Pirates?

The Refugee Camp was a human structure designed to attract displaced people and bolster population growth. The elves had their equivalent, called the "Guiding Tree," which served a similar purpose—drawing in wandering elves to settle.

Natural population growth was far too slow for Adrian Eternus's plans. For humans, it took over fifteen years for a newborn to become a productive worker or soldier. Elves required nearly a century, and even orcs, with their faster maturation, still needed about ten years.

Adrian didn't have decades to spare. Structures like the Refugee Camp and Guiding Tree offered a faster solution. The Refugee Camp attracted human exiles, while the Guiding Tree drew in wandering elves.

With this knowledge, Adrian had devised his plan for Windrise Island. First, he would clear a safe area and establish a camp for his men. Next, he would locate a suitable site to plant the Tree of Life and construct a Guiding Tree to attract elven travellers.

Following that, he would build Moonwells and Fountains of Life to revitalise the land. With humans and elves working together, Windrise Island would become a thriving settlement.

Adrian could hardly wait to begin. He stood on the deck of the "Titanus," eager for the ship to reach its destination. But as they neared the island, an unexpected problem arose.

On the sixth day of their voyage, just one day from Windrise Island, a black ship appeared on the horizon.

At first, Adrian was confused. Why would a ship be in such a desolate area? The route they were sailing wasn't a standard trade path. Most ships left Revernus, heading toward human ports like Flora in Chlorand or Burrow in the west. Beyond those ports lay the Emerald Sea, home to powerful nations like the Evernus Federation and the three great empires.

Others travelled east into orc territories, where unique goods were valuable in human markets. Some ventured southeast to Shire, home to dwarves. Shire's dwarves were renowned for the advanced mechanical products sought after by many.

But few ventured southwest, where Windrise Island lay. That route led only to the Cold Sea, with no trade hubs or settlements. Except for Windrise, there was nothing.

Adrian quickly concluded that this wasn't a merchant ship. He summoned the ship's captain, a veteran named Harp.

"Harp, can you tell what kind of ship that is?"

Harp leaned over the railing, squinted at the distant black ship, and used the binoculars he always carried.

"Of course I can!" Harp exclaimed. "It's a fast sailing ship, similar to our 'Titanus'..."

"Double-masted, with large sails…"

"The hull is narrow and streamlined. It can't carry much cargo, but it's built for speed… By the gods, IT'S A PIRATE SHIP!"

Harp's voice cracked into a near scream. Panic rippled through the crew. Seafarers feared three things above all: unstoppable storms, colossal sea monsters, and ruthless pirates.

Legends of pirates portrayed them as savage predators, roaming the seas like wolves. When they spotted a valuable target, they attacked without hesitation, showing no mercy.

Adrian's mood darkened. Of all the challenges they might have faced, running into pirates just a day from Windrise Island was a cruel twist of fate.

Harp began barking orders to flee, but Adrian stopped him with a raised hand.

"You know as well as I do that their ship is faster," Adrian said. "We're loaded with cargo and supplies. We can't outrun them."

"Then what do we do?" Harp asked, his voice trembling.

Adrian smirked. "We fight. Do you think the Shadowborn Mercenaries turn into cowards just because we're at sea? We're not some helpless merchants!"

His words sparked a flicker of hope among the crew. The Shadowborn Mercenaries were no ordinary travellers. With over 200 seasoned fighters aboard, they weren't easy prey.

Adrian quickly organised his men, ensuring their weapons were ready. The "Titanus" slowed and prepared to face the approaching pirate ship.

As the pirate ship drew closer, Adrian's expression shifted. His initial severity turned into something unexpected—a smile.

The pirate crew, heads wrapped in filthy white cloth, stood on deck ready for battle. Fortunately, their ship lacked artillery, which would have made the fight far more dangerous.

"Shall we fire first?" Karl, Adrian's lieutenant, asked.

Adrian shook his head. "No need."

"Wait until they're closer?"

"Yes." Adrian's grin widened.

When the pirate ship was close enough for voices to carry over, Adrian cupped his hands around his mouth and bellowed, "Burggy! You stinking brat! Robbing me, are you? Get out here!"

The pirates froze in confusion. Burggy was their captain, but how did this man know him?

Moments later, a muscular young man emerged onto the deck of the pirate ship. He squinted at Adrian, then broke into a wide grin.

"Adrian? Hah! What are you doing here?"

Adrian laughed. "I could ask you the same question, you fool! You're out here raiding, and you almost attacked me!"

Burggy scratched the back of his head sheepishly. "Didn't expect to run into you. Been a while, hasn't it?"

The tense atmosphere aboard both ships evaporated as the two old acquaintances began talking. Burggy quickly called off his crew, and Adrian ordered his men to stand down.

"Come aboard, Burggy," Adrian said. "Let's catch up. I've got plans, and I could use a man like you."

Burggy hesitated for a moment before nodding. "All right, Adrian. Let's see what trouble you're stirring up now."

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