Chapter 41 Commendation Ceremony

After some discussion, the group had no interest in lingering in River City any longer. They decided to return first and consult Commander Lin before making any further moves.

Commander Lin was actually reluctant to answer the children’s questions. He did know a few things, but they were all inconsequential clues. His initial refusal to let Lin Xiaofeng participate had stemmed from a desire to protect his own child—he couldn’t deny a measure of selfishness. As for why he eventually agreed, it was simply that he’d changed his mind, treating it as an adventure. The children were growing up; they couldn’t live under his protection forever—they needed experience. Besides, traveling together meant they could look after one another, and he had always protected them from the shadows.

But when the children expressed a desire to visit the Imperial Capital, he was truly opposed. The capital was far too dangerous, at least for the time being. If they wanted more experience, there were countless other places to choose from; there was no need to go there. Not long ago, in the Great Wilderness Mountains, they had barely escaped disaster. If their destination now was the Imperial Capital, this time he truly would be powerless to help from behind the scenes. No matter what, Commander Lin was firmly against it. Still, the children couldn’t be dissuaded, and all he could do was worry about them in silence.

He’d never imagined the children would become so deeply entangled; it was impossible not to feel anxious for them.

The four members of the Falcon Squad, however, were not especially concerned. They had already applied to the organization—after the commendation ceremony, they would go to the Imperial Capital for further training, which wouldn’t take too long. As for continuing their investigation, they would leave it to fate. As Commander Lin had said, whatever happened, he hoped the children would survive. They felt the same: no matter what, staying alive was most important. If the situation turned unfavorable, they would simply retreat—better to live to fight another day.

Soon, the River City Special Operations Bureau’s commendation ceremony for the Great Wilderness Mountains Operation and the induction of the new investigation team members was held at the Central Training Base of the city’s military district. Given the need for secrecy regarding the agents’ identities, the event was closed to outsiders.

Though an internal meeting, the venue was meticulously arranged. To avoid drawing attention, the Special Operations meeting center appeared unchanged from the outside, but inside, nothing was left to chance.

To minimize their profile, everyone entered through different gates as if it were a normal workday, then changed into dress uniforms and proceeded to the meeting center via internal corridors—a practice designed from the outset to protect the identities of special agents. So far, it had proven effective.

The Falcon Squad, dressed in military uniforms, entered through the side south gate, guided by personnel. Though it was their first time there, they couldn’t get lost. Ironically, after more than a year as Special Operations agents, always out on missions, this was their first visit to the River City office. Even when they’d previously received assignments, it was under the guise of military orders, with instructions relayed by the AI agent from Special Operations.

This arrangement stemmed from issues of trust. For a squad like Falcon, to go on such a long first mission and return only for promotion was previously unheard of; usually, agents had to pay their dues. Perhaps that was why the Special Operations Bureau kept new recruits hidden.

Yet the chaos of the past year had prompted changes. About six months prior, the Bureau altered the onboarding process for new agents, aiming to foster a sense of belonging and reduce the risk of defection. For those hired earlier, after their first mission, regardless of the outcome, they were required to report to the office under escort.

Thus, unlike previous agents who were either reprimanded upon their return, or later recruits who familiarized themselves with the organization before their first mission, the Falcon Squad’s first official day at headquarters was to receive awards.

Led to the changing room, they swapped their work uniforms for the dress uniforms prepared for them by the Bureau, then made their way to the event. Soon after taking their seats, Director Zhao of the River City Bureau and several unfamiliar faces arrived.

The ceremony began with leadership speeches, emphasizing the milestone significance of the Great Wilderness Operation. The event commemorated all soldiers who had sacrificed themselves for the country and the people since the disaster, honored those who had contributed to the mission, and encouraged new recruits to be dedicated, to remember their mission, and to strive bravely.

Contrary to what Director Zhao had once implied, the atmosphere was stirring rather than somber. The veterans in the audience were moved to tears, perhaps recalling fallen comrades or the innocent civilians tragically caught up in the disaster. In contrast, the new recruits were full of fervor and anticipation for their future service. Seeing their predecessors receive medals, salute, and share legendary experiences on stage, they were all the more eager to distinguish themselves.

As the squad that had made outstanding contributions in the Great Wilderness Operation—and who, like the new recruits, had joined the military in response to the disaster—the Falcon Squad received their awards. Afterwards, their captain, Zhang Xingmin, was invited to deliver the induction speech for the new recruits.

For Zhang Xingmin, who had a background in strategy, this was no challenge. Following the Bureau’s arrangements, he recounted how, a year earlier, they had met during the catastrophe and decided to enlist together. He then shared their mission experiences, concluding, as custom dictated, with words of encouragement for the new recruits.

To avoid burdening the newcomers or casting a shadow over their hearts, Zhang skillfully portrayed the mission as a legendary adventure and a journey of growth, glossing over the more painful moments, such as partings and loss.

The ceremony was a resounding success. The Special Operations Bureau had established an idol, a role model for the new recruits. Even if there was some exaggeration, it was enough that everyone wanted to believe in the story. Besides, since the details were classified, no one would be tactless enough to pry.

After the ceremony, Director Zhao sought out the Falcon Squad. This time, he was straightforward: “Your application for advanced training in the Imperial Capital has been approved. This is a required course for all agents, not a special privilege—yours is simply being advanced. I hope you will continue to excel, truly become the backbone of our team, and set an example for the younger generation.”

The Falcon Squad nodded in unison. Just as they were about to take their leave, Director Zhao hesitated, then spoke.

“In truth, Commander Lin came to see me yesterday…” Zhao’s voice was hesitant, uncertain.

“My father asked you to make an exception and not send us to the Imperial Capital, didn’t he?”

Since Lin Xiaofeng had guessed, Zhao no longer concealed it. “From my perspective, I certainly hope my subordinates take on more responsibility. I support you. But as a father myself, I understand Commander Lin completely.

Let me put it this way—Commander Lin’s concerns are well founded, because your suspicions are correct: the National Security Council has indeed assigned another agency to investigate the Dark Organization in secret. As for our Bureau, our main task is disaster response and post-disaster reconstruction, with an emphasis on prevention. The task of truly crushing the enemy lies with them. Frankly, you’re not ready for that—there are too many complications.”

Hearing their suspicions confirmed by Director Zhao, the Falcon Squad was at a loss. Even he didn’t believe they should continue the investigation.

Seeing their hesitation, Zhao shifted the topic. “Really, don’t feel too much pressure. I’m telling you this just so you’ll be more vigilant during missions. It’s not something that can be concealed forever. Now that you’re officially recognized as senior agents, you’d have learned this sooner or later.

The organization still hopes you’ll assist the military with disaster early warning. As for deeper missions, they’ll be open to you, but it’s not recommended you get involved—not without specialized training.”

…