So I was just trying to write a new story I always wanted to create. And now I have. So let me know your thoughts everyone.
Anyone interested in talking to me can visit me on my discord: /fMDqkGVjFW
In the dimly lit cabin of the Ghostly Gale, Captain Sanjul Rahmuro looked around the table at the assembled crew members of the Spectral Pirates. The news of Big Mom's offer had spread quickly, and the tension in the air was palpable. It had swept the Spectral Pirates like a rogue wave. Captain Sanjul Rahmuro had paced across the entire the deck of their galleon, the Ghostly Gale, that morning and he could feel the weight of the decision bearing down on him. To ally themselves with one of the Four Emperors through marriage was an opportunity few pirate crews ever received, yet the implications were staggering. As a result he called a general crew wide conference later that night.
Sanjul had summoned his entire crew of fifty for a council to discuss the matter. As they assembled in the dimly lit crew's quarters, a tense quiet hung in the air, broken only by the creaking of the ship as it rocked on the waves. These were his most trusted mates, salted sea dogs who had sailed with him for a decade, five of those years spent carving their name into the chronicles of the New World.
Every single one of the fifty faces of his crew, each member marked by the salt and sun of the sea. The air was thick with anticipation and the creak of the ship seemed to echo the tension. The matter at hand was an offer from the formidable Big Mom Pirates: a marriage alliance that would officially bind the Spectral Pirates to one of the most powerful crews in the New World.
Many of them had fought against the fearsome Yonko's forces before, and the thought of becoming part of her crew was equal parts enticing and unsettling. As Captain of the Spectral Pirates he sat at the head of the round table, his 50 crew members gathered around him. The air was thick with anticipation as they discussed the unexpected offer from the Big Mom Pirates.
"We've been offered a significant alliance. Joining the Big Mom Pirates through marriage to one of her daughters could secure our safety and boost our standing. But this isn't just my decision—it affects all of us," Sanjul began, his deep voice commanding attention, a man of 28 years with a chiseled frame and an intense gaze, spoke calmly, his temperate nature shining through. "As you all know, we've been presented with a unique opportunity."
He paused, letting the weight of his words sink in. "Big Mom herself has offered to take us under her wing, provided one of you unlucky bastards agrees to marry one of her is a significant opportunity, one that we cannot overlook. The Big Mom Pirates are a formidable force, and an alliance with them could open up new avenues for us."
A wave of murmurs rippled through the gathered pirates. Some shifted uncomfortably, while others exchanged knowing glances, already weighing the pros and cons. Sanjul surveyed the gathered pirates. His first mate Marlowe sat stoically, the metal chains covering his arms clinking faintly. The navigator Tessa fidgeted with a strand of silk, her mind no doubt already spinning with strategies and contingencies. Riko, the ever-rambunctious quartermaster, bounced a small ball against the table's edge, unable to keep still.
Marlowe, Sanjul 's first mate and a master of the Chain-Chain Fruit with its namesake clinking, spoke up first. "Captain, you know we respect you, but this is a big decision. Captain, the resources and protection they can provide would be invaluable. Our clashes with Kaido's forces have been taxing, and this offer may be our best chance at securing our position in the New World. It's a huge opportunity, Captain. Big Mom's protection is invaluable, especially after our clash with Kaidou's forces. We fought well, but aligning with her could prevent future bloodshed. Joining forces with a Yonko crew could be the key to achieving our dreams, but at what cost? "
Sanjul nodded, his expression unreadable. "I understand your concerns, Marlowe. But think about the resources and protection we'd have access to. No more scrounging for supplies or constantly looking over our shoulders."
Tessa, the navigator and wielder of the Silk-Silk Fruit, chimed in. "And what about our freedom? We'd be bound to Big Mom's whims, forced to follow her orders without question. I've been studying the terms of the offer, and it seems quite reasonable. They're proposing a marriage alliance, which would formally incorporate us into their crew. The benefits are substantial – increased territory, resources, and support against our enemies. It's not just about protection. Think of the networks, the resources… and possibly, peace. We've been on edge for a long while. But this is Big Mom we're talking about. There's always a catch."
Riko, always the devil's advocate, bounced a small ball off the wall, catching it with a smirk. "Or it's a trap. Big Mom's no saint; she could be using this to control us, make us her pawns."
"A fair point," Sanjul conceded. "But we'd also gain a level of infamy and respect that few crews ever achieve. Our names would be known and feared across the seas. But we have to be careful of this. If we align with the Big Mom Pirates, we may find ourselves at odds with Kaido's forces and other powerful factions. Are we prepared to take on those challenges?"
Sanjul 's gaze swept across the room, his crew falling silent.
Riko, the quartermaster and master of the Ricochet-Ricochet Fruit, bounced up from his seat, his energy barely contained. "I say we go for it, Captain! Think of the adventures, the battles, the glory!"
Marlowe chuckled "And you're the sorry bastard that has to marry one of Big Mom's daughters Captain"
Sanjul held up a hand, quieting the crew. "I appreciate your enthusiasm, Riko, but we can't make this decision lightly. And yes I guess I am the unlucky groom here Marlowe. There are risks involved, and not just to the poor bastard who gets hitched. Maybe I should runaway"
The crew laughed at that statement in unison.
