The Red-Haired Strategy

Chapter 63: The Red-Haired Strategy

Two Weeks Before the Alliance

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The Red-Haired Pirates' flagship, the Red Force, sailed through the turbulent waters of the New World with an air of calculated confidence. Shanks, the charismatic and formidable captain of the crew, stood on the deck, gazing out over the endless sea. His mind was filled with the challenges that lay ahead, and he knew that the path to becoming a dominant force in the world required not just strength, but strategic alliances.

Shanks had been contemplating an alliance for some time now. The balance of power in the world was precarious, with three formidable forces vying for supremacy: the Navy, the pirates, and the World Government. To survive and thrive in such a volatile environment, Shanks knew he needed allies he could trust—strong partners who could stand alongside him in battle and share his vision for a free and adventurous world

It was during one of these contemplative moments that Shanks received a report from his intelligence network. The report detailed the exploits of a relatively new but rapidly rising pirate crew: the Silver-Hair Pirates, led by Sergio D. Arthur. The more Shanks read about Arthur and his crew, the more intrigued he became.

Arthur's crew had recently recruited two powerful giants, Brogy and Dory, whose legends were well-known even in the New World. The Silver-Hair Pirates had also made a name for themselves with their daring battles and strategic victories, particularly their recent clash in Water 7, where they had shown exceptional prowess and tactical acumen. 

Shanks couldn't ignore the potential of such a crew. He admired Arthur's ability to attract strong and loyal followers, and he saw in the Silver-Hair Pirates the qualities that could make them invaluable allies. Shanks knew that to counter the combined threats of the Navy, other pirate crews, and the ever-watchful World Government, he needed allies who could bring more than just raw power to the table. The Silver-Hair Pirates, with their blend of strength, strategy, and diverse abilities, fit the bill perfectly.

As Shanks pondered this alliance, he received another piece of intelligence: the Silver-Hair Pirates were heading towards Sabaody Archipelago. This presented a perfect opportunity for Shanks to establish contact and propose the alliance. However, Shanks was also aware of the potential dangers and obstacles that could arise. He needed someone who could negotiate, strategize, and, if necessary, fight on equal terms with Arthur.

"Beckman," Shanks called out, his voice steady and commanding.

Benn Beckman, Shanks' trusted first mate and one of the most intelligent strategists in the pirate world, approached. "What's on your mind, Captain?"

Shanks handed Beckman the reports. "The Silver-Hair Pirates. They're making waves, and they're headed to Sabaody. I want you to go and propose an alliance."

Beckman scanned the reports, nodding thoughtfully. "You see potential in them?"

"More than that," Shanks replied. "Arthur and his crew have shown they're more than just powerful—they're smart, strategic, and they have the kind of spirit that could make them great allies. In the New World, we need partners who can think and fight like that."

Beckman smiled. "I'll make contact and see what we can work out. If they're as good as you say, this could be the start of something powerful."

Two weeks later, back on the Red Force, Shanks was awaiting news from Beckman. The anticipation was palpable among the crew. Everyone knew how crucial this alliance could be for their future endeavors.

The Den Den Mushi on the table in Shanks' quarters rang, and he picked it up immediately. "Beckman?"

"Captain," Beckman's voice came through, steady and confident. "The alliance is a success. Arthur agreed to join forces. We're set to meet up at Fishman Island to discuss our plans in detail."

A broad grin spread across Shanks' face. "Excellent work, Beckman. I knew you'd make it happen. What's your impression of Arthur and his crew?"

"They're impressive," Beckman replied. "Strong, smart, and they've got the kind of spirit we can work with. Arthur himself is formidable, and his crew is loyal and skilled. They'll make excellent allies."

Shanks leaned back in his chair, his mind already racing with the possibilities this alliance would bring. "Good. We'll prepare to head to Fishman Island and solidify our plans. This is just the beginning, Beckman. With the Silver-Hair Pirates on our side, we're going to shake the New World to its core."

As he ended the call, Shanks felt a renewed sense of purpose. The alliance with the Silver-Hair Pirates was a strategic masterstroke, one that would bolster their strength against the Navy, rival pirate crews, and the World Government. Together, they would navigate the turbulent waters of the New World, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead

Returning to the present, the Silver-Hair Pirates and Benn Beckman's contingent of the Red-Haired Pirates stood amidst the aftermath of their battle with the Navy and Beast Pirates. The ruins of the auction house bore witness to the ferocity of the clash, but the mood was one of triumph and camaraderie.

Arthur, addressing both crews, said, "This alliance marks a new chapter for us. Together, we will be stronger and ready for whatever the New World throws at us."

As the crews began their preparations to set sail, Beckman approached Arthur. "Shanks is eager to meet you, Arthur. He sees great potential in this alliance."

Arthur nodded. "I'm looking forward to meeting him too. Let's show the New World what we're capable of."