You were allowed to marry into No. 76 family, and you were promoted to director?

Chapter 390 Invitation

Shen Xing took a document out of his briefcase and handed it to Boss Dai:

"The storage warehouses near the Haitangxi Ferry were ransacked by Zhang Baiqiang from the Attendant's Office, who led the inspection team. A batch of goods that Yu Dale had just brought in was seized, and at the same time, all kinds of goods in several other warehouses were also seized and taken away by the inspection team on the grounds of smuggling."

Boss Dai's hand trembled, and he almost didn't catch the document that Shen Xing handed him.

Just then, there was a knock on the office door.

After calmly taking the documents, Boss Dai gestured for Shen Xing to open the door.

"Director, you can't ignore this matter, Shen Laosan. What are you doing here?"

The person who entered was Secretary Mao. He had previously been in charge of contacting and turning Sun Shao, who was impersonating Chen Yibo, against him. This was a crucial stage, and Mao Shu was originally unable to come back and forth.

However, the incident at Haitangxi Ferry forced Mao Shu to return.

Zhang Baiqiang seized all three of Mao Shu's warehouses at the Haitangxi ferry crossing. Those were not Mao Shu's own goods; a large number of foreign liquors, tobacco, and antiques were obtained by Mao Shu with the help of those bigwigs in the military and political departments.

Now that the items have been seized, and it was the Executive Office that took action, these items will definitely fall into the hands of the Chairman.

And what has fallen into Chiang Kai-shek's hands? Will Chiang Kai-shek return it?
Mr. Dai rubbed his temples and said in a hoarse voice:

“I already know about this. Li Miaotong was the one who started it. If you’re so capable, go and demand an explanation from her.”

Mao Shu snorted angrily.

It should be noted that in Mao Shu's three warehouses, there was also a batch of imported goods belonging to Boss Dai, worth more than 100,000 silver dollars.

Judging from what Boss Dai said, he didn't intend to keep the more than 100,000 silver dollars. He made it sound so easy. Of the three warehouses, Boss Dai's batch of goods was the cheapest!

If you don't want it, where am I supposed to get another batch from Mao Shu?

All distribution channels in Shanghai have been cut off!
The bigwigs in the military and political departments are blaming me. Who the hell am I supposed to complain to?
Mao Shu had expected this outcome when he arrived, but hearing what Boss Dai said still filled him with immense anger.

Does this mean I have to make my wife apologize to everyone again?

Thinking of this, Mao Shu touched his head, which was absolutely green to the point of being black!

"Director, we can't do this! If things continue like this with Li Miaotong..."

Mao Shu didn't say anything more in front of Shen Xing.

However, both Boss Dai and Shen Xing understood, and Shen Xing took an excuse to leave.

After Shen Xing left, Boss Dai looked at Mao Shu and said:

"Don't worry, Li Miaotong has to get revenge. Otherwise, when Chen Xinglei comes knocking, will you be the one to deal with him or will I?"

Chen Xinglei.
Mentioning this name also gives Mao Shu a headache.

This guy is a favorite of the Chairman, and a favorite that has remained so for a long time.

"Once this matter is over, I will talk to Li Miaotong. As for the losses this time, Secretary Mao, it's up to you."

Mao Shu stared at Boss Dai with a black line on his forehead. He seemed to notice the fleeting desire in Boss Dai's eyes. He was staring at his wife!
So, my wife has to compensate for this loss?

Mao Shu grew angrier the more he thought about it, but he didn't dare to really lose his temper with Boss Dai. He just tentatively asked:

"Director, you see, our biggest channel is Shanghai, but given the current situation there, I simply cannot reopen the shipping channel unless you, Director, give the order to have Young Tiger help us!"

Boss Dai's eyes widened in disbelief. "You really dare to think that way!"

However, having the tiger cub help might be a good option.

Now, Young Tiger holds a high position and great power in the Special Higher Police Department and enjoys the deep trust of Aizawa Keiko. If Young Tiger is willing to take action, securing a smuggling channel would be a piece of cake.

Moreover, with Young Tiger taking action, Boss Dai himself can gain more benefits, since in Boss Dai's eyes, Young Tiger belongs to his own people.

After thinking it over carefully for a while, Boss Dai still refused.

Sending tiger cubs to do this kind of thing carries a high risk of exposure; it's a classic case of penny-wise and pound-foolish.

If the Chairman found out about this, Mr. Dai didn't even dare to imagine whether the Chairman would pull out a gun and shoot him directly.

