Chapter 728: Stepping Directly on the LandmineFoosha Village, Goa Kingdom, East Blue.Ace's return was unexpected by everyone, including Garp. After all, the entire sea and the entire Whitebeard Pirates were currently in turmoil. For Ace to return at this time, not only risked encountering enemies alone, but the New Worldalso desperately needed his strength.So, why did he come back now?Regardless, "No one is allowed to report anything that happens here to Headquarters!"Garp issued the order, and no one dared to disobey."Yes, sir!"Garp cared for his subordinates, but if Headquarters somehow found out about this, he would definitely investigate it thoroughly!...Inside Makino's Bar."Ah~""Thank you, Makino. Your beer is still the best."Ace immediately downed a small wooden mug of beer.Makino smiled back, "Ace, your alcohol tolerance has improved."Ace rubbed the back of his head."Hahaha, yeah, after being out at sea for a few years."Dadan sat across from Ace, arms crossed, staring at him with a cold expression.She was also a tsundere; she wouldn't show too much emotion in front of the boys, though she certainly wasn't hiding her anger."We learned about your capture from the newspaper. It's good that you're alright, Ace.""Do you know where Luffy is?"Dadan didn't dare mention Satoru, or what happened after his death, because she was afraid she would break down in tears if she did."Luffy is fine. He's somewhere very safe, being looked after by one of our seniors. With that senior, few people on the sea can harm him, so don't worry."Ace replied while eating, looking like a starving ghost.Makino felt relieved seeing his good appetite."That's good then. That brat Luffy has a temper like that. What kind of war was that?! And he dared to go!!""That's true, with you, his older brother, captured, the two of them..."She deliberately avoided mentioning Satoru, but after so many years together, he was in her memory, and it was impossible to forget him, so the name slipped out.The scene instantly fell silent.Dadan picked up her cup and downed it in one go to hide her emotions.Meanwhile, Ace was still eating.And then he stepped directly on the landmine."Satoru is dead.""Pfft!!"The members of the Dadan Family behind Dadancouldn't help but spit out the alcohol they were drinking.Makino's hand slipped, and the mug she was holding dropped straight to the floor, thankfully it was a wooden one.They immediately turned their attention to Dadan, watching for her reaction.Dadan was stunned, not expecting Ace to be so blunt.Dadan didn't know what to say. She was sad, but she knew that Ace, as Satoru's brother, must be equally heartbroken."Satoru is dead, but he can be resurrected.""...""Huh?!!!"Dadan and the others' cries of surprise were so loud they made the bar's roof jump slightly."Wha-what do you mean?!""What do you mean by that, Ace?!""Resurrection?!"The members of the Dadan Family crowded closer to ask questions, pushing Dadan into the middle.Before Ace could answer, Dadan forcefully pushed them all away."Are you trying to squeeze me to death!!"Although her tone was angry, there was a glimmer of expectation in Dadan's eyes."Ace, can I take your words to mean... Satoru can still live, right?!"Dadan looked at Ace expectantly, as did Makino and the Dadan Family.Ace, with food scraps around his mouth, nodded innocently under the expectant gazes of everyone."Yes.""Really?!!!"Ace stood up, walked over to Magura, pulled up his shirt to wipe his mouth, and then nodded affirmatively again."It's true. This is what the letter Satoru left behind said.""I believe him."Dadan nodded repeatedly."Exactly, exactly! That brat has been cunning since he was little. It's impossible that he's lying to us!!"The Dadan Family members exchanged glances, and the next second, they erupted in cheers."That's wonderful!!!"The bar's roof jumped again.Ace smiled, seeing the joy return to their faces. This was the meaning of his trip to Foosha Village.He knew Dadan, Makino, and the others would be heartbroken by the news of Satoru's death.Perhaps it was to prevent them from grieving.Perhaps it was for him to clear his own mind.Or perhaps for other reasons, he felt he had to come and tell them—just tell them. After informing them, he still had to return to the New World. The turmoil of the Whitebeard Pirates wasn't over yet, and Acedidn't know what the future direction of the Whitebeard Pirates would be, or what they should do. "Alright, I should go. I'm a pirate. If I stay too long, the villagers here will worry.""Besides, I have things to do."Although Satoru was dead but could be resurrected, Ace had become much more composed because of this incident.Dadan lit another cigarette, "Hoo~""Mhm, we know. Go and take care of your business, Ace... take care of yourself."If Ace had been setting sail for the first time, Dadanwouldn't have been able to say "take care of yourself." But Dadan knew what Ace was going through now, so a little concern was fine."Mhm, I will.""Don't stay here long either. What I mean is, try not to meet Grandpa. I'm afraid he'll notice something from your change in mood.""After all, Grandpa is a Marine."Ace gave his final instruction.Dadan was surprised to hear this. "Garp doesn't know about Satoru?"Ace shook his head slightly.Dadan was stunned for a moment, then smiled. "Hahaha, that's good too! Let that old bastard feel guilty for a while! Who told him to be so close yet never visit you guys!!"Ace refrained from commenting on that remark, said goodbye again, and left the bar... Once outside, Aceglanced toward Mt. Colubo, the place where he grew up. The mountain looked exactly the same as it did when he was a child—no changes.Ace didn't go for a walk to reminisce about the past.Now wasn't the time, nor the most appropriate moment. If he were to return, it would be too lonely alone.Unsure what he was thinking, Ace withdrew his gaze and walked toward the dock. It was time to return to the New World. His comrades were fighting; he couldn't stand idly by... Foosha VillageDock.Ace's Flame Skiff was parked right there.But at that moment, Garp was standing in front of the skiff, arms crossed, completely alone.As Ace approached, Garp sensed him instantly, turned around, and remained silent.Ace was the first to speak. "Grandpa."Garp finally lowered his arms. "Ace...""What exactly did you come to Foosha Village for?""This is not the time for you to reminisce about the past."
Chapter 729: Eliminating Obsession"This isn't the time for you to dwell on the past."Were Garp's words heartless?Very heartless.This was the ruthlessness of the Marine toward a pirate.As a grandfather, he was also worried about Ace. Now that the Whitebeard Pirates no longer had Whitebeard, his enemies were all eyeing them covetously, and Ace acting alone carried a great risk.Furthermore, the instability of the Whitebeard Pirates in the New World required fighting power.So Garp couldn't understand why Ace insisted on making a trip to Foosha Village.Given Garp's personality, he couldn't say anything else; this opening line fit his character... Ace looked at Garp, whose forehead was covered with gauze and still had bloodstains—marks left by Dadanearlier.Ace had never seen Garp look like this before. He understood that Garp was suffering too because of Satoru's death, and he hesitated whether or not to tell Garp that Satoru could be resurrected."I was just passing by, so I came along. Is that not allowed?"This was Ace's answer.Garp was silent for a moment. "Of course, it is."The grandfather and grandson stared at each other on the dock.Behind Garp were the two words, Marine Justice, two simple words Garp had carried for most of his life.Behind Ace, the phantom images of Satoru, Luffy, and Sabo seemed to appear, followed by the phantom image of the entire Whitebeard Pirates—this was what he carried... The wind blew, and the waves did not cease.The grandfather and grandson stared at each other for a while, and finally, Garp stepped aside.Revealing the Flame Skiff behind him.Ace understood and stepped forward.Garp watched as Ace walked past him and jumped onto the skiff.Turning to face Ace, Garp spoke."If you see Luffy, help me say... I'm sorry."Ace pressed down on his hat brim. "What about me? Don't you have anything to say to me, Grandpa!"Garp paused. "I know you don't need it.""More than an apology from me, you wished I could have intervened back then, but... I couldn't..."Ace fell silent, his hat brim obscuring his face so Garp couldn't see clearly."I understand. I will pass the message to Luffy, if I see him.""Goodbye, Grandpa."As soon as he finished speaking, the Flame Skiff's engine instantly spewed flames. The resulting kinetic energy pushed the skiff forward quickly, leaving the dock. Ace ultimately did not tell Garpabout Satoru's ability to resurrect.Just as Garp himself said, he couldn't intervene back then. It was clear: Garp chose the Marine.Since Ace chose his brothers, then he couldn't reveal the secret either... The affairs of the mortal world were largely like this. It would take some time to see what the final outcome would be.Returning to the Underworld.Whitebeard was drinking tea and alcohol in the villa, having nothing else to do."With White Kid gone, this room is truly quiet..."Jason didn't dare casually strike up a conversation with Whitebeard; after all, Whitebeard was a super senior figure to him.In Ghost Street, Strow and the Julie family seemed to be plotting something; undercurrents were surging!Meanwhile, Davy Jones was still sleeping, supposedly for maintenance, or else he'd get wrinkles~As for Little White and Satoru, they were naturally still wandering through the Sea of Spider Lilies... "How long do we have to walk?""How should I know?""