Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 319 Wu Wanli makes a great contribution by going to the meeting alone!

Deep inside a prison on Hong Kong Island, in the last special interrogation room.

British Governor Louis Mountbatten glared furiously at Zhao Qingyang, Qian Xuesen's student.

"Why won't the Chinese pigs admit their guilt!"

spy!

As long as you admit that you are a technology spy sent by Red China to steal American technology!
Or you can admit that you are a spy who steals intelligence from the Empire in the Far East and disrupts order in Hong Kong!

Press your fingerprint on the confession and all this torture will stop immediately!
Do you understand?!

Governor Mountbatten stepped forward, his blue eyes bloodshot, and roared in a hoarse, shrill voice filled with rage.

However, the response he received was a voice strained out from Zhao Qingyang's torn lips: "What crime is it to... seek... education... and return to the country?"
"Don't even mention these tortures, even if you kill me, I will not confess to these fabricated crimes!"

This utter, silent resistance completely shattered Mountbatten's last shred of patience and dignity as a colonial ruler.

"What a hard bone!"

But how hard can it be?

The empire's branding iron can burn through stone!
Last chance!
Sign the confession!

Governor Mountbatten pointed sharply to the branding iron beside him, its edges gleaming white and sizzling, and his voice suddenly rose.

Upon hearing this, the British soldiers on the other side grinned and picked up the branding iron that was burning white.

The intense heat distorted the air, and the scorching breath, even from half a meter away, was already burning the skin around Zhao Qingyang's cracked wound.

Zhao Qingyang closed his eyes tightly, using the last of his strength to straighten his chest and meet the scorching heat. From deep within his chest, a blood-curdling roar erupted: "I will never yield!!!"

"Brand me!"

Mountbatten's eyes flashed with a fierce light, like a shark stimulated by blood, and he waved his hand menacingly to give the order.

"Report--!!!
Urgent military intelligence from Your Excellency the Governor!

A scream, almost terrified and distorted, pierced the boiling atmosphere of torture in the interrogation room.

The heavy iron gate was smashed open by a British major.

He almost collapsed to the ground, his face ashen, and he cried out in rapid breathing.

"Asshole!
Even if the sky falls, I'll hold it up; what are you afraid of?

Mountbatten turned around and roared.

The British major swallowed a mouthful of salty saliva and said, "Your Excellency, Governor!"
Their naval fleet forcefully...forced its way into the shipping lane!
Our ships were forced to take evasive action, and as a result…

"What was the result?!"
Did our valiant navy lose their temper and open fire halfway through their evasive maneuver?!
Did they teach these Chinese yellow-skinned monkeys a lesson with naval guns?!
"Speak quickly!!!"

Mountbatten frowned and pressed for an answer.

"It was our own warships that caused a series of collisions with each other!!"
To avoid the enormous Chinese battleship, HMS Sheffield swerved sharply to starboard!

Then it rammed into the side of the HMS Coventry cruiser!

The HMS Coventry lost control and violently rammed the stern and sides of the light cruiser HMS Agincourt behind it!

The HMS Agincourt listed severely and, while adjusting its attitude, scraped off a large section of the bow of the adjacent frigate, the HMS Richmond!
The bow deck of the HMS Coventry was torn and deformed, and the main gun turrets were jammed!

The Agincourt suffered keel damage and flooding, causing its speed to drop sharply!

The conning tower of the HMS Sheffield was dented and deformed from the impact!

The entire blockade line of the fleet was completely paralyzed and thrown into chaos!
We have no choice but to abandon them and immediately allow their fleet to anchor in Victoria Harbour!

In an instant, the air froze.

Governor Mountbatten stood frozen in place, a look of disbelief flashing in his eyes.

No gunpowder?

No artillery fire?

With just its domineering presence and the sheer size of its steel behemoths, it terrified the Royal Navy's blockade squadron stationed in the port, causing them to collide and destroy each other.

This is simply the most ridiculous thing in the world!

The guardians of Great Britain's Far East pearl have become frightened birds, staging a disastrous farce of heavy losses without the Chinese navy firing a single shot!
"absurd--!!!
Not a single shot was fired!! Not a single cannon shot was fired!!
What gives them, Chinese people, the right to do this?!

The glory of the Royal Navy!

The majesty of the empire resides in Victoria Harbour!

