Following their discovery of the minefield in last week's episode, Chandler's crew works to disarm the explosives so that they can reach their comrades before they are executed. The crew's initial attempt to shut down the devices proves to be a fool's errand, as it turns out that one of the mines is powered by an engine and is moving closer and closer to the James. Their attempt to deal with this mine results in the death of a crew member. Upon consideration of all their options, the crew manages to come up with a plan to detonate the mines, thus clearing a path for the ship. Despite some unforeseen circumstances, they are ultimately successful in their mission. After all is said and done, Sasha corners Chandler in his office. Having reflected on the dire nature of their mission, she embraces her captain in a lip lock.
Elsewhere, President Michener finally grows a backbone and shuts down members of his cabinet who are in disagreement with the way he has dealt with the Takehaya situation. In Asia, Slattery and Doc are summoned by Takehaya to take care of the Vampirate's pregnant wife, who is suffering from the effects of malaria and the Red Flu.
This episode certainly wasn't the most action-packed installment of this show, but it was not lacking in edge-of-your-seat thrills. The anticipation that a mine would go off any second and destroy the ship provided great tension throughout the hour.
The redemption of President Michener was another strength of this week's episode. In my review of the previous episode, I spoke at length about how frustrating it was that Michener was letting everyone walk over him. It was great to see the writers allow this character to claim his rightful place as leader of the free world and take charge a little.
Despite these strengths, the episode suffered in regard to Slattery's storyline. The fact that Takehaya brought Doc and Slattery in to take care of his wife did very little to advance the Vampirate plot. It also just seemed very random and out of place based on how this story has proceeded thus far. Going into this episode, I was expecting to see the captured crew members continuing to try to hatch an escape plan or something along those lines. This turn of events was certainly not anticipated.
Overall Episode Grade: 9 Anchors Out of 10
