"To battle, men!" Merrick shouted, sending his crew swarming back over the bulwarks. The clank of sword and crack of pistol accompanied the roar of thunder above as Merrick shoved his way toward Kent.

With one hand, he wrenched the knife from Kent's grasp while with the other, he struck him in the jaw. Kent toppled to the deck.

Charlisse rushed into Merrick's arms, sobbing.

"You're all right now," He engulfed her in his embrace, keeping an eye on Kent, who ...