Merrick stared at Kent's ship, the Vanquisher, as she sailed on a tack that took her brazenly within range of the Redemption's cannons. The urge to take on the arrogant menace and pummel him with grapeshot filled Merrick with a dark desire for revenge.

"Should I 'ave the guns run out, Cap'n?" Jackson asked, taking a step toward the ladder.

Bracing fists on his waist, Merrick squinted against the setting sun. An evening breeze picked up from the west and filled his lungs ...