Probably not!
Thinking of this, Boss Dai waved his hand:

"Don't even think about it. The young tigers aren't meant to be used for this purpose."

At this point, Boss Dai changed the subject and asked:
"What's the situation with Mao Sanlin?"

Mao Sanlin has now been transferred back, but with his hands crippled, he was naturally abandoned by Boss Dai and Mao Shu.

After all, the Military Intelligence Bureau doesn't tolerate incompetence.

"I asked Mao Sanlin, and he said he didn't even see who knocked him unconscious at the time. Moreover, the person who interrogated him was Zhao Xuan, and the person who proposed the deal was also Zhao Xuan. Director, I think this Zhao Xuan is becoming more and more dangerous. Can Fengweilan's defection really succeed?"

Mr. Dai chuckled inwardly, but said calmly:
"You don't need to worry about that."

"Think about it from another angle. Zhao Xuan's proposal to trade for Mao Sanlin, isn't that also helping us? This shows that Fengweilan's defection efforts have been effective."

Mao Shu looked at Boss Dai speechlessly. What kind of results had this achieved?

However, upon closer reflection, there had never been a case of using money to buy back arrested colleagues before. Perhaps it really was the Phoenix Tail Orchid that played a role, whispering enough in Zhao Xuan's ear to indirectly propose this plan that would allow the Military Intelligence Bureau to rescue Mao Sanlin.

Mao Shu nodded. Besides Li Miaotong's matter, Mao Shu also brought some intelligence this time:
"Director, Xiaoman and the others are back. Now we can confirm that it was indeed because of the mole on our side that Xiaoman and the others suffered heavy losses in their Nanjing operation at the last moment."

"In addition, Xiaoman brought An Ruoxian back from Shanghai. According to the results of the inquiry, the Japanese battle plan was indeed given to Youhu by An Ruoxian and then sent back by Hu Niu via secret telegram."

Boss Dai squinted at Mao Shu:

"So you also think that the campaign guidelines are genuine?"

Mao Shu shook his head:

"Judging from An Ruoxian's statement, there is something strange about this. I always feel that someone deliberately let An Ruoxian steal that battle guidance strategy."

As Mao Shu relayed everything An Ruoxian had said, Boss Dai also felt that what Mao Shu said made a lot of sense.

Someone definitely let An Ruoxian steal the battle strategy on purpose.

In addition, the content of that campaign guidance plan was so comprehensive that it was as if the author had divine insight, and it was like the author could predict the future.

That was a plan the Japanese weren't supposed to launch until mid-May, but it ended up on my desk a few days ago, and by telegram no less.

Now, considering what Mao said, there are indeed many loopholes in this.

"The military also thinks this campaign strategy is nonsense, but since An Ruoxian stole it, the military does not intend to blame Youhu."

"Alright, you can temporarily settle An Ruoxian in Shancheng. Have Xiaoman and the conductor come to see me, especially the conductor. His unauthorized trip to Shanghai with Xiaoman was simply outrageous!"

God knows how close Dai's heart nearly jumped out of his throat when he learned that the conductor had gone to Shanghai with Zhou Xiaoman.

Thankfully, it was a close call.

This double-edged sword is something Boss Dai dares not let out of his sight again.

"Yes, Director, I'll take care of it right away."

Boss Dai stared at Mao Shu speechlessly:

"What's the rush?"

"How's it going with Chen Yibo?"

Mao Shu was just waiting for those words. If Boss Dai hadn't asked today, Mao Shu wouldn't have bothered to report it, even if he kept it to himself.

"Don't worry, Director. The contact with Chen Yibo went smoothly. Although the Japanese are protecting him very well, Chen Yibo has some tricks up his sleeve."

"However, Director, we have also investigated Chen Yibo thoroughly. Based on the intelligence you gave me last time, I sent someone to visit his hometown in Shandong and confirmed that his real name is Sun Shao."

"I believe that in a few days, Sun Shao will abandon his evil ways and turn to the light, and the Director will be able to see him in the mountain city."

This fake Chen Yibo must be brought back to Shancheng. If he stays in Shanghai, he will be secretly executed by Yingzuo if he is not killed by the anti-traitor squad.

Moreover, they don't have much time left; they must get Sun Shao safely to the mountain city as soon as possible.

