General Zhao's voice echoed through the large, dimly lit room. "William," he began, his tone formal yet commanding. William snapped into a crisp salute, standing at attention. The air in the room felt heavy, almost stifling, as the weight of the moment settled on his shoulders.
"You deserve a reward," General Zhao said.
"A reward?" William repeated, barely believing what he had heard. His heart skipped a beat, excitement creeping in. "What kind of reward?" he wondered, not daring to ask. He maintained his composure, but inside, his mind raced with anticipation.
General Zhao's face remained unreadable as he continued. "First, you managed to stop a bus explosion that would have killed dozens of students. You know how important these students are to the survival of humanity."