Chapter 740: A Difficult Choice"Hoo~""Hmph, a bunch of moths flying into a flame."In the Sea of Spider Lilies, Xiao Bai leaned against the root of the ten-meter-tall red spider lily, blood staining the corner of his mouth, his clothes torn and damaged from battle.In front of him lay a large expanse of fallen Ephemera Creatures, no longer glowing blue because they were dead.Xiao Bai had dealt with all of them single-handedly.Feeling the immense Obsession energy within the red spider lily, he knew that Satoru had found the source of the obsession belonging to the person who created this red spider lily.Exhaling once more, Xiao Bai stood up and muttered to himself."Hoo~""The Sea of Spider Lilies is endless.""These things will only increase, and I fear another wave is about to arrive.""Although I don't fear them.""But, Xiao Xiao Bai, you must hurry..."...Returning to the Obsession Illusion.They were now stuck in a stalemate.Goya continuously played the demon kings movement, transferring power to the Demon King; even if the Demon King was cut into pieces, he could recover.Therefore, the problem was not with the Demon King, but with Goya—or rather, with Satoru.Only by stopping him from finishing the fourth movement could they prevent the Demon King's complete resurrection.But Satoru was also caught in a difficult dilemma.For Shanks, Uta, Old Smoker, and the ElegiaKingdom, he ought to stop Goya.However, completing the fourth movement was Goya's source of obsession; only by finishing the performance could he fulfill his obsession, allowing Satoru to obtain the spider lily heart.Furthermore, this world was merely an Obsession Illusion, not real. To put it harshly, even if they all died... what did it matter?Satoru was an egoist, but at this moment, he was struggling with an impossible choice... "What exactly should I do?""This entire world is fake.""What if the Demon King is resurrected?!""I came here to eliminate Goya's obsession. Even if I stop him now, the outcome will be the same next time!""If it's going to be like this every time, I might as well make the decision now!!""But... doesn't this count as me indirectly killing Old Smoker and the others?!""No! Absolutely not!!""But who says this Demon King has the strength to kill Old Smoker and the others? Old Smoker and his crew aren't pushovers!""That's right!!""But he will kill the citizens of Elegia! That's countless lives!!""But these are all fake!!""Besides, I don't want this, but I can't control it!"Caught in this difficult choice, Satoru's hesitation was almost causing him to suffer a personality split.But what he said at the end was true: suppressed by the massive amount of Obsession energy, it was hard for him even to speak, and he truly could not control Goya's body to stop playing the demon kings movement.However, as soon as those words fell, the unexpected happened.Inside the Sea of Spider Lilies, within the bud of the ten-meter red spider lily, the red spider lily in the pocket of Satoru's Main Body suddenly erupted with powerful suction, helping Satoru absorb a large amount of Obsession energy.As the Obsession energy suppressing him lessened and shrank, Satoru realized he could now control Goya's body.Or rather, he could fight Goya for control of the body.A sudden wrong note attracted everyone's attention, including the Demon King.The Demon King definitely couldn't allow his resurrection to go wrong!..."Kid! Is that you? You brat!!"Beckman asked.But Satoru didn't answer him, and the body continued to play the demon kings movement."There's no choice left. I think we can only pull that kid down and stop him."Yasopp suggested.Now, this was the only way to prevent the Demon King's resurrection."Let's go. I'll be responsible for bringing that brat down!"Beckman said, his gaze hardening.The next second, the Red Hair Pirates moved out!...The division of labor remained the same: the others blocked all of the Demon King's existing attacks and the two Sound Knights, while Beckman stepped into the air, his sole target being the Demon King's hat—oh no, it was a crown now—Satoru on the crown!However, as Beckman ascended, Goya's Devil Fruit Ability transformed into flying knives, trying to stop him.But these were child's play to him.Even if Beckman endured the attacks, it didn't matter much. He quickly reached the Demon King's hat, but just as Beckman's hand was about to touch the body, it stepped back, evading his grasp.Beckman hovered, frowning slightly, intending to move closer. But then he saw the sound flying knives fly in front of the body, their tips aimed at the neck and heart.It was as if they were telling Beckman: take one step further, and the knives will stab!Seeing this, Beckman bit down on his cigarette butt, and the hand holding his flintlock pistol tightened involuntarily."Are you threatening me?!""Sacrificing your own kingdom for a single obsession?!""You brat, if you lose to someone like him, then I'll look down on you!!"The first two sentences were directed at Goya, and the last two were clearly aimed at Satoru.But Satoru dared not answer, as he also needed Goya to play until the end... Because a large amount of Obsession energy had been absorbed by Satoru's red spider lily, Satoru now had the right to fight for control of the body.Although, this body originally belonged to Goya... and Satoru was caught in a difficult choice. Just as he hesitated, the Obsession energy materialized into Goya's likeness and appeared before him."I want to hear it, I must hear it! I must finish listening to the final movement of the demon kings movement!!""Only this way... only this way can I...""Can what?"Satoru blurted out.Goya instantly looked at him, his eyes fierce."It's you!""Are you trying to stop me from playing?!""Then you deserve to die!! Die!!"Without further ado, Goya launched an attack; the words he spat out turned into sharp swords.Fortunately, here—wherever 'here' was—Satoru's own appearance and abilities could be used. His bracelet instantly transformed into shelley, and Satoru wielded the long saber, deflecting the sharp swords."Snap out of it!!""Just to listen to one demon kings movement, you would fully summon the Demon King, destroy your own kingdom, and kill your own father?!"Although, fundamentally, Satoru wished for Goya to finish playing the demon kings movement, he still spoke up to persuade him."You don't know!""You don't understand!!""I can't control myself! If I don't finish listening, I will regret it for the rest of my life!!""And I know, I know that as long as I finish playing the demon kings movement... then I can see my Mother!!!"
Chapter 741: I Want to Help HimBecause the red spider lily, empowered by Vitality Energy, absorbed some of the obsession energy after helping the mother who lost her child fulfill her deepest wish, Satoru gained the right to contend with Goya—or rather, Goya's obsession—for control of this body.And right then, within the Obsession Space, the Obsession Energy materialized as Goya and appeared before Satoru, ready to determine the body's ownership in the most primal way.That is: fight!!!During the fight, Goya seemed to reveal some other information."And I know, I know that as long as I finish playing the demon kings movement... I can see my mother!!!"This roar transformed into a long spear and thrust toward Satoru.Satoru retreated repeatedly, then raised a leg and kicked it away."What did you say?""Your mother?"Only then did Satoru realize—that's right, ever since he entered the Obsession Illusion and lived as Goya, although the time until now had been accelerated, there was no memory of a "mother" existing.Moreover, every night when he fell asleep, it was Goya himself who felt the torment of the demon kings movement.Satoru was an outsider and had never heard the demon kings movement; even inside Goya's body, he couldn't hear it. This was why he didn't know the source of Goya's obsession.However, if he were to experience that anguish firsthand, Satoru would probably be driven mad by the demon kings movement. Imagine not getting a single peaceful night's sleep for over 20 years—who could endure that? Thus, Goya told Satoru that his birth was his mother's sacrifice and that he suffered the torment of the demon kings movement every night."I don't care who you are!""Maybe you are me, the kind part of me, but I must finish playing all of the demon kings movement!""I want to end all of this! I want to see Mother!! It's her, only with her presence can I find that brief moment of peaceful sleep every night!!"Goya was in a state of madness.His voice transformed into a rapier. Goya grasped the hilt, quickly approached Satoru, bent down, and thrust, aiming straight for the throat.Satoru extended two fingers and clamped down on Goya's blade.On Goya's frantic face, his eyes showed a look of surprise."Let's... call a truce.""All of this is fake. It's fake to me.""As for you...""No need to say more. You wish to see your mother. Fine, I will help you! You continue playing. I won't stop you."Having said that, Satoru released his grip.Goya looked confused. "Really?"Satoru nodded slightly. "Give me control of the mouth, and I'll try to persuade Old Smoker... my friends.""Good! Don't trick me! Maybe you are me, maybe you are someone else, but since you've been in my body for over 20 years, don't lie to me!"Goya's plea was spoken with a surprising amount of backbone.Satoru thought, although it's been over 20 years for you, it's only been a few minutes for me. Even counting today, it's only been one day."Mhm, I won't lie to you."Satoru replied, his eyes sincere.Goya looked at him for a moment, then dispersed into Obsession Energy.Satoru took a deep breath. Allowing Goya to continue would mean destroying this country and letting loose a Demon King that threatens the world. Old Smoker and the others might also be in danger.Was he committing "betrayal of his master and ancestors"?"Haha, overthinking it. If I return to the underworld and resurrect, and see Old Smoker and the others again, I'll just apologize to them."As for the Elegia Kingdom... history has already happened. This country has already perished in the dust of time. That's not Satoru's fault. Even if he stopped it in the illusion, reality wouldn't change.Having thought clearly, Satoru took another deep breath and controlled the body's "right to speak." It was time to go and commit "betrayal of his master and ancestors"... In a certain space, a figure covered in Vitality Energy watched the Elegia Kingdom within the illusion.Satoru's thoughts and his conversation with Goyawere all seen by this figure.Regarding Satoru's decision, the figure couldn't help but nod. "Mhm, not a bleeding heart. It's a good decision.""Destroying the world just to help one person isn't worth it. Everyone else is innocent.""But if you don't help him, how can you claim everyone is equal, and why shouldn't you help him?""Although 'everyone is equal' is bullshit.""This is a difficult problem to decide.""However, helping him is also helping oneself. If a man doesn't look out for himself, heaven and earth will destroy him.""Moreover, this is just a fake illusionary world.""If you carry pity for a fake world, that's just too... stupid.""But then again, perhaps every world is fake, only we haven't discovered it yet."The figure muttered to himself, talking nonsense and jumping from one topic to the next.But regardless, the Vitality Energy he was transmitting to Satoru was real... Inside the ElegiaKingdom in the illusion.On the Demon King's hat, Satoru regained control of the body's vision, but the control of the limbs remained in Goya's hands. Goya continued to play the demon kings movement, constantly approaching the Fourth Movement.In other words, Satoru only had sensory control, or more simply, he could only move his mouth."Old Smoker, everyone, stop."Although the voice was still Goya's, everyone knew the tone and the address belonged to Satoru."Kid, did you win?""Then stop!"Benn Beckman immediately asked.The others also stopped attacking.At Goya's request, the Demon King also stopped, even though it was very angry right now.The fight temporarily ceased, but the music continued.Satoru didn't know how to answer Benn Beckman. Should he tell him, "No, I also want the music to play until the end and destroy the world"?"Sort of.""I just talked with Goya.""The reason he is so obsessed with playing the demon kings movement is because..."...Satoru relayed everything Goya had told him to the people present.Gordon knelt painfully on the ground, still holding Uta."It's my fault!! It's all my fault!!!""You suffered so much, I'm sorry, I'm sorry, my child..."Shanks and the others were also troubled. They hadn't expected such a hidden reason. Goya was indeed pitiful, but no matter how pitiful, why should the entire world pay the price?!"Kid, we understand.""However, his misfortune is not ours to bear."Benn Beckman replied.It's not that the Demon King is so powerful that it can destroy the world after completely reviving in the Fourth Movement. Rather, once it fully revives, it becomes the Demon King of Music. All music in the world will transform into the demon kings movement, and all sounds of music will become the demon kings movement. At that time, everyone will become like Goya, tormented day and night by the demon kings movement. This is the Demon King's source of energy.Satoru looked at Benn Beckman. "I know, Old Smoker, I know.""But, I want to help him."