?"Didn't you say to walk forward? Now you're saying you don't know?!"After experiencing two Obsession Illusions, Satorudecided not to waste any more time and asked Little White where to go.Little White replied, "Walk forward."Then the two of them walked forward for 20 minutes.They still saw nothing else; it was just red spider lilies everywhere.Satoru couldn't help but ask how long they had to walk.But now Little White said he didn't know."That's right.""I said to walk forward, but I never said walking forward would definitely lead us to the spider lily heart.""If we don't have a clue, where else can we go besides forward?"That makes sense.But Satoru raised his fist. Little White had received an Electric Punch earlier, and although he was fine now, another one would make things symmetrical."Hey, hey! Don't be rash, Little Little White.""What I said makes sense, right?""The spider lily heart is located at the center of the entire Sea of Spider Lilies, which is where the deepest obsession lies.""But we couldn't tell where the center was after entering, so walking forward was the only way."Little White explained.Satoru reluctantly accepted. "Walk forward? What if we're walking in the opposite direction?""You're overthinking that, Little Little White.""The closer you get to the center, the taller the red spider lilies grow. Haven't you noticed that the flowers have been getting taller as we walk?""Have they?"Satoru replied stubbornly, his chin resting against a red spider lily.Little White smiled and said nothing."Stop laughing.""In that case, let's keep going."Said Satoru, immediately stepping forward to continue walking. The center shouldn't be far now."No need to rush. The center is right there; it's not going anywhere.""The red spider lilies are getting taller and taller. Should I carry you, Little Little White?"In response to Little White's kindness, Satoru gave him a fleeting smile."I think, rather than being carried, standing on your head would let me see farther. What do you think?""...Haha, let's hurry up. Don't waste time."..."We should be getting there soon."They walked deeper and deeper.The red spider lilies were now as tall as Little White's chin, and Satoru had to fly, or else he'd be subjected to the sight of "Satoru" appearing when the wind blew low over the grass."Big Brother, you've said that three times already."Satoru complained.Little White was unconcerned. "Hmm, 'Big Brother' sounds better than 'Little White'."Satoru ignored him, flying past quickly. The wind he generated pressed the red spider lilies down."Hey, wait for me, Little Little White!"Little White hurriedly flew up to follow... After flying for nearly ten more minutes, the red spider lilies generally reached a height of 3 meters.Satoru knew instantly whether they had reached the center.Amidst the red spider lilies that were generally around 3 meters tall, there was one red spider lilynearly 10 meters high. It was strange that its stem hadn't bent at such a height.At 10 meters, it was almost certain that this was the center of the Sea of Spider Lilies.A height of 10 meters was sufficient for the obsession required to form a spider lily heart."It's this plant!"Little White stated with certainty.Satoru didn't know how to respond; he'd have to be an idiot not to see that it was this plant."You're right, it is this plant.""So, how do we retrieve the spider lily heart?""I remember the residents of the City telling me that the spider lily heart... is a piece of soil?"Little White nodded. "That's right. After all the obsessions are resolved, they sink into the soil, the soil where the red spider lily's roots are. Dig down one meter, and the spider lily heart will form there.""So, to get the spider lily heart, we must eliminate the obsession of this red spider lily?""Exactly!"
Chapter 730: Haven't I Heard This Somewhere Before?"That's right!"Little Bai nodded in affirmation.In other words, to obtain a spider lily heart, it must first be formed.Currently, the ground beneath this ten-meter-tall red spider lily does not contain a spider lily heart; not even one meter, or even ten meters deep.First, like before, the red spider lily must be pulled out, one must enter the obsession illusion, and eliminate the obsession for the spider lily heart to form... "But didn't you just say that we, as observers, cannot change anything?"Satoru asked.Little Bai looked at Satoru and replied with a smile."Nothing in the world is absolute, Little Little Bai.""Isn't that red spider lily in your pocket an exception?""This is different?""This is different."In this Sea of Spider Lilies, Little Bai was the senior, and Satoru was almost always asking questions.Little Bai, on the other hand, answered diligently."The difference lies in the depth of the obsession.""Those red spider lilies that are only about a meter tall don't have enough obsession, so they naturally cannot be changed.""However, when the red spider lily's obsession is deep enough to qualify for forming a spider lily heart, the power it contains allows one to enter an illusion and become the person who gave birth to this obsession. We relive that person's life; if the obsession can be eliminated, then the spider lily heart will naturally form. If not...""What happens if it can't?!"Little Bai created suspense, and Satoru took the bait."Then it just won't form. Nothing will happen, it's just a waste of some time."Satoru rolled his eyes at him, having thought something major would happen, like his consciousness getting trapped in the illusion and unable to escape.But this was good too; no danger."Then... if it doesn't succeed the first time, can I try again?"Satoru thought of another question.To this question, Little Bai nodded, "Yes, you can, but the condition for entering the illusion is to pull out the red spider lily. If you fail, and the red spider lilytakes root again, it will take about a day before you can re-enter the illusion."...Little Bai explained the principle of the spider lily heart's formation. To put it simply, it means pulling out the red spider lily, entering the obsession environment, reliving the life of the person who generated the illusion's obsession, eliminating the obsession, and the spider lily heart will naturally form.It can be even more simply summarized in four words: role-playing."Alright, everything is clear now.""Then, all that's left is to try it out."Satoru immediately planned to pull out the ten-meter-tall red spider lily and enter the obsession illusion.But Little Bai stopped him, "Wait."Satoru was puzzled, "Wait for what?""I only said that after entering the illusion, you will become the person who generated the obsession, experiencing their obsessive events, and that empathetic experience might also plant the obsession within you. You must remain clear-headed that it is not you, you are merely playing a role. If the obsession is too deep and starts to affect you, promise me, you must come out immediately!"Little Bai's gaze was very firm.These words were sincere, and Satoru naturally treated them with sincerity."I've always said, I'm not stupid. If there's danger, I'll retreat, don't worry."Little Bai nodded, "I believe you." He then released Satoru's wrist.Satoru continued forward, reaching the red spider lily. He grabbed its roots with both hands, "Then, wait for my good news, Little Bai! I hope you won't have to wait too long!"As his words fell, Satoru pulled hard, and a massive burst of obsessive energy erupted. Satoru was instantly sucked into it, his entire being swallowed by the red spider lily's petals, turning the red spider lily into a flower bud. This was also why Little Bai wouldn't be affected by the obsessive energy; entering the obsession illusion of a red spider lilyqualified to form a spider lily heart could only be done by one person at a time, and it would only be the person who pulled the flower.Little Bai kept smiling, watching all of Satoru's actions until he was swallowed by the red spider lily.He had experienced all of this and was very familiar with it.However, at this moment, his smile slowly disappeared.As mentioned in the previous sentence, he had experienced it all and was very familiar with it.The Sea of Spider Lilies doesn't just contain red spider lilies; there are also ephemeral creatures that feed on obsession.The burst of obsessive energy from the red spider lily would attract them to feed.As Satoru pulled out the ten-meter red spider lily, a huge burst of obsessive energy erupted.Tiny blue lights appeared in the air; these were the ephemeral creatures.Back then, the spider lily heart Little Bai obtained was incomplete because some of its energy was devoured by these ephemeral creatures. Coupled with his battle with Davy Jones, this was why his soul was still damaged after consuming the spider lily heart.He just lacked a helper back then.But today, he was here."You things, you made me suffer a lot back then, and even now, you're partly 'responsible' for my injuries!""I'm here today, and none of you will affect Little Little Bai even a bit!!"Activating his Dragon Human Form, Little Bai's aura soared, resolute that none of these ephemeral creatures would get even half a step closer... After the massive burst of obsessive energy, a part of it activated the red spider lily petals, and another part surged into Satoru's body.When the red spider lily swallowed Satoru, the two combined, and the obsession reappeared.Satoru only felt his consciousness leap through a colorful space, moving so fast that he couldn't even clearly see the vibrant space.Immediately, Satoru felt his consciousness enter a body, starting with a child's perspective, mostly looking up, being carried around, then slowly growing, becoming an eye-level perspective, able to move on his own.This process was like being on twenty times speed, extremely fast, countless memories rapidly flooding into Satoru's mind; whether he accepted them or not, they were forcefully shoved in.Satoru felt a headache, but it was understandable, and fortunately, this process passed quickly. When it reached the point in time where the obsession was generated, time slowed down, becoming normal.Satoru knew.It was now the year 1510 of the Sea Calendar.And his current identity was Prince Goya of the Elegia Kingdom.This kingdom was a nation that revered music, and its citizens were all skilled in music.Today would also be the day he succeeded his father and became king.A good day.But Satoru felt a bad premonition. An obsession generated on a good day... that was truly inauspicious. It seemed this succession ceremony would bring more misfortune than fortune.Moreover, what the residents and the current King Gordon didn't know was that Goya, by chance, had met the Revolutionary Army when he was young and was attracted by their ideals.He had always been indecisive between succeeding to the throne and joining the Revolutionary Army.But in the end, he chose the throne, not because he coveted power, but because he loved music and couldn't abandon his family and these citizens who adored him.The Revolutionary Army's ideals were noble. Since he couldn't participate directly, providing some financial aid after becoming king wasn't out of the question.So, Goya chose to stay, and tonight was his succession ceremony.However... Satoru always felt."Why does this kingdom feel so... familiar? Haven't I heard of it somewhere before?"
