For a long, terrifying moment after plunging into the inky black water, Elizabeth isn't sure what's up or down. When she surfaces, the sight of her friend -- is it too late, she wonders, to call him that -- being stabbed is more alarming still. He slumps to the deck, and she feels her blood run cold.

"James! No!" she screams. "No!"

But her cries won't accomplish anything. It's useless. If she tries to go back now, both their lives will be forfeit. Casting a last anguished look at the scene unfolding on the Dutchman, she turns and strikes out for the Empress with all her strength.

It wouldn't do for them to leave without their captain.