Chapter 7: Patriotism

" There is a colonel inside a house in the western side of town who is a sitting duck at this very moment. Who wants to take a shot? " I said and captain Jose Bernal was about to volunteer himself but was stopped by Coronel Francisco.

Looking at the men with disappointment I continued to encourage the soldiers. " Do we have no patriots here? Is there no one willing

to die for this nation? "

I yelled to the men until one of them finally stood up.

" Name? " I inquired.

" Garcia, General. " Replied Garcia as he saluted me.

Present time: General Luna Narrating to Joven.

" Lieutenant Garcia is a rare breed amongst men, the kind who's willing to give everything for his country. " The Reborn Luna said to Joven

Back to the Flashback:

Luna's approving nod conveyed his acceptance. "Your bravery will be remembered, Lieutenant. Go forth and rattle their confidence."

With a nod of gratitude, Garcia descended the hill with calculated steps, moving with the precision of a soldier who knew the terrain well. As he neared the American encampment, he aimed his rifle toward the Colonel's position and fired a series of shots, the bullets hitting the ground with calculated precision, sending up dirt and debris.

The American Colonel emerged from his shelter, a mix of surprise and concern on his face. The controlled shots had struck a nerve, reminding him that the enemy was not confined to the hilltop. Garcia's daring tactics had achieved their intended effect.

Garcia's voice carried across the battleground as he bellowed, "Your time is running out, Colonel! We're still standing strong, and we won't bow to your intimidation!"

The Colonel's face contorted with a mixture of frustration and unease. He realized that their presence on the hill was causing genuine distress among the American forces. Garcia's actions had exposed a chink in their armor, a psychological vulnerability that threatened their composure.

Having delivered his message, Garcia pivoted and swiftly made his way back up the hill. Rejoining his comrades, he was met with nods of admiration and renewed determination.

As the men cheered and praised Lieutenant Garcia General Luna and Coronel Francisco were having a talk.

" Why didn't you just order him to just shoot the American General? " Questioned Coronel Francisco.

" It's enough for them to know that we are not afraid of them. " He replied with a smile as he watched the men celebrate.

" Long live the Philippines! Long live the Philippines! " The soldiers kept cheering as they raised Lieutenant up and down.

" Put Garcia in the First Battalion Sharpshooters. He's qualified. " I said to Coronel Francisco as I start heading to my officers tent.

As I was leaving I heard the men cheer something that made me smile while sleeping that night.

" Long live the General! "

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End of flashback ((Author note: Hi guys so this will be the end of all this flashbacks( probably) and now we will all be on the present timeline with our MC))

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In the dimly lit study room of the 1800s, the general sits behind his oak desk, a plume of fragrant cigar smoke swirling around him. The flickering light of candles and the glow of a few oil lamps cast a warm and inviting ambiance. The curtains are drawn, shutting out the night, and a low fire in the fireplace adds to the cozy atmosphere.

Seated across from the general is a journalist, a notebook and pen in hand, ready to capture the essence of the conversation. The journalist leans forward attentively, their face illuminated by the soft light as they ask probing questions.

As the general takes a contemplative drag from his cigar, the orange ember glows briefly, casting a warm hue on his weathered features. He speaks with a calm authority, recounting stories of battles fought and strategies employed, intertwining his experiences with historical context. The cigar smoke curls lazily towards the ceiling, adding an air of sophistication to the scene.

The conversation ebbs and flows, punctuated by the occasional sound of the general's cigar being placed in an ashtray. The journalist listens intently, scribbling notes and occasionally looking up to meet the general's gaze.

In the corner of the room, a small table holds a crystal decanter of whiskey and two glasses, offering a brief respite from the serious discussions. The flickering light and the soft murmur of conversation create a sense of intimacy, but it was all broken as knocks rang from the opposite side of the studies room.

" Come in. " General Luna said as captain Rusca enters the room.

" General, it's time. " He said informing me of the time.

" Joven, let's continue this tomorrow. " General Luna said to Joven as he stands up and straightens his uniform.

" Thank you for the time, General. " Said Joven as he too gathers his belongings.