Although larger meant more cannons, it also meant they were bigger living targets.
...
Even though the three Captains were immersed in the joy of impending victory, they did not get carried away. After all, they had not yet acquired the Ruby larger than a pigeon egg; celebrating now would be premature.
As experienced old Captains, they methodically arranged the ship's affairs.
Nearing the pirate-infested region, the lookout on the ship perked up, attentively observing the distant sea through a single telescope.
A bit further, according to the Spanish Navy's anti-pirate tactics, they should deploy small reconnaissance boats ahead of the big ships to bring back pirate information.
The sailors on the ship were untying the ropes securing the small boat when suddenly, the lookout at the top of the mast let out a cry.
"Pirates!
It's a pirate ship!"
Immediately, his hand holding the telescope trembled and released the telescope.