Chapter 742: The Fourth MovementThe Music Demon King Totemjika isn't said to be so powerful that it can destroy the world after being fully resurrected through the Fourth Movement.Rather, after its complete resurrection, its energy will turn all the music in the world into the demon kings movement, and all musical sounds will transform into the melodies of the demon kings movement.Perhaps, at that time, powerhouses like Shanks and Beckman would be able to resist the demon kings movement.But the common people would turn into something like Goya, tormented day and night by the demon kings movement.Moreover, as pirates, they also don't want all music to turn into the demon kings movement; pirates also love music.Help Goya, or choose to help the world's common people and music.The choice is obvious.But Satoru said."But, I want to help him."..."What!!""Do you know what you're saying?!"Beckman and the others understood Satoru; this kid knows what's important.Besides, what's your relationship with Goya that you're helping him so much! Even at the cost of the entire world?!!"I know, Old... Master.""What I'm about to say, you might not believe, but it's the truth.""Actually, this world is fake, created by Goya's obsession. His obsession lies in not finishing the demon kings movement and seeing his mother.""In the real world, it's already the year 1520, and this country has already been destroyed, becoming history!""I came to this world to eliminate Goya's obsession!""So, just now, I don't know why, but I returned to my original form. To you, it's my grown-up appearance.""That's because I've already grown up!""This world is fake, but that doesn't mean you are fake. Your experiences in Elegia are real, but they have changed because of my arrival."Satoru revealed the truth about this world.The Red Hair Pirates looked at each other.They are fake?Just characters in an illusion?How could they accept that?...Beckman remained calm, "Kid, I believe what you're saying is true.""So, you originally came to help Goya, to eliminate his obsession, finish playing the demon kings movement, and see his mother?"Satoru nodded, "That's right."Beckman lit another cigarette, "Then I can rephrase it, are you here to... kill us?!"Satoru was intimidated by Beckman's aura, but then immediately sobered up."After the Demon King resurrects, he might not be able to kill you, Master.""His terror lies in..."Satoru explained again that after the Demon King's complete resurrection, all music in the world would cease to exist and all would become the demon kings movement."That's terrifying enough, a world without music."Bench suddenly said.Lucky agreed."Yeah, how can pirates have a feast without music?""You heard that, kid."Beckman reminded Satoru again.However, before Satoru could speak, he said again."I know you, kid.""If what you say is true, that this world is fake, then your arrival isn't just to help Goya get rid of his obsession, is it?""You're not that kind-hearted, I know that much."Satoru accepted Beckman's praise, "You do understand me, Old Smoker. Indeed, without benefits, I wouldn't help him."Beckman nodded, "Then I can assume this is a trial for you to gain benefits.""Then, a trial will have difficulties and obstacles!!""Regardless of whether what you say is true or false!!""In our perception, we are real people, not some illusory world!!""Then, we are the obstacles to your trial!!""Kid, you want to help him, right?"When Beckman said this, everyone, including Shanks, understood and smiled in unison.Sure enough, Beckman's next sentence was."Then defeat us!!!"As his voice fell, Beckman instantly attacked, followed by the others. Shanks was still observing, standing in front of Gordon and Uta... "Then defeat us!!"Beckman's words echoed.Satoru felt like he had a splitting headache, though in this body, there were indeed two "heads".But even if his real self came here, facing the Red Hair Pirates from ten years ago, he wouldn't be able to win at all!!Not to mention he can't even use his abilities now!!If he let the Demon King fight, he was afraid of hurting them or the common people.Even though Satoru knew that once the demon kings movement was finished and Goya saw his mother, this world would disappear.Yet Satoru still didn't want to command the Demon King to fight.So, Satoru asked Goya to give him control of the Devil Fruit Ability.A high wall made of condensed musical notes blocked their way.Satoru said, "Do we really have to fight?"Beckman shattered the entire wall with a single shot."We have to fight!""We are pirates. If something threatens us, there's no way we'd just sit back and do nothing!"...No choice, they still had to fight.The Demon King still couldn't stand there and let Beckman and the others hit him, so he went berserk again."Everyone, stand back.""Divine Departure!!"Shanks made his move. Black and red lightning enveloped the Griffon blade. The floor cracked as he stepped forward, unleashing a slash that soared through the air with an unstoppable momentum.Beckman and the others immediately dodged; they knew their Captain's strength.As for Satoru, feeling the power of this strike, although it didn't have the same feeling of insignificance he and everything else had under Whitebeard's punch at the arena.After all, this was Shanks ten years ago, before he became one of the Four Emperors.But this strike still felt unmatched to Satoru; if he didn't dodge and took it head-on, it would be terrible!!However, the Demon King was very confident, and perhaps because his body was large and clumsy, he didn't dodge.With one slash, the Demon King was cleanly cut in half at the waist.His pudding-like lower body separated directly.One move to decide the victor?No, no, as already said, as long as the demon kings movement doesn't stop, the Demon King's power is endless; even if he's cut into pieces, he can recover.And at this moment, Goya's demon kings movement reached its final chapter!! The Fourth Movement!!!Gordon started to go crazy again."It's the Fourth Movement!!""I haven't heard this part before!!""It must be the Fourth Movement!!""Stop, child, you'll die!!!"Shanks frowned slightly."Benn, it seems fighting this monster is useless.""We need to bring Satoru down.""Then bring him down.""You guys cover me!"Beckman charged towards the Demon King's hat, just like Satoru did when saving Uta in the Song-Song World.
