Series & First Appearance
Perona is a character from the anime and manga series One Piece, created by Eiichiro Oda. She first appears in Chapter 449 of the manga, titled "Edible Ghosts," and makes her anime debut in Episode 337.
Profile at a Glance
Perona is approximately 18 years old and serves primarily as an antagonist within the Thriller Bark Arc. She holds the position of a commander in Gecko Moria’s army and oversees the Perona Wonder Garden, which is home to various animal zombies. Her signature ability comes from the Horo Horo no Mi (Ghost Ghost Fruit), allowing her to create ghostly apparitions that induce depression in her targets.
Personality & Motivations
Notably whimsical yet somewhat vain, Perona has a strong aversion to anything deemed "not cute," including insects and certain grotesque creatures. Her self-proclaimed title as the "Ghost Princess" reflects her affinity for aesthetics associated with her Gothic Lolita style. She dreams of ruling over a country filled with cute zombie animals. Her catchphrase, "Horohorohoro," is both a reflection of her name and an expression of her enjoyment in her ghost-themed abilities, often marking her trademark laugh.
Abilities / Powers
Perona’s powers are centered around her Horo Horo no Mi fruit. This devil fruit gives her the ability to create multiple ghost apparitions, which can pass through people and induce a state of depression. In combat, she employs these abilities to incapacitate opponents psychologically rather than physically, showcasing a unique combat approach that emphasizes mental warfare. Although powerful, her abilities rely heavily on emotional manipulation, making her ineffective against individuals with strong mental fortitude, like certain members of the Straw Hat Pirates.
Her zombie army, including Kumashi, her teddy bear-like zombie companion, serves as muscle in her operations. It is also notable that despite her ghostly abilities, she becomes vulnerable when exposed to spiritual attacks, particularly from opponents like Brook.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Perona plays a crucial role during the Thriller Bark Arc, particularly in episodes centered around the Straw Hat crew’s encounters with Gecko Moria’s forces. Initially a foe, she loots the Thousand Sunny with her zombie minions, showcasing her prowess as a commander. Her journey includes bouts with characters like Nami and Zoro, where her strategies often emphasize surprising her foes with psychological tactics.
A pivotal moment occurs when she is briefly captured by the Straw Hats but later chooses to assist them after experiencing a shift in her perspective during the aftermath of a scuffle. This development allows her to demonstrate growth, especially in transcending her past antagonistic role to form a more nuanced identity.
Notable Relationships
Perona’s primary affiliation is with Gecko Moria, under whom she serves as a subordinate. Despite their loyalty, her attitude towards him often reflects ambivalence, frequently scolding him for his erratic decisions. One of her notable interactions is with Kumashi, whom she regards with a certain fondness, further showcasing her softer nuances. Additionally, her encounter with members of the Straw Hat crew, particularly Zoro and Nami, reveals her complex dynamics with allies and adversaries alike.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One memorable scene occurs when Perona uses her abilities to depress Zoro in Episode 338, marking a significant encounter that highlights her capabilities. Her quirkiness is encapsulated in her repeated laugh, "Horohorohoro," which has become iconic among fans, contributing to her recognizable character identity. Another standout moment is when she chooses to aid the Straw Hats after initially being an antagonist, symbolizing a shift in her motivations.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Perona ranks as a fan favorite character, with 1,341 members listing her among their favorites, reflecting her unique design and quirky personality. Her laugh, “horohorohoro,” features the word "horo," meaning ghost, emphasizing her character theme. Interestingly, while Perona could have been oblivious to significant events around her, she comically sleeps through a crucial incident involving Brook, showcasing her carefree yet oblivious nature. In the original Japanese version, she is voiced by Kaya Yoshizawa, while Cynthia Cranz brings her to life in the English dub, delivering a distinctive personality to the character.
Perona aligns closely with classic horror motifs, representing ghosts within the expansive universe of One Piece, where many characters draw inspiration from various genres, enhancing her depth and charm.
