September 10, 2025 — MOA Complex, East Gate Platform
The convoy was already lined up when Thomas and Rebecca arrived at sunrise.
Six armored buses, retrofitted from old PUVs and military trucks, sat in idle rows, their reinforced hulls painted with bright blue stripes—Overwatch's new insignia for civilian transports. Soldiers stood along the perimeters with rifles slung casually across their backs, chatting with one another as they helped families load up their meager belongings.
It was a calm morning, all things considered. The skies were clear, and a fresh breeze blew off Manila Bay, cutting through the tension that lingered in the air like fog.
"This one's different," Thomas muttered, surveying the crowd.
Rebecca walked beside him, Amara tucked in a sling. She nodded. "Yeah. They're not running this time."