Chapter 743: Obsession DissipatesThe bright moon hung in the night sky. Goya had been playing until now, finally reaching the fourth movement of the demon kings movement.In the fourth movement, the appearance of the Demon King Totemjika changed again.Curved, hooked horns grew from its forehead, and it gained four sharp ears.Crocodile-like limbs and a crocodile tail grew from its pudding-like lower body, similar to Brownbeard.Four great swords, whose hilts were made of musical notes, appeared in its four hands.Its facial expressions became more varied and could be changed at will—anger or laughter. Currently, it was laughing.This was the Demon King's complete appearance.Once the fourth movement ended, he would be completely and fully resurrected.At that time, music throughout the entire world would cease to exist.However, it did not know that at that time, perhaps the world itself would cease to exist... Hearing this unfamiliar music, Gordon realized that this was the fourth movement!!!"It's... it's... the fourth movement!!!""No!! Stop it!! Child!!"Gordon cried out heartbrokenly, but Goya ignored him completely and continued to play.He finally heard the fourth movement!Is this the fourth movement?It's marvelous! It perfectly matches the first three movements!! It's marvelous!!!However, the price of hearing the fourth movement was the Demon King recovering its complete form. If the fourth movement finished, all the music in the world would change.Naturally, the Demon King was delighted. After all these years, someone had finally played the fourth movement!!When Beckman and the others tried to stop it, its expression instantly turned to rage.It actually spoke, but the language was ancient, archaic, and incomprehensible.However, judging by the tone, it was probably something like "Get lost."Wielding its four hands, the Demon King turned out to be a swordsman, slashing out four attacks.But Beckman had seen many swordsmen; he fired four shots in quick succession, neutralizing the slashes.Lucky and the others covered Beckman, while the Demon King's skull also transformed into Skeleton Soldiers, using fire as armor and musical notes as blades.There were over a dozen of them, and just like the Demon King, they restored themselves instantly after being shattered.Lime Jones, Bench, and Mongsda could only split off to deal with them... Although the Demon King's speed was lacking, the red lightning surrounding it and the laser beam from its mouth were difficult to handle, and the most fatal aspect was its seemingly invincible body that could restore itself.Therefore, to solve this problem, they had to pull Goya off its head.Yasopp, Hongo, Snake, and Gabu each took on one arm, covering Beckman.The Demon King opened its mouth and fired a laser.Lucky had been waiting for this moment. He had already transformed into a meatball, using an Armament Haki wall to bounce back and forth rapidly in the air to build momentum. The moment the Demon King opened its mouth to spit out the laser, he quickly smashed into its mouth.Using his body to withstand the laser, he forcefully pushed the beam back, crashing into the Demon King's mouth. Even the Demon King's massive body was jolted, its head snapping back and its body staggering backward.Beckman seized this opportunity, quickly weaving through the red lightning, arriving once again before Goya. He reached out—the outcome was decided!!"Kid! I got you!"Regardless of the appearance of the person in front of him, Beckman's words were directed at Satoru."I'm not surprised."Satoru replied.He was then grabbed by Beckman, held around the waist, and carried down.However, even though Goya's body was pulled away by Beckman and stopped playing, the music had not yet ended!!!Above the Demon King's head, a manifestation of Goya created from sound, playing a violin, continued to sound the demon kings movement in place of the Main Body."You brat!"Beckman was nearly weeping. It had to be you!Then, "You can just sleep for a while!!"Beckman raised his hand like a blade, just about to strike Goya's neck, when the music stopped.Satoru slowly spoke, "It's too late, it's already over, Old Smoker..."Beckman looked up at the stage. The Demon King erupted with massive energy, and even Lucky and the others were blasted off the stage.The Skeleton Soldiers reverted back into skulls and returned to the Demon King's neck.Four sheets of the demon kings movement score appeared next to the Demon King, and they were gradually burning away.This meant that the Demon King's restraint was gone. The movements were both the condition for his resurrection and the condition for his confinement. From now on, he would not be sealed again!!!And did the demon kings movement disappear?No!All the music in the world turned into the demon kings movement.After the four scores burned to ashes, they turned into specks of energy that flew out to assimilate all the music in the world!!!...Gordon looked at the Demon King on the stage.He watched Goya in Beckman's hands gradually turn into specks of starlight."Child...""This... world... is finished..."Reaching the peak of sorrow, Gordon found himself unable to cry out.But to be precise, it was the music of this world... that was finished!!However, to be even more precise, Gordon was right. This world was indeed finished. Goya turning into specks of starlight and dissipating meant that his obsession was being gradually erased... In Goya's consciousness, the demon kings movementthat troubled him night after night disappeared, the barrier vanished, and the surrounding darkness lifted.Outside the darkness was a woman, who was his mother."Mo...ther..."Goya quickly ran forward and embraced his mother, the mother he had never met."I finally see you!!""Child, you have suffered..."At this point, Goya had no regrets, and his obsession dissipated... On the stage side, sensing Goya's consciousness fading, Satoru knew that his obsession was fulfilled.Beckman, meanwhile, was concerned about Satoru, wondering if Goya's dissipation would affect Satoru.Everyone else also gathered around.But he didn't know that when Goya completely dissipated, Satoru would be fine, but this world would also dissipate because of Goya's disappearance."Kid! What's wrong with you?!!"Satoru pulled Beckman's hand away and stood on his own."What else could be wrong? I'm slowly dissipating.""I told you, this world was born from Goya's obsession. If his obsession dissipates, then this world will also disappear.""Don't be sad, Old Smoker. After I disappear, it will be your turn."Beckman was stunned for a moment. "So, you killed us, and now I'm supposed to feel sad about you dissipating?"Satoru returned a smile, "But your sadness right now is genuine, isn't it? Hahahaha."Beckman immediately punched Satoru on the head. "If what you say is true, then just make sure you're fine after you go back.""Old Smoker..."With that move from Beckman, Satoru felt a little guilty... Just then, Uta slowly woke up. Seeing Goyadissipating, she had absolutely no idea what was happening."Brother Goya, what's wrong?""The stage... everyone... what's going on?!"Uta was very panicked.Satoru reached out and rubbed Uta's head."It's okay, Uta. Don't be sad. Just remember that you did very well today. I love your singing."Uta didn't understand, but Uta nodded.It was also time for Goya's body to completely dissipate.The Demon King felt everything disappearing. The demon kings movement went to assimilate the music outside the island, but everything outside the island was vanishing, and even its own power was fading.Hundreds, thousands of years! He had finally resurrected with such difficulty, how could he disappear again!!!Impossible!!!The Demon King's energy erupted again. He actually attempted to use his own energy to sustain this world. Of course, if it were the entire world, his energy would be drained in a moment.However, sustaining just this island was still possible.But at that time, the people on this island would be trapped here forever, either becoming his slaves or fighting him until death.The more Satoru thought about it, the angrier he got. How could he allow Old Smoker and the others to end up like this? Even if it was fake, it was unacceptable!!!
Chapter 744: I Just... Took a StepAs the playing of the demon kings movementconcluded, Goya saw his mother, and his obsession was fulfilled.This illusion supported by the Energy of Obsession should now dissipate.Goya's consciousness had already dissipated along with his mother; the remaining body, which held Satoru's consciousness, was also slowly dissipating.Including the people and objects within the illusion, the entire world, the entire Elegia Kingdom, the Elegia Citizens, Gordon, the members of the Red Hair Pirates, and the newly fully resurrected Ancient Demon King—Totemjika—were all beginning to dissipate.It wasn't until Beckman saw his own hands slowly disappearing that he fully believed Satoru's words."So, you brat dissipated this obsession and broke our Cycle of Reincarnation. Should we be thanking you?"The Cycle of Reincarnation meant that if the obsession wasn't eliminated, every time someone entered this illusory world, the events of tonight would happen again. If the obsession elimination failed by morning and someone re-entered, everything would restart. Although Beckman, as a person manifested by the obsession, didn't know this, if the obsession remained and people frequently entered, it would indeed be a Cycle of Reincarnation."You're welcome."Satoru smiled and accepted the thanks with confidence.Beckman also realized something. "You said this is Goya's obsession, so in the Real World, the ElegiaKingdom..."He was interrupted before he could finish, or rather, Satoru's eyes kept giving him a warning. Given Beckman's intelligence, he wouldn't ask, "What's wrong with your eyes?" but instead understood the hint and stopped talking. "In any case, let's meet again in the Real World."Satoru said to the members of the Red Hair Pirates."However, this memory shouldn't synchronize with the minds of your real selves, as this is just an illusion.""But don't worry, I'll remember it—remembering how I single-handedly took down the entire Red Hair Pirates."Satoru grinned, showing his teeth.Shanks and the others paused for a moment, then burst out laughing."Hahahaha, it's Satoru alright. Only you could say something like that.""How arrogant!""If you've got the guts, come find us for a match when you get back?!""You brat...""Truly Beckman's apprentice! Very good.""Alright, say hello to Luffy for me, Satoru. I imagine you two must have set sail together ten years from now."Shanks said finally.Satoru nodded. "I will. Luffy misses you all, but he wants to meet you again at the most appropriate time.""Hahaha, then we'll look forward to it."Shanks replied. Even though he was about to dissipate, he remained composed. Their perspective was different from