As long as Sun Shao comes to Chongqing and publicly announces that he is Chen Yibo's double and that the real Chen Yibo is dead, this will be a great gift to the Wang Jingwei regime, enough to make them lose face and all their prestige and credibility!
"Get this done as soon as possible. The Central Bureau of Investigation and Statistics (Zhongtong) isn't to be trifled with. I heard that Gao Jin sent Lin Jingyue this time. She was trained by an instructor from the U.S. intelligence agency and is very capable. If she gets there first, do you know what the consequences will be!"

Mao Shu replied confidently:
"Director, you don't need to worry about this matter. Sun Shao has already told my people everything, including every single detail of Lin Jingyue's contact with him. This shows that Sun Shao is inclined to support our Military Intelligence Bureau."

Boss Dai nodded in satisfaction before waving for Mao Shu to leave.

At this moment, just like Mao Shu, Yu Dale learned that all his goods in the Haitangxi warehouse had been seized by Zhang Baiqiang and his inspection team, and he smashed most of his office.

Last time, with Young Master Jiang as his backer, Yu Dale dared to lay a hand on Li Miaotong. But without Young Master Jiang, Yu Dale wouldn't dare to touch a single hair on Li Miaotong's head.

Now, all he can do is vent his frustrations in the office, his impotent rage unleashed.

Zhang Beiping stood indifferently to one side. The information that Yu Dale had a batch of goods in the Haitangxi warehouse was provided to Li Miaotong by Zhang Beiping.

He didn't want to be caught in the crossfire of a battle between gods.

Even Zhang Baiqiang from the attendant's office didn't dare to speak loudly in front of Li Miaotong. If it weren't for Li Xiangjun's matchmaking, Li Miaotong wouldn't have even seen Zhang Beiping that night.

"Li Miaotong, I will never let you get away with this!"

Hearing Yu Dale's roar, Zhang Beiping lowered his head slightly. "Unbreakable alliance, hehe, now Li Miaotong is your sworn enemy."

Having never suffered such injustice before, Li Miaotong went all out this time.

Meanwhile, at Feige Cafe, Li Miaotong was hosting a welcome dinner for Song Rong and Zhou Xiaoman.

At the same time, the two also learned from Li Miaotong that the most likely person to be the mole was Yu Dale.

However, since Yu Dale was protected by Young Master Jiang and was not interrogated immediately, any clues he had by now have long been lost.

Upon learning this, Zhou Xiaoman and Song Rong's eyes flashed with murderous intent.

The investigation team was wiped out because of this mole. This grudge is something that not only Zhou Xiaoman but even Song Rong wants to settle with Yu Dale.

"What happened next?"

Zhou Xiaoman felt there were still some doubts, so she continued to question Li Miaotong.

After taking a bite of the cream cake, Li Miaotong chuckled and said angrily:
"Later, Section Chief Zheng from the Action Department said that he bumped into Yu Dale in the corridor outside the Director's office. However, Yu Dale said that he was only going to report to the Director, but when he learned that the Director was not in his office, he did not go to the Director's office to look for him, but instead turned around and went to the interrogation room."

"Just then, Zheng Huilan ran into him as she went out."

Zhou Xiaoman nodded slightly, but Song Rong, who had just picked up her coffee and placed the cup before her red lips, stopped, her eyebrows furrowing slightly as she looked at Li Miaotong and asked:

"Zheng Huilan appeared and happened to bump into Yu Dale. Does anyone have any evidence to corroborate Zheng Huilan's whereabouts?"

Li Miaotong looked at Song Rong in surprise:

"You actually suspect her? You should know that anyone else could be a mole, but Zheng Huilan could never be one. You know her background."

Zhou Xiaoman blinked:

What is Section Chief Zheng's background?

Li Miaotong sighed and said:
"Poor thing!"

“Her entire family was killed by the Japanese, and even her fiancé, whom she was about to marry, was killed while trying to help her escape.”

“In this life, Zheng Huilan and the Japanese have been sworn enemies, how could she be a traitor? Rongrong, don’t you even look at the true nature of the Wang Jingwei regime now!”

From the day it was established, the Wang Jingwei regime completely accepted the Japanese Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere plan, and has since become nothing more than a dog of the Japanese.

How could Jung Hye-ran, who harbors deep hatred for the Japanese, possibly be a mole and instead help her enemy?

Song Rong took a sip of coffee, put down the cup, and said with a playful expression:

"Who knows? What if all of this was a carefully orchestrated scheme by Zheng Huilan?"