A young pirate named Gio, known for his brash honesty, spoke up. "Captain, forgive me, but there's one thing we haven't addressed." He paused, glancing around the table. "You're still a virgin, aren't you?"
A hush fell over the crew as Sanjul 's cheeks flushed ever so slightly. He cleared his throat, regaining his composure. "Yes, Gio, it's true. I've been too focused on our journey to pursue romantic entanglements."
Gio grinned mischievously. "Well, this could be your chance, Captain! If you marry one of Big Mom's daughters, you might finally get to–"
"Enough" Sanjul moaned, his patience wearing thin. "While I appreciate your concern for my personal life, that's not a factor in this decision. There are too many risks involved in such an intimate relationship, especially with one of Big Mom's brood."
Riko joined in joking "Come on! Captain, this could be your chance to finally lose that pesky virginity of yours. From what I hear, the Big Mom Pirates have some fine daughters. Plus, it could be Captain's chance to—uh, explore new… horizons …"
"I said enough!" shouted Sanjul , cheeks flushed slightly, his patient nature shining through as he addressed Riko's comment. "There are greater risks to consider than just personal matters. This decision will affect us all, and we must weigh the pros and cons carefully. "
"And Riko" glared Sanjul pausing "Never bring it up like that again. There's too many risks just for a roll in the hay, plus I never had the time to find someone to connect with. My personal affairs have no bearing in this decision"
"If we accept this offer, we may very well find ourselves pitted against former allies and rivals alike. Are we prepared to take on those challenges?" His piercing gaze swept over them. "Do not make your choice lightly, my friends."
The crew hung on his every word, their faces a mix of excitement, trepidation and respect. Sanjul's steady presence and level-headed guidance was what had seen them through countless storms and hair-raising battles. If anyone could navigate them through this Herculean decision, it was him.
The crew fell silent, sensing their captain's discomfort with the topic. Sanjul took a deep breath, letting the tension dissipate.
"Listen up.," he said, his voice regaining its authoritative tone. "This is a decision that affects all of us. We'll discuss the pros and cons, weigh the risks and rewards, and come to a decision together. But let's keep it professional. I want everyone to think about it and we'll have an open vote on it sometime tonight. We take a vote. Everyone has a say. We're a crew, not a dictatorship. We weigh the risks and the rewards, and decide as one. This is not a simple one and done decision. It effects all of us."
The crew nodded, their respect for their captain evident. Sanjul leaned back in his chair, his mind already racing with the implications of Big Mom's offer. It was a gamble, but one that could change the course of their journey forever. And as a seasoned pirate captain, Sanjul knew that sometimes, the greatest rewards came from taking the biggest risks.
The crew erupted in discussion, some eager for the opportunity, others voicing concerns. Sanjul listened intently, his vengeful nature surfacing as he considered the potential enemies they would gain.
After a long pause, Marlowe spoke up. "Captain, we've weathered many storms together. If this is the path you believe is best for the Spectral Pirates, then we will stand by you, come what may. An alliance with a Yonko crew could be the key to us finally achieving the dreams we set sail for a decade ago. But it would also put us under Big Mom's control, bound to follow her orders without question. "
The crew murmured in agreement, their unity evident. Sanjul nodded as he considered the weighty decision before them.
"Very well. We will carefully negotiate the terms of this alliance and ensure that it aligns with our goals and principles. This is a significant step, and we must be vigilant in protecting our crew and our legacy."
Sanjul paused, his gaze sweeping across the faces of his loyal comrades.
"The Spectral Pirates will join the Big Mom Pirates, but we will do so on our own terms. We will not be mere pawns in their game. We will carve our own path, and make our mark on the world." His words were met with a resounding cheer, the crew's unwavering loyalty and trust in their captain evident.
As the discussion continued, Sanjul listened intently, weighing the risks and rewards, his temperate nature keeping the crew focused and his diligent nature ensuring they considered every angle. The vengeful part of him burned with the desire to protect his crew and his legacy, while his patient nature allowed him to navigate the delicate negotiations with the Big Mom Pirates.
The decision before them was not an easy one, but Sanjul knew that with his crew by his side, they would emerge stronger and more formidable than ever before. The Spectral Pirates were about to embark on a new chapter, one that would test their mettle and solidify their place among the most feared crews in the New World.
The crew continued to have an animated discussion on the matter. Sanjul listened as they debated the potential benefits and pitfalls, his diligent nature ensuring that every detail was considered.
"Let's think this through," Sanjul continued, his vengeful streak subtly surfacing at the mention of past conflicts. "Allying with Big Mom could be strategic, a way to shield ourselves and hit back at our enemies harder than before. We've always said we'd make our mark on this world."
Marlowe nodded, the chains on his wrists rattling. "It's about survival, too. We've made plenty of enemies. Big Mom's umbrella could be just what we need to stay alive and thrive."