Satoru's; they felt like they had come to the Elegia Kingdom and were then wiped out—or rather, the entire world was wiped out.To remain so composed, Satoru couldn't help but admire him. It was like sailing with Luffy and the others, and then one day someone appears and tells you everything is fake, and the world is about to vanish instantly. Satoru thought he definitely wouldn't be able to accept that. Satoru said nothing more, waiting for the dissipation of this Illusory World and his own departure.However, at this moment, the Demon King erupted with power, desperately trying to maintain the existence of the entire Elegia Kingdom. Even if he was trapped on this single island, at least he could still live! He had just managed to resurrect, only to dissipate the next second! He couldn't accept it!!!Everyone then realized that their dissipation had stopped, and their bodies had reverted."What's going on?"The citizens' hearts rose and fell—were they dying or not?!Perhaps due to the Sound-Sound devil fruit, Satorufelt the immense energy released by the Demon King engulfing the entire Elegia Kingdom."Could it be...""Could what be?"Beckman noticed what Satoru said and immediately asked.Satoru then told them his guess."With such energy, just like the Energy of Obsession supported this world, the Demon King wants to use his own energy to support the Elegia Kingdom!""If that happens, I'm afraid we'll all be trapped here!""Now that he is fully resurrected, all the music in the world will turn into the demon kings movement, and he can play it himself. It's rare to kill him, but if we don't kill him, we will become Prisoners here!"Beckman and the others nodded. Shanks drew his gryphon again. "In other words, the battle isn't over yet!"As long as it involves fighting! The Red Hair Pirateswill never back down!Satoru still needs to return to the Sea of Spider Lilies to retrieve the spider lily heart and resurrect. He cannot be trapped here.He also didn't want Shanks and Beckman to be trapped here, even if they were just "past selves" born from obsession.He was the one who chose to fulfill Goya's obsession, leading to the current situation. Satoruknew he should take responsibility!He clenched his fists. Even though he could only use Goya's body and Goya's abilities—which weren't strong—he still had to act!But just as Satoru took a step, a dense burst of Vitality Energy erupted from his body.Like a clap of thunder from a clear sky, this bolt struck, shattering all the energy the Demon King was using to sustain the kingdom. Then, all the Vitality Energy surged into the Demon King's body.The Demon King didn't gain power; instead, he swelled up as if overfilled, bursting open like a popped balloon and quickly dissipating into black smoke. Satoru stood frozen in place.Shanks and the others, who had been charging, turned to look at Satoru."What did you do, kid?"Beckman asked.Satoru looked at him and replied with a lack of confidence."I just... took a step?"...The Demon King was defeated, or more accurately, overfilled to death by Vitality Energy.The dissipation of the Elegia Kingdom began again.The citizens dissipated one by one. Perhaps the red spider lilies formed from the obsessions of some of them were also in the Sea of Spider Lilies, as, in reality, the Elegia Kingdom had indeed been destroyed.The news circulated that the Red Hair Pirates were responsible, but Satoru now knew that the True Culprit should be the Demon King, and since he wasn't there, the ones who could summon the Demon King were probably Goya and... Uta... "You're Little Satoru?!"Uta had been listening to everyone talk about Satoru since she woke up, but even now that she knew the person in front of her was Satoru, she still found it hard to accept."To be precise, it's Satoru ten years in the future.""Long time no see, Little Demon."Hearing that nickname, Uta put her hands on her hips. "It really is you.""For me, we just met."Satoru replied in the same manner."For me, we haven't seen each other in ten years."Uta was slightly disappointed. "Ten years? How many outfits will I have for you to try on...""Do you still have Long Hair? I mean, the you from ten years in the future."Hearing Uta's question, Satoru recalled everything from his childhood, including his current beautiful hair and the title "Long Hair.""No, I have a buzz cut now, the shortest possible kind.""I see. What a pity."Uta replied.But Beckman and the others knew that this kid definitely still had Long Hair!
Chapter 745: The spider lily heart in HandThe Demon King was dealt with by Vitality Energy, and the Elegia Kingdom once again dissipated. After all, Goya, who created this obsessive illusion, was already gone.After a final farewell, Uta asked Satoru one last question."So, did I become a popular musician?"At this point, Uta had dissipated until only her head remained.Satoru was almost gone too. In this moment, to the child Uta, Satoru replied, "Yes, Uta, you have become a singer popular across the entire sea."Uta smiled, left a parting remark, "That's great," and then completely dissipated.Satoru didn't lie. The Elegia Kingdom had been destroyed, but Uta had indeed become a globally popular singer.After another glance at Beckman and the others, Satoru also completely dissipated. The next second, the entire world vanished.Thus, the obsession was eliminated... In the Sea of Spider Lilies.The giant formed by the combination of ephemera creatures was fighting against Xiao Bai.The ten-meter red spider lily's flower bud erupted with immense obsessive energy, which then flowed into the soil through its stem.The flower bud opened, and Satoru floated above it, looking the same, unchanged.Slowly opening his eyes, Satoru only saw the ephemera giant and the injured Xiao Bai."What is that thing?""Are you alright, Xiao Bai?"Xiao Bai turned his head and smiled, "You're back, Xiao Xiao Bai. Success on the first try, as expected of you.""I'm fine... not!"As his voice fell, Xiao Bai himself also dropped from the air. Satoru immediately rushed to catch him.A 1.7-meter person giving a princess carry to a nearly 3-meter tall giant was indeed a bit strange.Xiao Bai wasn't unconscious, just tired."I didn't lose to them!""There were just too many of them. I don't know how many waves I killed earlier."Satoru stood on the red spider lily. The dense red spider lilies provided strong support, so Satoruplaced Xiao Bai on them."Alright, alright, I know you're strong.""I'll kill this damn thing first."Satoru looked up at the ephemera giant, instantly activating his Moon God Form. A full moon mirrorblocked the giant's incoming punch. To the giant's right, another full moon mirror appeared, and a fist extended from it, causing the giant to punch itself and fall to the left.Satoru gripped shelley, stepped forward to accelerate, and slashed at the giant's neck.The giant fell to the ground, its head separated from its body. The ephemera creatures that formed it all lost their blue glow and died... After dealing with the ephemera giant, Satoru brought Xiao Bai to the base of the ten-meter red spider lily. Only beneath this red spider lily was there soil, with no other red spider lilies around. Perhaps this was the treatment of a king."Cough cough... Xiao Xiao Bai...""I'm here."Satoru looked at Xiao Bai's weak appearance, the first time he had seen him like this since they met. Other times, he was always a formidable presence, seemingly unfazed by anything."What were those things?"Satoru asked.Even in his weakened state, Xiao Bai explained that they were ephemera creatures born from devouring obsessive energy.They normally wouldn't appear, only coming out to consume obsessive energy when the red spider lily's obsessive energy erupted. This was also why very few red spider lilies widespread could form a spider lily heart."So, you were beaten into this state trying to prevent them from devouring all the obsessive energy?""...Thank you."Xiao Bai patted Satoru, "What kind of relationship do we have? No need to be so polite.""I'm not going to die...""In your current state, can I help you?"After all, he was injured helping Satoru, so Satorucouldn't just ignore him."Help me, huh...""Can I eat you?""…""Just kidding, just kidding...""I'm a soul body now, oh no, it seems I've always been a soul body. The fastest way to heal is to enter your Door of Consciousness.""But, I said before..."Before Xiao Bai could finish, Satoru hugged him.Xiao Bai was startled for a moment, then Satorusaid, "Why are you still frozen? Hurry up and go in!"What Xiao Bai didn't finish saying was that the Door of Consciousness is the central hub that controls a person's body. If one carelessly lets someone in and they don't come out, then one would be completely controlled by another.Satoru knew this when Xiao Bai first told him.But Satoru didn't care, and it was the same this time.Xiao Bai smiled, really wanting to bite Satoru's neck, but was afraid of being hit."Xiao Xiao Bai, you are truly... kind."Then Xiao Bai also hugged Satoru, transforming into light and merging into Satoru's body. More precisely, he entered Satoru's Door of Consciousness."Feeling better, Xiao Bai?"Satoru asked himself.Xiao Bai's reply came from within his consciousness."Mm, it's more comfortable here. I'm going to sleep now, Xiao Xiao Bai."...Xiao Bai went to sleep.Satoru still had to dig the soil, as the spider lily heart was still underground. He had 'betrayed his master and destroyed his ancestors' for this thing, so of course, he had to get it in the end.And the red spider lily wouldn't wither and dissipate just because the obsession was gone; the red spider lily in Satoru's pocket was proof.Although the obsession of this ten-meter-tall red spider lily had been eliminated, it still'shone brightly'.No choice, the bracelet transformed into a shovel, and Satoru began to dig.But then he suddenly thought, among his replicated devil fruit Abilities, was there an ability that could help him retrieve the spider lily heart without digging?Because if he dug the soil, this red spider lily might fall. Although it wouldn't matter if it fell now, Satorufelt that if it remained standing, it would have the function of confusing Davy Jones.After searching, Satoru found a decent one... the Thorn-Thorn Fruit.It was the devil fruit eaten by Miss Doublefinger, who fought Nami in Alabasta.Using Observation Haki to explore the ground and pinpoint the location of the spider lily heart, Satoruaimed his right palm at the ground. A thorn quickly shot out and plunged into the soil, instantly piercing the spider lily heart underground. Satoru retracted the thorn, and the spider lily heart was retrieved along with it.Looking at the irregularly shaped spider lily heart in his hand, which resembled a gem more than soil, Satoru... couldn't make anything of it.But no matter what, this operation to acquire the spider lily heart could be declared "mission accomplished!"
