The bus rumbled to a halt, its brakes hissing in protest. Delilah, still half-dazed from the long journey, blinked her eyes open and peered out the window.
A gasp escaped her lips.
Before her, nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant forests, lay the national defence education camp. The sprawling complex, painted in camouflage hues, seemed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings. A towering flagpole stood proudly at the entrance, the crimson, five-starred flag of China fluttered majestically in the wind.
The imposing gates adorned with the emblem of the People's Liberation Army. The air was crisp and invigorating, carrying the faint scent of pine and earth. In the distance, Delilah could hear the rhythmic chanting of slogans and the sharp crack of rifles firing.
As the bus doors swung open, Delilah stepped out onto the gravel path, her senses overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the camp. She could see groups of young people, clad in olive green uniforms, marching in perfect formation, their boots echoing against the pavement. Others were engaged in various physical training exercises, their faces etched with determination.
The camp was a vast expanse of meticulously maintained grounds, dotted with barracks, training facilities, and a sprawling parade ground. A sense of discipline and order permeated the atmosphere.
The place bustled with an air of purpose and discipline. The buildings, constructed from sturdy brick and concrete, were adorned with patriotic murals and slogans. As she took in the surroundings, Delilah felt a surge of excitement and anticipation
Soon, they all had their things taken away by the instructor.
" Gather together"
The whistle blew.
The instructors began to arrange their formation.
Though the instructors didn't dare act rashly towards the girls, their formation was quite better than the boys.
Some boys were rebellious making their formation a mess, the newly recruited instructors were helpless, this was first time training these trainees.
In the centre of the camp, the acting chief instructor, Major Xia, stood with a furrowed brow, his eyes fixed on a messenger who had just sprinted in, breathless yet stood straight like a pole.
"Sir!" the messenger gasped, saluting sharply. "The chief instructor has arrived. Zhang Han is here."
Major Li straightened posture trembled, his heart racing.
Zhang Han is here?
Zhang Han was not just any chief instructor; he was a legend—a military prodigy who had earned the title of the youngest hero in the country's history.
Zhang Han was born into the illustrious Zhang family, a lineage that had been intertwined with the military for generations. The Zhang's were not merely a powerful family; they were the bedrock of the nation's defence, their influence stretching from the highest echelons of government to the very heart of the armed forces. Established during the early years of the republic, the family had built its reputation on valour and sacrifice, with ancestors who had fought valiantly in wars that shaped the nation's destiny.