Chapter 74: Pirate Competition
At noon the next day, black flags fluttered ominously over Iron Anchor Bay. Over a thousand pirate ships of various sizes had left their berths, spreading out across the vast waters like a dark storm cloud extending to the horizon. Despite their chaotic appearance, the ships were clearly divided into two opposing factions.
One side was led by the 'Vengeful Goddess,' flagship of Edward Redbeard, the vice-chairman of the Captains' Parliament. The other was under the command of the 'Flaming Rose,' helmed by Violet Harold, the Bay Princess. The former's fleet was noticeably larger than the latter's.
Before the competition began, all the pirates had already chosen their sides. Byron and his 'Golden Hind' naturally aligned with Redbeard. To maintain control over his motley crew, Redbeard had strategically placed his confidants on different pirate ships, each commanding a sub-fleet of loyal pirates.