The situation was bleak. Lyra lay unconscious, Jack was barely standing, and Mary's eyes were fluttering, fighting to stay open.
"Blimey," Jack muttered, glancing over his shoulder to see a line of navy men, muskets at the ready.
His mind raced, weighing their slim chances. Eyes darting across the battlefield, he sought anything that could turn the tide. His gaze locked on Gideon, and an idea sparked.
This'll come in handy, he thought grimly, swiftly maneuvering his arms under Gideon's and hoisting him up. With a hostage now in hand, he turned to face the navy directly.
"IF YE FIRE, YER LIEUTENANT BE DEAD! SO PICK A SIDE: SHOOT AND KILL US ALL, OR STAND DOWN AND HE LIVES!" Jack roared, his voice cutting through the chaos.
The navy men faltered, their disciplined formation wavering.
