บท 565: The world can burn 2

The meeting room was filled with tension as Airon, accompanied by his captains, sat facing the high-ranking officials of his organization. The captains, wearing serious expressions, awaited their turn to express their views on communication with the CRM leader.

Captain Johnson, with a large scar on his forehead, said, "Commander Airon, I understand the importance of this communication with the CRM, but we must consider all factors. We don't know much about them, and while they have shown interest in baring their teeth, we can't blindly trust their words due to our past clashes. Are we sure there isn't a hidden agenda behind their intentions?"

Rodriguez, a tall and strong man, pointed out, "I agree with Johnson. We have worked hard to establish secure borders in these states, and we can't risk everything for uncertain communication. We need to be cautious and carefully analyze every step we take."

Airon nodded, showing understanding towards the concerns raised by his captains.

"I understand your concerns, and I share your caution. However, we must recognize that the CRM possesses resources and knowledge that could be valuable to our cause. We know their organization has managed to maintain safe zones and stability in some areas. If we can establish communication where we can learn more about these people, we could further strengthen our position and consider any potential defensive moves."

"Commander, we cannot ignore that the CRM has also shown interest in our technology and our ability to adapt to this new world. We must be careful not to reveal too much about our capabilities and ensure that any agreement is fair and respects our autonomy."

Airon understood this point and said, "I agree, Thompson. We must exercise caution in our interactions and protect our resources and knowledge. We need to establish clear boundaries and ensure that any dialogue is based on our terms. We won't bow down to the CRM."

The high-ranking officials nodded, acknowledging the validity of the concerns raised by the captains. It was evident that decision-making needed to be careful and well-founded.

At the end of the meeting, Airon and his captains prepared to communicate with the CRM leader. Aware of the challenges and risks involved, they were determined to make decisions that would ensure the survival and progress of their organization in this post-apocalyptic world.

Airon adjusted the frequency of the captured radio from one of the CRM captains and waited as the communication was established. At first, an unfamiliar voice responded from the other side.

Unknown voice: "Zz... Who is this? Identify yourself!"

Airon, with an expression of indifference, said, "Zz... This is Airon, leader of the S.C.T. I want to speak with the CRM leader... If you relay my message, they will know who I am."

There was a brief silence before a male voice responded.

"Zz... I'm sorry, but I don't know what you're talking about."

Airon frowned, sensing a possible trap or resistance to his request. "Don't play games with me. I know the CRM leader is a woman. I want to speak with her immediately."

The male voice on the other side hesitated for a moment before responding again.

"Alright, please wait a moment."

There was a brief pause before the voice of a woman resonated over the radio. "Zz... This is Elizabeth, leader of the CRM. May I know who I have the pleasure of speaking to through a radio that should have been in the possession of one of my soldiers?"

Airon took a deep breath, maintaining his composure as he responded.

"Elizabeth, I am Airon, leader of the S.C.T. Lately, many of your helicopters have fallen in my territory, and for reasons unknown to me and my people, there are certain individuals residing on our border."

Airon paused and continued, "You know, I have heard about your organization for a long time, and I believe it's time for our paths to cross. We have important matters to discuss and possibly problems to resolve before either of us takes drastic measures against each other."

The CRM leader remained silent for a moment before responding cautiously.

Elizabeth, on the other end of the radio, spoke with a hypocritical tone, "Airon, we have heard about your achievements and the resistance you have shown against enemy forces. If our intentions are sincere, there may be room for possible collaboration. However, I had already crossed you off my list, I must consider it."

"Don't play games with me. None of your soldiers have achieved victory when facing mine. Do you think I'm afraid of you? You're gravely mistaken. None in my organization are afraid, and it only takes my words to start a new war that won't end until one of the two sides surrenders."

Airon's words were cold and authoritative, so after a long silence, Airon said, "We have both heard things and we are curious about each other, so let's meet face to face without any misconceptions."

"Our common goal should be survival and progress in this devastated world. The world, especially this country, doesn't need a war, and you must understand that."

The CRM leader considered Airon's words before responding.

"Very well, Airon. Let me consult with my team, and we will establish a safe meeting point to discuss the details. I hope this meeting provides us with an opportunity to find common ground and a path towards a better future."

"You have some of my soldiers in your custody; they are part of the initial treaty," Elizabeth pointed out.

But Airon, who was expecting that, said, "Your soldiers recently took many of mine, so I want them returned, safe and sound."

Both leaders exchanged farewells and ended the communication for the time being. They knew that the next step would be crucial and would require careful diplomacy and a strategic approach to achieve a possible alliance that would benefit both groups in this challenging world.

On one hand, Airon kept his plans active, while Elizabeth pondered a way to eliminate Airon's organization or, even better, merge his people with the CRM.