The Gift

Fifteen days later.

"Boss!"

Aboard the Crimson Lotus, now back to full strength, all the pirates stood in a row, hands clasped behind their backs and chests held high.

"Bill, Butcher, and Wilson!"

Fang Yuan wore a cloak and a Pirate Captain's hat, with a Sailor's Knife bearing a golden hilt at his waist. Lolita and Kassenia, the newly converted witch, stood behind him with their heads bowed, like two maids.

Each time he called a name, the corresponding pirate stepped forward, his expression solemn.

"Do you know who they are?"

Fang Yuan looked around and asked loudly.

"Of course! That's our valiant Butcher, our so-so First Mate, and one cowardly captain!"

A mocking voice rang out among the pirates, followed by a burst of laughter.

Pirates were a motley crew of hard cases and scum, and those who sailed the Nightmare Sea and the Golden Sea were the cream of the crop.

The pirates recruited at Port Krukuru were, on average, a cut above the previous lot. Naturally, they were also more rebellious and difficult to tame.

They wouldn't dare challenge the authority of Fang Yuan, their Leader, but they certainly weren't going to be friendly to anyone they couldn't stand.

Butcher was doing all right, but Wilson and Bill seemed out of their depth.

"Bill and Butcher have followed me since our days off Ingsman, and Wilson's diligence is known to everyone... I promoted them to higher positions not only to reward them, but because I hope they'll play important roles."

"Boss..."

Bill's voice trembled. "I really can't be captain. Please let me come back!"

He truly wasn't up to the job. He especially lacked the strength to keep those pirates in line. If he continued as captain, he feared his own men would revolt and hack him