The two of them hid in the darkness at the bow on the fourth deck.
They watched everything unfolding before them with wary eyes.
The lights of the distant vessel had become clearly visible.
It was rapidly approaching their ship.
The uniformed men on deck were actually loading several heavy machine guns.
At the same time, several more men in identical uniforms emerged from the fourth-deck cabins and went onto the deck as reinforcements.
They made sure two men stood beside each heavy machine gun, with several others stationed at the bow railing.
They kept a close watch on the approaching vessel.
They had actually prepared to open fire!
Song Ning turned to glance at Gu Zheng.
Gu Zheng stared straight ahead without blinking.
He merely gave her hand a gentle squeeze, signaling her not to panic.
A few minutes later, a white patrol boat appeared off the ship's port bow.
At the same time, a clear announcement came over its loudspeaker: "Attention, vessel ahead! Attention, vessel ahead! This is a naval patrol boat! A storm is approaching, with winds expected to exceed force ten. Navigate with extreme caution and keep your radio communications open! Call at any time in an emergency! Stay safe!"
Song Ning could clearly see that, while the other vessel was making its announcement, the machine gunners on their deck had already aimed their guns at the patrol boat.
Meanwhile, the men at the end of the deck produced several small red flags from somewhere and waved them from side to side, enthusiastically signaling to the other vessel.
In the wheelhouse, the captain sounded the horn again in acknowledgment.
The patrol boat soon passed along the ship's port side and gradually disappeared from view.
Gu Zheng took Song Ning's hand, signaling her to stay still.
On