Chapter 731: Sound-Sound FruitSatoru entered the obsession illusion of this ten-meter red spider lily.The content of the illusion, simply put: the owner of the illusion was a prince, the Prince of ElegiaKingdom: Goya. Tonight was his succession ceremony.And Satoru was now experiencing this illusion from the first-person perspective, as this prince.No matter what, there was only one goal: to figure out what this prince's obsession was, then eliminate the obsession, generate a spider lily heart, and then leave with the spider lily heart! Then the mission would be accomplished.However, if only it were as simple as it sounded.With the information he had gathered so far, Satoruhad only one thought in his mind."How is this kingdom so... familiar? I feel like I've heard of it somewhere?"..."Goya, get ready. Tonight is your succession ceremony. You can't be reckless anymore. Just stay in your room. Later, Grandma Sa and the others will come to do your makeup."The tall person in front of Satoru, who had no neck, a bald spot in the middle with Long Hair around it, and wore sunglasses, was Goya's father, the current King of Elegia: Yideng.Satoru shuddered at the thought of those old grandmas who would always grope him the moment they met. It wasn't anything bad, just the elders showing affection to the younger generation, pinching his cheeks, pinching his arms, and so on."Understood, Father. I'll stay in my room obediently. I'll practice the violin inside, just listen."With that, Satoru turned and went back to his room.Yideng nodded, "That's best. I also need to practice for your grand ensemble tonight, Father.""Remember, you've grown up!""After tonight, the whole country will rely on you!""Got it!!"Satoru waved his hand and left the great hall... Inside Satoru's room.Practice?It was impossible to practice properly.He turned on the recording den den mushi, and the sound of a violin slowly emerged.Satoru opened the window and slipped out.Satoru needed a place to think. The whole country was celebrating, and there was music everywhere. He couldn't calm down to think.Perhaps tonight's succession ceremony was the source of the obsession, or perhaps not, but he still needed to be prepared.Also, Satoru kept feeling a sense of familiarity. Was it because his current identity was Goya?Satoru was always puzzled.However, his confusion would soon be explained... Outside Elegia Kingdom city, there was a group of reefs. During low tide in the daytime, they wouldn't be covered by seawater, but at night during high tide, when the seawater rose, a few reef tops would still be exposed, like plum blossom stakes.This was Goya's secret base. He had loved coming here since he was a child, standing alone on the reefs playing the violin, from day to night, standing on a single reef top, watching the bright moon over the sea, playing passionately, so elegant.As he played, Goya one day picked up a drifting box. When he opened it, it was a devil fruit.Goya ate it. Even though he couldn't swim anymore, and a slip of the foot on the reef top would mean death, it still couldn't extinguish his enthusiasm for coming here.And that devil fruit was the Sound-Sound Fruit.It could control the sound waves it created to take on any desired form, such as weapon-like swords or tool-like forks and spoons.It could even create a Sound Wave Warrior, provided the music didn't stop for too long; it needed a continuous supply of sound waves to maintain its existence.It was different from Scratchmen Apoo's Sound-Sound Fruit; Apoo needed to play music.The Sound-Sound Fruit, however, only needed sound. Even a 'pfft' from the mouth could turn its sound waves into attacking blades.But the drawback was that Scratchmen Apoo's sound waves were invisible and required Observation Haki to detect, while the sound waves transformed by the Sound-Sound Fruit were visible to the naked eye... Satoru slipped out of his room. In a country filled with celebration, the reef group at the edge of the country was the quietest place.Although with his current hearing, he could still hear some faint sounds.It was daytime now, and the reefs were exposed, with crabs and shells visible on the ground.Satoru stood on the reefs, gazing at the sea, feeling... lost."Not a single clue!""Big brother, is your obsession... to join the Revolutionary Army?""Then why did you stay?""Or something else?""What else could there be?"Satoru wrote down everything Goya had experienced so far, but he couldn't figure out what his obsession was.All he knew was that Goya had an inclination towards the Revolutionary Army and loved music; he was an audiophile. Other than that, there was nothing else... After much thought, Satoru couldn't come up with anything."It seems I'll have to look for clues at tonight's succession ceremony.""Then I'll just wait, wait...""Since entering the illusion, my senses tell me that over 20 years have passed. This feeling of knowing it passes quickly, yet my senses tell me 20 years have gone by, is truly... strange and irritating. It's easy to get lost in it.""I wonder how much time has passed in reality. That little fellow, Xiao Bai... Haha, he should be resting in the Sea of Spider Lilies now."However, Satoru didn't know that Xiao Bai was currently fighting fiercely against those zombie-like ephemera creatures that went crazy when they saw obsession energy. Individually, they weren't scary, but the terrifying thing was that they could combine!...Unable to think of a solution, he looked at the vast sea before him.If it were Goya himself, he would take out his violin and play.But now, the person who looked like Goya was actually Satoru inside.Looking at the sea, Satoru could only lament, "No fishing rod, not even a stick.""I don't even have a gun to shoot seagulls..."Satoru now missed the convenience of his bracelet. As Goya, there was no way he could use the bracelet."But actually, I could also use the Sound-Sound Fruit to shoot seagulls..."Seagull: *body shivers*... Oh no, *gull body shivers*... "Forget it, it's not as satisfying as shooting with a gun. I'll go back and sleep."The seagulls escaped a calamity, and Satorudecided to go back to sleep.However, how could he be allowed to sleep?At this moment, a ship appeared on the horizon in the distance, slowly approaching.This reef group had different water levels day and night, so it naturally couldn't berth ships.Satoru stood with his hands on his hips. As a kind prince, it was normal to guide visitors to the dock.But if robbers came, he would have to 'entertain' them properly.However, when the ship approached close enough to see its appearance.Satoru was stunned."This... this is Shanks and Old Smoker's red force!!!"
Chapter 732: The Red-Haired DivaWhat is it like to see an acquaintance in an illusion?It was normal, though. After all, the person whose obsession created this place was once human, living in the human world, so it wasn't strange to see someone he knew.But Satoru was far too familiar with this person... "This... this is the red force belonging to Shanks and Old Smoker!!!"On the shore of Elegia Kingdom, Satoru saw the Red Hair Pirates' ship, the red force, sailing toward him.Setting aside the red force, Shanks, and Old Smokerfor a moment, the most surprising sight was the little girl peeking her head out from the ship's bow!!!Satoru couldn't help but exclaim,"Uta!!!"..."Shanks, is someone on the island calling me?"Uta was very much looking forward to this country that Shanks called Music Island. After all, she was the little musician of the Red Hair Pirates and had eaten the Sing-Sing Fruit; she loved music.She believed music could bring people strength and joy."I don't think so. It's your first time here, how could anyone know you?"Shanks replied casually.But inwardly, he grew vigilant. How could he not have heard that voice!Someone had indeed called Uta's name.Daring to covet my daughter?You're courting death!!!But since nothing had happened yet, there was no need to make a big fuss."Continue docking."...Satoru wasn't surprised by Uta; having spent time with her when she was young, he naturally recognized her.He was surprised why he had felt a sense of familiarity the entire time.If the name Elegia gave him a slight impression, then the name Music Island was extremely familiar.Music Island, Uta... This is the plot of the Red-Haired Diva!!!The problem was, Satoru hadn't watched it, or rather, the movie hadn't been released before he transmigrated, so he didn't know the content of the Red-Haired Diva.But he had read the synopsis: The Red Hair Piratesdestroyed the Elegia Kingdom?! And Uta was left behind... Neither of those events sounded good... "Could Goya's obsession be tied to... the destruction of the nation?"Sometimes Satoru lamented that holding the script made him feel unable to fully immerse himself, treating it like running a dungeon.But now that the script was gone, he felt a bit lost.However, his journey so far hadn't been for nothing. If he got scared or gave up now, he wouldn't be Satoru.When in Rome, do as the Romans do.Block the enemy when they come, cover the earth when the water rises!There's always a way for everything!...After adjusting himself, Satoru put on a professional smile.At the same time, he reminded himself not to reveal anything.He didn't know Old Smoker and the others right now.He didn't know them!!!The red force slowly approached.Satoru stood on the reef and waved first to show friendliness."You gentlemen are pirates, I presume.""Today, we have a major event on our island.""Are you here as guests, or are you here to... cause trouble!?"When Satoru's words reached the ship, the members of the Red Hair Pirates were stunned for a moment, then burst into laughter."Hahahaha! Kid!! You're quite arrogant!!""What if we're guests? And what if we're here to cause trouble?!"Satoru looked over; the speakers were Lucky and Yasopp.Perfect, perfect. One loves to eat, the other loves to fight. That sounds exactly like something you two would say."If you're guests, you'll be treated to fine wine.""If you're looking for trouble, could you perhaps do me a favor and hold off for now? After today is over, if you still want to fight, I'll boldly give it a try. How about that?""Good kid, you've got guts!"This time, the speaker was Bendik Snake.He was the navigator of the Red Hair Pirates, wearing sunglasses, with gray hair, a white shirt, and a red dragon tattoo on his right neck.He was skilled in kicking techniques and the Acrobatic Two-Sword Style.What relationship he had with Cabaji, who served under Buggy, was unknown."Hey, wait a minute, you just said your country has a major event. What kind of event? Is it a party?"Shanks's words energized everyone on the ship.The Red Hair Pirates loved nothing more than music and parties."Yes!""And it's a huge one.""It is the succession ceremony for our Prince. This banquet is a nationwide celebration."Satoru replied, trying his best not to laugh. He knew that the prospect of drinking and eating heartily was the Red Hair Pirates' weak spot."Oh! Ooh ooh!!""Then we really came at the right time!!"Shanks smiled and replied to Satoru."Hahaha, kid, we're here as guests!"Satoru almost couldn't hold back his smirk."That's good. You all look quite strong. If we fought, I'm afraid I'd be in serious trouble.""This area is a reef cluster; you can't dock here.""Head to the right, and there will be a pier—it's the only pier in our country. Although pirate ships generally don't use piers, since you are guests, it doesn't matter.""While you head over there, I'll go tell Lighthouse Uncle, and he won't sound the alarm.""That sound... is very jarring."Having finished speaking, Satoru turned and walked away.Old Smoker, or rather, Beckman, didn't even have time to ask, "Who are you? What is your status? You say the alarm won't sound?"