The catacombs stank of mildew and spent gunpowder. Candles flickered in niches carved centuries ago by friars, now illuminating men in tattered uniforms and women with rifles slung across their backs.
They called themselves the Katipunan ng Dugo at Laya, the Brotherhood of Blood and Freedom.
At the head of the chamber stood Commander Isko "Tigre" Manlapig, a gaunt figure with machete scars across his cheek.
He was once a teacher in Tarlac. Now he was a prophet of fire.
"They barter with the Amerikano like pigs at market," he hissed. "Marasigan smiles in Manila while our comrades rot in shallow graves. They talk of elections, elections! While our nation is still occupied!"
A murmur of disgust echoed through the chamber.
Commander Delia Ramos, second only to Tigre, stepped forward. "We have eyes in the Civic Front. Even they are afraid of us. That fear is power. We can use it."
