The Restitution shook from bow to stern, rattling Isabel's bones. The snap of taut cords and splitting wood filled the air, followed by a barrage of angry curses spewing from the pirates' lips.
Kent's weight lifted from her. "Osborn, damage report!" His commanding tone held no hint of panic.
"Minor, Captain, jist a crack in the foretop," came the quick reply.
Isabel staggered to her feet, the blast still ringing in her ears. Terror sent her heart into her throat.
Frederick was on that ship! Her son was in the midst of a sea battle!
Over one shoulder she saw the angry vessel still charging straight for them, smoke curling from the black muzzle of a swivel gun perched on her bow. Over the other, she saw Kent marching across the deck amidst an agitated sea of pirates rushing to their stations.
"Bring her to the wind, Mr. Hoornes," he yelled before turning to Smithy. "Have Logan run out the starboard battery."
"Aye, Cap'n." Smithy's shaggy head disappeared below.