Just like the 'fake' Phantom Pirates who caused a stir with their theatrical arrival, the appearance of the so-called 'real' Phantom Pirates stirred another wave of attention among the immortal practitioners in Veins Peak.
A ghostly ship—blackened wood creaking with each wave, its sails tattered and marked with ominous sigils—emerged from the morning fog. Its arrival was eerie but unmistakable, moving like a shadow cast by something far darker. The ship bore a Jolly Roger not easily forgotten: a skull bleeding crimson tears.
Gasps rose from the portside crowd.
"Is that Shadow Pearl?…"
"No, It's them. The real Phantom Pirates."
The ghost-ship docked with slow, deliberate motion, drawing closer like a beast stalking its prey. A cloaked figure standing at the prow tossed a small leather pouch toward one of the dock attendants. The pouch hit the ground with a soft thud, revealing its contents—stacks of Lydia notes.
