Chapter 8: A New Journey Begins

The Going Merry sailed across the gentle waves, the sea breeze brushing against the sails. With the addition of Usopp, the crew felt a newfound sense of camaraderie.

Luffy stood proudly at the bow, his straw hat tilted slightly as he grinned at the endless ocean. "We're one step closer to the Grand Line!"

"Yeah, but we're also one step closer to starving," Nami said, her arms crossed. "We don't have a proper cook."

Luffy scratched his head. "But I can cook!"

"No, you can burn," Dikun remarked, his tone flat. "You're not touching the stove."

Luffy pouted. "It wasn't that bad…"

Nami gave him a pointed glare. "You made soup that almost took Zoro out. And he's a swordsman who eats like a beast!"

Zoro, who had been napping against the mast, cracked an eye open. "She's not wrong."

"I've already thought of this," Dikun said, pulling out a rolled map. He pointed to a marked spot. "There's a floating restaurant called Baratie not too far from here. It's famous for its chefs. If we're lucky, we might find someone who can handle our meals."

"A cook!" Luffy's eyes gleamed. "And we can eat while we're there!"

"Of course that's all you care about," Nami muttered, exasperated.

But Dikun's mind wasn't just on finding a cook. He knew the seas ahead would grow more dangerous. The Straw Hats needed more than just fighters — they needed people with specialized skills. A reliable cook was essential.

"Set course for the Baratie," Dikun commanded. "It's time we fill the next gap in our crew."

---

The Weight of Leadership

As the ship sailed, Usopp approached Dikun, still adjusting the silver-marked insignia on his sleeve. The title of Reconnaissance Officer felt heavier than he'd expected.

"Hey, Dikun," Usopp began hesitantly. "Why did you… y'know, pick me for this?"

Dikun turned, his crimson eyes calm. "Because I see more in you than you see in yourself."

"But I'm not brave like Luffy, or strong like Zoro!"

"Bravery isn't about being fearless," Dikun said. "It's about pushing forward despite the fear. You've done that more than you realize."

Usopp fell silent.

"And now, as Reconnaissance Officer, you have a responsibility," Dikun continued. "Your decisions will impact the crew. You'll need to stay sharp and think ahead. But I'll be here to guide you."

The reassurance in Dikun's voice settled Usopp's nerves. "I won't let you down."

"I know you won't."

---

Arrival at the Baratie

The towering silhouette of the floating restaurant eventually came into view. With its massive fish-shaped design and vibrant colors, it stood out like a jewel on the sea.

"Whoa!" Luffy's jaw practically hit the floor. "It's huge!"

"It's more than a restaurant," Dikun explained. "The Baratie is known for its combat-ready chefs. Anyone who works here knows how to fight. Even the head chef, Zeff, is a former pirate."

"Combat-ready chefs?" Zoro perked up. "Now that's interesting."

As they approached, Dikun's mind remained sharp. While their goal was to recruit a cook, the unpredictability of the Grand Line meant that any encounter could turn dangerous.

"Stay alert," Dikun warned. "The Baratie gets all kinds of visitors. Some more dangerous than others."

Luffy grinned. "That just makes it more exciting!"

Dikun shook his head. "You really are hopeless."

---

The First Meeting

Stepping onto the Baratie's deck, the crew was immediately greeted by the mouth-watering aroma of freshly cooked meals. Guests laughed and feasted at their tables while the staff hurried about, balancing trays of gourmet dishes.

But amidst the bustling chaos, one figure stood out.

A blonde man with sharp features, dressed in a crisp suit, moved effortlessly across the floor. A lit cigarette dangled from his lips as he served customers with charm and elegance.

"That must be him," Dikun murmured, his eyes narrowing.

"Who?" Luffy asked, practically drooling at the sight of the food.

"The one we're here for."

Luffy blinked. "The food?"

"No, the cook."

Before Luffy could respond, a commotion erupted from the other side of the restaurant. A rowdy pirate slammed his fist on the table, demanding more food.

"Oi! I ain't paying for anything, you hear me? Bring me more, now!"

The staff backed away nervously, but the blonde man stepped forward, exhaling a thin trail of smoke.

"We don't serve trash here," he said calmly, his piercing blue eyes locked on the pirate.

"What did you say?!"

The pirate lunged, but in an instant, the blonde cook spun on his heel. With a swift, powerful kick, he sent the pirate crashing into the wall. The entire restaurant gasped.

Luffy's grin widened. "I like this guy!"

Dikun nodded, a flicker of approval in his eyes. "Black Leg Sanji. Definitely someone worth having on our crew."

---

To Be Continued

The crew had found their target. But convincing Sanji to join — and navigating the challenges that awaited them at the Baratie — would be no simple task.

And Dikun Silver, ever the Silent Commander, would ensure the Straw Hat Pirates stayed on course.