The deep-water docks of Zaragoza, which were supposed to be a highly secure, logistical safe harbor held by Strategist Sun, had been completely compromised. Instead of welcoming parties and supply wagons, the waterfront had been transformed into a sweeping crescent of hostile, heavily armed cavalry.
Supreme Emir Badr ibn Ayyash sat perfectly still atop a black destrier, the undisputed focal point of the massive Andalusian coalition.
Badr was a man who understood the utility of terror. He did not immediately order his unified host to charge, recognizing that cornered, desperate men fought with highly destructive ferocity.
Badr guided his warhorse closer to the pylons where the heavy Tang gangplanks rested precariously against the masonry. He drew his Damascus steel scimitar.
"You foolish Easterners!" Badr's voice boomed. "Do you really think we cannot kill you?"
