A Melancholic Elegy that Resonates in the Stomach

In the chambers of power within the Pangaea Castle, located in the Holy Land Mariejois, the Five Elders, the highest-ranking Celestial Dragons at the pinnacle of the world, presided. Present before them were two members of CP0, the highest authority within the World Government.

One of the CP0 members, while listening to the report from the Director of CP0, the Five Elders wore a serious expression.

"...The user of the Uta Uta no Mi and a singer... a potentially dangerous entity."

"However, there doesn't seem to be any indication of Uta using her powers."

"And what about the red-haired girl... a member of the Figerland family. It would be unwise to act recklessly."

"What about the Demon King? There was a report that Spandam had taken care of that... But, can something like that truly be disposed of by human hands?"

In front of the discussing Five Elders was a newspaper featuring the widely recognized Uta, who had gained fame worldwide. For the Five Elders who were aware of the past incident involving Elegia, she was someone to be cautious of.

As for the Demon King Totmusica, a report from Spandam had indicated, "The sheet music has been dealt with, so there's no chance of the Demon King manifesting even if TotMusica is sung."

"...It wouldn't be surprising if it's Spandam-sama."

"Well, that's true... But, what about her current beliefs? Does she possess any anti-government sentiments?"

Responding to the Five Elders' query, the Director of CP0, in a musing tone, conveyed the information from the files.

"No, it appears she doesn't hold such sentiments. She doesn't strongly support pirates, the Navy, the government, or any specific organization. While she sings, her stance seems to be that everyone in the audience is equal."

"I see... However, we shouldn't underestimate her societal influence. If her opinions shift due to some influence in the future, there's potential for her to incite the masses significantly. We should remain vigilant."

"Indeed. At the moment, she doesn't possess any anti-government beliefs, nor has she incited the public."

"Yes, and in fact, her presence might invigorate the masses."

"Moreover, her goal is the revival of Elegia. That's a beneficial purpose even for the government."

"True. As the World Government, we might actively support the revival of Elegia."

Hearing the words of the Director, a consensus on the approach to this matter began to form. While supporting Uta's primary objective of Elegia's revival, they would also monitor the situation.

After further discussion along these lines, one of the Five Elders addressed the Director of CP0.

"...Notify all Celestial Dragons just to be safe. The songstress Uta is recognized and supported by the World Government, and regardless of the circumstances, any interference is prohibited. Ensure that all Celestial Dragons understand this, without exception. Remind them that non-compliance could even result in the revocation of their status. Make this communication a top priority."

"Understood. Shall I present it as the most crucial directive from the Five Elders?"

"Indeed. Make sure everyone comprehends it. We won't entertain excuses of 'not knowing' or 'not understanding.' Ensure it is communicated."

"Yes, understood!"

With an unusually stern tone, the Five Elders issued their instructions, then they sat back in their chairs, looking somewhat fatigued.

"Well, for now, let's conclude our discussion about Uta."

"That's a good idea. We have a mountain of other matters to discuss."

"Then, onto the next topic..."

And so, the Five Elders proceeded with their conference about the world, while nursing their aching stomachs.

***

Exiting the Chamber of Power and walking down the corridor, the two members of CP0 made sure they were at a sufficient distance before the male CP0 member muttered softly to the Director.

"...Seems like you really don't want to upset Spandam-sama's mood."

"Well, of course. I would make the same judgment as the Five Elders."

"Well, certainly, depending on the situation, Mariejois could be obliterated."

"Indeed, and even the world might be destroyed... You know, what's frightening is that while Spandam might seem serious about his job, he's often misunderstood. But he doesn't possess a shred of loyalty to the World Government."

Having distanced themselves from the Chamber of Power, the Director responded in a more casual tone.

Both of them were also closely connected to Spandam, known as the commander-in-chief of CP9 and practically the head of CP. Consequently, they had a fair understanding of Spandam.