... Clang clang~This was the sound of iron chains rubbing.The red force anchored and stopped. The wooden ladder dropped from the side of the ship to connect to the pier, and Shanks and the others disembarked in sequence.Satoru was already below the ship, waiting to greet them."This is the first time we've entered a national pier so smoothly.""Your words carry so much weight, who are you, kid?"This was said by Lime Jones.He was the Combatant of the Red Hair Pirates, with long yellow hair and wearing a hat stamped with the pirate ship's emblem. He specialized in using weapons wrapped in electricity and possessed the agility to shoot down bullets. Satoru learned the Air Compression Technique from him.Satoru really liked this master who taught him how to fly. At least, among the bizarre appearances in the Pirate World, he was one of the normal ones."Me?""I am the Prince of this country."Satoru answered calmly.The members of the Red Hair Pirates were outwardly shocked, though their hearts weren't quite as surprised."...""Huh?!""You're the Prince?!""Then why did you say 'our Prince's' succession ceremony just now?"Satoru shrugged."I like saying it that way. Is that not allowed?""When you're outside, it's best not to reveal your identity casually, right?""Who knows if the identity of a Prince might attract the jealousy of certain people."He speaks so well.For some reason, the members of the Red Hair Pirates saw a shadow of that kid Satoru in this young man.Especially Beckman—why did this kid have the same annoying, provocative air as that brat Satoru?
Chapter 733: A Night Destined to Be ExtraordinarySatoru was inside the Obsession Illusion of Goya, the Prince of the Elegia Kingdom.The Elegia Kingdom was located on Music Island, which was the island where Uta, the Red-Haired Diva, lived.The year is 1510 of the Sea Calendar: young Uta, the Red Hair Pirates, and the destruction of the kingdom.Each of these terms destined tonight to be an extraordinary night... "Who knows if the identity of a prince might attract the envy of certain people."In this tone, the members of the Red Hair Piratesfelt the presence of the little brat they knew from Foosha Village in this prince—a very talkative little brat, who could also be considered the disciple of all of them, as he had learned something from everyone, but was mainly the disciple of Vice Captain Beckman.But they didn't know that the prince before them, who was a prince on the surface, was actually the little brat they knew on the inside—oh no, it was him ten years later.Meeting again in this "time-traveling" manner was quite peculiar."Hahahaha, yeah, a prince's identity should be worth a lot of money.""Oh no, after tonight, you'll be the King.""You can't tell, huh."Everyone chimed in agreement with Satoru's words and introduced themselves.Satoru smiled outwardly, thinking inwardly, *No need for introductions. I'd recognize you even if you were turned to ash, especially you, Lucky. The pile of ash you make would be bigger than everyone else's.*"My name is Uta!""I'm one of the Musicians on the ship!""I'm very popular!""I heard Shanks say that this place is Music Island. Does everyone here like music?"Little Uta posed the question.Satoru looked down at her. She was truly cute, but he knew that when they were little, this girl was a Little Devil to him and Luffy.Bullying the stupid Luffy was one thing.But forcing me to wear girl clothes and braid my hair—what kind of terrifying act was that!Bending down, Satoru replied, "Of course, everyone on the island loves and excels at music.""If you are also a Musician, then I think everyone will really like you.""Tonight, there will be a grand music gala during my Succession Ceremony.""I wonder if I'll be fortunate enough to hear you sing?"Satoru only said this to maintain his politeness. Singing? What trouble could that cause?However, when night fell, he would regret these words he had spoken.Uta's lips curled upwards."That's great!""Oh no, what I mean is, if you invite me, of course, I can."So young, yet she already understood modesty.But Satoru's impression of her remained that of a Little Devil."Alright, I'll lead everyone inside.""There's still some time before nightfall. You can come to my home and rest first."Satoru straightened up and made a gesture of invitation.Beckman nodded, confirming it.This wasn't his Cheap Disciple; that disciple would never be so polite to them.Satoru: *Ah, right, right, right...* "King!! This is bad, the Prince is gone!!""What!""King!! The Prince is back!!""That's good, that's good.""He brought a crew of pirates!!""What!!!"In less than a minute, Gordon's heart went through dramatic ups and downs.Just as he was speaking, Satoru led Shanks and the others into the main hall."Father.""Goya!!"Gordon was furious and immediately pulled Satoruover. "I told you not to go out! Not only did you go out, but you brought a crew of pirates! What are you trying to do?!!""I told you you've grown up! After today, you'll be the King!""You can't be so reckless anymore!"Gordon looked utterly frustrated, like a parent disappointed in their child's failure, and then glared at Shanks and the others, thinking his son had been misled by these pirates.Satoru just wanted to say, *Don't stare, you really can't mess with them.*Besides... it might just be... Shanks and the others were used to it. After all, they were pirates, and they didn't care what others thought of them."You misunderstood, Father.""They are my friends... newly made friends.""Although they are pirates, they aren't here to cause trouble. They are also music lovers and came to attend the evening banquet.""Look at how... how amiable they all look..."Satoru explained.Gordon remained scrutinizing."Really?""Why would I lie to you? Isn't the fact that they haven't caused trouble proof enough?"Gordon was silent for a moment. "Fine. Since you are all music lovers, the Elegia Kingdom welcomes you.""Guests are guests. I'll have someone arrange rooms. You can rest until the evening banquet begins.""And you, Goya, go back to your room and practice the piano obediently! The grand finale of the concert is your performance, and you must deliver!""Alright, don't worry, Father. I can play that piece with my eyes closed!""...""Fine, fine, I'm going now, I'm returning to my room now.""Well then, everyone, see you tonight.""Mhm, see you tonight."...Time passed, and night fell.But at this moment in the Elegia Kingdom, not a single light was extinguished in any household, because tonight was their Prince's Succession Ceremony, hosting a nationwide celebration and concert.A rhythmic sound of trumpets rang out, signaling the start of the banquet ceremony.So all the residents left their homes and came to the square in front of the Royal Castle. On the square, a massive stage had already been set up.Behind the stage, a staircase was connected. Its end was on the stage, and its starting point was the large balcony on the third floor of the castle.Satoru, as the protagonist, was dressed in a white suit, his back straight, and a Longsword with a Decorative Sapphire Hilt hanging from his waist. He stood on the balcony, drawing everyone's gaze.The castle was shaped like an inverted concave structure, and the gap in the middle was the square. Shanks and the others were currently in a room on the third floor on the right side of the castle, viewing Satoru on the main balcony through a small balcony."This Goya, he looks quite handsome."Uta suddenly spoke.Shanks's smile froze. He thought, *Well, well, well, good kid.*"What part of him is handsome?""He just is handsome. He's similar to Satoru—the kind that looks relatively good. Unlike you guys, Shanks, who are all rough men."Beckman lit a cigarette. "What's handsome about the looks of those little brats? It's guys like us who attract the ladies.""They only attract little kids like you.""Hahahaha, right, right, the Vice Captain is absolutely right!!"Uta's face puffed up in anger. "I'm not talking to you anymore!"...Gordon, as the King, approached Satoru, carrying a Crown and a Conductor's Baton.The Crown was a symbol of the King, and the Conductor's Baton was a family heirloom passed down through the Elegia royal family since ancient times, rumored to be crafted from a branch of the adam tree.Satoru knelt on one knee. Gordon placed the Crown on his head, helped him up, and handed him the Conductor's Baton.Satoru raised the Conductor's Baton, pointing straight at the full moon.Thus, the Succession Ceremony was completed.From then on, Goya was the King of the ElegiaKingdom.This sense of mission and excitement impacted Satoru's consciousness. Satoru remained calm, reminding himself that he was Satoru, not Goya, and that even immersed in this situation, he couldn't lose himself.