"Her entire family was killed, her lover was killed, with such a hand, who would suspect her? But perhaps this is exactly what she wanted?"

Li Miaotong's face darkened, and she looked at Song Rong with some anger:

"Rongrong, don't assume malicious things about others. Zheng Huilan is already pitiful enough. If she knew you said that, I'm sure she would fight you to the death!"

"Don't forget, back in '32, she was in the same class as you. If she hadn't always been second best and overshadowed by you, with her personality, she might be a deputy director by now!"

After listening, Song Rong said with a strange smile:
"See, you said we're in the same class, so I know her!"

Zhou Xiaoman looked at Song Rong speechlessly:
"Sister Rong, let's be honest, can you not get so angry? Did you two have a falling out before?"

Song Rong shook her head, not admitting it, but Li Miaotong chuckled and said:
"It's a huge holiday!"

Upon hearing this, Song Rong simply smiled and said:
"It would be a complete waste of my time and emotions to have grudges against those I don't respect."

Li Miaotong shrugged and looked at Zhou Xiaoman, saying:
"That's right, that's where their feud started. Rongrong didn't take her seriously, and Zheng Huilan saw Rongrong as someone she wanted to surpass. So, gradually, Zheng Huilan, provoked by Rongrong's arrogance, developed a grudge against her, whether Rongrong admits it or not."

Zhou Xiaoman's lips twitched slightly. Well, this grudge has indeed been formed.

However, this is not a reason for Song Rong to judge Zheng Huilan as having a problem. There may be something else going on that is unknown to others. Otherwise, judging from Zhou Xiaoman's interactions with Song Rong these days, Song Rong is definitely not someone who would slander someone's innocence out of thin air.

That's not her personality.

However, during the ensuing casual conversation, Song Rong did not mention Zheng Huilan again, so Zhou Xiaoman did not ask any further questions.

"So, Rongrong, Xiaoman, how about it? Come with me and kill Yu Dale?!"

Zhou Xiaoman clenched her fists, her eyes blazing with fury, and said:
"I will never let this person get away with killing so many of my colleagues in the investigation team!"

Li Miaotong gave a thumbs up:
"As expected of the Military Intelligence Bureau's little princess, she has guts!"

After speaking, Li Miaotong looked at Song Rong:
"Rongrong, what about you? You don't even have Xiaoman's courage, do you?"

Song Rong leaned back lazily against the booth sofa, her red lips parted slightly as she spoke leisurely:
"It's useless. The clues that should have been cut off by now have been completely cut off. Without evidence, we can't get Yu Dale. As for your behavior of venting your anger, in my opinion, it's like a child throwing a tantrum. You might be able to anger Yu Dale, but you've narrowed your own path."

"Yes, Chen Xinglei can protect you, but can he protect you for a lifetime?"

Li Miaotong's pretty face turned red with anger after being rebuked by Song Rong.

But Song Rong was right. Now Li Miaotong can clearly feel that many people within the Military Intelligence Bureau are pointing fingers at her.

Li Miaotong had naturally heard some of the dirty deals involved from Chen Xinglei.

At the time, Li Miaotong naively asked, "Since you know, why not eliminate these parasites?"
Chen Xinglei only said two sentences to her.

The first sentence is: "If the water is too clear, there will be no fish."

The second question was directed at Li Miaotong, but Li Miaotong still doesn't understand: Do you have a faith?
faith?

Do you believe in Jesus?
I, Li Miaotong, am not Catholic!

Therefore, Li Miaotong could only understand the surface meaning of faith, and did not understand what Chen Xinglei's question represented at all.

"Then what do you suggest we do? Your best friend is being bullied, are you just going to stand by and watch?"

A fierce glint flashed in Song Rong's eyes, and he looked ahead with a half-smile, saying:

"Everyone has weaknesses. Dealing with a greedy person is so easy that I don't even want to lift a finger. But since you've said so, fine. Listen to me for the next move. Tell Zhang Baiqiang to stop. If you continue, you'll find it hard to move an inch in the Military Intelligence Bureau."

Li Miaotong nodded quickly. With Song Rong offering advice, Li Miaotong naturally wouldn't do anything foolish again.

Seeing that it was almost time, Song Rong was about to leave, but Li Miaotong stopped her:
"Don't rush. Besides welcoming you out today, I also want to introduce someone to you."

"Let's go, the banquet should be set up at Shizhonglou. Judging by the time, my cousin has arrived too."