Chapter 746: Then They're Not Human"Welcome back~"At the entrance of the Sea of Spider Lilies, Satoruemerged through a spatial rift, leaving the Sea of Spider Lilies.However, just three seconds after he came out, another spatial rift appeared in front of him, and Davy Jones's figure emerged from it.With a hypocritical smile, Davy Jones just looked at Satoru without speaking.Satoru returned a smile, "My apologies, Lord Death God, I've disappointed you. I didn't get the spider lily heart."Hearing this, Davy Jones took out the soul contract. The soul contract showed no reaction, proving that Satoru was telling the "truth."Davy Jones wasn't disappointed. After all, it was something even he couldn't obtain, so it was normal for Satoru to fail."Then, according to the contract, please pay 200 gold coins."Davy Jones extended his hand for payment.Satoru summoned a treasure chest and took out 200 gold coins for Davy Jones, but didn't immediately give them to him."Lord Death God, will this contract become invalid after I give you 200 gold coins?""What do you mean invalid! It means we've completed the transaction, and neither party has broken their word, so this contract naturally loses its power to devour souls.Davy Jones explained.Satoru nodded as if he understood, "So, this contract no longer has the power to devour souls."Davy Jones frowned, "Was what I said not clear enough? Of course, if you regret not giving me 200 gold coins now, the contract is still valid."Satoru returned a smile, "Lord Death God is joking. I just feel that this soul contract will probably only be signed this one time. Since it's no longer effective, could you give it to me? I'll keep it as a souvenir. After all, it's already lost its effect."Davy Jones narrowed his eyes slightly, sensing that Satoru was up to no good, but a soul contract that was no longer effective was indeed just a piece of waste paper.But... it felt strange somehow?"I'll buy it for 100 gold coins.""Deal!"100 gold coins for a piece of waste paper? Such a profit? Davy Jones immediately agreed.Satoru handed over 300 gold coins, and Davy Jonescontrolled the soul contract to float into Satoru's hand.Looking at the yellowed, ancient paper with its black-green script, Satoru smiled, folded it, and put it in his pocket."Well then, the contract settlement is complete. I'll be going now, Lord Death God."Satoru said as he stepped forward.Davy Jones glanced at Satoru, "Did you put that loach into the Gate of Consciousness?""Do you know what the Gate of Consciousness is?"Davy Jones didn't know if he was giving a warning, but of course, he disliked Xiao Bai more than Satoru.Satoru calmly replied, "I know."This answer was not unexpected by Davy Jones, because without the owner's consent, to enter the Gate of Consciousness, one would only have a chance to slip in when the owner's consciousness was extremely weak.Clearly, Satoru himself had agreed to Xiao Bai entering."Hehehe, how naive, kid.""You don't know the wickedness of human hearts.""Don't let sentimentality blind you. The most important thing in this world is... one's own interests."After speaking, Davy Jones didn't wait for Satoru's reply, nor did he watch Satoru leave. He entered the spatial rift and departed first.As for Davy Jones's words, Satoru agreed, but while interests are important, if one only has interests in their heart and nothing else? Then they are not human... "Whitebeard Old Man."Satoru returned to the villa in the city, holding a bucket of popcorn.Kicking open the door, Whitebeard wasn't there; only Jason was cleaning."Brother Satoru, you're back."Satoru nodded, "Where's Whitebeard Old Man? Why don't I see him?""What if something happens to an old man going out alone?"Jason: "...""Brother Satoru, do you hear what you're saying? That's Whitebeard! How could anything happen to him?"Regarding Jason's words, Satoru stated, "I'm afraid something might happen to others.""Davy Jones, that old geezer, will have another excuse to extort me. 6000 gold coins seems like a lot, but it's not inexhaustible if that old geezer keeps extorting me."Lord Death God in front of people, old geezer behind their backs. Hmm, very normal.Jason was speechless for a moment."So, where did Whitebeard Old Man go? Do you know?"Satoru asked again.This time, Jason nodded, sweeping the dust into the dustpan as he spoke."Yes, during the day you were away, a group calling themselves the'Street of Lost Souls' came looking for you. Since you weren't here, Senior Whitebeardmet with them.""Afterward, Senior Whitebeard went with them to the Street of Lost Souls for a drink.""Street of Lost Souls... Julie and Strow, them.""Okay, I understand. I'll go find him. You continue watching the house, right?""Here, have some of this."Satoru tossed the popcorn to Jason, then turned and left, not caring if Jason caught it or not.Jason looked at the popcorn scattered all over the floor, and his newly cleaned broom and dustpan.Speechless, he silently continued cleaning... Satoruquickly made his way to the Street of Lost Souls.To see Whitebeard?No, no, just for the snacks there.As rushed as he was when he left, upon arriving, it was a small stall every five steps, eating at two places every ten steps.After all, he hadn't eaten all day.He slowly made his way towards Strow's tavern.Upon reaching the tavern entrance, Satoru had already sensed Whitebeard's presence.Whitebeard also felt Satoru's Observation Haki, grabbed the wine bottle in his hand, and threw it backward.Satoru happened to enter the tavern, extended a hand, and caught the wine bottle."Old Man, is this wine good to drink?""Because it won't make me go bankrupt, right?"Before Whitebeard could answer, Strow spoke first."All who come are guests. Mr. Satoru is my friend, and this Mr. Whitebeard is naturally also my friend. Talking about money is too formal."Satoru tilted his head and took a sip. Strow saying this indicated that he didn't know Whitebeard."How many years have you been dead?"Satoru asked."150 years."Strow calmly replied.Satoru nodded. No wonder. 150 years ago, Whitebeard wasn't even an embryo, so it was normal for Strow not to know him.Walking towards Whitebeard's bar, Satoru naturally sat down beside Whitebeard.Whitebeard asked."From the looks of it, did things go smoothly?""Very smoothly."Satoru replied with certainty."Gurararara, that's even better.""Where's that... Xiao Bai?""Recovering from injuries."Satoru only said he was recovering from injuries, not where he was recovering.Whitebeard nodded slightly; it was normal to get injured during an adventure.Strow's gaze shifted back and forth between Whitebeard and Satoru.As soon as there was a pause in their conversation, he immediately joined in."Mr. Satoru, and your elder, Mr. Whitebeard, are also here.""I think we can discuss the matter I proposed last time again."
