"Commander, the radio section has intercepted a wireless signal. Analysis indicates it was very likely sent by German submarines. And our fleet just passed through that stretch of sea," Rear Admiral Shikazo Yano reported with a worried expression.
Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto's expression immediately turned exceedingly grim as well. He had originally hoped that their Reconnaissance Aircraft would spot the German fleet first, but he had not expected their own whereabouts to be exposed first.
"Have our Reconnaissance Aircraft still not found the German fleet?" Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto asked.
"No!" Rear Admiral Shikazo Yano shook his head.
"Commander, what should we do now? The German fleet must have begun accelerating to pursue us."
Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto did not answer at once. Instead, he looked at the sky. There were only two or three hours left until nightfall.
"Even if the Germans have discovered us and begin pursuing us now, they cannot possibly launch an attack before dark. Their attack on us should come tomorrow," Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto said.
Rear Admiral Shikazo Yano nodded.
"Turn southwest immediately and sail to the waters west of Palau. Before dawn, launch seaplanes to search the eastern and southeastern waters for the Germans. By then, all Carrier-based aircraft are to be ready for battle. Once the German fleet is discovered, attack immediately!" Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto ordered.
"Yes, Commander." Rear Admiral Shikazo Yano immediately went to relay the order.
Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto knew that if the fleet continued on its current course, the German Navy would very likely catch up with them tomorrow and launch an attack. Although the Island Nation Navy had as many as twenty-one aircraft carriers, seven of them were converted merchant ships. Though their propulsion systems had been reinforced, their maximum speed was only twenty-five knots. Their usual cruising speed was even lower,