Barraba's compromise marked the official formation of the explorer Fleet.
Although this fleet currently only had two ships, and one of them was dilapidated with only a few crew members, in Roger's plan, this was just the beginning.
Over the next few days, the entire shipyard entered its final sprint phase.
With Barraba, the "ATM," providing unreserved financial support, Roger spent money even more lavishly.
He not only bought the best canvas and ropes but also purchased a complete set of marine tools at a high price from an old shipwright who was about to retire.
It even included a simple sextant.
Although sextants of this era were still very crude, with Roger's "Basic Navigation Skills," its potential use far exceeded anyone's imagination in this era.
The repair work on the explorer was finally completed thanks to the tireless efforts of all the crew members, day and night.
When the last deck plank was laid and the last sail was hoisted onto the mast, a brand new and powerful warship perfectly appeared before everyone.
Its hull was painted deep black; this color not only absorbed sunlight better but also provided excellent concealment at night.
On both sides of the hull, eight dark 12-pound cannons, like beasts poised to strike, exuded a chilling killing intent.
On the main mast, a brand new flag was raised.
It was not the traditional pirate skull flag, but one personally designed by Roger.
On the black flag, an albatross embroidered with silver thread soared with outstretched wings.
Beneath the albatross's talons, it clutched a glowing compass.
The albatross was considered a divine bird by sailors, believed to bring good luck.
The compass, on the other hand, represented direction and exploration.
This flag symbolized Roger's ambition.
He wanted to soar freely across this vast sea like an albatross, exploring all unknown territories.
And... make more money!
"Brothers!"
Roger stood on the bow of the newly renovated the explorer, shouting loudly to the more than thirty spirited crew members on the deck.
Behind him, the albatross flag fluttered in the wind.
"Look at the ship beneath our feet! Look at the cannons beside us!"
"This ship, we created it little by little from a pile of rotten wood with our own hands!"
"From today onwards, it is our home at sea! It is our sword! It is our shield!"
His words were highly inflammatory, making every crew member who participated in the ship's repair feel proud and their blood boil.
"Now, our home is built, and our sword is sharpened!"
"Our first target is straight ahead!"
Roger drew the cutlass from his waist and pointed it in the direction of Port Royal.
"That is the lair of the British! It is the fortress of the Royal Navy!"
"There is countless wealth there, and also countless enemies!"
"Tell me, brothers, are you afraid?!"
"No!"
The more than thirty pirates roared deafeningly, using all their strength.
In their eyes, there was no fear, only a thirst for battle and greed for wealth.
They believed that following Roger, there would be no battle they couldn't win, and no treasure they couldn't seize!
"Very good!"
Roger put away his cutlass with satisfaction.
"Gibbs!"
"Aye! Captain!"
Gibbs had now completely adapted to his new identity as "First Mate."
"My orders! Hoist the mainsail! Weigh anchor!"
"Aye! Captain!"
"Billy!"
"Here! Captain!"
"Notify the sea serpent, tell them to follow!"
"If they fall behind, they can go feed themselves to the sharks!"
"Understood! Captain!"
With Roger's command, the entire the explorer instantly sprang into action.
The crew members skillfully climbed the mast and untied the sail ropes.
The huge mainsail, caught by the sea breeze, suddenly unfurled with a loud "whoosh."
The heavy anchor was slowly raised, splashing water.
the explorer's hull vibrated slightly and slowly began to leave the dock, heading towards the vast open sea.
Behind it, the sea serpent, looking considerably shabbier, also quickly hoisted its sails.
Like a meek daughter-in-law, it cautiously followed.
Roger stood at the bow, feeling the sea breeze on his face, listening to the cheers of the crew and their loud sea shanties, his heart filled with heroic ambition.
He glanced at the system panel.
Name: Roger
Era: Ancient
Technology Tree: Ancient Ship Technology (Activated)
Relic: Cursed aztec gold coin (1/882)
Gold Coins: 127
Main Quest: Era Advancement (In Progress)
Everything was developing in the direction he had planned.
His gaze swept across the shimmering sea, looking towards the distant horizon.
Port Royal.
Elizabeth Swann.
And that wild, yet legendary man.
Captain Jack Sparrow.
We will meet soon.
A smile of anticipation tugged at the corner of Roger's mouth.
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