Chapter 747: Challenging a God is Foolish"I think we can discuss the matter I brought up last time again."Satoru left the Sea of Spider Lilies and learned that Whitebeard had been invited by Strow to the Street of Lost Souls for "tea."After Whitebeard had been drinking for a whole day, almost emptying Strow's wine cellar, Satorufinally arrived.Strow immediately stated his purpose.What purpose?Naturally, it was still about dealing with Davy Jonestogether and buying the fools mask... Regarding Strow's renewed mention of cooperation and trade, Satoru expressed:"Although Davy Jones and I are not friends, we are not enemies either. Why must I oppose him?""He is, after all, the God of Death, and it is because of him that you can survive here.""Moreover, he can overturn the entire Underworld with a flick of his hand. I don't understand what courage you have to rebel against him?""As for the mask, I said, it's not for sale."Satoru spoke very resolutely.But Strow did not give up."Yes, Davy Jones is indeed the God of Death, and he created Yathelaka!!""But who wants to live in a world without light!!""Besides darkness, there's only gloom. Everyone wakes up every day worrying about money, money, money."Here, Satoru muttered, saying it was as if the human world wasn't like this.Strow affirmed Satoru's words, "Yes, in the human world it's also for money; without money, one cannot live.""But here, Davy Jones oppresses everywhere, demands money everywhere. Everyone is just his piggy bank, being raised by him, waiting for the day he smashes the piggy bank, and they completely turn into unconscious skeleton slaves under his command!!""The most abominable thing is that, as the God of Death, it is his responsibility to let lost souls reincarnate, yet he openly sets prices for it. The money needed for reincarnation is a bottomless pit that can never be filled!!""He even hypocritically allows some people to reincarnate to deceive others into working harder to save money for him, only to turn into skeletons in the end!""Shouldn't he die?!""It took me 100 years, a full 100 years, to build this street that isn't his asset, yet the land rent he collects is more than the total turnover of all the shops on the entire street combined!!""Even if I saved wealth for 100 years, this street wouldn't last much longer!""For reincarnation, for freedom from oppression!! We can only... kill him!!""So that we won't be trapped here forever!!"As Strow's voice fell, echoes came from outside the tavern, "For reincarnation! For reincarnation!!"Those were the residents of the Street of Lost Souls, or to put it simply, Strow's subordinates.They had now surrounded the tavern, meaning Satoru and Whitebeard were surrounded.Whitebeard knew the situation, but he wasn't flustered at all and continued drinking.Satoru also acted indifferently."Davy Jones is indeed a damned local tyrant.""The rent is surprisingly expensive.""But you must understand, this is different.""The entire Underworld is sustained by his power.""As I said before, he can destroy the entire Underworld with a flick of his hand.""Ultimately, becoming a lost soul and entering the Underworld is like entering his home.""It's right to abide by his rules.""Of course, you're also right, if the rules are unfair, resistance is also correct.""For example, he openly prices the opportunity for reincarnation; this is him violating his responsibility. For one's own future, one naturally must resist.""But, as I've said, he is the God of Death. Challenging a god is foolish.""My point is, what will you use to defeat him?"Satoru wasn't afraid of Davy Jones, but in the Underworld, Davy Jones's power was visibly immense.He and Old Man Whitebeard, with two Tremor-Tremor Fruits, had to charge for a long time just to shake the Underworld, and Davy Jones suppressed the tremors with a flick of his hand.Moreover, all the lost souls in the entire Underworld could recover their abilities from when they were alive by borrowing Davy Jones's energy.As for the claim that Davy Jones could no longer control the energy he sold, Satoru only believed four words: Davy Jones's name.Even if Davy Jones truly couldn't control the energy he sold, using his energy to fight him?Just thinking about it made Satoru laugh.In short, his meaning was that Davy Jones was the God of Death, the ruler of the Underworld. During his period of revival, being an enemy to him was not a clear approach. Moreover, if he fell out with him, and he himself revived, Old Man Whitebeard might be implicated, which Satoru was unwilling to see.To put it more simply, what Strow was saying now, Satoru completely disagreed with, treating it as nonsense.Satoru said he was an egoist, benefiting himself and those around him.Others? What did they have to do with him? If reincarnation was truly openly priced by Davy Jones, then he only had two things to do in the Underworld: revive, and let Old Man Whitebeardreincarnate. As for Jason, the child was grown, he always had to rely on himself... Regarding Satoru's statement that "challenging a god is foolish."Strow's eyes revealed a murderous intent."Can't a god die?""As long as there's a weakness, what does it matter if he's a god!?""Besides, why should Davy Jones be a god!!"Satoru selectively ignored Strow's first and third sentences, but he had a little interest in the second sentence."So, you know Davy Jones's weakness?!"Strow narrowed his eyes, hesitated for a moment, then said."Legend has it that after Davy Jones drowned, the God of the Sea named him the God of Death and bestowed upon Davy Jones three treasures: gold and silver coins, the styx ferry boat, and the fools mask. The spider lily heart was a treasure born only after the Underworld was established.""Therefore, Davy Jones's weakness is... water!""The water of the Styx can weaken his power.""For 100 years, I have secretly accumulated a lot of Styx water. As soon as the right collaborators appear, we can launch a full-scale attack!""And you two are the most suitable collaborators in 100 years!!"Water of the Styx, Satoru remembered that when he came out of the Ethereal Void Realm, he was standing on the Styx, and the water didn't feel special to him.However, regardless of whether Davy Jones's weakness was water, rocks, cake, or crispy cookies or whatever.Satoru said he didn't want to be an enemy and cause trouble, and he would stick to his word."I'm sorry, Mr. Strow, although what you are doing is for the welfare of the lost souls of the Underworld, I cannot cooperate with you."As Satoru said this, Strow's eyes turned cold.But Satoru hadn't finished speaking."However, since you've treated us to so much wine, it's only right that I contribute some effort."
Chapter 748: You Must Obey Whether You Like It or NotStrow's men surrounded the tavern, meaning they surrounded Satoru and Whitebeard.Satoru and Whitebeard expressed that they were "very scared."But Satoru firmly rejected Strow's proposal to team up against Davy Jones, stating that he was a great good person, and also, naturally, because he wasn't stupid.But Strow clearly looked like he wouldn't cooperate, implying that if they didn't, they shouldn't expect to leave.Although he wasn't afraid, Satoru also couldn't be bothered to fight this group of pitiful insects. If he took a step back and Strow accepted, everything would be fine. If Strow was ungrateful, then... hehe... "However, since you've treated us to so much wine, it's only right that I contribute."Satoru's words made Strow raise an eyebrow, but he didn't comment.Satoru took the fools mask off his waist and cut his finger, drawing red blood. The pale blue energy surrounding the blood was Soul Energy.The way to activate the fools mask was to feed it the blood from his fingertip.Satoru did as instructed, smearing the blood from his fingertip onto the fools mask's mouth, and then pressing it against his forehead.The fools mask's hollow eyes instantly glowed blue, automatically leaving Satoru's hand and flying into the air. By the time it landed, it had grown a body.Judging by the Long Hair, it was clear that the body was modeled after Satoru's appearance; it wasn't random. Instead, it would take the form of whoever fed it blood, and could master the techniques that person possessed, such as Swordsmanship or Physical Combat Skills.The fools mask scanned its surroundings, then looked at Satoru, staring intently. Immediately, it struck fiercely with Air Compression Technique and the hand-blade Hagoku.But before it could get close to Satoru, Whitebeardswatted it away with a large hand."What's going on, kid?"Whitebeard asked.Satoru calmly explained, "That's how the fools mask is. Once it generates a body, it tries to kill the person who created it, because there can only be one of the same person.""If it kills me, it can enjoy that body forever.""But it also follows rules. If it loses the fight, it must obey my command once.""Only after completing the command can it try to attack me again.""Thank you, Pops, for stopping him. Otherwise, my life would have been forfeit."Whitebeard smiled beneath his crescent mustache, his expression seeming to say, "You rascal, stop pretending."Satoru politely returned the smile. It was better to command the fools mask first."Alright, do you obey or not?""You must obey whether you like it or not.""The command I give you is..."Saying this, Satoru glanced at Strow and Julie."Help them attack Davy Jones."Hearing the name Davy Jones, the fools maskblinked, as he was its former master after all.But the command had been given, and the rules dictated that he had to comply.A slight nod signified that the fools mask had accepted the command. According to the rules, he had to accept it, unless he was willing to revert back into a mask... "This wine... is good.""So, are you satisfied, Mr. Strow?""This is my extra help, and I won't charge you a dime.""There's a saying, 'Quit while you're ahead,' you know that?"Satoru held his wine glass, appearing gentle and smiling, but if Strow dared to say no, the tavern might collapse.Strow remained silent for a moment, then put on a professional smile, "Thank you for your assistance, regardless of the final outcome."After refilling his own glass, Satoru replied, "You're welcome."...And just like that, Strow gained the assistance of the fools mask, which possessed Satoru's techniques. Taking his men, they left the Street of the Dead Souls and launched an all-out attack on Davy Jones's castle, calling it the Hell Revolution.They set off!They were defeated."This... is impossible..."Davy Jones held Strow by the neck with one hand and the fools mask by the neck with the other.Everyone else had fallen. Julie wanted to save her brother, but unfortunately, even her sword was broken. The Skeleton Parrot was also watching her, preventing her from making any rash moves, or she would be swallowed whole. The parrot only cared about getting food for itself and paid no mind to pitying a beautiful woman.Davy Jones's eyes flared with Netherflame, "Why is it impossible?""You know... nothing about my power!""Kid, don't think I wouldn't know about the things you've been doing in secret all these years.""Water of the River Styx? It's not bad for taking a bath."Just as Davy Jones was about to turn Strow into dust, Satoru arrived, and Whitebeard Pops also came along to join the fun."As expected of Lord Death God, the battle ended much faster than I imagined."Davy Jones's gaze immediately shot to Satoru, "I know your every move. Not joining them seems like a good decision now, doesn't it?""What is Lord Death God saying? I am a great law-abiding citizen. How could I participate in such treasonous matters?"Satoru put on a sincere look.Davy Jones, who was choking the fools mask that looked exactly like him, did not believe him one bit.Satoru's explanation for this was:"As for me, I truly want to live a peaceful life.""As for this mask, I said it at the Colosseum: I won the fight, so it is my trophy.""You feel the same way, don't you, Lord Death God?"As a Death God who had lived—or rather, existed—for an unknown number of years, how could Davy Jones not understand the meaning behind Satoru's words?The fools mask could absolutely not defeat Davy Jones, even if Davy Jones himself had summoned it.Satoru seemed to be helping Strow, but he was merely using this method to return the fools mask to Davy Jones, allowing both parties to save face.After learning that the fools mask was a Treasure of the Underworld and could not be taken out of Hell, Satoru felt the item was useless to him. Giving it back to Davy Jones as a favor was perfect.Satoru had only one request: that in the future, both sides would keep to themselves, and he begged Lord Death God to be lenient and allow him to live a peaceful life.Whitebeard also understood the meaning behind Satoru's words. Was this truly how a young man should behave? Shouldn't a youth be a little more impulsive?...Davy Jones hated smart people because it was hard to get money from them, but he also liked smart people, as they always maximized profits in their transactions—or at least, made the other party feel the transaction was profitable.Right now, Davy Jones felt there was a profit to be made."Hohahaha, life in Yathelaka has always been peaceful."This was Davy Jones's reply. He then forcefully crushed the fools mask's body, which dissolved into scattered energy.As for the remaining fools mask, Davy Jones's single-eye patch opened on its own, unleashing a suction force that pulled the mask inside.
