From his vantage point, Shen glimpsed his mentor, Vice Admiral Deng Litian, face grim and resolute. Alongside him walked Vice Admiral Wu Guangxi, the fleet’s political commissar, whose usually composed expression was now tense with unusual seriousness.
“Take seats!” echoed from the stage as Admiral Chen reached the podium.
Chen’s gaze swept over the gathered officers, the intensity of his stare reinforcing the gravity of the moment. “Gentlemen, ladies, today marks a significant turning point in the naval history of our great nation. Each of you and your ships will be central to the future of the People’s Republic of China. The responsibility on your shoulders cannot be overstated. What we discuss today remains strictly within these walls. Security teams have verified our privacy, and your phones are secured. Any unauthorized discussion will be considered treason, punishable by the full force of the state.”
The auditorium’s atmosphere shifted palpably, excitement tempered by the solemnity of Chen’s words.
“Yesterday, the National People’s Congress voted unanimously to enact the Drug Enforcement Act of China 2033 — DEAC-33 — a law designed explicitly to safeguard our youth from the lethal narcotic known as ‘Vortex.’ As you know, this deadly drug has already taken over three hundred thousand young Chinese lives, threatening the health and productivity of our nation’s workforce.”
He paused, allowing the weight of the statistic to settle over the assembly.
“The People’s Congress has authorized, under national and international law, the establishment of the Maritime Sovereignty Protection Zone. This measure will ensure rigorous customs inspections of all vessels entering Chinese ports, explicitly including those bound for the Taiwan province, whose authorities have failed to control the flow of illicit substances endangering Chinese citizens.”
The main screen illuminated with a detailed map of the Taiwan Strait, the new inspection zones marked clearly in red. Shen’s pulse quickened. The choke points were unmistakably deliberate — Penghu approaches, the Pratas corridor, and the northern strait narrows.
“The maritime authorities have formally requested naval support to enforce this new legislation,” Chen continued, his voice firm and authoritative. “The Central Military Commission has fully endorsed our participation.”
Captain Wang Jian leaned in close, whispering, “Maritime authorities. He means the militia fleet.”
Shen nodded grimly. Everyone knew these fishing vessels carried more electronics than fish, and crews more proficient with weapons than nets.
“Rules of engagement.” The screen transitioned, outlining explicit operational guidelines. “Vessels failing to comply with inspection demands or exhibiting resistance will be boarded. Resistance is defined broadly — failure to stop, encrypted communications, crew resistance, or deviation from established routes.” Chen’s voice hardened. “Your discretion is paramount.”
Shen understood immediately. The rules weren’t designed to avoid confrontation — they practically guaranteed it.
“Force composition per enforcement zone includes one destroyer squadron, two frigate flotillas, militia support, aerial coverage, and standby submarine assets.” Younger officers straightened with pride; veterans recognized an ominous escalation.
Assignments appeared on-screen. “Northern Zone — Destroyer Squadron 9. Central Zone — Squadron 12. Penghu Approach Zone — Squadron 15, Captain Shen Tao commanding.”
Shen’s jaw tightened imperceptibly. Penghu was a critical flashpoint, its waters crowded and its defenses formidable. His squadron would be at the heart of the operation, visible to global scrutiny within minutes of any incident.
“Packets before you contain detailed operational boundaries, protocols, and militia coordination guidelines,” Chen announced as sealed folders circulated.
Shen opened his folder, his heart sinking at the text: “Militia vessels will initiate close-approach maneuvers to facilitate inspection opportunities. Naval units maintain overwatch and escalate upon noncompliance or hostile intent.”
A younger officer raised his hand. “What about Coast Guard coordination, Admiral?”
“There will be no Coast Guard involvement,” Chen responded sharply. “This is exclusively a naval operation supporting civilian customs authority. Our actions have clear and firm legislative backing.”
“Intelligence indicates significant Taiwanese military concentrations, including autonomous defense systems advised by American personnel,” Chen continued, his tone unyielding. “Your primary mission is the enforcement of national sovereignty. Noncompliant vessels attempting to evade inspection or displaying hostile actions will be decisively stopped.”
Captain Nie Yuhang stood, cautious. “Sir, what if American vessels intervene?”
