As the crew sailed further away, the darker it got and their only source of light was the moon. The moonlight danced and shimmered as it played with the ever-moving waves, creating a mesmerizing view that seemed to stretch into eternity.
Despite the beauty of the noiseless darkness, it gives an unnerving experience to some as the occasional crash of waves against the ship's sides jolted them from their peaceful rest, making the inexperienced think that there were creatures beneath them hitting the ship.
Meanwhile, the experienced pirates moved about the ship with efficiency, their faces lighted by the faint glow of lanterns. They navigated the inky darkness with ease as their experience allowed them to read the slightest cues from the water and the stars above. To them, the night was a companion rather than an enemy to be afraid of.
After countless hours of sailing through the haunting silence of the night, the first faint hints of dawn began to paint the sky. The horizon slowly gave way to the soft, rosy hues of morning, as if the world itself was awakening from a deep slumber.
"Morning finally breaks," Hugo remarked, his voice filled with a sense of relief.
Leo nodded, his seasickness now a distant memory. "I never thought I'd be so glad to see the sun."
Jax, who had been quiet throughout the night, faced Leo. "I was more afraid of you throwing up again."
"That's true." agreed Bennet smiling.
As they conversed about the mission ahead, a sudden shout from one of the pirates disrupted their discussion. All eyes turned toward the source of the commotion, a lookout perched high in the crow's nest.
"What's going on up there?" Hugo asked, his brows furrowing in concern.
Without waiting for an answer, the young warriors quickly made their way to the upper deck, where the lookout continued to point frantically toward the east side of the ship.
"What is it?" Captain Kai inquired, a sense of unease gnawing at him.
The lookout finally managed to compose himself enough to speak. "There's a ship, Captain Kai. It's approaching from the east. It's still far, but it's getting closer."
As the mysterious ship drew nearer, it became clear that it was no ordinary vessel. Its size and design were unlike any they had seen before—a formidable warship adorned with dark, ominous colors.
"Captain, what do we do?" the elf pirate asked, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword.
Captain Kai's expression remained steely as he observed the approaching warship. "We'll maintain our course for now, but be prepared for anything."
The warship kept on approaching until they could see it close, it was clad in dark attire and armed to the teeth. It has no emblem thus no one could tell from what pirate crew is it or from what country.
Captain Kai, ever the vigilant leader, reached for his telescope and focused it on the approaching vessel. He scrutinized the distant ship for several moments, his brows furrowing as he studied its flag, which snapped defiantly in the wind.
A smile suddenly spread across Captain Kai's face, he lowered the telescope and turned to face his crew.
"It's an ally," he announced with a tone of relief in his voice. "Their flag marks them as the 'Watchers.'"
The 'Watchers'—a name that had become synonymous with peace and support. They were an organization committed to eradicating piracy from the seas and had pledged to send fighters to aid the Moon Raiders in their battle against the pirates who conquered the island.
As the 'Watchers' ship drew nearer, the Moon Raiders prepared to receive their allies. Crew members scurried about, ensuring that the ship was in presentable condition. Tensions eased, but they remained vigilant, understanding that even allies could hold secrets and surprises.
Finally, the 'Watchers' ship came alongside the Moon Raiders, their vessels now sailing side by side. The crew of the 'Watchers' ship was a disciplined and formidable-looking group, their expressions determined.
From the 'Watchers' ship, a figure stepped forward onto a small rowboat. With strong and confident strokes, he rowed toward the Moon Raiders, every movement exuding a sense of purpose. As he drew nearer, Bennet and Hugo exchanged puzzled glances. There was something oddly familiar about this figure.
The rowboat reached the Moon Raiders' ship, and the figure climbed aboard with an air of authority. As he straightened up, the sunlight revealed his face, leaving Bennet and Hugo stunned.
"It can't be," Hugo muttered, disbelief in his voice.
The figure stood tall before them, a smile playing at the corners of his mouth. "Surprised to see me, boys?"
It was none other than Captain Robert, the captain of the White Wolf division who saved them from the Silver Blade pirated and the very man they had believed to be dead.
Bennet and Hugo stared at their former captain in shock, their minds struggling to process the impossible sight before them.
Captain Kai extended a hand to Captain Robert, a mix of surprise and relief on his face. "It seems you know these boys, I'm Kai the Captain of the Moon Raiders".
"I'm Robert, the captain of the White Wolf division. These two are my nephews."
