Chapter 8-4: Blindside - The Champion of His Nation

Admiral Anning- United Human Faction Assault Navy- Night 70

            The Faction ships blew their way through the Japanese forces quicker than Anning had expected, leaving them with little covering fire from the experienced crews of the former US fleet. Several Faction ships were sunk before the battle had truly begun. Anning stood in his Combat Information Center, watching the readouts and measurements as they were made. He was a hands-on leader, often likening himself to Napoleon, if only in his head.

            “Open fire on the enemy fleet. Ignore the Faction boats. We’re going to win this fight, not hold out until the civilians decide they’ve had enough,” Anning yelled to his crew.

            “You heard their leader, sir. She won’t accept that kind of argument,” a sailor replied, straightening his back.

            “Seaman, do you take orders from her or me?”

            “You, sir!”

            “The Faction doesn't need to know our tactics. Tell our ships to open fire, regardless of range or line of sight. I want to see every ship on this side of the island firing on the enemy. Those on the other side had better be lighting the jungles on fire,” Anning ordered, turning to the leader of his Marine detachment. “Marine, is there a helicopter ready for me?”

            “Sir, we have five transport helicopters fueled and a marine platoon ready to move. One of the helicopters is on the pad.”

            “Get me on one of them, and fly another with a second squad of marines alongside. We’re going to need fighter support on the way to the enemy flagship.”

            “The Faction Regional Commander is on her way to the flagship now. With respect, Admiral, we can’t afford to lose you.”

            “Get me to that ship alive, and I’ll deal with the rest,” Anning said, walking out of the CIC.

            Napoleon sat on his horse and watched his men win his wars. Napoleon’s men lost in the end. Anning refused to lose.