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墨書 Inktalez
The atmosphere in the Temporary Command Center was somewhat tense. Li Heng pointed at the map, outlining a Rescue Mission. The target was a small village nearby that had been besieged by Militants for several days. Reports indicated that they had run out of water and food, and an outbreak of disease had occurred, making the need for Medicine urgent.
“Route B is closer, but the terrain is complex and we may encounter remnants of the Militants along the way. The risk assessment is high,” Li Heng’s voice was calm and objective, devoid of any emotion. “Route A detours through the mountains, taking twice as long, but it is relatively safe.”
He looked at the several Squad Leaders present. “What are your opinions?”
After a brief silence, a dark-skinned Squad Leader spoke up. “Captain, I suggest we take Route B. Time is life; every minute we arrive earlier gives the villagers more hope. The risks… we can overcome them.” Others nodded in agreement.
“Alright,” Li Heng said with a nod. “We’ll go with Route B. The First Team will be responsible for clearing the path and maintaining vigilance, the Second Team will handle supplies and distribution within the village, and the Medical Team will accompany us. Departure time is one hour from now.”
The orders were given decisively.
I had been standing in the corner, listening to everything. The opportunity had arrived.
As they discussed details and prepared to disperse, I stepped forward immediately.
“Lieutenant Li.”
Li Heng looked up at me, his brow furrowing slightly as if he anticipated what I was about to say.
“I need to accompany the team for interviews during this rescue operation,” I stated directly.
As expected, he refused without hesitation. “No.”
“Why not?” I pressed.
“The danger level in the mission area is too high to ensure the safety of non-combat personnel,” he reiterated his previous stance.
“I am an Embedded Journalist approved by the Joint Command Post; reporting on Humanitarian Aid is my duty.” I brought out my trump card. “If we deny media access due to safety risks, how can we convey the true situation here to the outside world?”
I noticed his grip on the pointer tightened. I knew my words struck a chord with him. The Peacekeeping Forces also needed positive publicity and understanding from the international community.
“I will strictly adhere to discipline, staying within your designated safe zones and will not act independently,” I softened my tone, trying to persuade him. “I just want to document your rescue efforts so that more people can know about your sacrifices.”
He looked at me in silence, his gaze sharp as if assessing how credible my words were.
After a moment, he slowly spoke, " Reporter Xu, this is not a joke. Once you enter the mission area, any unexpected situation can occur."
"I understand," I met his gaze with determination in my eyes. "I am prepared to bear all consequences."
He fell silent for a few seconds before making a decision.
"Alright," he finally relented, "but the conditions remain unchanged. You must obey orders at all times and stay within the designated area."
He paused and added, "Also, sign the disclaimer."
Another disclaimer. This person really is always trying to draw a line between us.
I felt a bit stifled inside, but I still managed to smile. "No problem, Lieutenant Li. Thank you for giving me this opportunity."
He didn’t look at me again and turned to the Vice Captain, instructing, "Take Reporter Xu to get the equipment and sign the agreement."
Then he strode out of the command center.
I watched his retreating figure, feeling an indescribable mix of emotions. There was excitement at having my plan succeed, but also… a hint of disappointment? It seemed that our relationship could only ever be this formal and even somewhat adversarial.
Had the Li Heng who used to smile and call me "Sister Zhi Yi" truly vanished?
I shook my head, pushing those chaotic feelings aside. Now was not the time for melancholy. The most important thing was to be able to go to the rescue site.
The Vice Captain was a cheerful man named Zhang Meng. He took me to the logistics department to collect equipment.
Bulletproof vests, helmets, first aid kits… they felt heavy on my body and weighed on my heart as well.
As Zhang Meng helped me check the gear, he joked, " Reporter Xu, you’re really the first journalist our captain has encountered who dares to stand up to him."
I chuckled lightly. "Is that so? Is your captain usually very fierce?"
"Not exactly fierce," Zhang Meng scratched his head. "He’s just… too serious. He rarely smiles and has high expectations for himself and for us. But he’s a good person—responsible and always at the front during missions."
He paused for a moment before adding, "Actually, it’s not easy for him…"
"Hmm?" I looked at him curiously.
Zhang Meng seemed to realize he had said too much and quickly waved his hand. "It’s nothing, nothing! Hurry up and sign the agreement; we’re about to depart."
I took the printed disclaimer in my hands. Looking at the cold terms written on it, a mix of emotions surged within me. Li Heng, are you really that afraid of me causing you trouble? I picked up the pen and swiftly signed my name. Xu Zhi Yi.
After signing, I handed the agreement to Zhang Meng. "All done." Zhang Meng took the document, glanced at me with a complex expression, but ultimately said nothing.
"Let's go, time to gather." We arrived at the assembly point, where the rescue team's vehicles and personnel were already prepared. Li Heng stood at the front, delivering his final briefing. The sun blazed down on his chiseled face, sweat trickling down his temples, yet he stood straight like a javelin.
Once the briefing was over, he ordered everyone to board the vehicles. I was assigned to a transport truck in the middle, sitting alongside several Medical Soldiers. Li Heng took command from the first vehicle.
As the door closed, the interior of the truck darkened. The engine roared to life, and the convoy slowly rolled out of the camp, heading towards an unknown village. I tightened my grip on the camera in my hands, silently praying: I hope everything goes smoothly. And I also hope… that this time I can capture something truly valuable.
My gaze unconsciously drifted towards the window, focusing on the command vehicle at the front of the convoy. Li Heng… will you show me a different side of yourself this time?
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