Roronoa Zoro, a character in One Piece, is known for his power, determination, and honor, making him a beloved icon among fans. He serves as Monkey D. Luffy's loyal right-hand man, similar to Silvers Rayleigh's role with Gol D. Roger in the past. Zoro's journey in Wano brought him to new levels of skill and strength as a warrior.
After participating in the intense battle between the Worst Generation and the Emperors, Zoro impressively displayed his exceptional abilities. He then faced off against King, a surviving Lunarian who became Kaido's most formidable subordinate. During this epic confrontation, Zoro discovered his untapped potential and unleashed his Conqueror's Haki.
One Piece episode 1084 brings back the focus on the Zoro x Hiyori ship
Not only did Zoro possess the ability to utilize this power to enhance his attacks, a feat that only a select few characters are capable of, but he also managed to combine the advanced forms of Conqueror’s Haki and Armament Haki in order to forge a new style of swordsmanship. With that being said, in addition to bolstering his strength, Zoro's journey in Wano brought about yet another unexpected development.
Even Zoro is not immune to shipping wars
Roronoa Zoro in the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
The author acknowledges that love and relationships are not a focal point of the One Piece story. However, this does not mean that there aren't traces of emotions, albeit in a more subdued and secondary manner compared to other elements of the series. While Zoro's appeal primarily stems from his impressive fighting skills and inspirational life philosophy, as a central character in the franchise, it is natural for fans to wonder about his eventual romantic involvement.
The future holds the possibility that Zoro, the character created by mangaka Eiichiro Oda, may embark on a romantic journey with one of the female characters he is associated with.
Kozuki Hiyori in the One Piece anime (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
It could be possible that this is simply a diversion from Oda, who enjoys misleading the One Piece fandom. However, despite this, the community still can't help but speculate about Zoro's potential romantic partner in the future.
Depending on the circumstances, the main contenders for the green-haired swordsman's affection are Tashigi, Perona, or Nico Robin. With the Straw Hat crew reaching Wano, a new candidate has now emerged.
How Zoro and Hiyori bonded in One Piece
Zoro shields Hiyori from Killer to prevent any harm befalling her. (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
Following their loss in battle against Kaido, Killer finds himself coerced into becoming an assassin under shogun Kurozumi Orochi's control, with the life of his companion Eustass Kid hanging in the balance. Taking on the alter ego of "Kamazo," Killer is assigned the grim task of eliminating both Toko, the adopted daughter of Yasuie, and Hiyori.
As Kamazo was about to kill them, Zoro intervened and successfully blocked his attack. Following a short confrontation, Zoro swiftly defeated Killer, leaving him completely defeated.
In addition to tending to Zoro's battle injuries, Hiyori guided him to a house where they spent the night. Admirably impressed by Zoro's strength and comforted by his demeanor, Hiyori confided in him, unveiling her true identity as Oden's daughter and Momonosuke's sister.
Zoro, along with Hiyori and Toko, formed a close bond as they traveled together (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece). Hiyori expressed her deep appreciation for the "Pirate Hunter" after he revealed that her brother had been journeying alongside him and his comrades. Sharing her sorrowful past from two decades ago, Hiyori's grief resonated with Zoro, evoking true empathy within him.
Upon learning from Zoro, Hiyori received news of the Red Scabbards' triumphant return to Wano. This filled her with immense joy, especially upon discovering that the green-haired swordsman would stand beside them in the battle against Kaido to liberate the country.
As the execution of Yasuie approached, Toko hurried towards him, with Hiyori in swift pursuit. Demonstrating his unwavering concern for Hiyori's safety, Zoro followed them determined to shield the duo from any harm.
Upon witnessing the heart-wrenching demise of Yasuie and the deep anguish of Toko, exacerbated by her tormenting SMILE curse, Hiyori was overcome with tears and took solace in the comforting embrace of Zoro. Despite his burning anger, she managed to restrain him, preventing a potentially explosive confrontation.
Hiroyi seeking comfort in Zoro's arms following the tragic loss of Yasuie (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
As Hiyori was being pursued by multiple ninja assassins from Orochi's Oniwabanshu, with the intent to take her life, Zoro once again assumed the role of her personal guardian, triumphing over all adversaries. Subsequently, Hiyori requested that Zoro relinquish the sword Shusui, esteemed as a cherished relic by the inhabitants of Wano.
Zoro had acquired the blade a couple of years prior, directly from Ryuma's resurrected corpse. In return for this legendary weapon known as the "Sword God," Hiyori presented Zoro with another extraordinary blade, Enma.
