Bells and Incense (Crusaders of the Orient) | Robin Sebolino

Yanok is a pintado (tattooed warrior) from Samar in 17th Century Visayas. Dissatisfied with his island life, recurrent slaver raids, and personal failures, he escapes to Manila in search of adventure.
He finds the Spanish-controlled city prosperous, booming through the galleon trade and a rising class of wealthy Chinese Tagalog mestizos with whom he finds employment. Amid the pressures of urban life, his opportunities turn into misfortune as he is rejected by a powerful family.
Manila grows, and so does its wealth inspire ambition from the Dutch Empire. Yanok sees the imminent invasion of the Dutch as an opportunity to redeem himself. He could use his skills to fight. He could serve as a soldier, go to battle, win glory, and at last restore his honor.