They were crushed by a group of yellow-skinned Chinese people using just a few ships?!
shame!!"

"Your Excellency the Governor!!"
We must face reality!

The core battleship of that fleet was the USS Missouri, which they captured a few months ago off the coast of Korea!
And that largest aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise!
If the carrier-based attack aircraft were to take off, they could sink the entire Victoria Harbour!

In addition, other heavy cruisers and destroyers were added to form a fleet...

Once firing, the Hong Kong Island Squadron will inevitably suffer the same fate as the US vanguard fleet at Pingtaek Port, and be completely annihilated!

The name "Pyeongsawa" was like a steel needle, piercing precisely into the depths of Mountbatten's enraged mind.

Six major U.S. warships, including powerful heavy cruisers, sank hopelessly in the icy waters off Pyeongtaek Harbor.

An entire fleet was wiped out by the overwhelming barrage of Chinese naval gunfire, torpedoes, and dive bombing!

That fear gripped Mountbatten's heart once again.

All the rage, all the sense of superiority, all the pride seemed to be sucked away in an instant.

Mountbatten's proud head suddenly drooped, and his body swayed uncontrollably.

He clung tightly to the cold edge of the rack, barely managing to keep his balance.

A long silence followed, with only the heavy breathing of the three men in the cell.

Anxiety and despair permeated the air, mixed with the smells of blood and the salty sea breeze.

Finally, what felt like an eternity passed.

Mountbatten took a deep breath, raised his head, and said, "Talk..."

As the fleet promised, we'll proceed with the negotiations...

They said I would personally meet with them at the Governor's Mansion later to discuss the handover of Zhao Qingyang!

"Immediately allow their negotiators to enter Hong Kong Island and stabilize them!"

"Yes! Your Excellency!"

The major felt as if he had been granted a pardon and turned to deliver the order.

"Wait!"

Mountbatten suddenly called out to him, a fierce glint flashing in his eyes, and said, "You go yourself!"
Tell the Commissioner of Home Affairs, Fitzgerald, to allow them to host a banquet of the highest caliber at the Governor's House!

Bring out your treasured finest wines and the best food, and find a few newly arrived young beauties!
Use the most extravagant and seductive methods to get that damned Chinese representative drunk!

drag!
Do everything in your power to hold him off!

It will take at least half an hour!

"Understood, Your Excellency!"

We'll make sure he's captivated for at least half an hour!

The British major understood immediately, nodded emphatically, saluted quickly, and turned to leave.

Mountbatten then slowly turned his gaze, sharp as a steel blade scraping bone, back to the nearly unconscious body on the rack.

Zhao Qingyang's head drooped limply, his breath faint.

Mountbatten's face broke into a sinister grin of extreme urgency as he said, "As for you... you stupid Chinese pig... your time hasn't come yet!"

continue! !
Pry open this damn mouth of yours!
half an hour!
Listen, you only have half an hour!
Within half an hour... I must see your confession, with your fingerprints on it, on my desk!

Otherwise, I'll make you regret being born!
"Do it!!!"

“Wow!!!!!”

A British soldier poured a large bucket of ice water, icy cold and mixed with disinfectant salt, over Zhao Qingyang's battered body.

The unconscious Zhao Qingyang was subjected to such a severe shock that his body trembled and convulsed violently as if he had been electrocuted!

The salt water was like a million red-hot steel needles, piercing deep into every open wound, and the excruciating pain that went deep into his bones tore him apart instantly!
A completely out-of-control scream burst out, but was forcefully swallowed back by violent convulsions!
His body was twisted and curled up in agony by the heavy chains, his skin turning a deathly bluish-gray from the sudden cold and excruciating pain.

Before he could even catch his breath!

"Pfft—!!!!!"

The incandescent branding iron, with its destructive heat and acrid white smoke, was firmly pressed against Zhao Qingyang's already bloodied and mangled back!
A chilling sound of flesh burning rang out instantly!

"Uh...ga..."

Zhao Qingyang let out a short, sharp sound from his throat, as if his soul had been instantly ripped away.

The rolled-back eyes suddenly froze and rolled upwards, the pupils instantly dilating and becoming unfocused.

His body suddenly stiffened on the rack, like a bowstring stretched to its limit; the next second, all the supporting force vanished.