Chapter 749: Conditions for ReincarnationStrow's Hell Revolution started quickly, or rather, it wasn't quick; he had been waiting for this day for a hundred years. So, after receiving external help, he acted on the same day.Of course, it also ended quickly. Davy Jones, alone with a parrot, cut through them. Just as Davy Jonessaid, Strow knew nothing about his power.Satoru sent the fools mask to help Strow, but it was merely a way to return the fools mask to Davy Jones, doing him a favor. He only hoped to cultivate in peace during his resurrection period.Davy Jones retrieving the fools mask naturally meant he accepted Satoru's condition. He stated that Yathelaka had always been peaceful.It was just that Satoru was lucky; he encountered a "major event" like Strow's revolution on his third day there.However, Satoru coming to the battle scene now to explain the fools mask situation to Davy Jones was only one reason; there was another.Satoru wanted to know exactly how one reincarnates. Was it really explicitly priced? And what was that price?...Satoru was about to speak.Strow's curses came first."Bastard, despicable and shameless!""You were using me!!!""You coward, you timid fool!!!!"Strow's mind was decent, just decent. He also understood the implication in Satoru's words: that he was being used to return the fools mask to Davy Jones, doing him a favor.His century-long plan instantly collapsed, and he was even used by someone. It was normal for Strowto be screaming in collapse now.But Satoru was unwilling to hear those words."What do you mean, 'using you'?""It's true that I summoned the fools mask, isn't it? I was almost beaten by him, too, thankfully Whitebeard stepped in."Whitebeard: There's no need to mention me now."It's also true that the fools mask fought with you all.""How did I trick you? How did I use you?""Are you going to blame me for your eventual loss?""I already said in the tavern that challenging a god is for fools.""Right, Lord Death God?"Satoru held the microphone to Davy Jones's mouth.Davy Jones laughed heartily, "Hohahaha, not foolish at all. I actually find it quite daring.""It adds a different kind of fun to my dull life, so it's not entirely useless."Strow was furious; his century-long plan had become mere entertainment in Davy Jones's mouth!!!But being angry was useless; his strength couldn't break free from Davy Jones's hand gripping his neck.Julie spoke up at this moment."Satoru!""You clearly know about Davy Jones's tyranny!!""As long as he's here, the departed souls will never have the day of free reincarnation! They'll be exploited by him daily!!""I know you're not the same kind of person as him!""You won't just stand by and watch, right!!""Don't you dislike Davy Jones too? You even call him by his name in front of us!!"Should one say Julie was naive, or cunning?Her last sentence clearly had the intention of provoking Satoru and Davy Jones. If they fought, then she and her brother would have an opportunity.In response to her words, Satoru offered a polite smile."Are we... that familiar? Calling me by my name?"Julie was stunned. Satoru was smiling, yet his words were cold and distant."As long as I have no morals, you can't morally blackmail me.""What about other departed souls? What does it have to do with me?""I don't even know their names or what they look like, and I'm supposed to go against Davy Jones for them?! Putting myself in danger?"To reiterate, Satoru was an egoist."Hohahaha, kid, I appreciate your words."Davy Jones praised him.Satoru replied, "That's truly flattering.""However, I still have a question I'd like to ask you."Davy Jones was in a good mood, "Speak."Satoru didn't waste words on pleasantries and went straight to the point."What are the conditions for reincarnation?""Lord Death God, you've put reincarnation up for explicit pricing, so what is that price?"Satoru's words could also be understood as: there are two ways to reincarnate, one is by oneself, and the other is by buying it from Davy Jones.Although Davy Jones was the Lord Death God, Satoru didn't think Davy Jones had the ability to prevent others from reincarnating.Strow had been cursing Davy Jones's oppression, cursing him for even selling reincarnation.But Satoru felt that things weren't that simple.He, including Strow, had not reincarnated and knew very little about it. Only Davy Jones, the Lord Death God, knew best... "What, you want to reincarnate?"Davy Jones retorted.Satoru replied naturally."Not for now, but isn't it only a matter of time?"A hint of loneliness seemed to flash in Davy Jones's eyes, "Yes, who would want to live in this hell forever?"Hearing this, Strow flared up in anger."Since you know, why do you still put reincarnation up for explicit pricing!! You make them your slaves, struggling for a hundred years only to become mindless skeletons. Reincarnation? What a huge joke!!!"Davy Jones glanced at him with disgust, then flung him towards Julie. The parrot also flew back; clearly, it was disappointed at not getting a dessert."Are you rebelling against me because I put reincarnation up for explicit pricing?"Davy Jones retorted. Strow just stared, not answering.Davy Jones didn't mind, "You say I'm a liar, but with my help, has no one ever reincarnated?!"Strow was rebuffed but still stiffened his neck, "That's just your trickery!!""How many people have sought you out, but how many truly reincarnated?!"The fire in Davy Jones's eyes flickered, "You truly are ignorant to the extreme, an arrogant fool."Satoru interjected with a laugh, "Then let's not bother with him, Lord Death God.""The red spider lilies were left by those who reincarnated.""Such a vast Sea of Spider Lilies. If it were truly as Strow said, that very few people reincarnate, it would be impossible for such a large Sea of Spider Lilies to grow.""So, besides your help, there's another way to reincarnate, right?"Hearing Satoru's words, Davy Jones looked at him. The more he despised Strow, the more he admired Satoru."Indeed, it's so much more comfortable talking to smart people.""You're right. Those who come to me, paying money for help to reincarnate, are just some rich but foolish idiots. But I like these idiots... and their money.""Since I'm in a good mood today, I'll tell you.""The true condition for reincarnation lies in...""Letting go."
Chapter 750: The FerrymanThe true condition for reincarnation lies in letting go.Letting go of everything from the previous life, letting go of desires in one's heart, being free of wants and needs, and having no regrets.Only by bidding farewell to your past self can you welcome reincarnation... "These are the conditions for self-reincarnation.""As long as you can achieve this, your soul will dissipate into energy, follow that Ferryman across the final stretch of the Styx, and enter the cycle of reincarnation. The desires and obsessions you cast aside will transform into red spider lilies."Davy Jones explained the conditions for reincarnation.Satoru nodded. These words had no flaws, and they matched the Sea of Spider Lilies. It shouldn't be a lie. If Davy Jones wanted to make money, there was no need to fabricate this; he could simply say there was no reincarnation.But Strow didn't believe it."I don't believe it! I don't believe it!!!""It must be your nonsense!!! Davy Jones, you're lying!!!"Strow had always thought he was perfect. If this were true, it meant he had desires in his heart, and his inability to let them go was why he couldn't reincarnate—and it had been that way for a hundred years.Moreover, if this were true, then his actions and reasons for attacking Davy Jones would lose most of their validity—it was utterly ridiculous!!Julie looked at him, his subordinates looked at him, and Davy Jones also looked at him with contempt. "The fools mask can block and alter a person's five senses and emotions, causing them to die in an illusion.""But it has another function: you can use it to see what other people's desires and obsessions are.""Kid, you don't want to believe my words simply because you don't want to believe your own foolishness.""Your desire is to have everyone respond to your call, to be above others. To put it nicely, you want to lead people to a better life. To put it crudely, you just enjoy being revered by others and the feeling of being high above. With your stupid head and this attitude, if they can only rely on you, they'd be better off dead.""A leader? A superior man? Look at yourself, how are you qualified for that!"Davy Jones's words struck at the heart."Ah!!!"Strow covered his ears and ran away after being scolded."Brother!"Julie called out. After glancing at Satoru, she turned and chased after him.Without Strow, the others, seeing Davy Jones, were now like mice seeing a cat, and they all got up and ran away... Strow had fled, and his revolution remained a joke.Although Davy Jones loved money, Satoru felt that his rule over the Underworld was infinitely better compared to that of the Celestial Dragons."You're not going to kill him?"Satoru asked.Davy Jones glanced at him, thinking, 'You're even more ruthless than I am, kid.'"Just a piece of trash, no need to worry.""Or rather, in Hell, there is nothing I need to worry about. Hahahaha!!"Davy Jones laughed loudly. This was the Haki of the Death God.Satoru maintained a polite smile."The Skeleton Soldiers under your command also have a chance to reincarnate, right?"Davy Jones's laughter stopped abruptly. "How did you come to that conclusion?""If so many people turned into skeletons because of their desires and money, Yathelaka couldn't possibly hold them all.""Their destination is either reincarnation, complete disappearance, or perhaps... being cast into the Styx.""I'm just guessing."Davy Jones laughed again."Hahahaha, after all these years, perhaps others have guessed it too, but you are the first to say it to my face.""That's right. Those skeletons who shed some of their forms and lost consciousness are an alternative way to resolve the obsession in their hearts, and they can naturally reincarnate. Of course, only after serving as my slaves for a hundred years.""There are many skeletons, and Yathelaka certainly