Chapter 122: The City of Music Elegia!

King Gordon, the ruler of Elegia, broke into a cold sweat upon hearing of Edie's arrival. Tales of the Holy Land's destruction, though attributed to Kaido, were accompanied by whispers of Edie's involvement.

Fearing the worst, Gordon hurried to the port to greet him.

As a massive azure dragon descended from the sky, the people of Elegia gasped in awe and fear. Upon the dragon's head stood Edie, a figure of immense power and mystery, flanked by two young girls—Uta and Hiyori—who stared wide-eyed at their new surroundings.

King Gordon, a tall, horse-faced man in his fifties, bowed low. "Dr. Edie, it is an honor to welcome you to Elegia. I am King Gordon."

Edie stepped down gracefully, a smile playing on his lips. "Relax, King Gordon. I'm not here to eat anyone."

Gordon straightened cautiously. "To what do we owe this unexpected visit, Doctor?"

Edie's tone was casual but firm. "These two—Uta and Hiyori—wish to participate in a concert here. I'm also seeking a music teacher to nurture their talents."

Gordon blinked in surprise. A concert? That's all?

Elegia often hosted musical exchanges. The last event had taken place just the previous week, but if Edie desired it, Gordon was ready to organize another immediately.

"What a fortunate coincidence," Gordon said, forcing a smile. "There's a grand concert tonight! But please, allow me to host you in my castle first."

At Gordon's castle, the group settled in the opulent living room. Hiyori sat beside her mother, Toki, while Uta chatted with Robin. Edie, meanwhile, sipped tea alongside Hancock.

Setting his cup down, Edie looked at Gordon. "I've heard that Elegia holds a legendary piece of music called Tot Musica. Is that true?"

Gordon froze, his eyes widening. "You've heard of it?"

Edie's smile didn't waver. "Uta loves to sing. If possible, I'd like to see this sheet music. I believe her voice might surprise you."

Gordon's gaze shifted uneasily to the red-and-white-haired girl. Her innocent demeanor belied the gravity of what Edie was asking.

Gordon's gaze shifted to Uta, the young girl with striking red-and-white hair, who sat beside Robin, sipping on a glass of juice through a straw, her innocent demeanor betraying none of the gravity surrounding her presence.

His heart raced. Could it be… this child is the bearer of the Song-Song Fruit this generation?

Beads of cold sweat ran down his forehead as he thought of the implications.

The Secret of Tot Musica

As the ruler of Elegia, an ancient capital of music, Gordon was privy to secrets passed down through his lineage—secrets that chilled him to the core. "Tot Musica," a piece of music so ancient and enigmatic that it was both a seal and a key.

Centuries ago, it had been used to imprison a demon king, its haunting melodies binding the creature within a void. But if performed by a Song-Song Fruit user, the music's power would reverse. The demon king would awaken, and chaos would engulf the world.

The thought sent shivers down his spine. The more he considered it, the more his fear grew. Summoning his courage, he rose to his feet, his voice trembling yet steady.

"Dr. Edie!" Gordon declared, his tone laced with a mix of fear and determination. "If it's a concert you wish for, then on behalf of Elegia, I warmly welcome you. The Conservatory of Music will be fully opened for your visit. You'll have access to the finest teachers in the land…"

Then, his voice faltered, though his resolve did not. "…But this, I cannot do."

Uta tilted her head in confusion, her wide eyes searching for answers. "Why not?" she asked innocently.

Robin, sitting beside her, leaned closer and whispered, "It seems there's more to this than meets the eye." Her sharp Analytic skills had picked up the subtle tremor in Gordon's voice, the glint of terror in his eyes.

The atmosphere in the room grew tense. Hancock, Robin, and the others exchanged concerned glances. They weren't privy to the full truth, but Gordon's reaction was far from ordinary.

Only Uta and Hiyori, blissfully unaware, remained unaffected by the charged air.

Edie, ever composed, took another measured sip of his tea before speaking. "King Gordon," he began with an air of authority that filled the room. "It seems you've figured it out. You are correct. Uta is indeed the bearer of the Song-Song Fruit."

Gulp!

Gordon's face turned pale as his worst fears were confirmed. He clasped his hands together, practically begging. "Doctor, I implore you! Please, allow me to refuse this one request. You don't understand the dangers tied to this music!"

Edie's expression softened into an almost amused smile. "When I said the words Song-Song Fruit, the future was already decided," he replied enigmatically.

Before Gordon could respond, Edie continued. "But since you are so adamant, let us forget I mentioned it. You need not worry—I am not here to rob you of anything."

Gordon exhaled sharply, the tension in his body releasing as relief washed over him. He slumped back into his seat, his gratitude evident. "Thank you for your understanding. I apologize for my earlier rudeness."

