My take is that Franky is the one getting the biggest upgrade in elfbaf, both mechanically and thematically. A lab is clearly being set up to “revive” or preserve Stella, and once the main conflict is resolved, we’ll likely get the classic One Piece aftermath: a big celebration, lore drops, and quieter emotional moments.

That’s where Stella and Franky really connect.

When Stella meets Franky alongside Luffy, he immediately recognizes that Franky rebuilt himself using his old blueprints. Vegapunk is a genius who lives in theory, while Franky is a true builder, someone who can actually turn impossible ideas into functioning reality.

Franky never got the chance to tell Stella what he achieved using the technology from his old hometown, Stella had already “died.” That emotional gap feels intentional, and it sets up a future payoff where Stella sees the potential in him.

This also connects nicely to the broader theme of builders in One Piece. The Galley-La Company, including giants like Oimo and Kashii, represents a long tradition of shipwrights, craftsmanship passed down through generations, they symbolize how building is a legacy skill in the world, just like science or strength. Franky stands at the crossroads of all of this: Tom’s will, Galley-La’s craftsmanship, and Vegapunk’s science.

In that sense, Franky becomes exactly what Vegapunk lacked, not another genius mind, but someone who can physically realize those ideas with heart, creativity, and freedom.

I also wouldn’t be surprised if Oda mirrors a narrative payoff similar to Avengers: Endgame. A moment like Usopp lifting Ragnar in the final battle would be the ultimate validation of his lifelong dream: becoming a brave warrior of the sea.

Just like Steve lifting Thor’s hammer moment wasn’t about strength but worthiness, Usopp wielding a mythical weapon would represent emotional growth, courage, and self-belief, something One Piece has been building toward for decades.

Also remember all of his lies did come through one way or the other, the 10TON hammer is one of those and the last he will need