The Legacy of the Uncharted

~ Chapter 22 ~ Conference room continues

As the discussion heated up in the brightly lit conference room of the city headquarters, the high-ranking officers debated the rise of Alexandria and her crew. Just as Commander Aveline and her council were about to finalize their decision, the door creaked open, and a new figure stepped into the room.

Dressed in an elaborate navy coat with golden epaulettes, the man's presence immediately commanded attention. His slicked-back hair and sharp eyes hinted at the confidence of someone who had seen many battles at sea.

- Unknown Man : I like the idea of pirates attacking each other. We should reward them."

The room fell silent as the man stepped forward, smirking as he approached the table. Commander Aveline raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed by the sudden interruption.

- Commander Aveline : Who are you, and why are you interrupting our meeting?"

- Unknown Man : Captain Rael Stirling. I command a fleet in the Southern Seas. I've been watching this group of pirates for some time now."

Captain Barron frowned, unsure of what to make of Stirling's sudden arrival.

- Captain Barron : And what exactly do you want, Stirling?"

Captain Stirling leaned casually against the table, surveying the faces of the council members.

- Captain Stirling : It's simple. If these pirates are attacking other pirates, they're doing our job for us. I say we encourage them—give them rewards for wiping out the scum that plague the seas."

Admiral Quinn's eyes narrowed, his voice calm but calculating.

- Admiral Quinn : You suggest we support them? They're still pirates."

- Captain Stirling : Not exactly. I suggest we use them. Let them do the dirty work. In the meantime, we sit back and watch. If they step out of line, we take them down ourselves. But for now, they could be a useful tool."

Commander Aveline's expression remained cold, but there was a flicker of intrigue in her eyes. The idea was unconventional, but it had merit.

- Commander Aveline : So, you're suggesting we turn them into our weapon? Set them against the worst of the pirates, and when they become too powerful, we eliminate them?"

Captain Stirling grinned.

- Captain Stirling : Exactly. It's a win-win. The seas become safer, and when the time is right, we rid ourselves of a potential threat."

The council members exchanged glances, murmuring amongst themselves. There was a sense of hesitation, but also an understanding that this plan could work in their favor.

- Captain Barron : It's a risky game. What if they gain too much support? Too much power?"

- Captain Stirling : That's where we come in. We'll monitor them closely. The moment they grow too influential, we strike. Until then, let them play pirate heroes. The bounty on their heads will keep them on their toes."

Admiral Quinn tapped his fingers thoughtfully on the table.

- Admiral Quinn : I'm not entirely opposed to this plan, but we need to be careful. If we're seen rewarding pirates, it could create chaos."