44 Days Since First Strike — Perimeter of Fort Calinog, Camarines Sur
The wind swept over the burned clearing where the tiltrotor had landed, sending dust into the air and rustling the treetops beyond. Thomas Estaris stepped down from the aircraft, boots crunching against hardened soil. Behind him came Phillip, a medic named Reyes, and two armed scouts in Overwatch colors. Each carried a sidearm, but they kept their hands well away from their holsters.
Facing them were five individuals. Uniforms mismatched but clean, weapons holstered, and movements disciplined. At their center stood Commander Lira Morales—tall, lean, and composed. She carried herself like a woman who had survived hell and made hell regret it.
"You're Overwatch," Lira repeated, voice sharp but level.
Thomas nodded. "Thomas Estaris, acting commander. This is Phillip Cortez, my second."
She glanced at each man carefully. "We received your approach notice. That's rare—someone who knocks first."
