The travel was tiring, but the Calle Real provided a somewhat decent route—oftentimes paved, and if not, we walked over worn yet well-maintained dirt. Before nightfall, we had crossed the Zapote River and officially entered the province of Cavite.
Not far from the Zapote Bridge was a small sitio with a few huts where we sought refuge for the night. We were welcomed warmly and enthusiastically by the villagers. I felt flattered by the extra special treatment I received once they learned they were accommodating a general.
An entire hut was vacated for me and my officers. They offered us the best menu they could muster—fried tilapia, milkfish cooked in vinegar (paksiw na bangus), and small crabs in coconut milk (ginataang alimasag). Of all places, I had not expected a feast in such a small sitio.
