Chapter 16

Suddenly the sound of cannon fire across The Alexandria’s bow shattered the calm. Thor looked up to the bridge. Captain Allison and both mates stood there, Iakob at the helm.

“Furl the sails!” the captain commanded.

The order was piped to the crew. Thor and the men scrambled into the rigging, gathered the canvases, and tied them off to the yardarms. They returned to the deck as The Alexandria slowed. The pursuing ship came alongside and slowed as well. Grappling hooks were thrown and lines belayed. The Alexandria was held captive.

“Show no resistance,” Captain Allison said.

The captain and officers came down to the deck. The crew stood and waited. Thor watched as the seamen, presumably pirates, from the other ship, cutlasses in hand, vaulted the rail and came to stand before the men of The Alexandria