10/08/2024
“Captain!", Miguel's voice crackled through the intercom, the usual cheer in his voice replaced by a nervous edge. "Long-range scans just picked up movement. Two more NRA Destroyers approaching from the north."
Rene felt a knot tighten in his stomach. Three against one! It wasn't an ideal situation, but they didn't have the luxury of choices. "Inform the crew," he said, his voice firm. "Battle stations! Prepare for engagement."
"We may be outnumbered," his voice gravelly but steady, "but we have the home court advantage. We know these waters better than they do."
The BRP Balete, while no match for the larger North Red Army destroyers in terms of firepower, had the advantage of maneuverability. Their strategy relied on using their knowledge of the intricate coral reefs and shallows of the West Philippine Sea to their advantage.
The tension in the air thickened as the NRA Dao Feng broadcast a terse message: "Unidentified vessel. You have entered Chinese territorial waters. Stand down or face the consequences!"
Rene keyed his microphone, his voice calm yet unwavering. "This is Captain Rene Amador of the Philippine Navy vessel BRP Balete. We are within our Philippines territorial waters. Stand down or be prepared to engage!"
His response hung in the air, followed by a crackle of static. Then, the reply came, laced with icy condescension. "Resistance is futile. Surrender and avoid unnecessary casualties!"
A wave of anger washed over Rene, but he forced it down. Now wasn't the time for emotions. He turned to Reynes, his eyes locked on hers. "Lieutenant, initiate evasive maneuvers. Let's show these invaders what the Maharlikang Bagong Silab can do!" - An excerpt from Darren East's upcoming epic novel, "Maharlikang Bagong Silab" (allrightsreserve@copywrite2024)
*This book is his first attempt in writing a novel. Darren East has already published 25 e-books on Amazon dot com. This includes two children's books. You can download and read all his books for free on Kindle. >>>> https://amzn.to/3WYOk4i
