March 23rd, 3 a.m.
The East African Fleet headed north along the coastline to prevent the British from striking Mombasa, encountering each other in the waters of Lamu Bay.
To confront the main force of the British Royal Navy, nearly half of the East African Navy's main battleships moved north, radiating outward centered on Lamu and Mombasa.
8 a.m.
The lookout on the flying bridge reported: "Suspicious targets spotted ahead!"
Black smoke billowed on the sea surface in the northeast direction,
"All ships, prepare for combat stance, enemy ships entering range, fire immediately!" ordered Admiral Kerry of the East African Navy.
