Kapitel 9: The Oath

Five Years Later

In the grand hall of the President's House of Xanvoria, members of the media buzzed like excited bees, their cameras clicking ceaselessly as they captured the unfolding historical event. Today was not just another day; it was a day that would reshape the future of their nation and echo through history.

The Vice President of Xanvoria stood tall at the podium, his voice booming as he addressed the crowd, "We have gathered today to witness a significant milestone in the journey of our great nation.", he began, his tone carrying notes of admiration, "A battle has been won—not just for one individual, but for the rights and recognition of women throughout our armed forces."

As he concluded his remarks, the room fell silent, the atmosphere thick with expectation. A few minutes later, from the shadows of the space, a man in his forties approached the stage. Regret washed over his face as he stepped into the glaring spotlight, the continuous flash of cameras capturing every moment. This man was the former Military Chief, Zhao Jin, who had once dismissed the idea of women serving in the armed forces. Today, he faced the consequences of his arrogance.

The bitterness of his overconfidence was quite evident to whoever bothered to squint at him. He would carry the burden of this moment for the rest of his life. As he signed the document held by the Prime Minister, he could only wonder how he had allowed such ignorance to cloud his judgment.

After the formalities were taken care of, the Prime Minister stood behind the podium, "It is with great honor that I announce the resignation of our esteemed Military Chief, Meng Zhao.", he proclaimed.

As satisfying as the announcement was, this was not the moment everyone had been waiting for. The Prime Minister resumed after clearing his throat, "In accordance with the contract signed by the former Military Chief, the conditions have been fully met by the lady involved, proving beyond doubt the strength and capability of women to serve our nation in combat roles and perilous conditions."

He paused, allowing everyone to digest his words, "From today onwards, Xanvoria will recruit both men and women into the defense services of our nation.

"And now, just as our country cannot function without a President and Prime Minister, it cannot endure without strong leadership in defense. Therefore, I hereby invite the respected future Military Chief to take her place among the highest authorities of Xanvoria."

As the Prime Minister concluded, the eyes of everyone present turned to the entrance. The heavy doors swung open, revealing four military officers. A figure emerged behind them, followed by the three generals of the Navy, Air Force, and Armed Forces.

The woman who stepped into the hall was breathtakingly mesmerizing. Her beauty was so striking that even the clicking of media cameras paused, momentarily entranced by her presence.

With a bold aura and graceful elegance, she captivated the audience. Her fierce eyes, tempered by a modest gaze, commanded respect. At just 22 years old, she radiated a strength that seemed almost tangible, her steady footsteps resonating through the hall.

After a brief silence, a frenzy erupted as they snapped photos with ferocious intensity, vying to capture this monumental moment in history. The journalists, their microphones poised, held their breath, eager to witness what would unfold but respecting the sanctity of the ceremony. Interviews could wait for later.

She approached the podium, saluting the President and Prime Minister with military precision, embodying the essence of a true leader. Clad in a specially designed military uniform that exuded authority, she was a sight to behold. The 21 badges adorning her breast pocket told tales of her bravery, each one proof of a successful life-threatening mission she had concluded during her rigorous training over the past five years. The flag of Xanvoria decorated on her sleeves served as a constant reminder of the duty she was about to undertake.

As she stood before the crowd, her confidence shone through. The atmosphere grew tense with expectations as she turned to face the media. With unyielding determination, she declared in a powerful voice, "I, Rong Xinghe, hereby solemnly swear that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the Constitution of Xanvoria, as by law established. I will, in duty bound, honestly and faithfully serve as the Military Chief of the Union of Xanvoria. I will go wherever ordered, by land, sea, or air, and I will do all in my power to safeguard the lives of the citizens of Xanvoria.

"From today, I will take responsibility for the Armed Forces, Navy, Air Forces, Combat Forces, and Bureaucrats. I will lead our nation's defense with honor and integrity."

At that moment, history was forged for the nation. The hall erupted in applause, the sound a mark of their remarkable victory. The cheers were not just for Rong Xinghe, but for every woman who had ever dreamed of serving her country.

For the past five years, Rong Xinghe had fought not only for her own ambitions but for the rights of countless women across the nation. She had endured disturbing, and quite frankly strenuous training, faced daunting challenges, and proven her grit time and again.

As the photographers continued to click pictures, reporters exclaimed to get a word with her, eager to hear her thoughts on this historic occasion. But Rong Xinghe, with the humility that came with her position, focused on the mission ahead. She understood the significance of her role and the expectations that came with it.

The path to this moment had not been easy. Over the years, she had faced torture, attacks, and literal run-ins with death more times than she could remember. So keeping a straight face in front of the media was barely a struggle.

Besides, there were a few hours before her press conference.

As she stepped away from the podium, her thoughts turned to the journey that lay ahead. The weight of her responsibilities settled on her shoulders, but she welcomed it. Overnight, Rong Xinghe had become more than just a military leader; she was a symbol of hope and progress for a nation on the brink of change. And she was just getting started.