Chapter 734: The Music FestivalUnder the Moonlight, the young man wore a white suit, a crown on his head, and held a conductor's baton, which resembled the scepter of other nations.Thus, Goya succeeded to the throne of the Kingdom of Elegia.Satoru reminded himself that he was Satoru, not Goya, and should not immerse himself in this joy.Fortunately, compared to being a king and shouldering the responsibilities of a nation, Satorustill preferred sailing and adventuring with comrades like Luffy.Therefore, the joy of becoming king did not affect Satoru too deeply. Currently, the main task was still finding the source of Goya's obsession... Gordon nodded towards Satoru after finishing everything.He then turned and walked back into the house. Since the succession had taken place, he, the elder, had to step aside.Of course, that didn't mean he had to disappear entirely. It wasn't that serious, not at all.He still had a performance planned for the upcoming concert, but the spotlight currently belonged to his son, and he shouldn't steal it.Satoru watched Gordon leave. Gordon was a genuinely good person, raising Goya alone, and was a competent father. Under his guidance, Goya was considered a talented young man with considerable accomplishments in music.It was unexpected that this country would be destroyed. For himself, and also for Gordon, although history had already occurred, Satoruhoped for a good ending, at least within this illusion.Gordon left. Satoru looked down at the kingdom's residents and picked up the violin beside him.Holding it steady, clamping it under his neck, Satoruplayed the violin. Under his control, the sound waves gradually shaped into a swimming dragon. The dragon circled the plaza once, then flew into the sky, transforming into a brilliant fireworks display.Putting down the violin, Satoru announced, "Now, the music concert officially begins!"Cheers erupted from below... Meanwhile, with Shanks and his crew."Wow! That was beautiful!"This was Uta's reaction to the fireworks display performed by Satoru.Shanks, the old father, felt increasingly uneasy."That must be a devil fruit ability.""Although I can't tell which devil fruit it is.""But it should be related to the violin the kid was playing.""A devil fruit related to sound."Beckman offered an analysis.Uta raised her little hand, "Then this seems similar to my Sing-Sing Fruit! I can also turn my singing into things I want, but I can't transform it into a detailed dragon like that. I wonder if I can do it inside the Happy Space."Uta currently refers to the space created by the Sing-Sing Fruit as the Happy Space, because she is very happy inside it."Flashy tricks are useless. It needs actual attack power to be practical."Shanks suddenly said.What a typical old father's mentality.The crew members all understood why he said that... Meanwhile, after announcing the start of the concert, Satoru immediately headed towards Shanks and his crew.After all, he knew the news: the Red Hair Piratesdestroyed Elegia... Regardless, there should be clues on them, or at least he should stick close to them.Perhaps it was due to some misunderstanding. In any case, as long as he could ensure the kingdom survived tonight, perhaps the obsession would disappear."Shanks, old... Beckman, everyone, the banquet has started. Why are you all still here?"Satoru arrived near Shanks' group, nearly slipping up, but managed to correct himself. However, Beckman still caught the word "old.""We were just about to head down. How could we miss a banquet where the whole country is celebrating?""Brother Goya.""Should we call you King?"Shanks replied."No need to be so polite.""If you insist on being so polite as to call me King, then after the banquet, you'll have to leave some money as a... gift offering for attending."Satoru replied, the implication being, don't be so falsely polite.Everyone burst into laughter upon hearing this. "Hahaha, you're the first person to dare ask pirates for money!"But Beckman felt increasingly suspicious.Satoru shrugged, "That's why I said, don't be so polite. We are friends.""Let's go. I'll take you down.""Come on, this Fatty Lord is starving to death."Lucky stepped forward and slung his arm around Satoru's neck, friendly like good buddies.Satoru gave him a smile. Starving to death?Say that again while looking at the massive piece of meat on the bone in your hand!...Time passed slowly. The music concert proceeded normally, and no accidents occurred, but Satoruremained vigilant. After all, this was a major event involving the destruction of a nation.But he couldn't understand. Although Shanks and his crew were pirates, how badly would they have to be provoked to destroy an entire nation?Based on Satoru's understanding of them, the only thing that would make Shanks and his crew do this is if their comrades were injured or even killed, which would make them that angry.But... could there really be people in this kingdom capable of killing a member of the Red Hair Pirates?It wasn't Satoru boasting, but the strongest person in this country was probably him, and even his current strength couldn't possibly kill a member of the Red Hair Pirates!"Goya... Goya!"Satoru was so lost in thought that he didn't hear Utacalling him until she tugged on his sleeve and raised her voice slightly, making him finally react."Hm? What is it, Uta?""It sounds like they're introducing you. It's almost your turn to perform."Uta prompted him.Satoru listened closely then, and sure enough, it was his turn to perform. This meant the music concert was nearing its end.The end of the concert didn't mean the end of the banquet; they could continue eating even without music.Satoru nodded and stood up, preparing to head to the stage.However, just as he took a step, Uta's hand, which was gripping his sleeve, hadn't let go.Satoru looked down at her, seeing her face full of anticipation, her eyes seemingly sparkling with stars.Satoru nearly laughed. Although the little devil was a little devil, she was still very cute.Satoru then bent down and extended his palm, "I wonder if I have the honor of inviting Miss Uta to perform with me."Uta looked at Satoru's hand. She knew what this meant; she had once seen Beckman use this exact gesture to flirt with respectable women in a tavern hosting a dance.So, mimicking the lady's action, she placed her small palm on Satoru's hand."Of course!"Satoru smiled back, lightly held her hand, and led her toward the stage."Click!"Suddenly hearing a click, the members of the Red Hair Pirates looked toward the sound, only to see Shanks forcibly snapping an iron fork with one hand.Seeing this scene, everyone wanted to laugh but dared not.
Chapter 735: Death SonataThis was the most beautiful concert Uta had ever seen. Since it was a concert on Music Island, while not everyone was an expert, they all possessed certain musical abilities.She could no longer restrain her singing voice, but feeling too shy to go up directly, she tugged on Satoru's sleeve.Satoru didn't know what Goya would think, but he really wanted to laugh. Even the Little Devil had a cute side.Therefore, Satoru very gentlemanly invited Uta to perform on stage, leading her onto the stage by the hand.Shanks, the old father, was so angry that he snapped the iron fork he was holding, feeling his daughter was in danger! She was only 9 years old!!! She couldn't resist the temptations of the mundane world.However, Shanks was worrying too much; Uta loved music more than handsome men.Beckman and the rest of their crew tried hard to stifle their laughter upon seeing Shanks's expression.Despite this, Uta was raised by all of them, and they also considered themselves her fathers. If that guy on stage did anything inappropriate, they wouldn't let him off!Satoru: I thank you all... "Ahem, everyone, originally, the final performance was supposed to be a solo by me.""However, I met a very talented musician, Miss Uta, who is right beside me!"Satoru introduced Uta to the citizens.The citizens muttered amongst themselves as they looked at Uta: a child, could she really do it?Some ladies also grew jealous of Uta, who could be so close to the Prince—oh wait, the King!But since it was the King's word, they could only choose to believe him, and they applauded enthusiastically.Satoru handed the microphone to Uta and patted her shoulder gently, "You can do it, believe in yourself.""I have always loved your singing voice."Uta was very nervous at the moment and didn't catch the deeper meaning of his words; she just nodded.Satoru returned a smile, stood up, and picked up his violin.He and Uta hadn't rehearsed or collaborated before. Uta didn't know the piece he was about to play, so she would have to improvise her singing to match it.This was a huge test for Uta; it would be disastrous if she couldn't sing along.Satoru didn't care. If she couldn't sing, then let this Little Devil cry her heart out... The spotlight shone on them.Satoru drew the bow across the violin strings, and the music slowly began to flow out.The violin music was low and mournful, weeping and narrating, like an unfortunate wanderer recounting their painful experiences.This was classical music.Uta had always associated singing with happiness, and such a tragic melody made her unable to join in immediately.She was seen standing there, stunned.Although the citizens were immersed in the music, they felt confused seeing her show no reaction.Little girl, are you just here to listen to the music?Shanks and the others were also sweating for Uta.Just when everyone thought Uta couldn't keep up, they saw two streams of clear tears silently fall from her eyes—a genuine emotional outpouring from her immersion in the music.Immediately after, she raised the microphone in her hand and began humming, without lyrics.However, her voice, despite Uta trying to keep it low, still carried the high pitch characteristic of a child's voice.Yet, this voice had a wonderful synergy with the music.Originally, the music evoked the image of a wanderer, and this wandering child had no specific age.As soon as Uta's voice sounded, it instantly made people feel that this was not just a wanderer, but a childa wandering childmaking the scene even more tragic.The audience below the stage was also infected by the feeling of sorrow and slowly became immersed in it.Satoru activated his ability, and the sound transformed into a small child, walking