Down to the Sea (50 page)

Vasa knew and understood. The Shiv under General Zhan would do their job well while he returned home to properly protect the unborn emperor or empress.

He looked over at O’Donald, who stood by the bow, gaze locked on the ships steaming in, carrying with them the terrifying striking arm of the Shiv. He would go with them, ready to be used at the proper moment.

All things were now possible, Hazin thought with a smile.

WILLIAM R. FORSTCHEN is a
military historian teaching at
Montreat College in North Carolina.