Fourth Vector Ch. 27

As the enemy prepared to launch their next response, the destroyers between them were in a dramatic race for position. It was a lopsided fight from the beginning though, with Jack's five destroyers and one frigate soon converging on the two enemy destroyers. While their 5-inch guns were able to do some damage to the enemy, the realcoup de grâce was the series of torpedoes launched by theWickes and theHutchins. They caused the first real fireworks of the day, crippling both enemy destroyers in a manner of minutes. Those small ships didn't take long to sink, finding themselves at the bottom of the bay only fifteen minutes after being struck.

Meanwhile, the enemy cruisers were ready to launch their next wave of ordnance. They seemed determined to strike against theValiant, no doubt having figured it was their best shot at doing damage to Jack's force before they were forced under the waves to join their destroyers. Jack almost grimaced when he watched the arcing volleys center in on the light cruiser, hoping that they wouldn't soon see a repeat of the Battle of Aberdeen.

For her bad luck, theValiant managed to take only light damage as only a few of the shots actually connected. She took some damage on her starboard hull and against her deck, but it wasn't a killing shot by any stretch of the imagination.

"Let's put these fuckers under," said Jack after having watched theValiant remain relatively unscathed. "Centurion, focus on the lead cruiser.Stardust andValiant, take the one in the middle. Leave the one in the rear to theDestiny."

"Aye, Jack," came the response from the rest of the commanders.

With their focus now lasered in on the remaining cruisers, and with Jack's own destroyers now freed to concentrate on them as well, the Swabians had run out of options. The middle cruiser was killed off by another torpedo run, this time from the Hutchins while it was raked by theStardust and theValiant in turn. It started to list heavily to its starboard side after the last volley, and its guns went quiet shortly after. The sailors aboard could soon be seen abandoning ship, and it rolled over completely before sinking to the rocky bottom not long after.

The enemy cruiser in the rear was able to get off another shot against theValiant before it too took a punishing salvo from theDestiny that set off a vicious fire which illuminated the entire visible sky. Seeing as the damage against the hull was relatively nonexistent, but since the fire was too out of control, the commander made the decision to run the ship aground, knowing there was no chance to escape. Jack watched as she soon settled in on the rocky coast of Picardy, and soon all of her sailors were trying to get onto dry land. Many of them would never make it, and there was a small handful that jumped into the water in order to try to extinguish the flames.

That wasn't the most dramatic death that morning, as that honor would go to the lead cruiser that was under target by theCenturion. It was a lopsided contest from the beginning, with theCenturion's heavy guns making the enemy cruiser look defenseless. Once that cruiser saw what happened to its friends, they focused attention on the battleship but that was largely in vain. The ordnance bounced harmlessly off theCenturion's heavily-armored hull rendering any further contest irrelevant.

It only took a couple well-placed salvos from the powerful battleship before one connected with the ammunition room on the ship. One second the enemy cruiser was plugging along on the Picard shore, and in the next, she was blown to bits by the force of the explosion within her hull. Jack had rarely seen such a spectacle as having a full-sized enemy warship completely destroyed in a matter of seconds. There wasn't even a question of survivors—so complete was the destruction that her wreckage couldn't possibly support a single living soul.

Indeed, none were found. Some men were picked up from the two enemy destroyers and from the middle cruiser but that was it. None were found from the cruiser that ran aground either as their survivors made the quick haul further inland to escape any possible retribution.

After a short amount of action, the Battle of Daban Bay was over. Jack was now the master of the waterway that led to the Picard capital city.

"What do you think, Jack?" asked Abigail after the last of the survivors had been rounded up. "Shall we go to Daban?"

Jack cast his eyes off toward the western horizon. They were still far enough from the city not to see it but he knew it waited for him just beyond the waves. "Yes, let's go."

The cruise into the Picard capital city was just as tense as it was before the battle. Jack had the entire task force remain at battle-stations as they sailed along the bay, never knowing if any other Swabians would arrive to contest their entrance. What Jack didn't know was that the Swabian force he'd happened upon was a token scouting force dedicated to maintaining their stranglehold over the bay. The rest of the Swabian fleet was out looking for them, having received the reports of the sighting of his task force. The two forces had passed within a few miles of each other, but the bulk of the Swabian fleet was still moving south along the coast.

