"Blood on the High Seas"

The captain parried Scorch's attack with ease, his sword flashing in the dim light as he deflected her claws. Scorch recoiled, her eyes narrowing as she prepared to strike again, but the captain was already moving, his gaze fixed on Sir Valoric. "You're the one they call the Knight of the Realm," the captain sneered, advancing on Sir Valoric. "I've heard a lot about you. Let's see if you're as good as they say." Sir Valoric drew his sword, his eyes locked on the captain as the two engaged in a fierce one-on-one battle. The deck was quiet, the only sound the clash of steel on steel as the two fighters exchanged blow for blow. Eira and Finnley watched anxiously, ready to intervene if needed, while Scorch hung back, her eyes scanning the deck for any signs of additional threats. The captain was a skilled fighter, but Sir Valoric was no pushover. The two clashed, their swords ringing out as they danced across the deck. The captain was strong, but Sir Valoric was faster, his movements economical and precise. Slowly but surely, Sir Valoric began to gain the upper hand, his sword slicing through the captain's defenses. The captain snarled, his face twisted in rage as he realized he was losing. He launched himself at Sir Valoric, their swords clashing in a flurry of steel and sparks. But as the captain stumbled backward, his eyes wild with desperation, it was clear he was running out of options. With a fierce cry, the captain launched himself at Sir Valoric, tackling the knight and sending them both tumbling over the side of the ship. Finnley, who had been watching the battle with rapt attention, was caught off guard and tumbled after them, his cry of alarm echoing across the water as the three plunged into the sea below. Scorch and Eira rushed to the edge of the ship, peering over the side as they watched their companions disappear beneath the waves. "Valoric!" Scorch cried, her voice shrill with worry. Eira's face was set in a grim mask. "We have to get them back," she said, her eyes scanning the water for any sign of their companions. Scorch didn't hesitate, spreading her wings as she prepared to plunge into the sea in pursuit of her friends.