hunched over and head bowed on the stage, unsure of what lay ahead.At this moment, his melody took a turn, the low tones gradually becoming bright, like the morning sun. The child formed by the sound also raised its head, seemingly gazing at the rising sun.Uta's ability was also drawn out by Satoru. Following the shift in Satoru's melody, notes flew out one by one from around Uta, surrounding the child, accompanying the lonely child like Music Spirits.At this point, the song concluded.Everyone was left wanting more. The collaboration between Satoru and Uta was like opening Pandora's Magic Box; the flowing singing voice, intertwined with magical, elegant, and ethereal notes, made the audience feel as if they were present in the scene.However, in a place unknown to the crowd, a monster, much like those from Pandora's Box, was indeed drawn by the music... Uta opened her eyes and saw the audience below giving a warm ovation.Uta stared blankly, then her lips curved up in an irrepressible smile.Satoru put down his violin. It was supposed to be a feast, so why make it so tragic?Still wanting more.Satoru gathered devil fruit energy in his hands. The sound of the audience's applause was controlled by him and condensed into an Electric Guitar in his grasp.Satoru strummed the Electric Guitar in his hands, and Uta turned to look at him.Satoru smiled back and signaled her to turn around. Uta complied, and she saw a Rock Microphone, formed by Satoru's Devil Fruit Ability, materialize in front of her.Uta smiled.No words were needed.Satoru and she, like a duo who had collaborated many times, began their ensemble with perfect understanding!Uta began to sing. This time, her voice was passionate, intense, crisp, and pleasant, like a Nightingale.The crowd was infected and waved their arms continuously.On the stage, the sound once again transformed into instruments: a Drum Kit and a Keyboard.Satoru glanced towards Benke Bench and Mongsda(the monkey).They were the musician duo of the Red Hair Pirates.Benke Bench had a shaved head and no eyebrows, and the scar on his left cheek proved he was a battle-hardened fierce general.His partner was a monkey named Mongsda, a monkey with a bounty over 100 million.With the tacit understanding of musicians, the two instantly grasped the situation and leaped onto the stage.Just when the citizens thought they were going to cause trouble, they started playing the Drum Kit and Keyboard.This made the singing even richer.Uta felt a joy she had never experienced before and floated into the air.Music scores and notes appeared with her singing, dancing above the stage.Satoru also cooperated by using his ability to transform sound into many small animals, dancing with the notes in the air.It was extremely fantastical... When the song finished, Uta's forehead was covered in sweat, and she was panting.Seeing this, Satoru also ended his part and dissipated the transformed instruments.Bench and Mongsda saw this and jumped off the stage with smiles. They had a good time going wild; it was exciting enough.However, just as Satoru was about to announce the end of the concert.A music score with lyrics appeared out of thin air in front of Uta. The ancient yellow paper and black and red notes looked somewhat eerie.Uta looked at Satoru, thinking he had created it.Satoru didn't understand what was happening, so he just smiled back.Uta misunderstood the smile, thinking Satoru had confirmed it, and slowly began singing the lyrics on the score.Now it was Satoru's turn to be confused. Was this a test in return?Since Uta had started singing, shouldn't he accompany her melody?However, just as Satoru was about to improvise, a music score also appeared before his eyes, identical to the one Uta saw.But Satoru, unlike Uta, did not think she had created it. The score was too strange; it truly resembled a Death Sonata.Yet, the next second, Satoru found himself extremely eager to play the contents of the music score on his violin.This was not his intention, so it could only be... Goya's intention!The two played music again, and the audience below was naturally delighted.And at this moment, Uta's Devil Fruit Abilityseemed to be pulled by something, resulting in a huge burst that dragged everyone into the Song-Song World.
Chapter 73: TotemjikaThe concert drew to a close, and the collaboration between Satoru and Uta ended. Seeing that Utawas tired, Satoru planned to announce the end of the concert.However, a piece of sheet music suddenly appeared in front of Uta. Uta misunderstood, thinking Satoruhad done it, and began singing the lyrics on the sheet music.A piece of sheet music also appeared before Satoru's eyes, but others could not see it.Satoru looked at the sheet music, finding it increasingly bizarre. This was definitely abnormal. However, the original emotions of the body—Goya's emotions—erupted instantly. Satoru uncontrollably picked up the violin and played the contents of the score.As Uta sang, she became completely absorbed. Her Devil Fruit Ability was pulled by something and instantly erupted, dragging everyone present into the Song-Song World... The transition between the Song-Song World and the real world was not easy to discern.An adult Uta, when proficiently using the Sing-Sing Fruit Ability, could unknowingly pull those at the concert, including Luffy and those watching via video den den mushi, into the Song-Song World.However, the current Uta cannot fully control the Song-Song World's ability, and there is a certain delay in the transition with the real world.People of Shanks' caliber couldn't possibly fail to notice, but they didn't think much of it. This was also the case when Uta first used this ability. They just needed to wait until Uta fell asleep or finished singing, inform her, and then they could return to the real world.They weren't afraid of someone taking advantage of this to attack their bodies in the real world, because anyone who approached would be dragged into the Song-Song World.In the real world, Uta played absorbedly, unaware that the mental worlds of the audience sitting below had been pulled into the Song-Song World.And Satoru, standing beside her, was also playing the violin absorbedly!?Wait!If his spirit entered the Song-Song World, the Satoru in the real world should have collapsed, right? How could he still be standing and playing the violin?!However, a major event also occurred in the Song-Song World: in everyone's eyes, Goya on the stage gradually transformed into Satoru in appearance!In the Song-Song World, only people's spirits are pulled in.Goya is not the original Goya; his spirit is Satoru! Therefore, when pulled into the Song-Song World, his appearance changes to match the spirit's form, which is Satoru!!!...Offstage, Beckman's expression slowly turned into disbelief.That prince—oh wait, the new King, Goya—slowly transformed into Satoru's appearance.At this moment, in his memory, this time period still belonged to the young Satoru, that impossible brat.And now, how much this looks like an adult Satoru!!The same Long Hair, the same clothing, and most importantly, that bracelet—it was identical!!!"What... what's going on?"Shanks and the others clearly noticed too, but none of them knew what had happened... "What?!"Below the stage, the Kingdom's residents saw their New King change appearance and also reacted in disbelief, letting out gasps.However, Satoru in the Song-Song World was not playing the score absorbedly like Goya's body in the real world.Instead, he was able to control himself, but Uta was still singing, even within her own Song-Song World.Satoru realized something was wrong. Just as he was about to dissuade Uta, he heard gasps from below.Looking down at the audience, Satoru only saw pairs of unfamiliar, confused eyes.He was confused, but after seeing the bracelet on his wrist, he understood."Don't tell me!!!"Satoru couldn't help but look toward Shanks and Beckman.Sure enough, they were also looking at him with confused eyes, but within that confusion was a sense of familiarity, as if they were looking at someone they knew.Which, of course, they were."How could this happen?!"Satoru was puzzled. How could he revert to his original appearance in this illusory space?Satoru, who didn't know the script, didn't understand the Sing-Sing Fruit Ability, nor did he know this was the Song-Song Space... "Child!! Goya!! What happened to you? Why did you change your appearance??"How could Gordon endure seeing his son change his appearance? He ran onto the stage, seemingly intending to pull Satoru off.Unfortunately, it was too late.Below Uta's feet, dark energy erupted, and from beneath the energy, a giant humanoid figure emerged.It had no lower body, large yellow hair, a short beard, a white face, and a long nose like a snowman's carrot nose. Its mouth was full of sharp teeth, grinning chillingly.Its right eye was a black hole, and its left eye was a glowing red X. It wore a top hat, a black cloak, and burning skulls floated around its neck like a necklace.Uta stood right on the figure's hat, lifted into the air.Satoru and Gordon, however, were shaken off the stage by the erupting energy.The monster's appearance caused the residents to let out even louder gasps.The monster raised its huge sharp claw and slammed it down. In the nick of time, Shanks drew his sword and blocked the attack.This bought the residents time to escape.Gordon clutched his head, looking at the monster in terror. "Oh no! Oh no!! It's out!! It's out!!!"Satoru pulled him over. "What is going on?! Do you recognize this monster?!"At this moment, Beckman and the others also rushed over. They had many questions they wanted to ask Satoru.And Gordon happened to reveal the monster's name."It... it is the Demon King of Music!!""The Ancient Demon King, Totemjika!!!"Satoru didn't recognize it, but the two words "Demon King" certainly meant trouble."As long as someone sings the Demon King's Score, it will appear. An ordinary person's singing couldn't do this much; why is that little girl able to fully summon it!!!"Gordon was completely distraught at this moment.And Uta was able to do this because of the power of the Sing-Sing Fruit.Satoru understood. "So, we have to stop Uta from continuing to sing now?!""That's right!!"Gordon found his rationality amidst his breakdown."If she keeps singing, the Demon King will recover its full power, and then everything will be over!!!"
