The sky had turned dark, casting an ominous shadow over the surrounding islands. Silence enveloped the area as the night settled in, except for the nocturnal animal sounds. The rotation of the night shift soldiers guarding the camp had commenced as scheduled.
The camp chief's face was etched with frustration, and he shouted, "Cr*p! Why haven't they returned yet?"
His words reflect the growing unease in his expression. Seated at a table within the main barrack of the Ardel stronghold camp with him was Captain Blackmane of the Calico Pirates of the East, the leader of the pirates and mercenaries group.
The pirate captain reclined in his chair, legs stretched out upon the wooden table, projecting an air of nonchalance. The camp chief, also a high-ranking Knight of Barges, was seemingly annoyed by the pirate captain's seemingly uncaring demeanour.
He lashed out to him, "Remove your feet from my table, you wretched scoundrel!"
