On January 28th, 2024, the rest of the U.S. Navy forces reached Aparri. The soldiers and Marines from the U.S. Army began to disembark from their ships, stepping onto Philippine ground for the first time at this location. Around them, Blackwatch Naval Base was busy and fully operational, equipped with everything a military force might need.

The base featured runways busy with aircraft, multiple helipads active with helicopters coming and going, and well-maintained naval facilities that supported both the stationed personnel and the newly arrived forces. For the American troops, this was a new setting, far from home, but the mission was clear, and the sense of purpose unified them with the Blackwatch personnel they were meeting for the first time.

Their arrival had been anticipated, and preparations were in place to integrate them into the base’s operations seamlessly. The American soldiers quickly noticed the efficiency and organization of the Blackwatch base, designed to support a large-scale military operation against Lin Feng and the threats his forces posed.

After disembarking, the U.S. forces were guided to their designated areas within the base. They were briefed on the current situation, the base’s layout, and the immediate plans for integrating them into the ongoing operations. The atmosphere was professional, with a focus on the urgent tasks at hand.

The days following their arrival were filled with briefings, training sessions, and planning meetings. The American troops adapted to their new environment, learning to work closely with Blackwatch personnel. The goal was to form a cohesive unit capable of taking on the challenges that lay ahead.

Despite the unfamiliarity of their surroundings and the seriousness of their mission, the U.S. forces were ready to contribute their skills and strength to the collective effort. The base, with its mix of American and Blackwatch personnel, became a symbol of international cooperation in the face of a common enemy.

Then, on February 2nd, 2024. It was time to execute the plan.

***

At the Aparri Port, there was an erected platform built purposely to serve as a speech platform for significant announcements. Richard Gonzales, the leader of Blackwatch, was about to address both the newly arrived U.S. forces and the Blackwatch personnel.

Richard stepped onto the platform, his presence commanding attention. He walked forward to the podium with a composed demeanor, aware of the weight his words would carry today. As he looked out over the assembled crowd of American soldiers, Marines, and Blackwatch personnel, he could sense the anticipation and the unity of purpose among them.

Clearing his throat, Richard began, "Ladies and gentlemen, today marks a pivotal moment in our fight against a common enemy. The collaboration between Blackwatch and the U.S. Armed Forces represents not just a strategic alliance but a bond forged out of necessity to preserve humanity against a threat unlike any other."

"The challenges we face are daunting. Lin Feng and his control over the undead have brought about a level of destruction and chaos that demands a united response. Together, we bring strength, determination, and the capabilities necessary to confront and eliminate this threat."

Richard’s tone was firm, yet there was an underlying message of hope. "Our mission goes beyond military objectives. It’s about securing a future where peace and safety are not just aspirations but realities. The world is watching us, counting on us to pave the way for stability and recovery."

He concluded, "This is not just a fight for survival; it’s a fight for the very essence of what it means to be human. We stand together, shoulder to shoulder, ready to face whatever comes our way. Let’s show Lin Feng and his forces that their reign of terror ends now. Together, we will prevail."

With those final words, Richard bowed, and the Blackwatch forces, marines, and U.S. Army clapped their hands loudly, their applause not just a sign of respect but an acknowledgment of the shared commitment they all felt towards the mission at hand.

After the applause subsided, Richard motioned for silence, signaling the transition to the next phase of the gathering. "Now," he continued, his voice carrying across the crowd, "we move forward with our preparations. Each unit, each individual here plays a critical role in the success of our operations. Coordination and communication will be our greatest assets as we proceed."

He then introduced key members of the Blackwatch and U.S. leadership teams, outlining the structure of command and the integration of forces. Detailed operational plans were discussed, highlighting the strategic approach to engaging Lin Feng’s forces, securing key objectives, and minimizing risks to civilian populations.

After that, he left the podium and walked towards Sara. Who was clapping her hands softly

"Nice speech to rally up our boys," Sara commented.

Richard leaned in for a kiss and then placed his hand gently on her belly, acknowledging the life growing inside her, a poignant reminder of the future they were fighting to secure.

"Every word I said up there," Richard spoke softly, so only Sara could hear, "was for this world we’re building, for our child’s future."

Sara smiled, placing her hand over his. "It gives us even more reason to win this. For our baby."

After Richard’s speech and the rallying moment with Sara, the focus shifted to the operational phase. The American soldiers, Marines, and Blackwatch personnel began to mobilize.

The soldiers and Marines, now fully briefed and integrated within the strategic plans of the operation, were seen gearing up. They donned their combat gear, checked their weapons, and reviewed their roles in the upcoming mission.

The U.S. Army forces, alongside their Blackwatch counterparts, gathered near the transport ships and amphibious assault vehicles designated for their insertion into the operation zones. The meticulous planning was evident in the orderly manner in which the troops boarded their transports, each squad and platoon executing their movements as rehearsed in the preceding days.

Marine units, known for their amphibious warfare capabilities, reviewed the last-minute details of their beach landing operations. They would be among the first to set foot in contested areas, tasked with securing beachheads for further troop landings and supply deliveries. Their preparations included checks on the integrity of their landing craft, the functionality of their communication equipment, and the readiness of their support weaponry.

Blackwatch personnel, experienced in operating in the diverse and challenging environments posed by Lin Feng’s forces, shared their knowledge with the U.S. forces. They discussed the peculiarities of engaging undead combatants, emphasizing the need for headshots to ensure permanent incapacitation and the importance of maintaining tight formations to prevent being overwhelmed.

The ships and vehicles soon roared to life, engines humming with power as they awaited the signal to move out. The soldiers inside exchanged final glances, a silent acknowledgment of the bond formed by shared purpose and the immediate challenge ahead.

And then—they set out.