Pentagon, National Military Command Center
When the signal dot representing the Tomahawk Missile overlapped with the red track marker representing the target on the massive tactical screen,
and finally vanished at the same time, the command center first fell into a brief, deathly silence.
Then came a long-suppressed burst of low cheers and applause.
The officers and staff exchanged high fives, and the faces that had been tense for dozens of hours finally showed expressions of relief.
"Hit confirmed! Cross-verified by multiple sensors, target signal has disappeared! I repeat, target signal has disappeared!"
The technical officer reported loudly, his voice trembling with excitement.
The Defense Minister let out a heavy breath, his tightly clenched fist slowly relaxing.
After glancing at the screen and confirming there was no mistake, he turned and headed for the secure communications room.
His usual cold expression returned, though a flicker of satisfaction flashed deep in his eyes.
"Get me the White Palace, presidential line."
White Palace, Oval Office
The afternoon sun streamed through the windows, casting warm patches of light across the polished floor.
The president stood by the window with a cup of freshly brewed black coffee in hand, looking out over the lawn.
The aroma of coffee slightly eased the gloom between his brows, but the heaviness remained impossible to shake.
A soft knock sounded at the door.
"Come in."
The president's aide pushed the door open and entered, his steps a little lighter than usual and a restrained excitement on his face.
He walked to the president's side and spoke in a low but clear voice:
"Mr. President, we have just received a direct report from the Defense Minister.
The operation has been completed and has achieved... confirmed success.
The target has been completely shot down over the designated sea area!"
The