Three years later, the Sea Serpent had become notorious on the high seas. Jana's leadership had transformed the crew into a formidable force. Their quest for the Tear of the Siren had turned them into merchant pirates, feared and respected in equal measure. They sailed the same waters, ever vigilant for clues to the Tear's whereabouts, becoming legends in their own right.

The morning sun glinted off the ship's polished wood as the crew bustled about, preparing for the day's journey. Jana stood at the helm, her eyes scanning the horizon. Today was no ordinary day; they were on the trail of a lead that could bring them closer to the Tear.

Below deck, Brannon, the Sea Serpent's enforcer, kept a watchful eye on the crew. A tough and straightforward man, Brannon maintained order and discipline with an iron hand. Despite his gruff exterior, thoughts of his daughter left behind often softened his demeanor. The memory of Rodrick's reign was still present in his mind, and he often found himself grappling with the change in leadership.

Brannon watched as Jana gave orders from the helm. It still felt strange to see her standing there, where Rodrick had once commanded with an iron fist. He had been fiercely loyal to Rodrick, and even though three years had passed, the memory of the former captain's rule lingered.

Jana noticed Brannon's lingering gaze and approached him. "Is there a problem, Brannon?"

Brannon straightened up, his face a mask of professionalism. "No, Captain. Just keeping an eye on things."

Jana studied him for a moment. "You've been quiet lately. Still thinking about the old days?"

Brannon's jaw tightened. "It's hard not to. Rodrick was... different. Harsh, but he got results."

Jana nodded, understanding. "And do you think we haven't gotten results under my command?"

Brannon met her gaze, his eyes reflecting the internal conflict he had been grappling with. "We have, Captain. It's just... different. The way you lead, it's not what we are used to" he said while looking at nothingness "I am not complaining" he added ate the end smiling at her.

Jana placed a hand on his shoulder, a rare gesture of camaraderie. "Change is never easy, Brannon."

Brannon glanced around, seeing the bustling activity on deck, the camaraderie among the crew. He nodded slowly. "Aye, Captain. It's just taking much time than expected."

Jana gave him a reassuring smile while patting his shoulder before turning back to the helm. Brannon watched her go, a renewed sense of resolve settling over him. The Sea Serpent was no longer a ship ruled by fear, but by loyalty and respect. They were a family; bound together by their shared quest and the trials they had overcome.

The word "family" made Jana uneasy. Deep down, she knew that this life she was leading wasn't forever. Sooner or later, she would have to leave them behind to complete her mission for the UOTC. The thought weighed heavily on her, a constant reminder of the transient nature of her place among the crew. Yet, for now, she pushed those feelings aside and focused on the task at hand, cherishing each moment with her makeshift family.

"Captain!" Maren's voice called down from the crow's nest. "Ship on the horizon! Looks like a merchant vessel."

Jana's eyes narrowed. "Prepare for a heist," she ordered, her voice calm and authoritative.

The crew sprang into action, their movements swift and coordinated. Jana felt a sense of satisfaction as she watched them work. They were a well-oiled machine, each member playing their part to perfection.

As the Sea Serpent drew closer to the merchant ship, Jana's thoughts turned to the Tear of the Siren a journey that was far from being over and that is lasting longer than she would have hoped for.

The ship's whistle blew, and the pirates swung into action. Grappling hooks were thrown, and the two ships were soon locked in a deadly embrace. Jana led the charge, her cutlass flashing in the sunlight. The merchant crew, unprepared for the ferocity of the attack, quickly surrendered.

After the heist, the deck of the Sea Serpent was bustling with activity as the crew divided the spoils and tended to the wounded. Jana walked among them, ensuring everything was in order, when she noticed Liora Valentina, the ship's healer, moving swiftly from one injured crew member to another.

Liora, the only noble aboard, hailed from the esteemed House Drakenwood had been kidnapped by Captain Rodrick for her extensive knowledge of herbs and healing. Despite her privileged background, she had adapted to her harsh new life, though her noble status made her an outcast among the crew. Her still-malnourished state was a testament to the neglect she suffered, but her skills remained unaffected, her hands steady and precise as ever.

"Hold still," Liora commanded gently but firmly as she wrapped a bandage around a sailor's arm. Her hands moved with practiced precision, applying ointments and herbs to wounds. Despite her own hardships, she worked tirelessly to ensure the crew's well-being.

Jana approached her as she finished tending to a particularly deep gash on a crew member's leg. "How are they, Liora?"

Liora looked up, her expression calm despite the chaos around her. "They'll live, Captain. A few deep wounds, but nothing that won't heal with time."

Jana nodded, appreciating the healer's dedication. "Thank you, Liora."

Liora responded with a small smile, a rare sight.

In the midst of the activity and preparations for their next venture, a lookout's voice rang out, clear and urgent. "Messenger approaching!"

The crew halted, eyes turning towards the approaching figure. The man, travel-worn and weary, looked out of place amidst the bustling deck. He was escorted by a couple of wary crew members, their hands resting on their weapons.

Jana stepped forward, her eyes narrowing as she took in the stranger. "Who are you, and what business do you have here?"

The messenger bowed slightly, trying to catch his breath. "I bring news, Captain. A lead on the Tear of the Siren."

Murmurs spread through the crew; skepticism evident in their eyes. Brannon stepped closer, his expression hard. "And why should we trust you? We've had our fair share of liars and cheats."

The messenger met Brannon's gaze steadily. " I swear on my life, the information I carry is genuine."

Jana crossed her arms, scrutinizing the man. "As if your life was worth something. Speak then. What is this lead you have?"

The messenger hesitated. "A share of the treasure, if you find it. Enough to start a new life away from all this."

Jana's eyes hardened. "You'll get no share of the treasure. I'll give you some coin if that. Take it or jump overboard." She laughed, her voice carrying a dangerous edge.

The messenger frowned, clearly displeased, but nodded reluctantly. "Fine. Coin it is."

Jana signaled to Brannon, who handed the messenger a small pouch of coins. The man weighed it in his hand, then sighed. "There is an empty island, not far from here. It is said that a relic matching the description of the Tear was seen there."

The crew exchanged glances, some intrigued, others still doubtful. Brannon grunted. "And why should we believe you?"

The messenger met Brannon's gaze, determination in his eyes. "I have nothing else to gain. If I lie, you have my life in your hands. I simply wish to benefit from this knowledge."

Jana studied him for a moment longer, then nodded slowly. "Very well but if you've led us astray, you better hide from me."

The messenger nodded fervently. "I understand, Captain."

With the crew still murmuring among themselves, Jana turned to Brannon. "Set a course for the island. We'll see if this lead is worth our time."

As the Sea Serpent adjusted its sails and changed direction, the anticipation among the crew was palpable. They were one step closer to their goal, but little did they know of the dangers that awaited them on the island.