A patrol ship departing from the Marine Base on Risky Red Island closely tailed the white cruise ship ahead.
The sea wind billowed the sails as the patrol ship pushed its speed to the limit.
For some reason, the cruise ship ahead lowered one of its auxiliary sails, and its speed suddenly dropped. The Marine commander aboard the training ship keenly noticed this and immediately shouted a warning to the Marines on deck:
"The ship ahead is slowing down. Maintain the distance!"
"Helm, prepare to evade artillery fire!"
"Everyone, return to your battle stations and hold on to the railings!"
The young Marine officer aboard the patrol ship was fairly experienced, issuing orders with great speed.
The sea wind howled as the Marines on deck loudly relayed their commander's orders. Before long, the patrol ship swiftly lowered half of its auxiliary sails as well, slowing down slightly.
"Whoosh—"
Just as the patrol ship slowed, a sharp whistling sound came from the sky. The instant he heard it, the young Marine officer crouched and grabbed the railing, shouting at the same time, "Incoming shell! Evasive action!"
As soon as he spoke, a cannonball screamed directly over the patrol ship and plunged into the sea behind it.
Boom!
With a muffled blast, the waves thrown up by the exploding shell crashed against the ship, making the warship rock violently.
"A warning shot!"
The young officer slightly raised his head, immediately reaching that conclusion. He then quickly stood and shouted to his subordinates behind him:
"Still no message from Base Commander Fisher Tiger?"
At the center of the patrol ship's deck was a small communications station, where a Den Den Mushi sat.
Hearing the officer's shout, the communications soldier immediately picked up the receiver. The moment he did, before he could speak, an