Inside a mansion on the edge of Calimport's market district.
A slightly plump male Half-Elf sat in a chair, staring nervously at the room's door as though waiting for something.
He was none other than Muke, who had resolved to kill his master and strike out on his own.
Though among chaotic pirate crews, betrayals like this were quite commonplace.
Some pirate crews even killed an old captain who failed to lead them to greater plunder after only a few weeks, then elected a new one.
But Harlett was different!
Since putting to sea, Captain "Bloodhand" had never experienced so much as a single mutiny.
Because anyone who attempted to betray him either vanished without a trace or was thrown into the sea to feed the fish before their plans could take shape.
After all, Harlett was not one of those brainless fools who only knew how to indulge in violence and death.
He was exceptionally clever and perceptive. Not only did he know how to keep his ambitious subordinates in line, but he also maintained extremely close ties with Amn's Shadow Thieves.
Otherwise, the fleets Athkatla had dispatched against him on several occasions would have wiped him out long ago.
If he had not confirmed that Harlett was currently imprisoned and captive, Muke truly would not have dared take such a gamble.
Thinking of the horrifying retaliation he might suffer if the venture failed, his heart filled with struggle and dread. Without even raising his head, he asked, "How long has it been? Has no one returned yet?"
The other man standing in the dim corner gently shook his head. "Not yet. But I think they should be back soon. Yelinya received the harshest training from Amn's Shadow Thieves, and she performed outstandingly in several missions to eliminate rival