For that reason, there was nothing more to be seen on the way into the city. Jack passed by the great ruined sea fortress where the world was given its first demonstration of naval-borne airpower. The fortifications still carried the scars of that battle, never having been repaired from that engagement many months ago. The rest of the country was just as bleak, giving Jack feelings of déjà vu from his first visit to the country.

"It just looks so . . . desolate," said Kat from his side, giving voice to thoughts that had only been inside his head.

"I just hope we're not too late," said Jack. "I hope we find that Daban is still standing at the end of this."

Kat's hand slipped into his. "It just has to be. The Picards are tough people. If anyone can endure this kind of devastation, it's the people of Picardy."

Those words were put to the ultimate test when the entire task force came to the end of the bay and cast their eyes on the first city of Picardy.

Jack had thought the Picards had it bad the last time around. This time, half the city was in ruins. Just from what he could see, there seemed to be an almost visible line of devastation that worked its way entirely around the city and ended on the coasts on either side. Outside of this line was nothing but destruction—ruined houses, blockaded streets, and scenes of despair. The city looked to be on the brink of the precipice, only needing one final blow to extinguish the light there forever.

"Good heavens," muttered Kat. "What's happened here?"

"Let's hope they see our flags before anything else," said Jack, gesturing to the large Javan and Galician flags that flew from the masts of leading ships. "I want them to know we're friendly and not more Swabians."

The flags did what they were intended to do. Despite the city's near paralyzation due to the Swabian threat, no one fired upon them as they anchored out in the deepest portion of the bay. In fact, it seemed like their presence was liable to cause a bit of celebration, when large Picard flags began to wave in return. The sight of the yellow and red cross flag of Picardy seeming to beckon their entrance was enough for Jack.

"Let's grab a couple marine squads and take the launch boats in," he said to Abigail. "Everything looks calm ashore but just in case we're walking into a trap, I'd rather be prepared."

For that reason, Jack, Kat, and Abigail, and Captain Morse piled into two launch boats with two marine squads and made the short jaunt into the main docks of the city.

The effect it had on Daban was electrifying. As they neared the docks, soldiers and sailors alike on the coast could be seen in various states of jubilation. Many of them tossed their caps in the air or chanted Jack's name as the launch boat sped by. Their ultimate destination was the scene of the most ruckus though. It was like a welcoming party had been rolled out of nowhere to accommodate them. Picard soldiers, in their finest uniforms, stood there with parade ground sharpness while the city's population pushed in behind them, all eager to see their Javan allies once more.

Front and center in the crowd was none other than the sovereign of the Picard people, King Aedan himself. His wife, Queen Ciara, was by his side as was the now six-month-old crown prince, Davin, who was a lot bigger than Jack remembered.

"You have no idea how happy we are to see you," called out Aedan as soon as Jack placed his feet on the shore.

Jack beamed with a smile. "There's no power in the world that would make us forget about our friends in Picardy!"

The crowd seemed to love that answer, giving up an exultant cheer of their own. Aedan and Ciara soon moved to greet them and the young king of Picardy soon wrapped his arms around Jack.

"We're so glad that you're back," said Aedan in his ear as they embraced. "It's truly a dark time for the country."

"I know that we have much to catch up on," said Jack. "Much has happened in the last six months from what I've heard."

"We've been on top of the world, and we've also been trodden under the feet of fate in that time," remarked Aedan dryly. "But your faces are some of the ones I've most wanted to see." Aedan looked behind Jack's shoulder at Kat. "Katherine, you look positively beautiful as always."

Kat grinned before she hugged him. "We certainly missed you too, Aedan." She then turned to look at Ciara. "And I hope we didn't miss too many of Davin's milestones!"

Ciara shook her head. "I'm sure we'll get caught up to speed on it soon! But we have much to catch up on." She then embraced Abigail as well. "It's so lovely to see the both of you again."