At Li Miaotong's strong invitation, even Song Rong, who was reluctant to go, was dragged to Shizhonglou.

Inside the reserved private room, the three of them saw a girl who stood up from her chair and smiled at them as they entered.

Wearing a simple dress, with a slender waist, and a smile on her face, she looked very gentle and refined, clearly a well-bred young lady who had received higher education and was influenced by her environment from a young age.

"Come on, let me introduce you to my cousin, Chen Meiling!" Li Miaotong quickly stepped forward, grabbed Chen Meiling's arm, and began to introduce her to everyone as if showing off.

Upon hearing this, Chen Meiling greeted Song Rong and Zhou Xiaoman warmly:

"Hello, Xiaoman and Rongjie. My name is Chen Meiling, and I am Miaotong's cousin."

The soft voice was so sweet that Zhou Xiaoman felt like she was pregnant; it was the first time she had ever met a girl like Chen Meiling.

On the Kuomintang's side, the people Zhou Xiaoman met were mostly straightforward like Li Miaotong, sharp-tongued and ruthless like Song Rong, and cold on the outside but warm on the inside like Zheng Huilan.

In Zhou Xiaoman's eyes, someone like Chen Meiling was truly rare.

"Alright, everyone, please don't stand on ceremony and take your seats. My cousin is also returning to Chongqing today, and she'll be the director of the medical clinic at our Military Intelligence Bureau headquarters soon. If we don't build a good relationship now, she won't be able to cut in line if she gets injured later!"

The head of the infirmary!!
Upon hearing this, Song Rong and Zhou Xiaoman couldn't help but take a few more glances at Chen Meiling.

Based solely on this surname, coupled with her relationship with Li Miaotong, and the fact that she became the director of the Military Intelligence Bureau's medical office upon her return, both of them concluded that Chen Meiling was Chen Xinglei's daughter.

In Shanghai, Zhao Xuan, who had reconciled with Azawa Keiko, was taken by Azawa Keiko to Watanabe Kyoko's place for dinner after get off work.

The Kuomintang agents arrested today did not obtain any useful intelligence during the interrogation.

It's obvious that none of them are Kuomintang agents from Shanghai. The Special Higher Police's interrogation is just a formality. Anyway, they've already gotten all the credit. Whether they say anything useful or not is just a matter of adding icing on the cake or not, in Aizawa Keiko's view.

After a round of interrogation, these people were sent to Tilanqiao Prison by Aizawa Keiko.

No. 18 Shanyin Road.

Kyoko Watanabe prepared a table of authentic Tokyo cuisine.

However, Zhao Xuan wasn't used to eating it, especially sashimi. He felt that eating it would definitely make him feel sick!

"I heard the Special Higher Police arrested a group of Military Intelligence Bureau agents today?"

Watanabe Kyoko, who had specially changed to a round table, asked Zhao Xuan and Lan Zehuizi, who had almost finished eating, a question.

Neither of them hid anything, and Lan Zehui also attributed all the credit to Zhao Xuan.

It was originally Zhao Xuan who led the arrest.

After listening to Aizawa Keiko's words, Watanabe compared them with what he had discovered in his mind, and finally smiled and said:

"Ah Xuan is indeed very capable. I didn't expect him to be able to decipher even the Military Intelligence Bureau's codebook."

This has been confirmed; the codebook is real. Unfortunately, the Military Intelligence Bureau reacted extremely quickly. Otherwise, the Military Intelligence Bureau agents in Hefei, Nanjing, and Wuhan would probably have been wiped out this time alone.

However, Zhao Xuan arrested many big fish this time, including three deputy station chiefs and several elite agents of the Military Intelligence Bureau. This was the most successful arrest operation since the establishment of the Special Higher Police, or the Imperial Intelligence Department.

Moreover, Zhao Xuan's actions, from obtaining the intelligence to analyzing and utilizing it, were textbook-level.

After learning of this news, Kyoko Watanabe and Jinta Kagura discussed it several times. The final result was that, without any mistakes, it was confirmed that Zhao Xuan's ability to capture these people was not simply due to good luck.

Of course, luck is also necessary; deciphering the secret telegram alone would be impossible without a bit of luck.

Didn't you see that the technical department has spent more than half a year without making any progress?

Seeing that Aizawa Keiko and Zhao Xuan seemed to have reconciled, Watanabe felt much more at ease.