He collapsed completely, like a broken doll that had lost all its strings.

The British soldier coldly removed the branding iron, leaving a gaping wound on his back, the edges still emitting pungent smoke.

"waste!
It can't even handle this much?!

What value could such a tattered piece of cloth possibly have?
Drag it away!
Give him a wake-up call!

Keep a close eye on the solitary confinement cell!

No matter what method you use, wake him up!

Half an hour later, I'll either see a confession on my desk!

Governor Mountbatten roared at the pale-faced British soldier, almost maniacally.

"Yes...yes, Your Excellency!"

The British soldier was startled by the governor's near-collapse and rage. He hurriedly and clumsily untied the heavy chains binding Zhao Qingyang and roughly dragged his bloodied body away from the prison.

"Someone, give me orders to have five hundred elite British troops ambush near the Governor's Mansion!"
Listen to my signal to smash the cup and take control of the Chinese negotiators, but under no circumstances should anyone be injured.

If we can hold out for a little longer, perhaps US naval support will arrive…

After giving his instructions, Governor Mountbatten headed straight for the Governor's residence.

"Yes!"

Upon hearing this, a British captain nearby immediately agreed and went to make the arrangements.

....................................

The core command room of the aircraft carrier Wanli

Standing at the chart table, Xiao Zhenhua frowned, his fingertips pressing heavily on the map of Victoria Harbour.

Wu Wanli, Liu Hanqing, Li Hongbo, as well as Yu Congrong, Gao Daxing, Lei Gong, and Pinghe surrounded them.

"The British side has sent an invitation to negotiations, and the location is set at the Governor's House on Hong Kong Island."

They requested that we send a representative to discuss the handover of Comrade Zhao Qingyang.

However, time is very tight, and the British side has only given a short window of opportunity.

Mountbatten is a cunning man. The Governor's House is his territory; he'll surely be on guard, it might even be a trap.

Captain Li Hongbo spoke in a calm tone.

"It's definitely a trap!"

Damn it, why don't they just release them?!

We just got rammed by their ships at sea and now they're pretending to ask us to negotiate?
It's clearly a weasel paying New Year's greetings to a chicken!

"Perhaps the governor's mansion is already lined with guns, just waiting for our comrades to walk in!"

Yu Congrong's fiery temper flared up first, and he slammed his hand on the command platform and cursed.

Gao Daxing nodded and then said, "That's right."

The fate of the American troops outside Pyeongtaek Harbor is imminent. Instead of repenting and releasing them, Mountbatten is taking the initiative to invite them to negotiations at this critical moment, which is clearly sinister.

He's either trying to stall for time, or he's trying to take our hostages, or even fabricate evidence.

This mission is extremely dangerous.

Lei Gong's worry was also etched on his weathered face as he said:

"The representatives not only had to face the unknown dangers of the Governor's House, but also had to deal with opponents like Mountbatten, who were skilled in colonial rule and adept at political maneuvering."

We must be firm, suppress the British arrogance, and force them to release the prisoners immediately.

You must also be careful not to fall into the other party's trap or give them a pretext to accuse you.

This job is extremely important, and the selection of the right person is crucial.

Pinghe calmly added to the report: "According to our earlier intelligence, the Governor's House and its surrounding core area are garrisoned by elite British Royal Army guards."

Furthermore, the Governor's Mansion has a complex architectural structure, making it easy to set up ambushes.

Mountbatten himself, displaying military arrogance through medals such as the Star of India, possessed an extremely strong desire for control over the colonies and was by no means easily swayed.

Political Commissar Liu Hanqing nodded solemnly and said in a deep voice, "This is indeed a fierce battle without gunpowder, and its danger is no less than that of the American fortifications in Pyeongtaek Port."

Representatives must not only possess the wisdom and courage to turn the tide, but also the ability and determination to escape unscathed from dangerous situations.

So...who's going?

A brief silence enveloped the command room.

Yu Congrong and Gao Daxing's eyes met in mid-air. They both stepped forward simultaneously and said in unison:
"I'll go!" "Let me go!"

Yu Congrong's voice boomed like a bell as he patted his chest: "I'll lead the team!"
Lead an entire fire support unit!

Set up the machine guns and carry the howitzers over!
Let's see if Mountbatten dares to play any tricks.
Lao Tzu will teach him why flowers are so red!