With the tension slightly eased, Gordon shifted the topic. "The concert will take place this evening. In the meantime, I would be honored to guide you and your party through our Conservatory of Music."

Edie rose from his seat, extending a hand to Hancock as he did. "Very well. Uta, behave yourself and take this seriously. If someone is willing to be your teacher, consider it a blessing."

"Yes, sir!" Uta chirped, her youthful enthusiasm undeterred by the underlying tension.

While Gordon led Edie and his companions to the island's famed music academy, hidden machinations stirred beneath the castle.

Deep underground, in a dimly lit chamber, walls were etched with intricate carvings glowing faintly with crimson light. The light, fluid and almost alive, began to surge through the lines, flowing like molten fire toward the center of the chamber.

With a low rumble, the wall split open, revealing a hidden recess. From within emerged ancient parchment—five sheets of music written on weathered paper, exuding an aura of power and foreboding.

The sheets of music seemed to possess a sentience of their own. They floated gently, their movements deliberate, as though drawn by an unseen force. Slowly, they began to drift toward the surface, as if seeking something—or someone.

Above ground, Uta suddenly paused, tilting her head curiously. A faint melody, imperceptible to others, whispered in her ears, calling out to her.

Robin noticed the change in Uta's demeanor. "What's wrong, Uta?" she asked, her voice filled with concern.

"I… I thought I heard something," Uta replied hesitantly, her gaze drifting toward the direction of the castle.

Robin frowned, her instincts immediately on high alert. Whatever secrets Elegia held, they were beginning to reveal themselves.

The Red Line.

Beneath the sun-scorched skies of the Red Line, hundreds of shackled slaves toiled relentlessly. For over a month, they had labored without rest to construct a new city atop the bloodied remains of Mariejois. The once-pristine capital of the Celestial Dragons lay in ruin, a testament to the destructive power unleashed during the raid. The self-detonation of "White" had obliterated nearly everything, leaving the World Government scrambling to reestablish their dominance.

The Red Line, however, was vast, and the government had wasted no time. Plans for a New Mariejois were already underway, rising on a fresh expanse of land.

But in the shadowy depths of an underground bunker, the focus was not on rebuilding—it was on revenge.

In the Bunker of the Five Elders

The air was heavy in the dimly lit room, illuminated only by a few flickering lights. A faint hum from the ventilation system was the sole sound as Saint Saturn, cane in hand, sat somberly on a leather sofa. His cold gaze passed over his four colleagues, each of whom bore the scars of the recent raid.

Saint Mars, who had suffered the gravest injuries, had regrown half his body. Though his form was restored, his visage remained twisted and marred—a grim reminder of their failure.

"Are you well enough to continue?" Saturn asked, his tone devoid of concern.

Saint Nusjuro waved a hand dismissively. "It's irrelevant. What matters is Lord Imu's condition."

A tense silence fell over the room as Saturn's voice grew heavy. "Gone... Imu has been exiled outside of time itself. I believe it is the work of the Time-Time Fruit."

The revelation hit like a thunderclap. Saint Warcury, the mustached elder, slammed his fist onto the table. "The Time Fruit? You're saying Imu has been sent to the future?!"

Saturn nodded grimly. "Precisely. We have no way of retrieving her. We can only wait for the moment she reappears."

The blond elder, Saint Peter, paled. "This is unacceptable. The raid has already shaken the foundations of our authority. If we don't act swiftly, the world will perceive us as vulnerable."

"Then we must retaliate," snarled Saint Warcury. "Use that weapon. We cannot afford to hesitate any longer!"

Saturn's cane struck the floor with a sharp crack. "Enough! Our enemies are cunning. Beehive Island has vanished."

"What?!" Saint Peter exclaimed, his voice rising in disbelief.

"I sent CP7 for reconnaissance ten days ago," Saturn explained. "The island has been lifted into the sky by the power of the Float-Float Fruit. The implications are clear—Edie knows of the 'National Treasure.'"

The room plunged into a tense silence, the elders exchanging wary glances. Paranoia crept into their minds.

"Could there be a traitor among us?" The sword-wielding elder's voice was sharp and accusing.

"Impossible," Saturn declared coldly. "No one among us would dare betray Imu's will. Regardless, I have mobilized the Marines. Every corner of the world will be scoured for that island. Whether it's floating in the sky or hidden beneath the sea, it will be found. And when it is... there will be no mercy."

Far from the Red Line, in the depths of the Calm Belt, a prison ship sailed through the Gate of Justice, its destination: Impel Down.

Among its cargo was the infamous Golden Lion, Shiki, his wrists and ankles bound with seastone shackles. His crimes during the Mariejois raid had earned him a new title: The Worst Pirate in History. Over 600 Celestial Dragons had perished by his hand, a record of infamy unparalleled in eight centuries.

