The Navy's Choice

In the conference room, the Revolutionary Army's leaders rose to their feet, determination written on every face. They knew the next three days would be the most critical seventy-two hours in human history, and every decision they made could shape the world's future.

Just then, the communications system sounded again. This time, it was an urgent report from a remote outpost: "Headquarters, be advised! Our monitoring systems have detected an abnormal astronomical phenomenon. A vast cloud of dark purple energy has appeared on the moon's surface and is spreading toward Earth! The Observatory reports that the moon's orbit has begun to shift slightly!"

Dragon and Shakky exchanged grave looks.

"It's begun," Shakky said quietly. "The first phase of the Void Invasion."

"Then we have no choice," Dragon said, his voice firm as iron. "Begin the Dawn Operation immediately."

Kong stood on the observation deck atop the highest tower of Marine Headquarters, his hands clasped behind his back as he looked out over the busy harbor. Dozens of warships stood in neat rows, while Marines swarmed across their decks, making final preparations to sail. The morning breeze carried the salt of the sea across his face, but it could not lift the gloom in his heart.

An hour earlier, he had received an urgent order from Mary Geoise: every Marine admiral was to proceed immediately to the Holy Land for a special meeting. It bore the signatures of all the Five Elders and was marked "Top Secret," yet gave no indication of what the meeting concerned. The unusual summons put the veteran Fleet Admiral on guard.

"Fleet Admiral." A familiar voice came from behind him. Kong did not turn; he recognized the speaker by her footsteps.

"Tsuru, what have you found?" His voice was low and rough.

Vice Admiral Tsuru stepped