While the women caught up, Jack turned his attention back to Aedan. "We destroyed a Swabian force right at the mouth of the bay. A small force, only three cruisers and two destroyers."

Aedan's mouth fell open but what he said next surprised Jack. "That's it? Where's the rest of the force?"

"The rest of the force?" Jack questioned.

"There's an even greater fleet out there. Several battleships from what I've heard," said Aedan. "They've been harassing what's left of our combined fleet for months now. I can assure you, there's more out there than just three cruisers."

"We'll have to stay vigilant about it then," said Jack. "They'll be even more likely to want to track us down now that we've given them a bloody nose."

"At least you've bought us some breathing room," replied Aedan with relief. "I was afraid we were about to be pinched off by land and sea."

"Just how bad is the situation, Aedan? I could see that the city looks to be in bad shape from all the way out in the bay. Where are the Swabians?"

"They're about a thousand yards that way," said Aedan, pointing to the south before swinging his arm to the west and north. "And that way and that way too. They surround us. They're in the city which can explain all the devastation."

"I had no idea it was that bad. Are we needed immediately?" asked Jack.

"You'll have time to get situated but the short answer is yes," said Aedan. "We've been at the same stalemate all winter. We're too strong for them to take the rest of the city but we're not strong enough to push them out. I fear though that warmer weather is going to bring them reinforcements—enough to finish the job. Not to mention, our own resources are about tapped out. Your arrival is more fortunate than anything."

"Well, I'm bringing enough reinforcements with me," said Jack. "I have another whole regiment of marines with me, as well as replacements for those that went home."

"Double the marines?" asked Aedan in a faint whisper.

"Just about," said Jack with a grin. "Is that enough to make a difference?"

Aedan embraced him again. "You may have just saved all of us once again. It's getting a little old being in your debt all the time, Jack!"

"We'll do all that we can, no more and no less," said Jack.

"Come on then," said Aedan as he put his hand on Jack's back. "Let's get you all set up with a place to stay in the palace. Besides, I'm sure you're looking forward to seeing some old friends!"

*****

The crowd at the docks was nauseating. The sheer amount of cheering and screams by the adoring population of Daban to the new arrivals would not be replicated any time soon, surely giving these people something to celebrate after so many long months of siege and devastation.

Adalbert wasn't one to miss the festivities. It was actually Darcy that brought news of a foreign fleet approaching the city, after hearing it being spoken of so loudly and positively in the streets. For Adalbert, it was the signal he'd been waiting on. His notions about the return of Jack Easterbrook seemed destined to come true.

As he pressed in against the fence that blocked off the royal docks from the rest of the city, Adalbert was soon surrounded by the rest of the mob, all trying to get a glimpse of the man who had once saved the city.

His vantage point wasn't a great one. There was a building that was placed just against the cliff where the fence ran, obstructing part of his view, but he still managed to watch the first footsteps of Jack Easterbrook as he came ashore once more and was greeted by King Aedan of Picardy.

In that moment, Adalbert's smile was as wide as any Picard, finally seeing his quarry after all these months in the desert without him.

Of course, Easterbrook still had the Galician bitch by his side, evident by her golden mane, as well as another beauty who could only be a fellow naval officer by her dress. Adalbert felt a tinge of jealousy at seeing those two women hovering so close to the man he'd come to hate. While Adalbert had to hide himself constantly and make do with the affections of an overripe whore, Easterbrook had his pick of the litter.

He would get his revenge one way or another. Not only for bringing his fortunes so low or even the death of his companion Berimund back in Andalucia but for having a life worth envying.

As he watched Easterbrook consult with the king, an idea started to take root in Adalbert's head. It was risky but bold, a complete reversal of his current strategy in Daban. It would also require him to get Easterbrook alone which would be an endeavor in itself. Every time he'd seen the man, he'd been surrounded by an entourage. But perhaps there could be certain opportunities afforded to him now that he was within the city under siege.

