A Modern Nemo 13

The pirate vessel was almost completely destroyed by the Corsair's gunfire. As the destroyer approached, its captain called out on its loudspeakers, "Surrender, all of you! We will continue to fire if you do not lay down your arms!"

The submarine captain climbed out of the hatch. "General Petrov," he said, approaching the sniper-general, "Admiral Martinez would want to speak to you."

Petrov lowered his rifle. "This better be good," he said, turning.

The Corsair moved in closer and was joined by a second pirate-class destroyer, the Privateer. Sensing that surrender was the only option available, as the EOGC navy was among the more merciless participants in the operation, the pirates gave up.

A transport helicopter from the Privateer made its way to the submarine and dropped a ladder. Up climbed Petrov and the helicopter flew back to the Privateer.

Hours later, Petrov was transferred to the drungarios-class STOVL aircraft carrier Datu Salangsang, the flagship of the EOGC task force. Arriving on the Datu Salangsang's bridge, Petrov beheld the task force's commander, Vice-Admiral Colleen Martinez, speaking with Cyrus Ong.

Martinez noticed Petrov entering the bridge and gave him a nod as the general saluted to her and Cyrus.

"Your father has an assignment for me, correct?" said Petrov.

"No," replied Cyrus, "not exactly. But he wouldn't mind anyway."

Petrov paused for a moment.

"My brothers and I have an assignment for you," Cyrus continued. "You and your two best men."

A slight grin appeared on Petrov's face.