Chapter 113: "Coloring the Blue-Striped Dogs"
TL: Etude
Boss! Boss!
The calls of his subordinates roused Gaden from his reverie.
Hmm? Whats up?
The ships almost loaded. Its time to go.
Alright, lets board.
Gaden led the remaining pirates briskly towards the shore.
Under the bright moonlight, four larger pirate ships loomed in the distance, their masts faintly adorned with skull flags.
Soon, they boarded a small boat, rowing vigorously towards the larger vessels. Due to the heavy load, the pirate ships couldnt approach the shore too closely to avoid grounding.
Reaching the big ship, they climbed the rope ladder to the deck.
A leader approached and reported, Boss, everythings ready.
Gaden commanded with gusto, Set sail!
The four galley ships started moving. Newly captured slaves, now serving as rowers, began their miserable fate amidst whips and curses.
In the cabin at the stern, Gaden and his leaders discussed their next move.
One reported, Our contacts in Port Fran say the Blue-Striped Dogs have equipped a new type of vessel, capable of swift sailing using only wind power.
Gaden was surprised, Really?
It was seen with his own eyes. And the Blue-Striped Dogs are continuing to recruit heavily, seemingly intent on wiping us out.
Gaden stroked his chin, pondering deeply.
With the mysterious new medicine boosting their confidence, Gadens men were filled with a strong sense of self-assurance, their admiration for their leader growing.
This time, well really show those Blue-Striped Dogs!
After we deal with them, other pirate groups will be begging to join us!
I always said, following Boss Gaden leads to great prospects.
The pirates chattered among themselves, seemingly assured of their victory.
Suddenly, Gaden slammed his fist on the table, startling everyone into silence.
Frowning, he looked sternly at his crew, Getting a bit ahead of ourselves, arent we? Weve only just started to rise, and already youve forgotten your places.
Remember, we are still the underdogs. Although we number six to seven hundred, surpassing the Alda Navy, dont forget that Grayman commands a land army of over a thousand.
Have you already forgotten how quickly the Quake and Shark gangs were wiped out? That was just a few months ago!
Gaden berated them for half an hour, showing his frustration.
Exhausted from scolding, he guzzled water from a jug, then sat silently with a stern face.
A leader cautiously tried to appease him, Heh, Boss Gaden, youre right. Weve been a bit arrogant lately. But thats only because of your outstanding leadership. Well definitely correct our ways and follow you properly.
The others chimed in agreement:
Yes, weve been a bit dazed by our recent growth.
Were not used to having so many men under our command.
After everyone had expressed their commitment, Gaden nodded, his voice softening, Im not really angry with you all. Our fleets growth is due to everyones hard work. Im constantly on edge, fearing a single misstep could ruin everything weve built.
Moved by his words, the pirates reaffirmed their loyalty.
Gaden declared, Alright, lets continue discussing how to draw out the Alda Navys main force.