"Jiehahaha! Back to this hellhole again," Shiki bellowed as the towering gates of Impel Down loomed before him.

Waiting to receive him was the prison's grim director, Magellan, a Paramecia user of the Poison-Poison Fruit. The massive man, with his demonic horns and bat-like wings, stared impassively as Shiki was brought forth.

"Shiki," Magellan began, his voice cold and authoritative, "you'll never leave this prison again. Your days will end in the darkness of Level 6."

"Jiehahaha! You said that last time, brat," Shiki retorted, grinning despite his shackles. "And look how that turned out. Tell the Five Elders they'll regret not executing me on the spot!"

Magellan's eyes twitched, but his stoicism didn't falter.

Beside him, Shiryu of the Rain smirked, a cigar clenched between his teeth. "I like this guy," Shiryu said with a chuckle. "But I wonder, Shiki, does the blood of Celestial Dragons look any different than ours?"

Shiki laughed loudly. "Why don't you find out for yourself? When I escape again, I'll bring some to share!"

Magellan's patience snapped. "Enough! Take him to the boiling pan."

The jailers obeyed, dragging Shiki toward the infamous cauldron. Despite its menacing reputation, the cauldron contained only boiling water for sterilization.

Without hesitation, Shiki leapt into the water, his bravado unshaken. "Jiehahaha! This is a joke. Call me when it gets hot."

After enduring the ritual and subsequent torture, Shiki was finally clad in a black-and-white prison uniform and escorted to Level 6, the Eternal Hell.

The dim light of Level 6 revealed a sea of cells housing the most dangerous criminals in history.

"Jiehahaha! Looks like I've got some familiar faces here," Shiki called out, his voice echoing through the darkness.

From the shadows, a low chuckle responded. "Golden Lion, back again? What is it this time—cutting off your feet wasn't enough?"

Shiki's grin widened as he recognized the voice. "Douglas Bullet. Still here, eh? How's life treating you in this cage?"

Bullet stepped forward, his massive frame barely fitting through the cell's bars. "Better than yours, old man. What's the plan—got another daring escape in mind?"

"Jiehahaha! Maybe," Shiki replied. But inside, unease gnawed at him.

Those two bastards, Edie and Kaido… They'd better come for me. I can't do this alone again.

As he settled into his cell, Shiki stared into the abyss, his laughter fading into silence.

Elegia-East Blue

The morning sun bathed the lively streets of Elegia in warm golden light. Known as the music capital of the world, the island pulsed with the rhythm of instruments and the hum of melodies drifting through the air. Edie and his companions, including Uta, Hancock, Toki, Robin, and Chenlong, found themselves wandering the bustling city for a rare day of leisure.

Edie led the group with a calm yet amused demeanor, his sharp eyes catching every intricate detail of Elegia's vibrant culture. "So this is the famed Elegia," he mused aloud. "A city where music and art reign supreme. Let's see if it lives up to its reputation."

Hancock, dressed in an elegant yet casual gown, seemed captivated by the lively streets. She held her head high, her poise contrasting with her delight in the quaint music stalls and street performers. "This place is enchanting," she remarked, stopping to admire a young girl playing the violin.

Toki held Hiyori's tiny hand, her motherly smile radiant as they explored. Hiyori's giggles filled the air when a friendly merchant handed her a small tambourine. "Mama, look!" she exclaimed, shaking the instrument.

Robin, ever the intellectual, gravitated toward a book stall selling rare music manuscripts and historical texts. She leafed through the pages of a thick tome, her curiosity piqued by a chapter on Elegia's ancient music traditions.

Chenlong, by contrast, seemed out of place amid the cheerful crowd, his towering frame and stoic presence drawing cautious glances. He walked behind the group, silent as always, though his sharp gaze scanned for any signs of trouble.

As the group continued exploring. They ventured into Elegia's famous instrument workshop, where artisans crafted violins, pianos, and guitars with meticulous precision. Uta was particularly enthralled, trying her hand at plucking a harp.

In a vibrant marketplace, Hancock indulged in shopping, picking out rare trinkets and fabrics. Toki and Hiyori danced to the music of a street performer, while Robin discovered an ancient Elegian music score that she couldn't wait to study.

Chenlong remained stoic but was eventually drawn into a competitive strength challenge at a fair booth, where he easily won a large stuffed animal, which he handed awkwardly to Hiyori. Her delighted giggles brought a rare softening to his expression.

The day was filled with laughter and new experiences, from sampling Elegia's famous sweets to enjoying an impromptu dance in a lively tavern.

Evening Serenade

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the group gathered at a quiet park overlooking the sea. Uta, still buzzing with excitement, sat on a raised platform surrounded by her companions. She plucked a guitar she'd bought earlier, the melody light and carefree.

