, has been spotted at the G-14 branch, which is close to Egghead, where Dr. Vegapunk’s research facility is located. Although Tashigi is not explicitly introduced as a member of SWORD, she is depicted as being on a mission to rescue Colonel Kobe at Pirate Island Hachinosu. It is puzzling why she is not involved in the operation at Egghead, as she should have been summoned for that mission.

This leads to speculation about whether Smoker is also at the G-14 branch. If Tashigi is there, it would make sense for Smoker to be present as well. However, it is also possible that Smoker is acting independently, perhaps to ensure the children he rescued are receiving proper care. Tashigi’s presence at G-14 could mean that Smoker has moved on to G-5, especially since he has reportedly taken over as the base commander after Vergo.

Three Possible Locations for Smoker’s Return

• Egghead
• Pirate Island Hachinosu
• Cross Guild

This leads to intriguing questions: Will his return be related to Luffy, Kuzan, or Crocodile? I believe that Smoker’s reappearance will carry significant meaning, and I have my predictions about where he might show up next.

Potential Return at Cross Guild

Recently, it was revealed that Kobe has been placed on the wanted list by Cross Guild, which raises the possibility of Smoker making his return in this context. This suggests that Smoker may be taken to Cross Guild, potentially involving Crocodile as a central figure in his storyline, revisiting their past connection in Alabasta.

Understanding G-5 Branch

To understand Smoker’s potential return, we must consider the nature of the G-5 branch. In Chapter 652, it was described as a lawless group of Navy personnel who do not heed the orders of headquarters. They have a reputation for ruthlessly attacking pirates, which has earned them many enemies.

Additionally, during Smoker and Tashigi’s absence, a Vice Admiral was left in charge, who treated civilians poorly, further damaging the Navy’s reputation. This context could play a crucial role in the formation of Cross Guild by Buggy, Mihawk, and Crocodile, as G-5 has become a place where the most hated Navy personnel reside.

Conclusion

As the story unfolds, it is likely that Smoker will be depicted as one of the first Navy personnel captured by Cross Guild, leading to a reunion with Buggy and Crocodile. This could set the stage for significant developments in the narrative. I am excited to see how this all plays out!