Bennet and Hugo nodded in agreement, their mouths still unable to form words. The secret of their true identities remained concealed, as Captain Robert had wisely decided not to reveal the extent of their relationship.
Captain Kai, always astute and perceptive, accepted Captain Robert's explanation with a friendly nod. "Well, Robert, it's a pleasure to meet you. I have been with your nephews through quite a bit."
With the formalities out of the way, Captain Robert turned his attention to the matter at hand—the mission to liberate the town from the pirates. He outlined the details of his experiences and the information that they had gathered about the pirate crew that took over the land.
After their discussion, Bennet and Hugo took the opportunity to speak privately with Captain Robert. They were eager to catch up and learn more about his miraculous survival.
"Captain Robert," Hugo began, "we can't believe you're alive. We thought you were lost at sea after the Silver Blade pirates' attack."
"It was a close call, my boys, but I managed to escape. A lot has happened since then, and I'll share the full story with you when the time is right." Captain Robert's face softened.
"But it seems you've grown stronger in my absence. I'm proud of the warriors you've become." Robert said noticing how the boys grew taller and bulkier.
Robert decided to share the information with Hugo and Bennet to keep their emotions in place once they faced their enemies, he revealed the LeRuk pirates were their target but they were under the Silver Blade pirates.
"The LeRuk pirates are indeed a formidable force," Robert began. "Their captain, Travis Dillinger, is a rising star in the world of piracy. He's known for his cunning and audacity. The man has managed to escape from prison over three times, earning himself quite the reputation."
"But what worries me more," Robert continued, "is the possibility that some members of the Silver Blade pirates may be involved. If that's the case, this mission just became even more dangerous."
"Don't worry Robert, Hugo and I know our limits. We won't overdo it," said Bennet, Hugo nodded as well.
"Was it just by chance that you accepted the request for this mission?" asked Hugo.
Ah, a perceptive one, aren't you? No, it wasn't a mere chance. Before departing on this mission, I had a meeting with General Mustafa and he told me that you are in this region" answered Robert as he leaned against the ship's railing.
"So when the request for this mission reached my ears, I saw it as an opportunity to reunite with you two in the kingdom of Alfira." Rober continued. "I must admit,"
"I didn't expect to meet you both here in the actual mission," Robert said with a hearty laugh.
Bennet nodded, a sense of gratitude washing over him. "We're fortunate enough to know that you escaped, Robert."
"Of course, the journey of the White Wolf division lives on." Captain Robert smiled warmly.
After their heartfelt reunion and discussions, the hours slipped by as hours passed, and the atmosphere aboard the ship buzzed with activity and anticipation.
The Moon Raiders, The watchers, and the warriors conducted briefings, exchanged strategies, and brainstormed ideas to ensure they were well-prepared for any possible scenario they might encounter on their mission.
Captain Kai, with his extensive experience in dealing with pirates and his knowledge of the local waters, was a valuable resource. He outlined the various tactics and maneuvers they might employ to approach the island stealthily and evade enemy detection. His strategic insights were well-received by the group, and they eagerly absorbed his wisdom.
On the other hand, Captain Robert brought a unique perspective to the table. Having faced the Silver Blade pirates and their allies before, he shared valuable information about their tactics, strengths, and weaknesses. His firsthand experience provided critical insights that could make all the difference in their upcoming battles.
As the day wore on, the crew's thoughts turned to sustenance. A hearty meal was prepared, and the scent of hot food wafted through the air, tempting even the most battle-hardened among them. They gathered in the ship's mess hall, a diverse group of individuals bound by a common purpose.
Amidst the merriment, Captain Kai raised a toast to their mission. "To unity, to purpose, and to the unwavering spirit that brings us together. May we sail into the unknown with courage and return with victory."
The crew raised their cups, echoing Captain Kai's sentiment. It was a moment of unity and resolve, a reaffirmation of their commitment to one another and their mission.
With their bellies full and their spirits high, the crew returned to their preparations. The day was still young, and they knew that the challenges ahead would require them to be at their best. Weapons were checked and readied, equipment was inspected, and plans were fine-tuned.
As night descended upon the sea, casting a shroud of darkness over the restless waters, the crew of the Moon Raiders, the White Wolf division, and the warriors readied themselves for the impending assault on Villanor, the island that had fallen under the control of the ruthless LeRuk pirates.