Forged Destiny [Book 8: Ch. 6]

The sudden shift in lines connecting our two ships caused the Greycloak vessel to drift to the side, swinging out suddenly as the wind caught its sails. Ours was anchored, making the sudden change in speed and direction sudden and powerful. There were more than a few startled cries from the deck and people fell – as did ballistae, sliding back across the deck and almost taking Nora out from behind.

Several crewmembers spilled over the railings and into the drink before someone not engaged in the fight leapt up and dragged down on the ropes, hauling the sails up. A loud clank and a splash echoed as the anchor was dropped, pirates seeking to fight off the boarding and crew the ship at the same time.

The distraction, as short as it was, gave my opponent the time he needed to recover. Or at least enough for my moment of opportunity to pass. Cursing silently and regaining my footing, I instead took the moment to consider my own options.

—Forged Destiny [Book 8: Ch. 6]