Sunday, May 17, 2015

Diversion


A barren rock north of Île-de-Suillen saw a small action as a group of Formaggian frigates attempted to lure the Glambrian frigate escorts away from their ferry's path. The forces were roughly equal in size, with three larger and two smaller frigates on each side. 


The wind favored the attackers, so they arrived at full sail, while the Glambrian ships turned more slowly. This time the Formaggian crews were on par with their enemies: Giulio Nero, brother of Commodore Franco Nero led the squadron: he had a letter of marque from Chancellorette Schiavona, and was determined to make up for his previous sins committed under the black flag.


The smaller frigates soon met: the Glambrians, missing a chance to take the initiative, formed line of battle.


The situation became explosive east of the island as more and more ships got entangled in combat... A small Formaggian frigate bow raked the leading Glambrian heavier ship, dismasting it.


The Formaggian main battle line steered closer, but neither side felt the urge to close in, so they bombarded each other from a distance. Another Glambrian ship lost its bowsprit.


Captain Nero finally ordered the squadron to advance. One ship seized the opportunity and sailed along the smaller Glambrian ship's side, bombarding it. The other two turned rather slowly, but the Glambrians were not the best shots.


However, they could not miss the two smaller frigates: the leading ship crossed their lines, raking both with one full broadside each. Both struck colors, hoping the enemy would spare them. Captain Nero was enraged.


Ready to return the blow, the Formaggian ships finally reached the Glambrian line. The rearmost ship was effectively out of action after a bow and a stern rake. The one in the middle of the line lost another mast and its captain.


The third Glambrian ship, in a desperate attempt, rammed the Formaggian frigate ahead and sent the remaining crew to board it. The response was close range fire from both the rammed frigate and its compatriot, managing to turn just in time.


A third Formaggian ship, failing to steer against the wind, was caught in the stern by the leading Glambrian's broadside and struck colors. 


Captain Nero now felt he has done his job, and ran for it.


The Glambrians, fortunately for the privateers, had to turn against the wind and were slower than the copper-plated Formaggian frigates.


While the attack took a great toll on the Formaggian navy, the frigates were tied down long enough to miss the real threat. 

Next: the decisive battle on the island.

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