Capítulo 22: The Calm Before the Storm
Chapter 22: The Calm Before the Storm
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On the Silverhair Pirates' Ship
A few days had passed since the Silverhair Pirates navigated the treacherous waters of Reverse Mountain. Sergio D. Arthur, their captain, stood on the deck, deep in thought. He had expected some sort of reward from the system for recruiting Dr. Megulus into the crew, but nothing had happened. The system remained silent, and it left Arthur wondering if something was amiss.
Meanwhile, Alex was training his Observation Haki with Hiroshi. Hiroshi slashed at Alex with his sword, and Alex dodged each attack, predicting his movements with increasing accuracy. Their training was intense, but both were determined to hone their skills.
On the upper deck, Lisa was meticulously studying a map, ensuring their navigation was precise. She was always vigilant, knowing that a single mistake could lead them into danger.
In the kitchen, Surv was preparing lunch for the crew, humming a cheerful tune as she worked. Her cooking had become a source of comfort and strength for everyone on board.
Dr. Megulus, their newly recruited doctor, was in his makeshift laboratory, conducting research on a dead animal. He was focused, his mind completely absorbed in his work.
Rathor K. Rio was cleaning his sniper rifle, making sure it was in perfect condition for any upcoming battles.
The ship sailed smoothly through the vast sea, the crew enjoying a rare moment of peace and productivity.
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Aboard the Navy Fleet
Far more than 100 kilometers away, a formidable Navy fleet was advancing. Leading the fleet was Admiral Kanji, known for his cold and calculating nature. Alongside him were two vice admirals: Vice Admiral Darius and Vice Admiral Helena. Five generals accompanied them, each ready for the mission ahead: General Torin, General Leto, General Corbin, General Marlo, and General Juno.
The atmosphere on the Navy ships was confident, almost smug. The officers were engaged in conversation, discussing their mission to capture the Silverhair Pirates.
General Torin, a seasoned strategist, spoke first. "This should be a straightforward mission. The Silverhair Pirates are strong, but they're no match for our fleet."
General Leto, a younger but equally confident officer, nodded. "I agree. With Admiral Kanji leading us, victory is assured."
General Corbin, always pragmatic, added, "We must remain vigilant. They've shown they can be resourceful and unpredictable."
Admiral Kanji listened to their conversation with a stoic expression. "Our objective is clear. We will capture Sergio D. Arthur and his crew. Do not underestimate them, but do not fear them either."
Vice Admiral Darius, a grizzled veteran with a no-nonsense attitude, chimed in. "The key is to strike quickly and decisively. We can't give them any room to maneuver."
Vice Admiral Helena, known for her tactical brilliance, nodded in agreement. "We'll overwhelm them with our numbers and firepower. They won't stand a chance."
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Back on the Silverhair Pirates' Ship
Arthur, still pondering the silence of the system, noticed the crew's dedication to their training. He felt a sense of pride and unity among them. Despite the lack of a reward, he knew that their strength lay in their bond and determination.
Lisa called down from the top deck. "Captain, everything looks clear ahead. We're on the right course."
Arthur nodded. "Good work, Lisa. Let's keep moving forward."
Surv emerged from the kitchen with a tray of sandwiches and tea. "Lunch is ready, everyone!"
The crew gathered on the deck, enjoying the meal together. The peaceful moment was a stark contrast to the battles they had faced and the challenges yet to come.
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The Navy Fleet Spots the Silverhair Pirates
Hours later, the Navy fleet continued its relentless advance. A Marine soldier on lookout duty took out his telescope and scanned the horizon. His eyes widened as he spotted a ship sailing in the distance. He focused on the pirate flag—a skull in the middle with two silver swords crossed behind it.
"It's the Silverhair Pirates!" the soldier shouted.
The deck erupted into action as Marines scrambled to their positions, ready to engage. The two vice admirals quickly reported to Admiral Kanji.
"Admiral, we've spotted the Silverhair Pirates," Vice Admiral Darius announced.
Admiral Kanji didn't order an immediate attack. Instead, he decided on a different approach. "Send two warships to deliver a warning. They are to surrender or face destruction."
The two warships, commanded by General Torin and General Marlo, were dispatched. The atmosphere on these ships was tense but confident, as they believed the Silverhair Pirates would either surrender or be easily defeated.
