The first shot from the cannons usually serves as a ranging shot, especially for the high-trajectory mortar cannons. Adjusting the angle of the cannon barrel based on where the ranging shot lands is a necessary step.
However, one of the cannonballs happened to land right inside the pirates' defensive position.
The explosive power of black gunpowder isn't particularly great, only knocking down the two pirates who were closest. But flying shrapnel embedded itself in the chests and abdomens of both men, splattering blood all over the pirates nearby.
Before the pirates could react, the Guard Corps had already issued another round of artillery fire.
Based on the errors from the last round, the gunners made adjustments. This time, more than half of the cannonballs fell accurately into the midst of the pirates, immediately resulting in more sprays of blood.
After several rounds of bombardment, a Major also landed on the beach in a small boat.