Adalbert didn't stay to watch the procession for very long. For one, he was tired of being pushed up against the fence by the crowd behind him, all eager to get the same view. While keeping his hood around his head, he managed to maneuver his way back through the ranks nearly ten deep and start the way back to Darcy's house.

Only a matter of time now, Jack Easterbrook.

*****

Jack and his entourage followed King Aedan until they came to the royal palace situated near the middle of the city. All of this time under siege meant that the city was chiefly concerned with survival, almost to the detriment of everything else. Scenes of rubble and devastation were common. The people were thin and their faces were bony. Until their arrival, hope was a concept that was completely foreign.

Jack also got the sense of just how close the enemy was to the palace. Aedan wasn't joking when he mentioned the general positions of the Swabian army. Even as Jack walked the grounds that led to the palace entrance, he could hear the occasional round of gunfire from afar—enough of a reminder that it was still a war zone.

The palace though was just like Jack remembered. The destroyed wing from the first Battle of Daban was still in the middle of reconstruction, although from what he could see, no work had been done on it in some time.

"All my crews are busy on the front lines," said Aedan, practically reading Jack's thoughts. "There just hasn't been any time to focus on civilian matters."

"How strong are the Swabians right now?" asked Jack. "And what are our current numbers?"

"We estimate that they have about fifteen thousand men," said Aedan. "They took some grievous casualties after the last battle, but those have recently been replaced by the arrival of new regiments that have marched up from Zarah."

"And our numbers?"

Aedan grimaced. "If you brought another full regiment, then somewhere around ten thousand."

Jack pursed his lips. "Not great odds."

"No, no they aren't," replied Aedan.

"But still workable," said Jack. "We've defeated larger forces before. And we still have greater firepower than the Swabians."

Aedan winced. "There's a few things we need to catch you up on. A lot has changed strategically since you left, Jack. Come inside, let's go see General Fagan."

Aedan led the group inside the royal palace where they were all soon directed to the main war room. Jack recognized the face of Neil Fagan almost immediately, remembering him from the first battle in the city. Neil had been wounded after he defected over to Jack's side, helping him take over final control of the city as they liberated the royal palace. Jack knew Neil to be a good soldier, even if he was a little green when first put in command of the entire Picard army.

The Neil that he encountered now looked to have lived a lifetime during those many months that Jack was away. He was now sporting a red bushy beard, and his easy smile seemed to be hiding deep within it. His eyes had that vacant and hollow look, one that hinted at how much action he'd seen during all this time in charge. He seemed older than his years, a man who had carried the weight of the world on his shoulders.

"I don't need to introduce you to General Fagan," said Aedan with a warm smile as he brought Jack and the women into the room.

"Jack Easterbrook," said Neil with a genuine smile. He rose from his desk and quickly crossed over to shake Jack's hand. "How we all hoped we'd be seeing you again."

"How are you, Neil?" asked Jack. "Are you well?"

Neil shrugged. "No worse for wear, I suppose. Just trying to keep this city alive more than anything."

"In support of that, Jack has brought us more marines," chimed in Aedan. "Enough to make a solid difference."

Neil gave Jack an incredulous look. "Now that is the best news I've heard all month. How soon can they be in the city?"

"I can have them ashore quickly," said Jack. "We can get the first companies out on the line this afternoon."

Neil looked like he wanted to kiss him. "We are truly fortunate to have such friends in our Javan allies. You may have just saved this whole damn war."

Jack started to chuckle. "So let's start talking about a plan. How can we push the Swabians out of the city?"

Before Neil could answer, the door to the war room crashed open. Jack looked over to see three faces he hadn't seen in months.

"Jack!" yelled Vera as she soon started on a dash to reach her brother. Jack found himself laughing as his blonde sister rushed into his arms, and he soon lifted her feet off the ground with the intensity of their embrace.

"Jack, you're back," she said with a beaming smile and a pair of teary eyes. "It's been too long!"

"Yes, it has," he agreed, really taking a look at her. She looked no different than how he left her six months ago but he felt the weight of her loss more than most.

"Well, it's about time you showed up," joked Dustin as he came over to Jack. "We thought we might have to fight this whole war without you!"