"We've worked too hard for our freedom to just hand it over. I know I'm circling back here but the point is important" Tessa chimed in, her bright eyes narrowing. "But the potential benefits shouldn't be ignored either - increased territory, resources, maybe even a chance to finally catch our breath instead of constantly looking over our shoulders.
Rina one of the young crew members brought it up eyes gleaming with mischief and possibility. "Think of the adventures, Captain. Big Mom's territories are vast. We could go places we've only dreamed of."
Sanjul considered their words, his mind racing through scenarios. The offer was tempting, laden with potential and power, but also with significant risks and sacrifices. Would they remain free under Big Mom's rule, or become just another asset in her formidable arsenal?
A tense silence stretched out. Eventually, it was Marlowe who spoke, the chains on his arms clinking as he moved. "Captain, you know my chains are bound to your service until the seas swallow us whole. If you believe this path will lead us to greater glory and survival, then I will follow without question."
"As will I," Tessa stated firmly. Around the table, a rumble of assent and nodding heads showed their unified support for their captain's judgment.
But even so Sanjul swelled with pride seeing his crew in action. Just talking and really considering matter. These pirates had become more than just a crew to him over their decade sailing together. They were a family, bound by an unbreakable sense of loyalty and trust. No matter what perils they faced, they would face them together, as one. These were not just pirates; they were his family, his comrades-in-arms. Whatever decision they made, they would make it together, and face the consequences the same way they had faced every storm and battle: united.
"Very well, then..." He rested his hands on the table, leaning forward. "If we are to accept Big Mom's offer, we must negotiate the terms of this arrangement carefully. This will be no subservient annexing - the Spectral Pirates will maintain our principles and identity. We will join her crew, but on our own terms."
"Let's see where we stand," Marlowe considered, his yes shining through as he prepared to lead his crew wherever it may go.
Their cheers echoed through the ship's hull, a rallying cry of devotion to their indomitable captain. Sanjul allowed himself a small smile. They had come too far, stared down too much death and destruction, to simply roll over now. If this path was the one destined for them, then they would meet it head on, with the same determination that had seen them shake the very pillars of the New World.
"To join forces with one of the Four Emperors..." he mused. "Such power would make our enemies tremble, even as it creates new foes for us to contend with. Perhaps it is the only way for us to truly leave our mark upon these seas in the brazen way we've always dreamed."
Tessa expression hardened noticing Sanjul's look. That thread of vengeance which had pulled him through their darkest hours surfacing once more. "
Seeing where it may go if not managed Tessa Diverted the conversation "Make no mistake, this decision will have cascading consequences beyond anything we've faced before. The other Emperors, the Marines, any whose ambitions clash with Big Mom's...they will all become potential adversaries."
Appreciating her actions, Sanjul rose from his seat, his powerful frame cutting an imposing figure. "But we have never shied away from a challenge before. If this is to be our path, then we will embrace it without fear or hesitation. We will show this world what the Spectral Pirates are crafted from!"
Another thunderous roar of approval shook the ship's beams. Sanjul looked around at his loyal crew, these brothers and sisters who had seen him through hell and back without faltering. If they were to undertake this Herculean alliance, he knew they would face any obstacle as the united, unbreakable force they had become.
"For now, I want each of you to use the night to mull this over carefully. When the sun rises again, we will put it to a vote and make our final decision, one way or the other." He lifted his mug of grog. "To the Spectral Pirates! May our infamy only grow greater from here!"
As their raucous cheers rang out over the crashing waves, Sanjul felt his resolve harden. Whatever twists and turns awaited them, he knew in his bones that this crew would face them starrier-eyed and unstoppable. They had come too far, left to many broken wakes in their path, to falter now.
The sun was slowly sinking below the horizon, painting the churning seas in hues of molten red and gold. For now, the choice before them remained unresolved. But SanjulRahmuro had never been one to shy away from the risks that paved the road to glory.
No matter which path they chose when the night had passed, he would ensure the Spectral Pirates' legacy burned brighter than ever before.
XXX
Later that night Sanjul had an unpleasent dream, Sennenryu exilir and it's container drained to the drop. A dream of a time as a boy adrift in the South Blue. And the man who would leave Rikazo to become Captain of his own destiny
No I don't want to join your gang! Please leave me alone
A boy. No older than eleven, being beaten by seven other boys.
Mom why did we come here? Dad please don't leave me alone
Perhaps it was innocence lost. Merchant parents trying to make a living, searching for a business deal and score enough to take care of their scions, no matter how much it would traumatize their children.
A boy learning to fight and study but never truly be free
Everyday I expect you to study mathematics, navigation, astronomy, maritime laws and cultures and especially martial arts
Day in day out. Living on the edge of a port where the authorities were inept or unwilling to hold order
Dear Mother and Father. I'm leaving a man. The boy is gone. Don't come for me. But thank you. For everything regardless.
And then a man setting sail for the first time to Sea.
Deep within the vessel Sanjul slept. Not perfectly or peacefully. But slept nonetheless. Because at the end of the day ... this was his life. And he accepted it.