Chapter 737: Everyone vs. the Demon King"If she continues to sing, the Demon King will recover all its power, and then it will all be over!"Satoru didn't know the abilities of the Sing-Sing Fruit, nor the Song-Song World, so he didn't know what was happening. In the Obsessive Illusion, he had actually reverted to his original appearance.Moreover, his childhood friend, Uta, had even summoned the ancient Demon King.As Gordon said, if Uta continued to sing, the fully powered Demon King would appear, and then it would truly be over.Satoru understood that this monstrous thing was probably the main reason for Elegia's destruction, and the source of Goya's obsession.Then it's simple.One word: fight!Satoru tried to control the bracelet, and it worked!The bracelet transformed, and Satoru held a long saber in hand. He instantly stepped into the air, intending to save Uta first!Meanwhile, Shanks, Beckman, and the others saw Satoru's actions and basically confirmed that it was that bracelet, and this person was Satoru.But how did he grow so much in just a few months!?...Satoru stepped into the air, his target naturally Uta, who was on top of the Demon King's head. However, the red lightning falling around the Demon King kept interfering with him.And the Demon King was receiving Uta's power (summoning), so it naturally wouldn't let Satorusucceed.It raised its arms, which served as piano keys, and its sharp claws at the ends of its palms swung towards Satoru. But with two bangs, two bullets flew out with such force that they directly deflected the Demon King's claws, though the wounds instantly healed.Seeing this, Beckman and Yasopp's eyes narrowed. Those two shots were naturally fired by them.Beckman exhaled a puff of smoke. "Kid, go on up, we'll cover you."Beckman naturally kept his word.The Demon King's burning skull flew out, striking towards Satoru like a ball.Lucky and Snake saw this and acted together.Lucky hardened his body with Armament Haki, bit down on a large bone meat, bent over, hugged his legs with both hands, and transformed into a meatball, bouncing once on the spot.Snake kicked Lucky to catch him, then kicked him hard, sending Lucky rapidly upward. A dozen skulls couldn't stop him; he knocked them all away.In the air, Lucky's body instantly burst open, returning to its original form. The large bone meat was still in his mouth. He took a bite of the bone meat and even smiled at Satoru.Satoru was speechless. Only you would have time to eat at a moment like this.After being thwarted twice, Satoru reached the Demon King's chest. The Demon King seemed angry, its mouth flashed with a laser, and its hands clapped down together at Satoru.Suddenly, lightning struck, and two whips bound the Demon King's arms.Of the two whips, only one was wrapped in lightning, which was Lime Jones's weapon, while the other whip, without lightning, was thrown by Hongo.The two grabbed the whips, quickly ran behind the Demon King, and pulled hard, restraining the Demon King's arms.But the laser from the Demon King's mouth still fired.Roar Gabu suddenly appeared beneath Satoru's feet.He is a combatant of the Red Hair Pirates, characterized by long dark red hair and sharp fangs. He can unleash roaring attacks from his mouth. Although his appearance is fierce, he is actually soft-hearted, a bit shy, afraid of ghosts, and dislikes bugs.He used his head to forcefully push Satoru upward. Facing the laser beam coming at him, Gabu opened his mouth and condensed a roar, firing it, much like the Golden Dragon Satoru and the others had encountered.Gabu lost a round against the Demon King, being hit by the laser and sliding a distance backward on the ground, but he was unharmed after getting up; he was tough enough.Bench and Mongsda also came into the air, helping Satoru resist the lightning.Satoru, without any qualms, rushed upwards at full speed, embraced Uta around her waist, and brought her down.Shanks had been waiting for this moment. The instant Uta and Satoru came down, his eyes locked, he held his sword with one hand, and cleaved downwards. A gully was cut into the ground, and the Demon King was instantly cut in half, but then it wriggled, trying to reattach itself.But the next second, Uta broke free from control, and exhausted, fell asleep. The entire Song-Song World closed, everyone's minds returned to the real world, and the Demon King naturally couldn't recover... Uta was rescued by Satoru, broke free from control, fell asleep from exhaustion, the Song-Song World closed, and everyone returned to the real world.But in the real world, there was another Demon King!!!Because of the Sing-Sing Fruit, the Demon King in the Song-Song World was merely an ability created by the Sing-Sing Fruit.The Demon King in the real world was the Main Body.Uta in the real world was sleeping on top of the Demon King's head.Shanks immediately flew over to bring her down.But the music hadn't stopped!!...When the Song-Song World closed, everyone's minds returned to the real world.Including the citizens of Elegia, who all woke up from their seats.After waking up, the sound of the demon kings movement still echoed in their ears.Looking up, the Demon King had already reached its Second Movement form.The Second Movement (Dai-Ni-Gakushō) form retained the main characteristics of the First Movement form, but was larger in size, with green hair, sharper claws at the ends of its fingers, pointier teeth, and four crocodile heads protruding from its hat.Shanks held Uta, with Beckman and the others by his side and behind him.They, along with Gordon and the citizens of Elegia, watched the stage.The Demon King continuously absorbed power.And the one still playing the music was Elegia's new king in the hearts of its citizens, Goya!Goya at this moment had disheveled hair, flying in the wind, his expression excited and eager, continuously playing the violin, performing the demon kings movement.His originally sacred and gentlemanly white suit now looked so crazed, twisted, and dark... "Child! Goya! Stop! Stop! Don't be misled by the music!"Gordon couldn't help but rush towards the stage, but Gabu stopped him.Shanks spoke, "Don't be impulsive, you'll only die if you go up there.""We stayed in the world Uta created for a while. After waking up, our bodies weren't attacked by the Demon King. Perhaps, Bai... Goya has his own plan."Gordon was in a frantic state."No! That's not it! Once the entire music piece is finished and the Demon King is fully summoned, the whole world will be over!""No matter what, Goya cannot be allowed to continue playing. The Fourth Movement requires sacrificing one's life to play!""What?!"Beckman heard this and was alarmed. How could this be allowed?Although he didn't know why, the person on stage who looked like Prince Goya was indeed his cheap apprentice Satoru, and an adult version at that! How could he, as a master, watch his apprentice die in front of him!?"Kid! I know it's you! Stop it now! You'll lose your life!"
Chapter 738: The Source of Obsession"Kid!! I know it's you!! Stop now!! You'll lose your life!!"Even though the appearance was Goya, Beckmanand everyone in the Red Hair Pirates knew that it was their old friend, their cheap apprentice, Satoru.If he continued to play the movement, he would die upon reaching the final chapter. How could Beckman watch his own apprentice die right in front of him!However, this was not something Satoru could stop just because he wanted to.Satoru was inside Goya's body, bound by countless, massive amounts of obsession energy.This meant that the one currently playing the Demon King's Movement was not Satoru, but Goyahimself, sustained by obsession!!!..."What on earth is going on!!"Satoru felt like he was trapped in a humanoid cage; he could see, hear, and feel everything outside.He had heard Beckman's words.But he simply couldn't control himself, left with no choice but to let it continue playing the movement.Satoru tried hard to regain control of his body, his lips trembling as he said."I know, I heard you! But I can't control myself! Old Smoker!!"But immediately, he was controlled again. After all, this body wasn't his, and this world was entirely an illusion sustained by obsession. Now that massive obsession energy was controlling him, Satorucouldn't resist it....The words 'Old Smoker' were spoken.Beckman was completely certain that it was Satoru!!The situation was critical, but Beckman didn't panic. He slowly lit a cigarette with the lighter Satoru had given him and raised his flintlock pistol.Shanks understood the unspoken message and nodded slightly. "Everyone! Let's go! Save Satoru!!""You got it!!"The entire Red Hair Pirates crew moved out, except for Shanks, who was still holding Uta."Who is Satoru?!""Isn't that my son Goya?!""Why did he turn into someone else just now!?""Why??!"Gordon grabbed Shanks and asked.Shanks looked at him. "We don't know why either.""But isn't he Goya, your son, on the surface right now?""Wait until this is over and ask him yourself.""Now, please tell me, King Gordon, what is all this about?""What is this demon king?""Bai... Goya seems to be able to control this guy by playing music?"Shanks had this suspicion for the same reason as before: the demon king had already reached its second form, and even though their spirits were in the Song-Song World, their bodies in the real world hadn't been harmed by the demon king....Gordon watched the demon king, which was constantly receiving power, and his son, who was in critical danger, and had no choice but to tell the whole story.In a ruin of the Elegia Kingdom, from the founding of the country until now, the Demon King's Movement, capable of summoning the ancient demon king - Totemjika, had been hidden.When ordinary people play the movement, it is only upon reaching the fourth chapter, played at the cost of one's life, that the demon king reaches its first stage. Subsequent stages require the demon king to gradually destroy and evolve on its own.This was what Gordon knew.But what he didn't know was this.Any Devil Fruit Ability user related to sound who plays the movement can summon the demon king starting from the first chapter. By the fourth chapter, it still costs their life, but the demon king at that point is at its full power, just as if it had traveled from ancient times to the present!!!Furthermore, the ruins of the Elegia Kingdom only hid the movement; they couldn't suppress it. Once someone's singing or music gained the attention and approval of the Demon King's Movement, the movement would come looking for them on its own.The citizens of Elegia all knew what the Demon King's Movement looked like, so they would avoid it. Even if the Demon King's Movement came to them, they would turn a blind eye.Moreover, the Demon King's Movement could not remain outside permanently; it could only emerge on nights of the full moon, and it required the power of music to do so. Only then could it emerge from the ruins.Gordon didn't know this either.Therefore, if only ordinary people were bewitched by the Demon King's Movement, as long as it didn't reach the fourth chapter, it wouldn't be a big deal.But Gordon didn't know that the movement could only emerge on nights of the full moon, nor did he know about Uta's ability.So, with the duet by Satoru and Uta, both sound-related Devil Fruit Ability users, the demon king took shape instantly. This was something Gordon had never seen before, which is why he was also very panicked at the time....Shanks understood, but there was one more question."Why isn't the demon king attacking us?"Shanks asked again.Gordon was silent.Shanks's eyes narrowed. "I don't care what you're hiding! I don't want my friend to die!!"Gordon's heart skipped a beat. "I'll say it, I'll say it...""The fourth chapter of the Demon King's Movement drains one's life. Simply put, it summons the demon king by circulating life through music.""Goya's mother... when she was pregnant with him... had a difficult labor.""The situation was critical, and at her request, I played the first three chapters of the Demon King's Movement, completely transferring her life... into Goya, which allowed Goya to be born.""But she also, as a result..."As Gordon spoke, he couldn't help but burst into tears.It went without saying what happened in the end."Perhaps, this time, Goya appearing to be able to control the demon king... should have something to do with that life transfer..."...Speaking of past events he didn't want to mention, Gordon couldn't suppress his emotions.Shanks nodded slightly, understanding the reason behind it.Indeed, this was where the reason for this matter lay.Satoru couldn't control Goya's body, as he was being controlled by massive amounts of obsession energy.This proved that this was the source of Goya's obsession!! That was why such a great power of obsession had erupted instantly.Goya's obsession was actually that he wanted to play the entire Demon King's Movement completely!!Under the life transfer in his childhood, this Demon King's Movement had been engraved in his mind.It would echo every night, but it was missing the final chapter. He, who already loved music, was troubled by this time and again. Although he tried to fill in the final chapter himself, nothing was a good enough match.As time passed, he became obsessed with that final chapter.What that final chapter was really like became an increasingly growing temptation for him, causing him to gradually become addicted to it."I want to hear!! I want to hear what the final movement is like!! I must hear it!!"This sentence echoed in Satoru's ears, emitted by those obsession energies.Of course, he also maintained a sliver of rationality, demanding that the demon king not harm the citizens and his father while playing the movement, otherwise he would stop playing!The demon king reached an agreement with him, which was why it hadn't attacked.
