Chapter 9: Making moves for the future.

(( Author note: Sorry guys class have started do I can't write that munch so I'll try to at least write 1 chapter per week))

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The next day:

Location: Malolos where the Revolutionary cabinet is having a meeting.

The cabinet meeting had erupted into chaos as the proposal of American autonomy was presented by Mr. Felipe Buencamino Sr., the Secretary of Development. Luna, who had remained silent throughout the heated argument, finally decided to intervene, his commanding voice cutting through the discord.

First person Pov.

"Wait. Quiet! Let him speak!" My words demanded attention, and the room fell silent.

Mr. Felipe Buencamino continued, "They are offering some kind of autonomy for the Republic. To be a protectorate...under America."

The proposal incited a flurry of opposing voices, with some cabinet members crying out, "Treason!" I maintained my composure, my gaze fixed on those around the table.

"According to our constitution, sovereignty rests only with the Filipino People," I asserted, My words directed at those who considered the proposal. "You are a traitor for proposing annexation."

Felipe Buencamino defended himself, "I am not proposing it. I am merely reporting it."

Narrator Pov:

Luna, not one to back down, turned his attention to the President at the head of the table. "How can you trust him? He worked for the Spanish government. With people like these, we don't need enemies."

The debate continued, with Felipe Buencamino highlighting potential economic advantages of aligning with the powerful United States. Pedro Paterno, head of the country's assembly, pointed out the challenges of the ongoing struggle for independence.

"How long are we going to keep fighting? Our casualties are mounting. We are short on money, arms and ammunition. " Said Pedro Paterno

Luna interrupted, asserting his commitment, "But not in spirit. My men are committed to the cause."

" Even Dr. Jose Rizal..."

Before Felipe could make another point, Luna interjected, "How can this Assembly consider something this treasonous?" His anger was palpable.

Felipe retorted, "Are you calling me a traitor?"

Luna didn't hold back, "And a coward. I remember I saw your son in battle. He deserted his post while his comrade lay dying."

Tensions escalated, and a physical confrontation seemed inevitable. Finally, Felipe stood up and approached Luna, hurling insults at his family name.

" You really are like your brother. If Juan had been tried in this country for the murder of his wife, he would've been hanged. You are true to your name: Luna... Lunatic! " Said Felipe insulting Luna's brother and family name.

Luna, unwilling to tolerate such disrespect, threw the first punch, and a brawl erupted.

The cabinet members scrambled to separate them, shouting for calm.

" Enough! "

" Calm down."

" Calm down! "

The cabinet members yelled at them as they tried to stop them from fighting.

the fighting finally stopped when the President yelled.

" That's enough!"

General Antonio Luna, using his authority, ordered the arrest of Felipe Buencamino for treason. Luna, not sparing Pedro Paterno, pointed to him as well, and he was also apprehended.

President Emilio Aguinaldo Looked at prime minister Apolinario Mabini on what to do.

" It is within his Authority. " He said.

" Captain, Major, arrest Buencamino. " Ordered General Jose Alejandrino to the Bernal brothers, " Colonel, Roman. Assist me. " He said as he makes his way to the head of assembly and the cabinet.

" I am not a traitor! This is unconstitutional! " Pedro yelled as Captain Rusca and Colonel Roman drags him out the cabinet room.

" Just come with me and shut up! " General Jose said to Pedro as the room descend to silence on what Luna just did.

With the two men taken away, Luna made a final statement to the remaining cabinet members, emphasizing the need for change and unity among their ranks.

" Brothers, we have an enemy bigger than the Americans: Ourselves."

As Luna and General Jose Alejandrino exited they left behind a scene of turmoil and division. The Philippines was at a crossroads, and the struggle for independence had taken an unexpected turn. Luna knew that the actions he had taken today would have far-reaching consequences.

Outside the cabinet room, Luna took a deep breath, the weight of the situation settling heavily on his shoulders. General Alejandrino looked at him, concern in his eyes. "Antonio, that was a bold move in there," he said.

Luna nodded, his expression grave. "It had to be done, Jose. We cannot afford to entertain the idea of becoming a protectorate under America. Our people have sacrificed too much for our independence."

Alejandrino agreed, "I understand your conviction, but we must also be wary of the internal strife this has exposed. Our unity is fragile, and we need it now more than ever."

Luna looked at his fellow general, knowing the truth of his words. "You're right, Jose. Our internal divisions are a greater threat than the Americans at this moment. We must find a way to mend those rifts and focus on our common goal."