The White House briefing room was packed. Dozens of reporters, both domestic and international, filled the seats, their pens poised over notepads, typewriters clicking, and cameras ready to capture every word. The rescue operation in China had already dominated headlines, but the world was waiting for the official statement from the President of Amerathia himself.
The murmurs ceased as the doors swung open.
President Matthew Hesh stepped onto the podium, his face composed, the weight of leadership evident in his firm posture. He adjusted his tie, then rested his hands on the sides of the lectern, his gaze scanning the audience before speaking.
"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. Over the past week, Amerathia has been closely monitoring the situation in China, particularly the escalating violence caused by the Boxer Rebellion. Many foreign diplomats, Chinese officials, and civilians were taken hostage by this radical group.
