The military command center in Chongqing was thick with tension. Chiang Kai-shek and Dai Li stood before a massive operational map, their eyes filled with urgency and apprehension. Chiang’s pen moved rapidly across the map, precisely marking potential flight paths for the mysterious warplane. His brows were furrowed as if he were pondering a matter of grave importance. Suddenly, the silence of the room was shattered by the sharp ringing of a telephone. Dai Li strode quickly to the desk and snatched up the receiver. A frantic voice on the other end reported that the Japanese Army airbase at Tangshan had been destroyed. For once, a look of genuine joy crossed Dai Li’s face as he listened intently, nodding from time to time.
After hanging up, Dai Li immediately reported to Chiang: "Generalissimo, news from Tangshan: a mysterious warplane launched a surprise raid on the Japanese airbase at Xiaoguanzhuang. The airfield has been completely destroyed, and all 18 Japanese Zero fighters were shot down." His expression held a glimmer of excitement, tempered by caution. Upon hearing this, Chiang paused, his pen still in hand. His gaze grew sharper, revealing a flicker of relief and admiration. He nodded, acknowledging the gravity of the news.
Chiang commanded, "Notify the command headquarters of the First and Second War Zones immediately. Reinforce anti-aircraft fire and ensure our defense. At the same time, send a letter to the Aviation Committee to issue a bounty for intelligence on…
Chapter 479