While many are theorizing that the Straw Hats are hallucinating due to inconsistencies in the latest chapter, I have a different take. What if the giants are deliberately causing these hallucinations?

Yes, the giants looked like heroes when they went to save Luffy in Egghead, but was it really just a coincidence? Why did they show up there in the first place?

We know Shanks was recently in Elbaf, and now he’s actively pursuing the One Piece. Shanks is fully aware that Luffy is one of his biggest competitors, so sending the giants to “save” Luffy and then trapping him in a hallucinatory state in Elbaf could be Shanks way of sidelining him without causing direct harm. Think about it: this way, Luffy is left in Elbaf, playing “Neverland”, while Shanks moves ahead in the race for the One Piece.

Shanks actions make me question his true intentions. Sure, he gave that speech to Green Bull about the new generation, but then he completely obliterated Kid just a few chapters later. It’s clear Shanks has his own agenda, and I believe he’s using Luffy for his own purpose. He needs Luffy (or more specifically, Nika) to fulfill some condition that Shanks himself can’t. Luffy must reach Laugh Tale at just the right moment for Shanks to secure the One Piece.

With Luffy so close to the finish line, Shanks needs to get ahead and prepare something crucial. I still believe that Shanks will either be waiting at the island just before Laugh Tale or standing guard at the final stretch, ready to deem Luffy his successor—or perhaps, to challenge him.

In essence, Shanks is playing a long game, ensuring Luffy stays alive and reaches Laugh Tale—but only when it suits his plan to claim the One Piece for himself.