Chapter 17: Whispers of the Grand Line
The Going Merry sailed under the gleaming moonlight, the ocean calm and endless. The crew gathered around the deck, the weight of Gerrick's words still lingering in their minds. The World Government's growing attention wasn't something to be taken lightly, especially with the stories of the Silent Commander spreading across the seas.
But despite the looming threat, Dikun remained composed. His crimson eyes reflected neither fear nor doubt — only determination.
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A Captain's Optimism
"Bah! Let them come!" Luffy declared, grinning as he stretched his arms behind his head. "We're not gonna stop just because some stuffy government guys are scared of us!"
"That's easy for you to say," Nami huffed. "You're always ready to pick a fight without thinking!"
"Oi! That's not true!"
"Yes, it is," Zoro cut in, smirking.
Luffy crossed his arms in protest, but his laughter soon filled the air, easing the tension. Dikun couldn't help but smile at the captain's unwavering optimism. No matter the challenges ahead, Luffy's dream never wavered — and that spirit was what made him worth following.
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The Foot Soldiers' Resolve
Meanwhile, down on the lower deck, the recruits trained relentlessly under the watchful eyes of Johnny and Yosaku. Wooden weapons clashed, the sound of combat echoing through the ship.
"Keep your guard up!" Johnny barked. "A pirate's strike won't wait for you to get ready!"
"Formations!" Yosaku added, pacing through the ranks. "Stay disciplined, or you'll fall before the real battle even starts!"
The recruits obeyed, their movements sharp and precise. Though inexperienced, their progress was undeniable. They no longer resembled scattered individuals — they were a unit, bonded by loyalty to the Straw Hat crew.
Dikun watched from above, satisfied. He had built this force not to conquer, but to protect. Every foot soldier under his command was a reminder of the responsibility he bore.
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A Moment of Reflection
That night, as the ship rocked gently on the waves, Dikun found himself seated by the railing, gazing at the stars. The vastness of the sea reminded him how small they were in the grand scheme of things — but also how far they had come.
"Can't sleep?"
The voice was familiar. Zoro approached, his swords resting comfortably at his side. The swordsman wasn't one for small talk, but moments like these spoke volumes.
"Too much on my mind," Dikun admitted.
Zoro grunted. "You're thinking about the Government."
"They won't stop," Dikun said. "Not as long as we keep growing."
"And? Let them try." Zoro's confidence was unwavering. "We've faced worse. You think a few government dogs are gonna scare us?"
Dikun chuckled softly. "No. But it's not just about us anymore. Every foot soldier, every crewmate — their lives are on my shoulders."
Zoro's gaze sharpened. "You're not carrying that alone. We all knew what we were signing up for. Luffy's the one who inspires people to follow, but you? You're the one who makes sure they survive."
Dikun didn't respond right away, but the weight on his chest lightened. Zoro's words weren't just reassurance — they were a reminder that the Silent Commander wasn't alone.
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The Grand Line's Shadow
As dawn broke, Nami scanned the horizon from the crow's nest. The air had shifted, the salty breeze carrying with it an unsettling stillness. It was subtle, but experienced sailors knew when something was amiss.
"Land ahead!" she called, breaking the morning calm. "But something's wrong!"
The crew gathered quickly. A massive shadow loomed in the distance — an island, but unlike any they had seen before. The skies above it swirled with ominous clouds, and the sound of crashing waves echoed unnaturally.
"That's not just an island," Dikun murmured, his sharp eyes narrowing. "It's a storm trap."
Nami nodded. "A natural phenomenon. Some sailors call it Deadman's Current. Ships that wander too close never return."
"But there's no other way," Usopp pointed out nervously. "The Log Pose is locked on that direction!"
Luffy grinned, his excitement growing. "Then what are we waiting for? Let's go!"
"Of course you'd say that," Nami groaned.
Dikun's voice broke through the chatter. "We'll go — but we're going prepared. Johnny, Yosaku, reinforce the sails. Zoro, ensure the recruits are secure below deck. Sanji, double-check the supplies. We don't know how long we'll be caught in it."
The crew moved swiftly, following Dikun's orders without hesitation. Even as the storm grew closer, there was no fear. Only resolve.
And as the Going Merry plunged into the swirling mist, the Silent Commander stood tall — prepared to face whatever the Grand Line had in store.
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To Be Continued