Recognizing that Spandam didn't serve the World Government with loyalty, rather he followed orders only because he had no reason to oppose, they understood that he could potentially turn hostile at any moment if the circumstances demanded.

"Money or power can't control him... But, despite that, he responds in kind to sincerity. Building trust gradually is effective. Once you establish a solid bond of trust, as long as we don't give unreasonable orders, he'll follow instructions. For us, the Five Elders, it's best not to sour things unnecessarily."

"I see... He truly is an extraordinary individual."

"Absolutely. His combat skills are off the charts, his administrative abilities are on a different level, and his knowledge is like a walking library. He can train subordinates, and his work speed is absurdly fast. It's almost ridiculous to think about how much work he handles on his own."

"He's practically considered the head of CP."

While it wasn't precisely the Director's place to comment on the highest-ranking CP0 figure, the Director responded with a wry smile and a nod.

"No, I believe he truly is at the top. As the CP0 Director, I'm saying this. I think he's fit to be the true leader of CP. In fact, I wish he'd accept a new title and stand at the forefront... I have no objections to being under his command."

"He seems to refuse any position higher than now."

"He truly has no desires. Despite his recent heroic actions in Punk Hazard, it seems he even gave all his rewards to the scientific team."

"Hahaha, he remains unchanged, it seems."

Seeing the Director's clear acknowledgment of Spandam's superior status, the male CP0 member chuckled in agreement.

"Well, for now, as members of the Five Elders, we should carefully maintain Spandam's favor and cultivate a good relationship. When the time comes, he can be our ultimate trump card."

"What do you mean?"

"It's simple. Right now, the most troublesome obstacle for the World Government... for us, the Five Elders... is the Revolutionary Army. So, when we pinpoint the base of the Revolutionary Army, we want to play the strongest card we have, Spandam. If we do that, our victory is assured."

"If I were part of the Revolutionary Army, I'd run for my life."

"I'd run for my life too. I might even quit the Revolutionary Army and change careers immediately."

Chuckling, the Director continued in a contemplative tone.

"Well, Spandam is truly something... I might be a man at heart, but I find myself falling for him."

"...By the way, didn't you eat a Devil Fruit and become a woman? You keep mentioning it, but is that a joke or for real?"

"Well... I wonder? Oh, why don't we switch topics? Back in the day, I think it was when the future Pirate King, Gol D. Roger, was still referred to as a rookie..."

"From there, how old are you, Director?"

"It's not appropriate to ask a woman her age."

"Are you a man or a woman, really?"

"Whichever is convenient at the time."

"You're saying nonsense."

After the light exchange, the Director continued, "Well, in my case, I don't age due to the Devil Fruit's effect. So, my appearance remains youthful."

"But... you still appear your age, even with the supposed eternal youth."

"Seems like you really want a tough mission."

"Sorry."

Though she claimed to have eternal youth, the Director's face still appeared to be her age. She looked like a woman in her forties or fifties, unremarkable in appearance.

"Actually, I use my Devil Fruit ability to change my appearance. It's not meant for combat."

"Oh... so that's why you've been adding to the settings... then what's the name of the Devil Fruit?"

"Well... when you becomes strong enough, I'll tell you."

"That's the same as saying you'll never tell!"

"Hahaha... Well, let's leave it at that. Now, let's get back to work seriously, like the officials we are."

"Understood."

The male CP0 member sighed deeply, not entirely satisfied. The Director, with a wry smile, led the way forward in work mode, her expression focused.

Despite her often elusive manner, the Director, who typically behaved like a respectful bureaucrat at work, returned to her role. Following her, the male CP0 member released another sigh and switched his focus back to the task at hand.

"...He's someone who shines too brightly for me. The more I experience my own inadequacy, the more I'm helplessly drawn to him. I've already grown accustomed to giving up... I can't help but envy Chelsea-chan."

"Did you say something?"

"No... nothing. Well, let's do our best to relay the message to the Celestial Dragons."

***

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