Charlisse watched as Kent slashed his cutlass once again toward Merrick. The captain sidestepped, bringing his blade in from one direction then quickly shifting to another. With a swift flick of his sword, he snapped the cutlass from Kent's hand, sending it clattering to the deck. Merrick lowered his sword. He took a step toward his opponent. Kent drew a knife and lunged at his captain. Charlisse gasped. Her heart leapt to her throat.

Merrick arched to the side. The knife met ...