[i]As the thunderous storm rages overhead and the surges of the waves continue to rise and crash against the ship, repeated cannon fire rips across the deck tearing through the hull and blowing chunks of the upper deck wall to splinters, though they are quite difficult to differentiate from the torrential rain. The man in dark leathers holds tight to the rope in his hands as he stares far across the waves to the opposition. Indeed, both ships have taken severe damage by this point and a victor is not likely to see the storms end. He turns his head to the others; the red-headed woman expressing concerns and curiosity as to what fate has in store. The wizard's spell seems to secure his form in place upon the deck, yet he does not release his grip of the rope for even a moment.[/i]

"[color=7ea7d8]The ship has taken damage to the lower hull! We are taking on water from below, and we need to bring that to a halt.[/color]" [i]He looks first to the wizard as his dark eyes narrow in slight.[/i] "[color=7ea7d8]Use your spells to mend the patches as best you can![/color]" [i]A wave crashes hard against the side of the ship. The whining of wood rips through the air once more as the foremost mast snaps. It rips to shreds at the breakpoint and comes crashing down, slamming over the edge of the ship and flying off into the sloshing sea waves.[/i]

"[color=fff79a]Captain! Only ten cannons left, and the powder is nearly spent![/color]" [i]One of the crew cries out to the captain. The report ripples through the air with desperation. What few cannons remain intact continue firing at will, though more canons are ripping toward the great galleon than are being fired in return.[/i]

"[color=fff79a]Hold the canons, lads! Make them think we've gone dry and hold the last of the shots for close quarters! Prepare to board![/color]" [i]The captain cries out with a warlike cry, drawing his own sword above his head as he turns the wheel sharply to arch the ship more directly toward the opposition. The ship lurches in its won right with the sudden change, of course, smashing through oncoming waves. Four masts remain intact with their sails billowing fully in the storms bolstering winds.[/i]

"[color=7ea7d8]You heard him! Prepare for combat. You...[/color]" [i]He points toward the red-headed woman.[/i] "[color=6ecff6]See if you can get any of the canons back into position for additional shots as we draw close. They don't have to be fancy, just get them pointed outward with their fuses accessible. Have crew reload them![/color]" [i]He then looks to the tiefling.[/i] "[color=7ea7d8]You! Make sure every crew member is armed and help them prepare for boarding![/color]" [i]He shouts as if the captain himself.[/i]

[i]The opposing ship turns its direction and its course bears toward the great galleon directly. Canon fire continues to stream forth from forward guns as they approach nearer and nearer. Distant cries for blood rage through the shrill winds.[/i]