"This is a song I wrote just now," Uta said, beaming. "It's called 'Golden Day.'"

Her voice filled the air once more, soft yet powerful, carrying the emotions of the day. The song spoke of joy, friendship, and fleeting moments of happiness, a reflection of the time they'd spent together.

Even Edie, who usually remained detached, seemed moved by the performance. As the final notes faded, he nodded approvingly. "Not bad, little songbird."

Uta laughed, setting the guitar aside. "Not bad? That's all I get?"

"Well why don't you try it out as a special guest at the concert tonight" Edie smirked

"Really? Let's go then!" Uta exciting replied as they headed back into the center of Elegia

On a grand stage, Uta performed as a special guest, her ethereal voice captivating the audience and igniting a thunderous wave of applause. The crowd's cheers resonated through the venue, a testament to her extraordinary talent.

In the VIP section, Edie sat with his companions. Hancock, who rarely left Beehive Island, seemed particularly delighted by this rare night of entertainment. Beside her, Toki held her daughter Kozuki Hiyori's hand, smiling gently as they enjoyed the music. Robin, with her usual composed demeanor, rested her chin on her hand, her gaze fixed on Uta with quiet admiration.

The spotlight illuminated Uta as she sang "Golden Day,". Her performance enchanted the crowd, and even Gordon, the King of Elegia, couldn't contain his amazement.

"Magnificent! Uta, your voice is truly a gift to this world!" Gordon exclaimed, his enthusiasm boundless. "With the resources of Elegia—its instruments, music scores, and talented professionals—you will undoubtedly become the greatest singer of this era!"

Uta basked in the applause, her gaze scanning the audience until it landed on Edie seated in the VIP section. Despite her joy, a hint of irritation crept in when she noticed him engrossed in a sheet of music rather than her performance. Puffing her cheeks slightly, she resolved to confront him later.

Meanwhile, Edie studied the five pages of sheet music in his hands, a faint smirk playing on his lips. It had arrived.

The infamous Tot Musica.

No need for theft or coercion, the music had practically delivered itself to him, drawn by the power of the Song-Song Fruit. The ancient demon sealed within the melody had sensed Uta's presence the moment she set foot on Elegia, sealing their fates.

As Edie examined the cryptic notation under the dim light, his scientific mind drew a blank. He had no formal knowledge of music theory, and whatever basics he had learned in elementary school were long forgotten. With a shake of his head, he carefully tucked the sheets away, confident that their true significance would soon reveal itself.

The concert concluded around ten at night, leaving the audience buzzing with excitement. Gordon publicly announced his plans to find exceptional music teachers for Uta, specifying two conditions: unparalleled expertise in music and, notably, being female. The declaration set off a frenzy among aspiring candidates, who eagerly prepared for the selection test scheduled for the next day.

That night, Edie and his companions were lodged in a luxurious hotel. After a long day, Uta prepared for bed, only to find Edie seated in her room, gazing out the window.

"Mr. Edie?" she asked, surprised. "It's late. Why aren't you resting?"

Edie smiled, his eyes glinting with intrigue. "The concert might be over, but your performance isn't."

He handed her the sheet music. "This is Tot Musica, a song created by a past user of the Song-Song Fruit. But beware—this isn't just any song."

Uta's curiosity piqued as she glanced at the score. Her instincts as a musician immediately recognized its brilliance, and she instinctively prepared to sing. However, Edie raised a hand, stopping her.

"Not here. Once sung, this melody summons a demon. We'll need a more appropriate setting."

Before she could protest, Edie gently picked her up, leaping through the window with Chenlong following close behind. The three swiftly reached a desolate island southeast of Elegia, its secluded shores bathed in moonlight and the rhythmic crash of waves against jagged rocks.

Placing Uta atop a high boulder, Edie gestured for her to proceed. "You may begin," he said simply.

Uta took a deep breath, her voice trembling slightly as she sang the first note. Almost immediately, dark smoke began to coil around her feet, rising in ominous tendrils. Red lightning crackled through the thickening haze as the tranquil sea grew restless. Uta's eyes widened in shock as she realized she couldn't stop singing—the melody had taken control.

The swirling darkness expanded, growing into a towering form. Within moments, the Demon King of Songs, Tot Musica, emerged in all its terrifying glory, its ancient, malevolent presence filling the night.

Edie stood motionless, hands in his pockets, observing the scene with a calm, calculating expression. The entity's form and aura bore a striking resemblance to the shadowy force wielded by the Five Elders.

Chenlong, unmoved by the demon's grandiose entrance, spoke with icy disdain.

"Devil! You stand before the Heavenly Father. Bow, or face annihilation."