Marsh checked the mission timer. Ten minutes had passed since the first guards had entered the Willow. So far they’d covered roughly a third of the ship and found nothing out of the ordinary. Those on board the Willow were taking the delay well, though many asked how soon they could get off and see their families. The children were finding it hardest. Several times the guards had come across groups of kids who could barely contain their energy. After so long on board the ship they were desperate to get outside.
Marsh had ensured guards with family aboard the Willow weren’t part of the boarding party. Seeing the children reinforced that decision. No one could be blamed for letting his guard down when confronted by a niece, nephew or grandchild.
“Commander! Incoming ships!” shoute
