Chapter 63: Saboady Archipelago II
The Sabaody Archipelago is a breathtaking and peculiar place in the One Piece world, consisting of a series of massive mangrove trees known as the Yarukiman Mangroves. These towering trees stretch hundreds of feet into the sky, with roots and trunks so vast that they form islands of land that house bustling communities and attractions. The environment is bathed in a soft greenish-blue light filtered through the dense canopy above, casting an otherworldly glow on everything below.
The trees release a unique resin that forms enormous, transparent bubbles, which constantly float around the archipelago. People use these bubbles for various purposes, such as transportation or amusement, and they give Sabaody a whimsical, magical atmosphere. The bubbles drift lazily through the air, popping on contact with seawater but otherwise floating freely, creating an ethereal, dreamlike effect throughout the area.
The archipelago is divided into numbered zones, each called a "grove." The zones vary greatly in character and purpose, from tourist-filled entertainment areas with hotels and amusement attractions to shady districts housing black market shops, slave auctions, and pirate haunts. The lawless parts are frequented by notorious pirates, bounty hunters, and even some of the infamous Celestial Dragons—powerful, haughty nobles who hold absolute authority and are known for their cruelty and arrogance.
Despite its beauty, the archipelago has a darker, tense atmosphere due to the presence of these Celestial Dragons. Their presence causes fear among the locals and travelers, as any act against them brings down the wrath of the Marines and Admiral-level enforcements. However, Sabaody's strategic importance lies in its location; it's the last stop before the Grand Line's notorious New World, making it a major checkpoint for pirate crews preparing for the journey.
Each grove within the Sabaody Archipelago has its own unique personality, purpose, and feel. The groves are numbered from 1 to 79, forming distinct zones on the massive roots of the Yarukiman Mangrove trees, and serve various functions that cater to the diverse range of visitors—from tourists to pirates to marines.
Groves 1-29: The Lawless Zone
This area is known for its chaotic, dangerous atmosphere, frequented by pirates, bounty hunters, and criminals. Here, you'll find dark, narrow alleyways and hidden underground markets, where illegal goods are sold alongside weapons, rare Devil Fruits, and forbidden items. The infamous Human Auctioning House is also located in this zone, where people—including captured pirates and innocent civilians—are auctioned as slaves. Many groves in this zone are poorly lit, with flickering lamps casting eerie shadows, and the sense of threat is palpable, as fights often break out in the streets.
Groves 30-39: Tourist and Amusement Zone
In contrast to the lawless areas, these groves are lively and colorful, bustling with tourists, entertainers, and souvenir shops. Amusement centers, restaurants, hotels, and bubble parks fill the groves, making it a popular area for travelers and families. The floating bubbles add a whimsical charm, drifting around the crowded streets where children play and performers entertain. This zone is filled with cheerful energy, with music playing and bubbles popping in the air, giving it a friendly and vibrant atmosphere.
Groves 40-49: Ship Coating and Repair Zone
The groves in this area specialize in the process of ship coating, where skilled craftsmen apply resin to ships to allow them to submerge and travel underwater—an essential modification for anyone entering the New World. Shipwrights and coating mechanics can be seen working tirelessly, and there's an industrial feel here, with numerous shipyards and workshops buzzing with activity. The scent of wood and resin fills the air, and the sight of half-built ships and cranes is common. Pirates and travelers alike flock to this zone to prepare their vessels for the harsh conditions ahead.
Groves 50-59: Merchant and Shopping District