After all, Lan Zehuizi had practically poured her dowry into Zhao Xuan. If Zhao Xuan were to break up with Lan Zehuizi now, Watanabe wouldn't know how to comfort her.

"Mother, I also wanted to ask you this time. Ah Xuan has made such great contributions, shouldn't he be able to be promoted to lieutenant colonel?"

Watanabe didn't know what to say about Aizawa Keiko.

It was only through Watanabe's arrangement and the use of numerous resources that Lan Zehui was promoted to lieutenant colonel not long ago, while Zhao Xuan's promotion was like a rocket.

A promotion of four ranks in a single year is unprecedented in the intelligence community.

However, it must be said that Zhao Xuan has indeed made many contributions to the Special Higher Police, and his promotion is well-deserved, but it is absolutely impossible for him to be promoted so quickly.

It can only be said that the Lanze family has put in a lot of effort in this regard.

However, the Lanze family's resources were only enough for Zhao Xuan to be promoted to major. Beyond that, the Lanze family couldn't do anything, since Zhao Xuan was, after all, a Chinese.

When Aizawa Keiko asked that question tonight, she was testing Watanabe and also seeking his help.

Kyoko Watanabe sighed softly, and looking at Keiko Aizawa's hopeful eyes, she finally smiled and nodded.

"This achievement is indeed enough for Ah Xuan to be promoted to lieutenant colonel, but it is unprecedented in the intelligence department for Ah Xuan to have the same rank as you."

"If he continues to be promoted, it's very likely that Ah Xuan will be transferred out of the Special Higher Police. Have you thought about that?"

Aizawa Keiko pursed her lips and nodded; she had naturally thought about this question.

However, the Special Higher Police is currently in a special situation, consisting of an intelligence section and an intelligence advisory section.

If the two departments were merged, Zhao Xuan would have a good chance to stay in the Special Higher Police, and in terms of rank, he would only be half a grade lower than Lan Zehui.

Seeing through Aizawa Keiko's thoughts, Watanabe couldn't help but lament that daughters grow up and leave home. However, upon reflection, it seemed that he had initially arranged for Keiko to meet Zhao Xuan, and now it appeared that she was the one who orchestrated this situation.

At the time, Kyoko Watanabe never imagined that things would turn out this way.

Since things had come to this, Watanabe had no choice but to grit his teeth and continue, since it was Aizawa Keiko who had fallen for him first in this game.

"Alright, I'll send word home. I believe it won't be long before the Imperial Conference ends and the Cabinet's commendation order comes down."

After dinner, Kyoko Watanabe made up an excuse to have Jinta Kagura take Keiko Aizawa to see the birthday present he had prepared for her.

Zhao Xuan only found out now that today is actually Lan Zehuizi's birthday.

He hadn't had time to prepare a gift, but Zhao Xuan had already decided what to give her.

Following Aizawa Keiko into the courtyard, Zhao Xuan looked at the blooming cherry blossoms. When Watanabe wasn't paying attention, Zhao Xuan broke off a thin branch and then used nanotechnology to attach nanoparticles to the branch.

The plain cherry blossom twigs were instantly transformed into an exquisite hairpin adorned with a blooming cherry blossom.

As Watanabe stopped, Zhao Xuan put the hairpin in his pocket and also stopped.

"Zhao Sang".

Zhao Xuan stepped forward, stood side by side with Watanabe, and then turned his head to look.

"Chairman Watanabe, what did you want to tell me by sending Keiko away?"

Watanabe looked up at the cherry blossoms, which appeared vibrant under the lights, and said softly:

"Huizi has only ever loved you!"

Hearing this, Zhao Xuan really didn't know how to respond.

"Because of the family marriage, Keiko and Mitsuo actually didn't have any feelings for each other, but I can see that Keiko has really fallen for you this time."

"No matter what, ever since Mitsuo died, I have always treated Keiko as my own daughter. Today, seeing that she has found a man she truly loves, I am honestly happy for her, provided that you did not toy with her feelings."

After speaking, Watanabe Kyoko tilted her head and stared sharply into Zhao Xuan's eyes.

A faint smile played on Zhao Xuan's lips as he looked up at the blooming cherry blossoms in front of him.
"Chairman Watanabe, as you know, I have a wife."

"So what? I won't ask you whether you like Keiko or not; I can tell that. I'll ask you a question, and I hope you'll answer it carefully."

Kyoko Watanabe doesn't really care whether Zhao Xuan has a wife or not, after all, Watanabe can make Zhao Xuan lose his wife at any time.

