Sister Mengmeng understood at once. He was suggesting they run.
She could understand that thought. Civilians indeed had no obligation to risk life and limb alongside them, but—"Unfortunately, there is currently no evacuation point we can confirm to be safe. The number of rebels on Mars is unknown, the conditions at each base are unknown, and we have nowhere to go."
"Chief, you must be joking. Of course there's a safe evacuation point." The man's face was wreathed in smiles as he pointed upward. "Earth. Isn't that the safest place? This year's Earth-Mars Window Period hasn't passed yet, has it?"
What?
All the operators looked at the man. Someone could not help saying, "Our comrades are still on Mars, and some have been attacked by the rebels. Are you asking us to become deserters?"
Shi Tie Zhu looked over as well.
He did not rush to rebuke him, merely asked in a deep voice, "Comrade, are you a Party member?"
The middle-aged man hurriedly explained, "Don't misunderstand me, everyone. I'm not trying to be a deserter. I know the situation is critical, and this isn't the time to fuss over personal gains and losses. In fact, during the Third War, I went to the front lines to provide medical aid. I am absolutely no coward."
Hearing this, many people's expressions eased slightly.
The middle-aged man continued, "My child is already working, and I've sent my parents away too. I have nothing to worry about. If it were just me, I would never flee at the brink of battle. Even if I died, I'd die a martyr. Look."
He lifted his shirt, revealing a scar on his stomach. "I was shot while providing medical aid. I'm really not afraid."
Shi Tie Zhu nodded. That truly was a bullet scar, and the