Chapter 14: Strength in Structure
The Going Merry sailed steadily, the ocean's endless horizon stretching before the Straw Hat crew. It had been a few days since Dikun formally established the crew's ranks. Though Luffy was still the captain, it was undeniable that the Silent Commander's influence shaped the crew's daily operations.
The insignias gleamed proudly on their uniforms, simple yet symbolic. The crew had embraced their new structure, but more importantly, they embraced the sense of unity it fostered. Even Luffy, who initially had little interest in "boring stuff," grew curious about how it all worked.
But the Straw Hat crew wasn't just the small group that had once sailed from Syrup Village. Recent events had added more to their numbers, strengthening the crew and giving them a newfound presence on the seas.
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Recruitment at the Port Town
Before setting sail, the crew had stopped at a small, battered port town. The town, once a bustling hub, had fallen into despair under the oppression of a corrupt marine captain named Briggs. He abused his authority, squeezing the people dry with exorbitant taxes and "protection fees." Those who resisted were beaten, arrested, or worse.
The crew arrived to find the townspeople living in fear. Shops were boarded up, fishermen barely left the shore, and the once lively tavern was now a silent ruin. Yet amidst the despair, there were glimmers of hope — those who still held on, waiting for a chance to fight back.
Luffy, of course, immediately declared his intention to knock the marine captain's teeth in.
"We're pirates! If we see bad guys, we beat 'em!" Luffy grinned, cracking his knuckles.
But Dikun had other plans.
"We'll deal with the marines," Dikun said, his crimson eyes gleaming. "But we're not just leaving once it's over. If they want freedom, they'll need to defend it themselves. I plan to give them the strength to do it."
With that, the Straw Hats sprang into action.
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Liberation of the Town
Briggs and his marines didn't stand a chance.
While Luffy charged straight into the heart of the marine outpost, punching through walls with a laugh, Dikun led the townspeople in organized resistance. His sharp commands directed the villagers to overwhelm the marines using makeshift weapons and guerilla tactics.
"Cut off their retreat," Dikun ordered. "Barricade the streets and force them into the square. Johnny, Yosaku, take the west side. Zoro, make sure they can't regroup."
The townspeople, hesitant at first, found confidence in Dikun's unwavering resolve. They followed his instructions to the letter, fighting not with brute strength, but with the careful tactics of a well-planned assault.
Within hours, Briggs was defeated, tied up in the town square for all to see.
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A New Beginning
That evening, the townspeople gathered to celebrate their newfound freedom. Despite the joy, Dikun's mind was already focused on what came next.
"The marines will return," Dikun warned as he stood before the crowd. "This victory is only the beginning. If you want to keep your freedom, you'll need to fight for it."
"But how?" One of the villagers asked, the uncertainty clear in his voice.
Dikun smiled faintly. "We'll teach you."
Luffy, nodding in agreement, grinned widely. "Yup! Anyone who wants to get stronger, join us!"
And so they did. Young men, fishermen, former sailors, and even a few ex-marines who had long grown tired of the corruption. They all stepped forward.
From that day, the Straw Hat crew wasn't just a small band of pirates — it was a growing force.
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Johnny and Yosaku's Return
Johnny and Yosaku, who had fought bravely during the battle, stood proudly among the recruits. Though they had once been bounty hunters, their respect for Dikun had grown tenfold.
"Aniki," Johnny said, grinning. "We're sticking with you!"
"Yup!" Yosaku added. "Luffy's the captain, but you're the one who keeps him from sinking the ship!"
Dikun chuckled. "Then I'll hold you to it."
Recognizing their loyalty and dedication, Dikun appointed Johnny and Yosaku as sergeants. They were tasked with leading and training the new recruits, enforcing discipline while ensuring the crew remained battle-ready.
"From now on," Dikun declared, "you are not just a crew — you are a force. You will train, grow, and stand against anyone who threatens our freedom."
The cheers that followed echoed into the night.
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Morning on the Merry
"Attention!"
Johnny's voice rang across the deck as he and Yosaku stood at the bow, leading the newly-recruited foot soldiers. The recruits stood stiffly, trying their best to mimic the confidence of their superiors. Though their movements were rough, the determination in their eyes was undeniable.
"Private formation, huh?" Zoro muttered from his usual spot against the mast, watching the display with a slight smirk. "Guess they're taking it seriously."
"Of course they are," Nami replied, adjusting her hat. "Dikun's the only reason this chaotic crew hasn't sunk yet."
As if summoned, Dikun emerged from the captain's quarters. His silver hair shimmered under the sun, crimson eyes scanning the crew with a quiet authority. Despite the simplicity of his black coat and white shirt, there was no mistaking his presence. He wasn't just a strategist — he was the embodiment of discipline and leadership.
"Morning exercises complete," Johnny reported, puffing his chest out proudly. "The recruits are ready for orders!"
"Good." Dikun nodded. "Continue combat training in shifts. Zoro will supervise sparring practice later. Those not on training duty will assist Sanji with the supplies."
The recruits saluted, their movements awkward but eager. Dikun's approving nod was all the encouragement they needed.
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A Captain's Stupidity and a Vice-Captain's Discipline
However, the serene atmosphere didn't last long.
"Gomu Gomu no... CANNONBALL!"
A rubber blur shot through the air. Luffy, with his signature grin, launched himself straight from the crow's nest.
"LUFFY!"
Before the inevitable crash, Dikun swiftly moved. In one fluid motion, he leapt onto the railing, his hands clasping the rope lines. With precise timing, he kicked off and caught Luffy mid-air. The two spun, and Dikun landed gracefully back on the deck, holding a flailing captain.
"Oof!" Luffy blinked in confusion, realizing he'd been stopped. "Ah, come on, Dikun! I was practicing!"
"Practicing what? Destroying the ship?" Dikun's tone was calm, but the stern glare he gave Luffy was enough to silence any argument. "You're the captain, not a cannonball."
"But it was gonna be cool!"
"And it was stupid."
The crew burst into laughter, the tension evaporating. Luffy pouted dramatically, but even he couldn't deny how often Dikun's quick thinking had saved them from disaster.
"You're no fun," Luffy grumbled.
"I'm alive. And so is the ship," Dikun retorted dryly.
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To Be Continued