The issue brought attention to Hiyori's trust in Zoro's strength, as only the most powerful Haki users can handle Enma without their energy being immediately depleted. It also showcased the deep bond she felt with Zoro, as Enma was one of her father, Oden's, two swords.
During the conflict in Onigashima, after utilizing Enma to confront and harm Kaido, Zoro made the decision to unleash both his Conqueror's Haki and Armament Haki simultaneously. In doing so, he began wielding the sword in the same manner as Hiyori's father.
Can Hiyori and Zoro become a couple in the future?
Zoro and Hiyori in episode 1084 of One Piece (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
It is strongly implied that Hiyori has romantic feelings for Zoro, regardless of whether he feels the same way. This becomes apparent in Episode 1084 of the One Piece anime, entitled "Time to Depart – Wano Country and the Straw Hats," although through a filler scene.
In preparation for their departure from Wano, Zoro chose to pay his respects at the graves of the deceased. As he was honoring the tombs of Pedro and Yasuie, Hiyori approached him.
When asked if he would miss her, Zoro remained silent, leaving some fans to believe that he was not interested in Hiyori. However, it is important to consider Zoro's stoic nature and tendency to hide his emotions. It is unlikely for him to respond directly to Hiyori's declaration of interest. Therefore, despite his lack of overt reaction, the scene does not imply that Zoro disregards Hiyori's feelings in any way.
During a conversation, Hiyori playfully provoked Zoro by asking him if he enjoyed sharing a bed with her. Despite his usual reserved nature, the swordsman didn't appear disgusted by the remark.
Fate and love are mysterious forces. While Zoro is focused on surpassing Dracule Mihawk and becoming the World's Strongest Swordsman, as well as aiding Luffy in his quest to become the Pirate King, he may also desire a settled life.
In this scenario, it is plausible for Zoro to consider a future with Hiyori, a woman with whom he shares a strong emotional bond. Hiyori's significance in Zoro's journey to becoming the strongest swordsman cannot be overlooked, as she is the one who bestowed upon him Enma.
Zoro brandishing Enma in his epic clash against Kaido (Image via Toei Animation, One Piece)
This accentuates their profound connection and, within the contextual framework of One Piece's narrative, genuine bonds possess a tangible potential to blossom into romantic love. Intriguingly, Zoro and Hiyori's encounter strikingly mirrors the manner in which Oden and Toki, Hiyori's parents, first crossed paths.
Zoro rescued Hiyori from Kamazo and defeated him on her behalf, just as Oden arrived to save Toki from pirates. Hiyori's trust in Zoro to protect Oden's cherished sword, a valuable family heirloom, further indicates their bond.
To Hiyori, Zoro is not only her savior but also the one who carries on Oden's legacy by wielding Enma and fighting for the sake of Wano. Similarly, Zoro holds great admiration for Oden and strives to surpass him as a more powerful Enma user.
Following the Onigashima Raid, Hiyori and Zoro have formed a strong bond. Hiyori's nurturing nature as Momonosuke's sister and Zoro's protective inclination towards him strengthen their connection. Furthermore, the possibility of Zoro, a descendant of the Shimotsuki Family, marrying Hiyori, who belongs to the illustrious Kozuki Family, would unify the two most esteemed households in Wano Country.
Oden, an extraordinary samurai, has paved the way for Zoro, the aspiring World's Strongest Swordsman, to embark on a similar, if not more impressive, journey. Not only does Zoro possess Oden's esteemed qualities of integrity, determination, and selflessness, but he also holds a special place in Hiyori's heart. Perhaps drawn to Zoro's strength and honorable nature, which parallels that of her late father, Hiyori may have developed a fondness for him. While Zoro may struggle to express his emotions, it is evident that he holds a significant regard for Hiyori. Only time will tell if fate allows their paths to cross once again.
Keep up with One Piece manga, anime, and live-action as 2023 progresses.
Editor's P/S
**Paragraph 1** Zoro and Hiyori's relationship is one of the most complex and intriguing in One Piece. The two characters have a deep connection that is based on mutual respect and admiration. Zoro is drawn to Hiyori's strength and resilience, while Hiyori is impressed by Zoro's loyalty and devotion to his friends.
**Paragraph 2** The two characters have a lot in common. They are both skilled fighters, and they are both willing to sacrifice themselves for the people they love. They also have a shared history, as they both lost their families at a young age. This shared experience has created a bond between them that is unbreakable.