The Swift was close enough that they could hear yelling as the pirate crew began to realize the danger they were in. The prow of the ship struck the ice, emitting a crunching and scraping noise that echoed across the intervening water. Athgar watched as many of the pirates on the enemy deck flew forward, and at least one of the archers fell overboard, landing heavily onto the ice.

The second galley, following behind the first, but off to one side, now moved into the lead, its rowers working in unison. Runell barked out a command, and his crew leaped to the ropes. The Swift began a slow turn, from northwest to southwest, turning its flanks to the approaching enemy.

The catapult on this new enemy looked different, and Athgar watched as someone lit the end of the giant bolt. A moment later, there was a twang, and the projectile sailed through the air, ripping through the Swift's sail, setting it alight. The boatswain called out in alarm, but Athgar moved swiftly, invoking his magic to extinguish the flame.

Natalia repeated her spell, but her aim was off. Ice formed on the surface of the water, but the nimble enemy adjusted their direction and sailed past it. The pirates on their deck cheered as they drew closer, crowding the railing with grappling hooks in hand as the second galley approached.

Runell turned the ship once more, forcing the enemy to adjust their trajectory. The galley was now coming at them head-on, aimed directly towards the middle of the Swift.

Athgar fired off a streak of flame, but it missed the target, landing harmlessly beyond. "Gods!" he yelled in frustration.

The ballista was being turned in his direction, and he concentrated, calling forth his spark. This time, instead of a streak of flame, he set the enemy weapon alight. Flames licked from the wooden arms of the machine, and then the operator jumped back in alarm.

The first galley, still off in the distance, had taken control of the situation with their men clambering down onto the ice and were attempting to free themselves with axes. The second, however, was almost close enough to touch.

Natalia called forth more ice, this time targeting the bow of the nearest galley. They all watched as frost formed where the hull met the water, and then ice starting spreading out. The enemy vessel immediately slowed, letting the Swift pull ahead of them.

Athgar and Natalia ran to the rear of their ship and watched as the galley fell behind. An archer climbed down onto the ice, bow in hand, and lined up a shot. Natalia sent forth shards of ice, striking the man in the chest and knocking him back, leaving a red smear.