Chapter 371: The Two Men Exchanged Glances

The two men exchanged glances before approaching with overly friendly smiles.

"Greetings, comrade!" The man who looked like an official rubbed his hands together, his tone ingratiating. "We're here on urgent orders from higher-ups, but there's a checkpoint ahead, and we don't know the passphrase. Would you mind helping us out? Delaying military affairs would be... unwise." His gaze lingered on Elena Ward as he spoke.

He studied her deliberately because she was a female soldier—women in the barracks were usually medics. No matter how sharp they seemed, they had their limits. He hoped to find a weakness in her.

If they could slip inside, scout the camp's defenses, and launch a surprise attack, it would be a huge win. Failing that, tossing a couple of grenades at an officer would still fulfill their mission—destruction was their purpose.

"Oh, that's no trouble at all!" Elena beamed with childlike enthusiasm. "You two must be exhausted from your journey. Private Lewis, fetch some water!" She turned to call out before cheerfully adding, "Perfect timing—we're having braised pork ribs with potatoes today! Smells amazing! Why not join us for a meal before discussing business?"

Her bubbly demeanor made her seem like an innocent young girl.

"Dr. Ward, don't tempt me!" Leah Young exaggeratedly swallowed. "I've been craving this for days—I'm eating three bowls today!"

The two men's eyes lit up. Braised pork ribs? How long had it been since they'd had a hot meal, let alone meat? Their supply lines never carried anything this good.

"Well... we wouldn't want to impose," the official-looking man said, rubbing his hands again, grinning widely. "But it has been a while since we had a proper meal."

Elena smiled warmly and gestured. "Come, come, right this way! The barracks have proper resting areas—much better than standing around here." She knew exactly what they were really after.

Their interest wasn't in the food.

As they stood, the two men scanned their surroundings warily. Leah Young stepped aside with a sincere smile. "After you, comrades!"

The official's hand drifted toward his holster, while the other man subtly touched his waist. Elena caught the movement from the corner of her eye and smirked inwardly. On our turf and still this jumpy? How obvious can you be?

She flicked a glance at her companions. All four understood instantly.

"Right this way!" Elena stepped aside.

The two followed her, already calculating: if things went south, they'd use the female medic as a hostage first.