If he takes even a single finger from Comrade Zhao, I'll raze his entire building to the ground!

Although Gao Daxing was not sent out to a more remote location like Yu Congrong, he said with the same resolute tone: "The assault detachment requests to join the battle!"
We excel at breaking through enemy lines and are best suited for entering such dangerous situations.

Give me a squad, plus two mortars for perimeter support.

If the other side has malicious intentions, I am confident that I can rescue the hostages in the shortest possible time and create an opening!

The atmosphere instantly became more lively, but it also carried an unresolved dispute.

How to select and send personnel, and how many people to bring, became the focus of the debate.

Xiao Zhenhua did not immediately express his opinion. He pursed his lips and glanced at the faces of the people arguing.

He knew Mountbatten's cunning and understood the importance of equality in such "negotiations".

The British would never allow a complete combat force to enter the core area of ​​their Governor's residence; that would be tantamount to a declaration of war.

"no!!

Your courage is commendable, but you must remain clear-headed!
This is a negotiation, not a fight over the Pyeongtaek Port warehouse district!

The British promised that the negotiations would take place inside the Governor's House, with several hundred armed men present.

Will they let them through?
They will immediately see this as an act of confrontation!
Not only will they immediately close the door to negotiations, but they will also make a big fuss about it in the media.

In this way, Comrade Zhao Qingyang's situation will become even more dangerous!

Previous deterrence efforts may be in vain!

Getting people is the primary goal.

Make the other party feel the pressure, but don't let the situation get completely out of control, giving Mountbatten an excuse to gamble everything.

A representative must lead a small, elite group that is both intimidating and leaves the opponent with no good reason to refuse!

This is the perfect balance!
You must not only be able to go in, but also be able to lead people out!

"Comrades, there's no need to argue anymore."

"I'll represent you in these negotiations; let me go."

Wu Wanli thought for a moment and then spoke.

Upon hearing this, the crowd reacted even more intensely after a brief moment of astonishment.

"Wanli! No! This is too dangerous!"

You are the commander of the Seventh Steel Brigade, the backbone of our team as we defeat one powerful enemy after another!
This governor's mansion is a den of dragons and tigers!
"What if you go in person and something happens..."

Liu Hanqing's tone was full of worry.

"Captain! Let us do this job!"

How could I let you take that risk!

Yu Congrong also became anxious and quickly tried to persuade him.

Upon hearing this, Gao Daxing and Lei Gong also spoke up to dissuade him almost simultaneously.

Wu Wanli raised a hand, a simple gesture, to stop all attempts to dissuade him.

His eyes were sharp and firm, filled with undeniable power as he said, "It is because I am the captain that we have fought our way through the Han River, conquered Pyeongtaek, and wiped out the fleet."

So it's the most suitable thing for me to go!
My weight is enough to overshadow Mountbatten!
He should tremble at the mere mention of the name I'm going to!

This is what it means to seize the initiative!

Sending someone else wouldn't be enough; they wouldn't be able to command respect.

Sending troops, as the commander said, would only provide the enemy with an excuse to open fire.

The best approach is to send someone important enough that the other party will have to consider the consequences of harming me.

Bring too few people, so the other side has no sufficient reason to attack!

"But you can't go alone!"

Upon hearing this, Pinghe couldn't help but speak up.

"Of course it's not just one person."

"Sir, Captain, I request to bring an attendant."

Wu Wanli smiled and said confidently.

"one?"

Xiao Zhenhua frowned even more deeply and asked uncertainly.

Yes, one.

Too many people will cause trouble.

But if you're going to venture into the wolf's den, you can't go empty-handed.

"And bring one of our own machine guns!"

Wu Wanli added.

"What?! A machine gun?"

Yu Congrong gasped.

"Just a machine gun and one person?!"

Gao Daxing cried out in disbelief.

Even the most composed Xiao Zhenhua and Li Hongbo showed expressions of extreme shock.

Bringing only one follower and a heavy machine gun... what does that mean?
Time seemed to freeze for a few seconds.

Immediately, a tremendous shock, like a silent thunderclap, exploded in everyone's heart!

Liu Hanqing's face turned pale, and his voice trembled with excitement as he said, "Wanli! Are you trying to emulate Guan Yu's solo journey to the meeting?!"