But Watanabe also knew that if Touko really died, Aizawa Keiko would have no chance at all.

Zhao Xuan's expression turned serious, and he turned his head to look at Watanabe, nodding earnestly.

"If one day the empire is defeated, will you spare Keiko's life?"

Upon hearing this, alarm bells rang in Zhao Xuan's mind. If he made even the slightest mistake in answering this kind of question, he would be dead!
"Chairman Watanabe, are you kidding me? Do you think the Empire can't win this war?"

Seeing Watanabe staring intently at him, Zhao Xuan took a slight breath and continued:
"When that time comes, if we can evacuate from the Dragon Kingdom, we will naturally evacuate. Who would want to stay and wait to die?"

"But if we really can't leave, what's wrong with dying together? Anyway, with the blood of the Kuomintang and the underground party on my hands, the Chinese people will never let me go. As for whether I can protect Huizi's life then, I can't guarantee that. Perhaps on that day, my situation will be more difficult than Huizi's."

Kyoko Watanabe laughed after hearing this:

"You're certainly being realistic."

"Okay, you pass."

"However, today is Keiko's birthday. Didn't Keiko tell you?"

Zhao Xuan shook his head:

"No, but I did prepare a birthday present for her. I don't know if she'll like it?"

Kyoko Watanabe was taken aback. She had brought Zhao Xuan out for two reasons, one of which she had already achieved in the conversation just now.

Another reason is to give Zhao Xuan time to prepare a birthday gift for Keiko separately. At least, Watanabe hopes that Keiko will be happier on such a day.

I never expected that Zhao Xuan would actually prepare!
Watanabe was somewhat skeptical, but when he saw Zhao Xuan take out an exquisite hairpin from his trench coat pocket, which even Watanabe liked at first glance, he became certain that Zhao Xuan had been preparing it carefully for a long time.

After all, Watanabe couldn't tell what material the cherry blossom at the top of the hairpin was made of; it was so lifelike that it was impossible to look away.

"You knew all along that Keiko's birthday was today?"

With his mind completely focused on Watanabe's thoughts, Zhao Xuan, though previously unaware, could only nod in agreement.

"President Watanabe, please don't doubt my ability to gather information. Keiko has been so good to me, it would be really wrong of me not to know Keiko's birthday."

Kyoko Watanabe smiled with satisfaction:

"It seems I went to unnecessary trouble. I even prepared a gift for you for Huizi. Huizi will definitely like this hairpin you prepared."

Zhao Xuan felt helpless. This was no ordinary hairpin; nanoparticles were attached to it, and if Zhao Xuan wanted, this hairpin could become a listening device.

Zhao Xuan believed that once he gave the hairpin to Lan Zehuizi, she would definitely wear it at all times, or at least never take it off.

The more Zhao Xuan used Lan Zehui, the more he could only mentally remind himself that she was an aggressor!
Therefore, no matter what means are used, it is not excessive!
After giving himself a quick internal pep talk, Zhao Xuan gradually calmed down.

Before long, Aizawa Keiko and Kagura Jinta arrived in the courtyard, chatting and laughing.

Keiko really liked the birthday gift Watanabe prepared for her.

So when they arrived in the courtyard and saw Zhao Xuan chatting and laughing with his mother, Huizi felt even better. She quickly stepped forward, stood beside them, and asked:

"Mother, Ah Xuan, what are you talking about?"

Before Zhao Xuan could speak, Watanabe Kyoko grabbed Keiko's hand:
"I had prepared a gift for Ah Xuan to give to you."

Lan Zehui glanced at Zhao Xuan secretly, then forced a smile:
"It's okay. I never told Ah Xuan that it was my birthday today, so there's no need to prepare anything special."

Watanabe smiled slightly.
"Then you're wrong. The gift I prepared won't have a chance to be given to you by Ah Xuan. After all, I'm sure you'd like it even more from Ah Xuan."

Lan Zehui looked at Zhao Xuan in surprise:
"Ah Xuan, you, you really prepared a birthday present for me? How did you know it was my birthday?"

"Anyone who pays attention will know, Keiko, happy birthday."

Seeing Zhao Xuan hand her an exquisite hairpin, Lan Zehui was so moved she almost cried.

The gift was beautiful, and she loved it. What's more, Zhao Xuan had secretly prepared it. This surprise left Lan Zehuizi speechless.

