How can something so big sink so fast? The thought kept drumming through Jay Selby’s head. He splashed and slithered over the slippery deck. It listed so sharply to starboard he could barely keep his footing. The wind whipped at his uniform, stung his skin. He stared around as if he might sight the enemy. Nothing. The black sky, the churning darkness of the North Sea, there was no difference between them. ‘No lifeboats!’ The shouts rose above the roar of the sea. They’ve taken the lifeboats!’