The well-known story instantly came to mind for everyone.

Guan Yu, a fierce general of the Three Kingdoms period, went to Lu Su's banquet in Eastern Wu with only Zhou Cang and a large sword in order to take Jingzhou.

That imposing and domineering spirit, that look down upon all heroes, will be remembered for eternity!
Isn't Wu Wanli, standing before us, destined to become the Guan Yu of our time?

Alone, armed with only a machine gun, he went to the banquet hosted by the British governor!

What incredible courage that takes!
What confidence!

What a heroic spirit that disregards life and death!
Admiration surged into everyone's hearts like a tidal wave, but this was quickly followed by an even stronger sense of worry and an urge to stop it!
"No! Captain! This is too risky!"

Once inside the governor's mansion, the space was cramped, and the enemy was lying in ambush on all sides. How much room could a machine gun be used?
What if the other side makes a move first? We're doomed!

Lei Gong quickly said.

"yes!
Even if Guan Yu were reincarnated, Lu Su would still at least follow some rules!
What is Mountbatten?
He was a ruthless British colonial governor!

What rules can he possibly follow?
The banquet he set up was a guillotine!

"It's too dangerous for you to bring a machine gun with only one attendant!"

Yu Congrong was so excited that the veins on his neck bulged. He rushed to Wu Wanli and said.

"Captain, please think it over!"

The Governor's Palace has a complex structure, and a single machine gun would be insufficient to deal with ambushes from multiple directions.

A sneak attack from the shadows is impossible to defend against.

Besides, a single machine gun can't carry much ammunition; it will run out quickly once firefight begins.

Pinghe couldn't help but advise, "Your safety is of paramount importance! You absolutely cannot take such a risk!"
Bring at least one more squad of assault troops; they can provide support from the perimeter!

Gao Daxing frowned and echoed.

In the command room, voices of persuasion rose and fell, everyone anxiously trying to convince the commander who had made up his mind.

"Wanli, I'll go with you!"

Seeing that Wu Wanli was still unwilling to budge, Liu Hanqing gritted his teeth and said.

Wu Wanli shook his head and said:

"It is precisely because of the danger, precisely because it is the enemy's heart, that I go!"
As for the attendants Hanqing mentioned...

Everyone else can go, but you, Comrade Liu Hanqing, cannot!

Everyone was stunned upon hearing this.

Liu Hanqing was completely stunned and said, "Why...why can't I do it?"

Wu Wanli ignored Liu Hanqing and instead looked at Xiao Zhenhua and asked, "Chief Xiao, do you also think Hanqing shouldn't take the risk?"

Upon hearing this, Xiao Zhenhua nodded and said, "Comrade Liu Hanqing, let's go with Comrade Wu Wanli. You don't need to go."

"I will join the army!"

Upon hearing this, Wu Wanli turned to Yu Congrong and shouted.

"To!"

Yu Congrong snapped to attention, like a loaded cannonball, and reflexively straightened his chest and replied.

"Grab your machine gun, load it with bullets, and come with me to the Governor's Mansion to be my attendant!"

"clear!
Don't worry, Captain!
If anyone dares to lay a finger on you, I'll use a machine gun to turn them into a sieve, bones and all!
"I'm out of bullets, so I'll grab a machine gun and fight those bastards hand-to-hand!"

Yu Congrong immediately agreed excitedly!
The head of the protection team was more than happy to undertake this earth-shattering solo mission!

This is an immense trust and honor!

“It’s not enough!

Even the most powerful machine gun has blind spots.

"Let's take our clothes off now!"

As Wu Wanli spoke, he unbuttoned his military uniform.

Without hesitation, he grabbed a grenade and strapped it tightly to his side and back waist! Then he tucked in his shirt and buttoned his uniform back up.

"Do as I say! Tie it tight!"

Wu Wanli gave the order.

Yu Congrong's eyes widened like copper bells, but he did not hesitate and did as he was told.

Everyone in the command center was shocked to see Wu Wanli and Yu Congrong casually strapping explosives, symbols of mutual destruction, to their bodies.

This isn't a banquet, it's a high-stakes gamble!
It's a gamble on the hero's courage, a gamble on the soldier's pride!
There were no grand words, only pairs of eyes filled with the most fervent respect, worry, and reluctance to part.

Wu Wanli solemnly saluted the crowd.

