The sun had set, and the East Blue shimmered under a blanket of stars. The small vessel carried Maris and her growing crew toward their final recruits, the distant melodies of instruments floating through the night air.
Maris scanned the quiet docks. Two more musicians awaited: Cadence Chime, a lively percussionist, and Armonia Riff, a precise wind instrumentalist.
Cadence's drums echoed through the bustling port town. Short, with dark blue hair and playful energy, she moved with perfect rhythm and timing.
"I'm Maris D. Luna," Maris said. "Join us. Your energy and rhythm can inspire, protect, and coordinate our crew."
Cadence grinned. "Alright, I'll join. But I play my way."
"Welcome aboard," Maris said, smiling.
Finally, a serene square carried the sharp, precise notes of wind instruments. Armonia, medium-height with silver-violet hair, played with calculated focus.
Maris approached. "Your precision, strategy, and stealth can guide the crew. Join us as our final musician."
Armonia studied them carefully, then nodded. "I'll join—but I operate my way."
"Perfect," Maris said. "Welcome to the Gale Serpents, Armonia Riff."
The full crew now stood together on the small vessel: Selene, Lyra, Brina, Maeve, Aria, Tessa, Selia, Namiya, Lyric, Cadence, and Armonia. Two trainees watched from the side, wide-eyed with admiration.
Maris stood at the bow, dark blue eyes calm yet burning with determination. "The Gale Serpents are ready. Together, we face storms, enemies, and the unknown. One day, we will have a ship worthy of our strength… but until then, we sail with what we have."
The vessel rocked gently in the night breeze. The sea stretched endlessly, dangerous and beautiful—but for the Gale Serpents, it was no longer just a challenge. It was home.
And thus, the journey of the Gale Serpents Pirates truly began.