With Roque's men freed up from the assault on the convent, we could provide more men to solidify our cordon, which had proven to be too loose.
I sent Historillo down with orders.
Mario was to personally lead all of his men to further secure our western flank, especially from the southwestern residential area, where shots from hidden Pulajanes fighters continued to ring out.
Roque was to take half his platoon to reinforce the eastern flank, primarily in the roads and alleyways which faced the presidencia. The other half would remain to protect the church.
As for Sargento Guzman and the escolta, they were to act as my personal reserve—a compact force I could throw at any critical point without delay.
The response was quick. Soon the church's doors creaked open, and the rayadillos spilled out into the yard, Mario's shouts rising above the chaotic assemblage of noises.