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The two Navy warships approached, the Silverhair Pirates noticed the impending threat. Arthur's sharp eyes caught sight of the Navy flags.
"Everyone, to your positions!" Arthur commanded. "Navy ships incoming!"
The crew sprang into action. Alex and Hiroshi prepared their weapons, Lisa adjusted their course, and Rio took position with his sniper rifle. Dr. Megulus quickly secured his research materials, while Surv ensured that the galley was ready for any emergencies.
The Navy warships closed in, and from their decks, General Torin and General Marlo issued the warning.
"Silverhair Pirates, this is the Navy! Surrender immediately or be destroyed!" General Torin shouted through a megaphone.
Arthur stood at the bow of the ship, his voice steady and unwavering. "We will not surrender. If you want a fight, you'll get one."
The tension in the air was palpable as both sides prepared for battle. The Silverhair Pirates knew they were outnumbered, but their resolve was unbreakable.
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The Navy warships opened fire, cannonballs whistling through the air towards the Silverhair Pirates' ship. Arthur's crew moved with precision and speed, using their training to dodge and deflect the incoming attacks.
Alex, using his Observation Haki, predicted the trajectory of the cannonballs, guiding the crew to avoid them. Hiroshi, with his enhanced swordsmanship, sliced through the cannonballs that came too close, protecting the ship from harm.
Lisa navigated their ship with expert skill, maneuvering them into a better position to counterattack. Rio, from his sniper's perch, took out key targets on the enemy warships, disrupting their operations.
Dr. Megulus, though a healer by nature, stood ready to tend to any injuries that might occur, his medical supplies at hand. Surv, ever resourceful, had prepared emergency rations and first aid kits, ensuring the crew could keep fighting without pause.
The Silverhair Pirates retaliated with their own cannons, aiming for the warships' masts and hulls. The battle was fierce and chaotic, the sea around them churning with the intensity of the conflict.
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Admiral Kanji's Decision
Back on the lead Navy ship, Admiral Kanji watched the battle unfold. He saw that the Silverhair Pirates were putting up a formidable defense, their skills and teamwork evident.
Vice Admiral Helena approached him, her expression concerned. "Admiral, should we intervene directly?"
Admiral Kanji considered for a moment, then shook his head. "Not yet. Let's see how they handle the initial assault. We'll join the fray if necessary."
Vice Admiral Darius, standing nearby, nodded in agreement. "The Silverhair Pirates are tougher than expected. We should be prepared for a prolonged engagement."
The tension among the Navy officers was palpable, but they remained confident in their superior numbers and firepower.
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On the Silverhair Pirates' ship, Arthur noticed a shift in the battle. Their coordinated efforts were starting to turn the tide. The Navy warships, though powerful, were struggling against the relentless and precise attacks of his crew.
"Keep it up, everyone!" Arthur shouted, his voice carrying over the din of battle. "We're gaining the upper hand!"
Alex, using his Observation Haki, spotted a weakness in one of the warships. "Captain, if we hit their main mast, we can disable that ship!"
Arthur nodded, relaying the command to Rio. "Take out their main mast, Rio!"
With a calm breath and steady aim, Rio fired his sniper rifle. The bullet struck true, shattering the main mast of one of the warships. The ship listed to one side, its crew scrambling to regain control.
Seeing the damage to their fleet, General Torin and General Marlo ordered a temporary retreat to regroup. The Navy warships pulled back, giving the Silverhair Pirates a moment to catch their breath.
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As the Navy warships retreated, the Silverhair Pirates took stock of their situation. The ship had sustained some damage, but the crew was unscathed, thanks to their training and quick reflexes.
Arthur gathered his crew on the deck. "We fought well today. But this is just the beginning. The Navy won't give up easily, and we need to stay vigilant."
Lisa nodded, her eyes determined. "We need to keep moving. Staying in one place makes us an easy target."
Hiroshi sheathed his sword, his expression serious. "We should expect more attacks. This was just a warning."
Surv handed out water and snacks, her cheerful demeanor lifting the crew's spirits. "We'll be ready for whatever comes next."
Dr. Megulus, ever practical, added, "I'll check on everyone's health. We need to be at our best."
Rio, still on lookout duty, kept his sniper rifle ready. "I'll keep watch. We won't be caught off guard again."
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Status de energia semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Pedra de
Poder