[RV] Maine's Dream 1977

Ep. 8 | Compromise

note:

Some of you asked me whether I went to the Air Force, and I did. I have much more time now after my "Doolies" (called "Plebe" in the Navy) or new recruit period ends. 

The first few chapter's grammar is polished, which it should be better now. If you spot any mistake or have suggestions, I'm always open to criticism. Currently, I'm considering if I should seek assistance for the fanfiction, but I am unsure about their potential.

Story change: The original 76mm and 130mm guns were removed after some research done. The destroyer's characteristic will be changed to fit the USS Hull as she is the one of the few destroyers that wasn't deployed in Westpac cruise or stationed at Hawaii during the Transition Incident. 

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Naval Station, Esthirant

"What is that..." uttered Vice Admiral Barth, Commander of the Naval south of Esthirant. Looking out from the window, the presence of an enormous vessel, resembling a floating steel fortress, with its sophisticated and complex structure surrounding the carrier's island, appeared far beyond any capability of the Parpaldian mind to comprehend. The image of it truly shook their rationing conscience. No one in the room was able to grasp the frightening technological marvel, unbothered by any resistance, as it crept into their capital unrestricted.

"Hostile Intrude! Hostile Intrude!" shouted the Watchman, hardly ringing the bell with all of his might. The rustling of clothes loudly burst as every able-bodied man rushed to their stations. The hard steps of leather shoes smacked the plank floor, sounding like a flock of running cattle.

Screech of Wyverns taking off can be heard from the sky above their heads, and the pale-faced Wyverns Corp quickly take flight, together with the whole 3rd fleet, they scramble to intercept the incoming American ships.

Through the scope, Barth could spot the flying machines revolving around the formation. With a heavy heart, he instinctively conjured out loud with realization. "My God! The flat deck... the flying objects... that's a Carrier!"

"So they have condoned the surprise attack..." he further complained. Deep down, it is well realized that the chance of them winning is absolute nullity.

"We should not attack them first, sire. We should wait for the Confirmation!" stood beside, the young lieutenant as the aide urged him.

After a long pause, Barth replied with a firm, confident voice, "There's no time, set our guns to maximum range."

With his order, the Coastal Defense crews ascended their guns at a high angle. Hesitatingly, the Fire Controller turned back to him, "Are we firing warning shots, sire?"

"No warning, no hesitation, these are enemies," Barth replied with a stern face. As the commander, he would take responsibility for the command he gave.

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"Ah... as we ride to certain death. Only the true patriots can handle such horses," the old navy grunt, Commodore Witt, told the Officers on the Quarterdeck with a somber tone. The pipe in his mouth was still emitting smoke. Looking back and beside, a formation of multiple ship-of-the-line classes rushed head-on to their destination, which he could only admire for its impressiveness.

Before engaging, he steps up to the nearest highest point in preparation for his speech, hoping to boost the little morale, "Against unwinnable odds, we continue sailing to the pitfall even if it only slows down the inevitable abyss. Gentlemen, I thank you all from the bottom of my heart for joining me in our last service. Through heavens and earth, they shall record your bravery here."

"Let it be known that the Parpaldian Navymen do not yield to threats! How fiercely and brave we are! Today may be our end, but it's not for the ones we swore to protect waiting behind our backs. Even if only a scratch on their hull is archived, we will gladly sacrifice!"