"Time is up.

Transport boats, prepare!

Launch speedboat number one!

Li Hongbo's deep voice broke the silence. He glanced at his watch and spoke in a low voice into the communicator.

"Let's go! Yu Congrong!"

Wu Wanli said.

"Yes!"

Yu Congrong roared in response.

....................................

Outside the Governor's Palace, a red carpet stretches straight from the pier to the magnificent stone steps that symbolize colonial authority.

Dozens of British Royal Guards, dressed in pristine white uniforms and wearing tall bearskin hats, stood at attention with their rifles.

The guards stood ramrod straight, their faces bearing the arrogance and rigidity of the British Empire in the past.

Governor Mountbatten stood at the top of the stone steps, wearing a crisp white summer governor's uniform embroidered with gold thread and the "Star of India" medal on his chest.

His lips, pursed into a thin line beneath his hooked nose, were fixed on the Chinese transport boat that was slowly approaching the shore.

In the distance, on the surface of Victoria Harbour, the menacing silhouettes of the aircraft carrier "Wanli" and the battleship "Missouri," captured from the US Navy, were clearly visible, with the dark muzzles of their main gun turrets faintly pointing in this direction.

The massive cannon hung like the Sword of Damocles over his head, constantly reminding him of the humiliating defeat of the Royal Navy squadron just hours earlier, when they collided and destroyed each other without firing a single shot.

"Did they really only send two people?"

Governor Mountbatten frowned and asked.

"Your Excellency, the objective is very clear."

Apart from the two people piloting the boat, only two people actually landed on land.

An officer, and a tall soldier who seemed to be his deputy.

But that big soldier…

Fitzgerald spoke in a tense voice.

Before he finished speaking, the transport boat had already docked smoothly.

As the deck was lowered, Wu Wanli's tall and robust figure stepped out of the cabin first.

Yu Congrong, carrying a machine gun, followed closely behind Wu Wanli as he emerged.

Two men and a heavy machine gun dared to break into the British Governor's residence!
Yu Congrong strode onto the red carpet at the dock as if carrying an ordinary hoe!
The dark muzzle of the gun swayed arbitrarily as he moved forward.

Every slight tremor caused an uncontrollable commotion among the guards, who began to retreat.

The gun barrel seemed to carry a tangible weight, crushing the well-trained ranks of the Royal Guards and causing Mountbatten's face to turn from white to green, and then from green to black.

Wu Wanli walked with a steady gait, his military boots making a heavy, muffled sound on the scarlet carpet.

"Hello, Mr. Mountbatten."

Wu Wanli walked straight to Mountbatten and stopped five steps away, saying...

"Mr. Wu, we have shown the utmost goodwill and respect for your negotiation requests."

A meeting place has been specially set up within the Governor's Mansion, where we can eat and talk casually.

Governor Mountbatten forced a smile and said.

"Where are the people?
When will Comrade Zhao Qingyang send it back to us?

Wu Wanli did not agree, but asked directly.

This is hardly a negotiation inquiry.
It's clearly the tone of an ultimatum!
Mountbatten's breathing quickened instantly, and the muscles under his skin twitched violently.

The colonial officials around him were even more terrified, their heads hanging even lower.

"Cough...cough..."

Mountbatten was so shocked by the direct, harsh, and uncompromising question that his blood boiled and his chest tightened.

A strong sense of shame mixed with immense fear churned in his stomach.

He almost couldn't help but roar, demanding to know if the other person understood rules and etiquette!
But when he caught a glimpse of the outline of the giant ship on the sea out of the corner of his eye, and felt the intimidation of the heavy machine gun in front of him, all his anger was forcibly suppressed.

He took a deep breath, his voice taking on a rare, almost fawning tone:
"Although there have been some misunderstandings between us, since you are here in person, everything is negotiable! Everything is negotiable!"

As a commander-in-chief, you have been a powerful and influential figure, and your fame is known far and wide, even in Hong Kong!
To witness your might today is truly a testament to your divine prowess!

Since you have traveled a long way and are tired, I have prepared some light drinks in the room, as well as fresh local seafood. I have specially invited a top chef.

Fitzgerald, what are you standing there for!
Instruct the cellar to bring out that treasured 1887 Lafite… no!

I brought out all the Romanée-Conti photos I specially bought last year!

