Working methodically, the crew pried open the remaining two chests, discovering that each contained a similar bounty of precious metals and gemstones. Gold doubloons filled the containers nearly to capacity, interspersed with rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds that sparkled brilliantly in the torchlight. The wealth before them represented more than any of them could have earned in multiple lifetimes of honest work.
"Gentlemen, fortune has smiled upon us," Morgan announced solemnly, "but now comes the challenging part—transporting this wealth back to our vessel." The crew distributed the treasure among their canvas sacks, each man shouldering a burden that, while physically taxing, felt remarkably light given its life-changing implications.
The descent proved considerably more arduous than their ascent, with the combined weight of their loads testing their endurance. Three grueling hours later, they emerged onto the beach just as the tropical sun began its spectacular descent toward the horizon, painting the sky in vivid shades of amber, crimson, and violet.
Multiple trips were required to ferry the treasure from shore to ship, but the crew worked with unprecedented cooperation and efficiency. Once the final chest had been secured in the hold, Morgan ordered a celebratory feast. Rum flowed freely, and the crew's jubilant songs echoed across the tranquil Caribbean waters.
True to his reputation for fairness, Morgan implemented an equitable distribution system, ensuring each crew member received a proportional share based on their rank and contribution. Even young Tom found himself possessing enough wealth to transform his circumstances entirely—sufficient to purchase property, support his family, and live comfortably for years to come.
As they charted their course homeward, Tom approached the captain reflectively. "Sir, this has been the most extraordinary experience of my life," he confessed. Morgan, gazing at the star-filled sky, nodded thoughtfully. "Indeed. And the greatest treasure isn't the gold, Tom—it's the freedom it brings. We're no longer bound by necessity to this dangerous life. We can choose our own paths now." The ship sailed into the night, carrying not just treasure, but the promise of new beginnings for every soul aboard.