"I love it, I love it so much, thank you, Ah Xuan!"

If Watanabe hadn't been there, and if Aizawa Keiko hadn't been somewhat rational, she would have felt that if she didn't do something at this moment, she would be letting down the exquisite birthday gift that Zhao Xuan had prepared for her, a gift that touched her heart so deeply.

After receiving the hairpin, Lan Ze Huizi put it on right in front of Watanabe and Zhao Xuan, twirled around in front of them, and asked happily:

"How's it going? Does it look good?"

Seeing Zhao Xuan nod, Lan Zehui was secretly delighted. Watanabe reached out and smoothed a strand of hair behind Huizi's ear, smiling as he said:
"It's beautiful. If it weren't your birthday today, I would want this hairpin too."

Seeing Aizawa Keiko grinning foolishly, Watanabe sighed inwardly. Sure enough, she was too deeply involved.

Around 9 p.m., Zhao Xuan didn't linger any longer and drove back to his apartment alone.

Aizawa Keiko, however, stayed behind to accompany Watanabe.

After all, Watanabe needed Keiko Aizawa to stay for the gift he had prepared for her tonight.

After Zhao Xuan left, Lan Zehui followed Watanabe to her bedroom.

A short while later, after Kagura Jinta delivered a telegram, Watanabe handed it to Aizawa Keiko. After reading it, Watanabe smiled and said:

"So, are you satisfied now?"

"Thank you, mother."

After sending the telegram, Aizawa Keiko, while admiring the exquisite hairpin, asked:

"Mother, the excuse you gave for asking me to stay tonight is lame. Is there something you want to tell me?"

Watanabe nodded slightly, his expression becoming somewhat serious as he said:

"We have obtained the military defense map of the Central China Theater. Now we are entering the war phase again. The entire intelligence agency in Shanghai must operate at full capacity."

"The Special Higher Police are under a lot of attention right now, so you are under the most pressure in this war."

"If the Special Higher Police can withstand the pressure after this war ends, then Ah Xuan's promotion document will be issued. On the contrary, if the Special Higher Police made a mistake this time, I'm afraid not only will Ah Xuan's promotion be hopeless, but the Intelligence Advisory Section will also be merged into the Intelligence Section. After all, no matter what, Kishimoto Osamu is still one of our own."

Aizawa Keiko's expression darkened, but she was also aware of the intricacies involved:

"Mother, so, as long as we keep the pressure in check, the intelligence section will be merged into the intelligence advisory section?"

Watanabe poured a cup of tea and pushed it onto Aizawa Keiko's table:

"That's just a little bit."

"Most importantly, this battle concerns the fate of the nation; we can only win and cannot afford to lose. Of course, we never thought we would lose."

"You know the role of intelligence agencies once the war begins."

"I'm keeping you here tonight so you can think things through and make a choice."

After saying that, Watanabe took out three slips of paper from a drawer in the cabinet next to him and placed them on Keiko's desk.

"After the war begins, does the Special Higher Police intend to conduct reconnaissance of the enemy's situation? Or does it intend to coordinate with the large-scale mopping-up operations in the rear to provide a stable rear area for the war? Or perhaps..."

At this point, Kyoko Watanabe reached out and tapped the third note.

Aizawa Keiko stared intently at the three choices, especially the last one, which left her quite confused about what it meant.
The first two are easy to understand, but the third one is actually negotiation!
Negotiate with the Kuomintang, or rather, with the Military Intelligence Bureau.

"Is the third step the most crucial part of this battle?"

Hearing Keiko's question, Watanabe smiled with satisfaction:

"I guess so, of course, that is, if things have developed to that point."

"Therefore, this choice is left to you. If we don't get to this point, the Special Higher Police will have made little contribution to this battle. But once we get to this point, the Special Higher Police will play a decisive role in this battle, and their contribution will naturally be the greatest outside the main battlefield."

In other words, since Aizawa Keiko was able to choose first, Watanabe was naturally protecting her.

In Watanabe's view, the safest approach during the campaign was for the Special Higher Police to assist in the large-scale mopping-up operations and stabilize the rear.

But looking at Aizawa Keiko's expression, she clearly wanted to choose the third option.

"Mother, I'm afraid only the third option can allow Ah Xuan to be promoted to lieutenant colonel without any obstacles and continue to stay in the Special Higher Police, right?"

Kyoko Watanabe sighed softly:

"Yes, so you chose option three?"

(End of this chapter)