And there are Alba white truffles that arrived by air this morning! The best of the best! For our distinguished guests to try!

"Let's go, don't waste time."

Upon seeing this, Wu Wanli thought for a moment and then agreed.

Okay, this way!

You are majestic and spirited, with the aura of a tiger that can swallow a thousand miles!

When I saw it today, it certainly lived up to its reputation!

Such a commander's demeanor is rare even on a global scale!

Although I, Mountbatten, have served in the Far East for many years and have seen a bit of the world, I have never seen such an unstoppable and thunderous aura as yours!

Governor Mountbatten smiled and led the way.

As Wu Wanli listened to these almost nauseating flattery words, his eyes remained unmoved, even carrying a hint of barely perceptible cold mockery.

He had long seen through this colonial tactic of using sugar-coated bullets to delay and numb the enemy.

Behind every fawning word from Mountbatten lay a frantic countdown to Zhao Qingyang's ultimatum in the interrogation room and a desperate hope for American aid.

He didn't interrupt Mountbatten's performance, but simply turned his head slightly and gave Yu Congrong behind him a wink that was hard for others to notice.

Mountbatten, seeing that Wu Wanli remained silent, assumed that the other party had been temporarily appeased by his hospitality and flattery, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief.

He became even more enthusiastic, introducing the wines: "There are also a few bottles of Louis XIII in the cellar, all from excellent vintages..."

Oh, right!

Hearing that tea drinking is considered elegant in China, I prepared the finest Lion Peak Longjing tea and specially invited a tea master…

The group passed through the heavily guarded front hall with its towering columns.

The interior of the Governor's House is magnificent, with dazzling crystal chandeliers and huge oil paintings on the walls depicting the colonial "achievements" of the British Empire.

Just as Mountbatten was about to lead Wu Wanli through the doors of the lavish banquet hall, where tables were laden with gourmet food and a dozen scantily clad blonde dancers swayed gracefully—

"boom!"

A heavy, abrupt thud made all the British officials, waiters, and even the dancers present in the hall tremble and look in alarm toward the sound.

Yu Congrong's large, iron-like hand suddenly slammed down, and the triangular iron support of the machine gun was smashed right in front of the threshold!
The bottom of the metal bracket even scraped a small white mark on the floor, making a harsh scraping sound!
After the loud noise, there was an eerie silence. The dancers' seductive smiles froze instantly, like statues.

Then, Yu Congrong's roar, as loud as a bell, seemed to shake the crystal chandelier slightly:

"Give me a seat! Right here! I can see clearly, and it's easy to run away!"

Mountbatten, our commander is asking you a question!

Comrade Zhao Qingyang! When should you send it back?!

The dark muzzle of that heavy machine gun was pointed straight at the incredibly luxurious dining table and Mountbatten himself in the banquet hall!

Yu Congrong's right hand rested firmly on the trigger!
At the same time, Wu Wanli and Yu Congrong's clothes were pulled open, revealing the grenades strapped to them.

"Now, we can have a proper talk..."

Wu Wanli put his arm around Mountbatten's shoulder tightly and said with a smile.

The air in the banquet hall froze instantly.

The dancers' frozen smiles shattered into terror, and their piercing screams were suppressed in their throats, turning into short gasps.

The waiter's tray tilted, and expensive wine and gold-rimmed bone china glasses fell onto the carpet, the crimson liquid quickly spreading.

The white officials, dressed in sharp dress or military uniforms, turned deathly pale or ashen-faced in an instant, and involuntarily shrank back, trying to hide behind pillars or their colleagues.

The guards who had been standing by the wall, trying to maintain order, now had their fingers stiffly on the triggers of their rifles, wanting to raise them but not daring to.

Governor Mountbatten felt as if his heart was being gripped tightly by an icy hand, and a wave of intense dizziness washed over him.

These two Chinese people in front of them... how dare they?!

This is the sacred Government House of the British Empire on Hong Kong Island!
It is a symbol of dominance over the Far East!

He, Lord George Louis Mountbatten, is Her Majesty’s Plenipotentiary Representative on this land!
He wanted to roar, to order the guards to drag these two arrogant barbarians out and shoot them immediately!
But... the cold, constricting feeling around my waist came through the thin fabric.

