Chapter 464

"Reporting, sir. I do fear death." Luna White stood at attention, her voice crisp and clear.

Her heart pounded like a drum. If she'd known coming to the hospital would lead to life-or-death trials, she would've chosen the aviation academy instead. Flying planes—no matter how dangerous—had to be better than this.

Damn Ethan White and his silver tongue, talking her into this mess. And damn her own weak resolve, backing out of flight training just because it sounded tough.

Now she was paying the price.

"Fear death?" The general narrowed his eyes, his tone turning icy. "Yet you stood by Andrew Smith, ready to die with him? Or was that just pretty words?"

A chill ran down Luna's spine. This man's moods shifted faster than June weather.

"Sir, fearing death isn't shameful." She drew a steadying breath. "I'm barely twenty. My life's just begun. With family counting on me, how could I not fear death?"

She paused, her gaze hardening.

"But standing beside Andrew that day was my choice. If he could face death for duty, then as his fiancée, I'd stand with him. Even Death himself would have to go through us first."

"Good!" The general suddenly slammed the table, laughing. "Well said! That'd make Death think twice!"

His piercing eyes locked onto Luna. "You've got spine, girl. I heard Andrew was standing on a live mine when you joined him. That kind of courage is rare."

Luna exhaled quietly.

Looking back, even she couldn't explain her recklessness. Given another chance, she wasn't sure she'd make the same choice.

"Andrew." The general turned to the man beside her. "Your father served under me. The apple didn't fall far—you've surpassed him."

He lifted a file from the desk, approval flashing in his eyes. "Your record speaks for itself. Every step earned through merit."

Andrew gave a slight bow. "Thank you, sir."

No arrogance. No false modesty.

"By higher authority's decision," the general announced solemnly, "in recognition of your expertise and two acts of exceptional valor, you're hereby promoted two ranks. May you continue your exemplary work in Yun Province, training our next generation of soldiers."

The conference room fell utterly silent.