Three days later, Ye Fan piloted the long-haul fighter jet back to Hua Hai Military Region from Africa. On board the jet, covered with the national flag, was the body of Zeng Zi. Also on board, a severely wounded comrade, Lu Chengqiang.
The fighter jet landed at the military airport where Hua Hai Military Region had already prepared for the reception.
The cabin door opened, and the solemn sound of military mourning music began as Ye Fan, with a face full of grief, carried Zeng Zi's body out.
"Attention!"
"Salute!"
Below the plane, the military honor guard split into two rows, saluting Zeng Zi's body with somber expressions.
"Zeng Zi, we're home now."
Ye Fan stood at the cabin door, looking down at Zeng Zi's body.
Although he had flown to Africa as fast as he could, Zeng Zi had still breathed his last two hours before his arrival.