Chapter II - Moral Compass

The engineers, altogether with the deck heads, relentlessly attempted to fire up the emergency generators. But all their efforts were hopelessly in vain. Because of the EMP (Electro Magnetic Pulse) Blast impact, from the radioactive warheads of the hypervelocity projectiles. Henceforth, there is no electricity whatsoever; flashlights, calculators, laptops, gadgets, and handphones were all not working. The "Magnetic Compass" situated on the monkey island (Compass Deck) is showing a big discrepancy with the spare "Magnetic Compass". (Which was carefully isolated and hidden in storage.) Therefore they had to determine their compass errors by "Celestial Observation". Applying the error obtained, to compensate for the correction of the magnetic compass heading. In order to determine, on which direction their vessel is drifting.

"Though everything maybe falling appart, we're not! We will function as a cohesive unit. In order to surpass this ordeal." Said Captain Leroy Martinez

Then he began issuing orders to the crew;

"Bosun, (Boatswain/Coxswain) tell your men to gather some tarps, lines, and rig us a parasail at the "Forecastle" (Forward Part of the ship) as our means of propulsion. Meanwhile, the Fitter and the Oiler's prepare to fabricate, empty floating drums. Attached them end to end by wires or chains.

Attach one end, to the "Aft/Astern" (After part of the ship) with lines. The outermost last drum, will have two ropes attached, at the left and right sides of the drum. The other end of the line ropes, tied to the Port and Starboard bollards of the aft part of the ship.

We will just be heaving the lines, either port or starboard (left/right) in order to steer the ship. And so thus, we have a crudely fashioned "Centipede Rudder".

The Deck Officers can determine our ships position by celestial observation, using the Sextant, Nautical Almanac, Sight reduction Table, and Nories Table for manual calculation. In order to obtain the "Intersecting Line of Positions" or LOP's to achieve our "Fix" Position. ( Not to mention, the tons of scrap paper for scratch)

Those off-duty Watch keepers, (A.B./Quarter Master) can prepare the signal flags, and start polishing their knowledge in communicating via "Semaphore" (Hand Flags) and "Morse Code" signals, as well.

When life gives us lemons, and we've lost our sense of direction. We will all take the time to reflect, by virtue of righteousness, hard work, determination, discipline, and focus. By our undying faith, to our Lord God Almighty. With his divine guidance, we will eventually find our way in the dark. We will do everything by the book, "Old School!"

I want everybody's dedication. Please refrain from making any negative side comments, or derogatory statements. For, its sapping a person's soul, and demoralizes the crew's spirit. I want everybody to adopt a "Buddy" system, and encourage any crewmember deemed to be depressed. If it takes for us all to sing, so be it. We will all sing!

Optimism dear boys, will be our "Moral Compass."

I promise to get us all back on track, to the nearest "Land Fall." This I solemnly swear to you all." Said Captain Leroy

Now it makes , perfectly good sense to "Kurt Mañalac" (Deck Cadet / Apprentice Mate). To realize the importance of knowing, and doing things, the old way. Cause you'll never know, whenever disaster might strike, catch you unaware, and bite you back. (With your pants down.) Highly unprepared, and ignorant of what to do. All because of the reluctance to learn, during those convenient times. Regretting the days gone past, and the wasted opportunities.

A few weeks later, they've managed to reach the nearest landfall. They were rescued by the SAR (Search And Rescue) Ship, dispatched by the MRCC (Maritime Rescue Coordinating Centre). Their last know position was relayed by "Threat-Con Sentinel", before it went dark. (Blasted into oblivion.)

The sailors were given first aid treatment, and thoroughly checked for radiation exposure, by the ERT (Emergency Rescue Team). Wearing Hazmat-Radiation suits, and using Geiger Counters. To measure radioactive isotopes, sustained by the Merchant Seafarers.

Afterwards, they were later questioned regarding the incident.

About the last known direction, to where it was heading.

"Do you have Covid Test?" asked Lannie De Vera (ERT Medical Personnel) to Jo-bert Manzano (A.B./Quarter Master)

"I have Coffee Table, no Covid-Desk!" Said Jo-bert.

There was momentary silence...

Then every dodgy sailor, and enlisted combat hardened military personnel started laughing. (Howling maniacally, like a thing demented.)

"Great! we have ourselves a comedian. Do you have vaccine or not?" said Lannie

"No Ma'am, Not yet vaccinated." Said Jo-bert

They were given PCR tests, and upon determining that they were Covid Free.They were given "Anti Radiation Pills" and were later innoculated with a free jab of Covid Vaccine.

Lannie made sure, that Jo-bert would endure, a memorably painful experience in return. By adjusting the calibration of the pressure settings of the gas operated syringe gun to maximum.

Designed for highly thick skinned individual.

"Take that! You Muppet!" Lannie muttered to herself

"Ouch! that hurts!" said Jo-bert

"Next!" said Lannie ( Grinning Icily, with a smirk on her face.)

As the saying goes;

"Revenge is a dish, that is best served cold."

("Les Liaisons Dangereuses" by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos).