The anchor dropped as the Vindicator slowed to a stop. Danica waited for Fearless to take up its station on the starboard side, then it, too, lowered its anchor.
VindicatorFearlessJust to port, the Cygnet rowed past, heading for the docks. The ship had suffered no lasting damage other than a torn sail, but it would have been much worse had the Temple ship not stumbled across the scene.
CygnetShe made a mental note to seek out the ship’s owners, Sandro and Nadine Ripley, and see how they were doing. Laldor, the Vindicator’s sailing master, approached, his steps unsure.
Vindicator’s“Problem?” asked Danica.
“That depends on your point of view.”
“I’m guessing some people wish to remain aboard.”
“How did you know?”
“This isn’t the first time we’ve captured a provincial ship like the Vind