can't accommodate them all. But who said they must stay in Yathelaka?"Davy Jones's last sentence seemed intended to save face, implying he didn't want Satoru to see through him completely.But Satoru didn't pay attention to that."Hmm, no wonder."The "no wonder" referred to the red spider lilyformed by the obsession of that gambling addict in the Sea of Spider Lilies. Satoru didn't believe someone like him could let go of his obsessions. He was likely just as Davy Jones described: gambled until he became a skeleton, then served Davy Jonesfor free for a hundred years before earning reincarnation... Satoru thought for a moment and decided to take his leave.He originally had one more question, but similarly, it was just a guess.Strow said Davy Jones was afraid of water; that couldn't be baseless rumor.The Death God afraid of water? How could that be?So, what is the most obvious thing in the Pirate World that is afraid of water?Devil Fruit Ability users!Therefore, Satoru's guess was... Did Davy Jonesbecome the Death God because of a... Devil Fruit?Of course, this was just a guess, and even if it were true, so what?Asking about Davy Jones's past might anger him. Curiosity killed the cat."Then, we shall take our leave, Lord Death God.""We trust that, as the Death God, you will abide by our agreement."Satoru said.Davy Jones gave the same reply, "I told you, Yathelaka is always peaceful."Satoru smiled and nodded, "That is good then."As his voice fell, Satoru turned and left.Davy Jones watched the backs of the old man and the young man. In his eyes, Satoru, who had only been here for three days, was far more dangerous than Strow, who had stayed for 150 years... The passage of time was hard to perceive in the Underworld, as there was no day, no sun, and not even a moon.The time of day could only be determined by a clock.Using a clock and counting, Satoru knew twenty-one days had passed. Including the first three days, he had been living in the Underworld for twenty-four days.During the twenty-one days following the spider lily heart incident and Strow's Revolution Incident, Yathelaka was peaceful, just as Davy Jones had said. Satoru spent these calm days undergoing special training under Whitebeard's guidance.Whitebeard also tried to test Satoru for the aptitude for Conqueror's Haki, but all attempts failed.Satoru didn't mind. After all, that was the aptitude of a king among millions; it was normal not to have it.On this day, the twenty-first day after Strow's Revolution Incident, Satoru lay down right after finishing his special training and fell asleep.However, as his consciousness slept, it was slowly pulled toward a... dockside.Satoru looked around. Behind the dock was complete darkness, so much so that even Observation Haki couldn't sense anything.Was the area ahead the sea? Obviously, it couldn't be the sea; the only body of water related to the Underworld was the Styx.There were no other people or boats on the Styx.Only an old man smoking a Smoking Pipe and a Bamboo Raft Boat beneath him.Satoru looked at the old man, and the old man looked at Satoru."Old man, are you the Ferryman Davy Jonesmentioned?"
Chapter 751: One Day in the Underworld, One Month in the Human WorldAfter the Strow Revolution incident ended, Satoruspent twenty-one peaceful days, each filled with monotonous special training. Of course, he gained a lot from it.On this twenty-first day, just as the midday special training ended, Satoru lay down on the ground, but his consciousness was pulled into an unfamiliar place.A pier, a pier with no discernible beginning and no visible future.There was no one else here, only an old man smoking and fishing.Satoru thought for a moment, then blurted out."Grandpa, are you the Ferryman Davy Jonesmentioned?"...Satoru guessed his identity with the very first sentence he uttered upon arriving.The Ferryman couldn't help but laugh, "Hahaha, as expected of someone who can make Davy Jonessuffer a setback.""Yes, I am that Ferryman.""No name, just Ferryman.""Perhaps I had one, but it's too long ago, I've forgotten. Everyone who comes here calls me Ferryman.""You can call me that too."Satoru nodded, "Alright, Grandpa.""Is there something you need me for?""Davy Jones said that only by letting go of one's obsessions and worldly desires can one meet you.""But I think I haven't let go yet; I love those desires too much right now."Satoru voiced his confusion, thinking, 'You're not going to force me to leave, are you?'...Meanwhile, in the villa's courtyard, Satoru, who had just lain down, suddenly sat up.Whitebeard raised an eyebrow, "What, so energetic today? That's good, young people should be like this..."But then he felt something was off; this aura wasn't Satoru's."No... you're not White Kid.""I'm Little White, Little Little White is gone!"When Satoru's consciousness left, it was naturally Little White's consciousness that controlled the body."White Kid is gone?""What do you mean?!"Whitebeard immediately widened his eyes and asked.Little White immediately replied."Little Little White's consciousness disappeared, I don't know where it went?!"Hearing this, Whitebeard instantly struck out with a punch. Little White crossed his arms, blocking with his forearms, but was still sent sliding backward, his feet scraping the ground."What do you mean?!""What do I mean?""How could White Kid suddenly disappear?"Little White understood Whitebeard's words; Whitebeard thought he had taken over Satoru's body, erased Satoru's consciousness, and was putting on this act.Little White didn't explain, or rather, he explained with action: he directly emerged from Satoru's Door of Consciousness.When Little White came out, Satoru's body became an empty shell, unable to stand steadily. Little White immediately supported him, then looked at Whitebeard."If I wanted to control and possess this body, I wouldn't have come out. The Door of Consciousness requires the body's owner's permission to enter."Little White explained further.Whitebeard retracted his imposing aura, "I misunderstood you, I apologize.""It doesn't matter."Although he said that, Little White had already cursed Whitebeard as an old geezer many times in his heart, even though he was much, much older than Whitebeard."The main thing is, where did Little Little White go!""His consciousness couldn't have disappeared for no reason!""Davy Jones!""It must be him!!""I'm going to find him!!"Little White immediately picked up Satoru's body and rushed towards Davy Jones's castle.Whitebeard watched his retreating figure, reminded Jason to guard the house, and then followed... Returning to the pier.The Ferryman looked at Satoru, "It's just as you said, you have many desires.""I didn't call you here for anything else, just to chat for a bit, can't I?""I just wanted to see the person who could make Davy Jones suffer a setback.""Also, I just wanted to remind you..."The old man deliberately kept him in suspense.Satoru also took the bait."Remind me of what?""To remind you, if you want to resurrect, you can do it sooner."The old man replied with a smile.Satoru raised an eyebrow, becoming more vigilant."Grandpa, what do you mean by 'resurrection'?""Can you help me resurrect?"The old man heard this and thought, 'This kid is good at pretending.'"Hahaha, kid, no need to pretend.""Davy Jones doesn't know, but as the one who planted those red spider lilies, I know you've already obtained the spider lily heart.""The spider lily heart only has one function. What else would you want if not to resurrect?"So that's how it is.Satoru understood. The Ferryman was the one who planted the red spider lilies. Knowing about the spider lily heart was better than knowing he could resurrect from the start.If the Ferryman could see through his copied Yomi Yomi no Mi Ability, Satoru would have to re-evaluate this seemingly amiable old man."So, Grandpa is the flower planter.""My apologies, my apologies.""I should thank you for picking your flower.""Also, Grandpa, why do you say that if I want to resurrect, I should do it sooner?"The old man touched the water surface with the tip of his fishing rod, and ripples immediately spread."Time passes.""One day in the Underworld is one month in the Human World.""That means two years have already passed in the Human World.""My g—"Upon hearing this news, Satoru almost swore.One day in the Underworld, one month in the Human World.No wonder Brook, who died and resurrected instantly, returned to find his body already a skeleton.Good thing he found out, otherwise, if he really stayed in the Underworld for two years, all he would see after resurrecting would be rows of graves!!And... Brook... knowing that one day in the Underworld is one month in the Human World, and two years have already passed in the Human World, the agreed time has arrived! How could Satorupossibly stay any longer!!"Grandpa, let me go back.""Now you're anxious?"Satoru was anxious, but the old man looked completely at ease.However, time was critical, and Satoru couldn't wait. His aura gradually rose.The old man wasn't afraid of Satoru's strength, but the abundant Vitality Energy within Satoru was truly terrifying."Wait, are you going to hit an old man?""I never said I wouldn't send you back.""Go back, go back!""I'm waiting to see Davy Jones suffer another setback."As the old man's words fell, Satoru's consciousness flashed, and his surroundings immediately changed.He was back in his body, which was currently being held by Little White.He only heard Little White and Davy Jones cursing at each other.But noticing that he had woken up, Little White immediately looked at him."Little Little White! You're awake!""Are you alright?""Why did your consciousness suddenly disappear?""Was it this damn thing's doing!""Put me down first."Satoru told Little White to put him down."You speak first.""…"From the Ferryman's words, it was clear that his relationship with Davy Jones was not good.Satoru thought it best not to mention the Ferrymanin front of Davy Jones."I was just tired, just took a nap."After speaking, Satoru rolled over and got down himself, quickly greeting Lord Death God."Hello, Lord Death God.""Goodbye, Lord Death God."