Chapter 739: The Third MovementGoya was born because of the first three movements of the demon kings movement. Growing up until now, the first three movements of the demon kings movement would echo in his mind every night, making him pathologically obsessed with the final movement. Even though he knew that summoning the Demon King would ruin the world, he still wanted to hear it.He also retained a sliver of sanity, demanding that the Demon King not attack his people while he played.The Demon King, in order to return to this world in its complete form, also agreed to Goya's request.But once Goya finished playing all the movements, the Demon King would have no further use for him.At that time, the Demon King would not abide by any promises or spare anyone; it was a creature born for destruction.Although the Demon King and Goya had made a deal, preventing the Demon King from attacking, the Red Hair Pirates were now attacking it, so it couldn't just stand there and be beaten... just like when the Song-Song World dealt with the Demon King.Lime Jones and Hongo used whips to restrain the Demon King's hands.Lucky Roux once again transformed into a meatball, bouncing back and forth in the air with his own power before crashing into the Demon King's chest.Even with the Demon King's large body, it was knocked backward. It didn't have a lower body, so there was no stumbling.Beckman shouted."Kid, quickly get yourself under control!"Afterward, the rest of them attacked with him.Beckman and Yasopp raised their guns, firing bullets directly at the Demon King's eyes.Snake, holding twin blades, leaped up, transforming his entire body into a spinning blade wheel to attack the Demon King's right arm.Gabu fired a roaring light wave to attack the Demon King's left arm.Bench threw Mongsda, who pulled out a cannonball and hurled it at the Demon King's chest. Meanwhile, Bench, on the ground, rapidly fired bullets from his twin guns to cover Mongsda, striking the flaming skeletons... While the Demon King was formidable, the Red Hair Pirates were no pushovers, even if they weren't yet a Four Emperors pirate crew.Under the combined assault of Beckman and the others, the Demon King seemed to only be able to take a beating.At this moment, the sound of the demon kings movement, echoing in everyone's ears, transformed into flying knives that struck Hongo and Lime Jones."What?!"Lime Jones and Hongo were distracted by blocking the flying knives, and the Demon King seized the opportunity to break free, liberating its arms. With a single swing, a massive storm erupted.Everyone was forced to stop their attack.As the bullets flew towards the Demon King's eyes, the black hole in its right eye erupted with suction, drawing both bullets into it.Now it was its turn to counterattack!!Red lightning continuously struck around the stage. The Demon King opened its mouth, and a laser entwined with red lightning shot out.Seeing this, Gabu took a deep breath, puffed out his chest, and unleashed a roaring light wave to clash with it again.However, the four crocodile mouths on the Demon King's crocodile hat also fired lasers. The hat began to spin, and the lasers swept in a wide circle. Fortunately, the crocodiles were on the Demon King's hat, which was good; these lasers fired quite far, hitting the center of the distance between the island's edge and its center.Intense explosions rang out, and flames ignited. Under the spinning lasers, the island was actually cut apart, divided into a central and an outer section!"Ahhh!!!""That's my home!"The citizens in the plaza panicked.Gordon was also unable to take charge of the situation at this time.Shanks could only advise them to stay away. If they could temporarily leave the island, it would be best, as the Demon King's laser attack range was very far!...Gabu was still unable to match the Demon King's laser. As the laser drew closer and closer to Gabu, Shanks handed Uta to Gordon, swung his sword, cut off the Demon King's arm, and ended the laser emission.However, the demon kings movement continued to play, and the Demon King's severed arm quickly reattached itself.At this moment, the demon kings movement also reached its third chapter.Dai San Gakushō, the Third Movement?The Demon King's cloak vanished, revealing a pudding-like lower half, an extra pair of arms, and a pair of black feathered wings. Its fangs became sharper, its hair grew larger, and its hat transformed into a crown adorned with red gems and golden crocodiles. In this form, the smile on its face also turned into a permanent scowl... "It evolved again!"Beckman said, looking at his cheap apprentice, who was still playing!"Kid, don't continue!"Satoru, bound by the energy of obsession, cried, "I don't want to continue either!""No, if this is Goya's obsession, then if I don't continue, won't the obsession be impossible to eliminate?"Satoru also found himself in a dilemma.Hongo and Lime Jones didn't blame Satoru for attacking them; they knew that Satoru was not in control of himself.There was no other way; in this situation, they could only fight!However, just as the Red Hair Pirates moved, countless flying knives formed from sound rained down like stars, stopping them.That was Satoru's, no, Goya's ability.Goya didn't want them to attack the Demon King. If the Demon King was defeated and scattered, then he wouldn't be able to play the Fourth Movement!The Demon King also knew to protect its source of power, so it held Satoru in its hand and placed him on its hat.Two knights, transformed from sound, appeared on either side of the Demon King, fully armed, also Goya's ability.Seeing this, Gordon couldn't help but shout, "Child!! Stop it!! I beg you!! Stop it!!!"Beckman also felt troubled, "Can you still not control this body? You little rascal!"If it were just Goya himself, he could attack without worry, but now his own apprentice was inside Goya's body.Satoru heard Beckman's voice and forcefully shook off the surrounding obsession energy for a moment."There's no other way, this is Goya's obsession!""He's been constantly brainwashed by the first three movements of the demon kings movement since he was born and started remembering things!""His obsession is the fourth movement of the demon kings movement, an almost pathological obsession. He won't stop until he plays the Fourth Movement!"After speaking, Satoru was once again enveloped by the obsession energy.Gordon collapsed to the ground in pain, "So that's how it is..."Shanks also felt that the situation was difficult to resolve. "In that case, to prevent the Demon King from appearing, I'm afraid the only way is to knock Goya unconscious or... kill him!"Beckman was silent, cursing Satoru in his heart, cursing this brat for being in Goya's body at this particular time."Let's do it.""That kid has great luck and won't die!"Beckman threw away his cigarette butt and once again led the charge... The Demon King in its Third Movement form was even more brutal, continuously launching attacks, regardless of whether they hit anyone.The entire Elegia Kingdom was now ablaze with fire, except for the plaza, which was still relatively intact because most of the attacks had been intercepted by the Red Hair Pirates.The citizens were not foolish; knowing the situation, they all gathered at the edge of the plaza and did not flee. If they had fled, they would probably be nothing but dust by now, reduced to dust by the lasers.But the main problem was that attacking the Demon King was futile. The demon kings movement played by Goya continuously transmitted power to the Demon King. Even if Shanks had cut the Demon King in half just now, the Demon King could still recover.