Zhao Jun took the rifle case and, holding it by both ends, flipped it over. He saw three words embroidered in red thread on the army-green canvas: Dongfeng Defense Field.
Zhao Jun glanced around. They were seated toward the back of the room, and the only other occupied table was the one behind him.
With his back conveniently turned, Zhao Jun unzipped the side of the case and slid the rifle partway out.
A Type 56 semi-automatic rifle.
After a single glance, Zhao Jun slid the rifle back in and zipped the case shut.
Just then, Du Chunjiang, sitting opposite him, chuckled. "Technician Zhao, why don't you take it out for a proper look?"
Zhao Jun smiled back. "It's a brand-new rifle. What's there to look at? I'm sure it's perfect!"
With that, Zhao Jun held the rifle case out to Du Chunjiang, gesturing to return it.