Wu Wanli's hand gripped his shoulder like an iron clamp, the force not strong, but carrying a deadly pressure.

He understood that if he acted recklessly, his luxurious lifestyle built on French cuisine, his estates and villas scattered throughout his Asian colonies, and his illustrious reputation in London's social circles would all be lost...

All of this will be reduced to ashes with this explosion!

He could even imagine his shattered body fragments splattering onto those expensive oil paintings.

No! Absolutely not!

For the Hong Kong tycoon, who was accustomed to power and luxury, death was the greatest terror.

He still has countless bottles of fine wine in his cellar to drink, countless women of different charms to savor, and a British Order of Merit waiting for him to be promoted...

Thinking of this, Governor Mountbatten forced a smile and said:
"Mr. Wu...you...please calm down! Please calm down!"
Everything is negotiable!

"Guns are too dangerous... What do you mean?"

"It's nothing serious."

First, release Comrade Zhao Qingyang immediately. He is unharmed and is now being brought here.

Second, from this moment forward, you are prohibited from arbitrarily arresting or detaining any Chinese nationals residing in or transiting through Hong Kong Island for any reason.

Mountbatten felt relieved when he heard the first clause. The hostage was both a bargaining chip and a burden. Releasing him would be humiliating, but at least it would alleviate the deadly threat for the time being.

However, the second requirement struck him like a thunderbolt!

His face instantly turned from deathly pale to liverish, and he almost forgot about the restraints around his waist, exclaiming in a shrill voice, "What?!"

No! This...this is absolutely unacceptable!

We can't arrest people arbitrarily anymore; our power will be reduced!

"boom!!"

A deafening gunshot shattered all his feeble and weak excuses!

Everyone in the hall instinctively shrank back again, and several people even collapsed to the ground due to their weak legs!
Yu Congrong thrust the red-hot barrel forward with all his might, the machine gun's fore-and-aft section slamming into the medals on Governor Mountbatten's chest!

A faint cracking sound rang out!
The sturdy medal was cracked by the immense force!

"what--!"

Mountbatten cried out in pain, feeling as if he had been struck hard in the chest with a heavy hammer. He gasped for breath, and his ribs throbbed with pain!

"Damn it! Stop spouting nonsense!"
My commander made it perfectly clear!
Are you deaf?!

Is it okay?!

I just want to ask you one question!
"Okay!! Or not?!!"

Yu Congrong roared.

"Okay! Okay—!!!"
I promise! I promise everything!

Governor Mountbatten readily agreed.

"Humph!"

Yu Congrong snorted coldly, slightly reducing the force of the gun barrel, but the barrel remained pointed at the target area without letting up.

Wu Wanli's hand remained firmly on Mountbatten's shoulder, but his gaze swept over the British officials who were slumped on the ground or pale-faced, and he said, "Did you hear His Excellency the Governor's orders?"

"Yes! Yes! Your Excellency!"

Execute immediately! Quickly! Someone come here!

Go! Go to the special prison!
Get...get Mr. Zhao Qingyang! Quickly!
Send it over immediately! Be careful! There can be absolutely no mistakes!

Fitzgerald said in a panic
"Yes, sir!"

The two guards, as if granted a pardon, turned around and scrambled towards the door.

"besides!
Point three.

Your espionage charges and torture have caused irreparable damage to Comrade Zhao Qingyang and to the reputation of our country.

Prepare five standard 10-ounce gold bars of full weight.

Consider it a small, insignificant compensation.

They were brought to the dock along with the covenant and the men. The gold bars were wrapped in sturdy oilcloth.

Wu Wanli said.

"...Understood! Compensation is due! Compensation is the right thing to do!"

Go to the vault! Take five... no!

Five newly minted 'Royal Mint 10-ounce' standard gold bars will be provided!
Pack it up with... use canvas tools!

Mountbatten continued.

The finance officials dared not delay and rushed out as soon as they received the order.

The governor's mansion's machinery was operating at unprecedented efficiency under the threat of guns and bombs.

The sound of hurried running and doors opening came from the direction of the special prison.

The heavy iron door of the vault was opened, and the safe's knob was turned...

Time ticked by in the intense, tense wait.

Not long after, a series of chaotic footsteps and exclamations came from outside the door.

A makeshift stretcher bearing the Army Red Cross insignia was carefully carried in by four soldiers.

A person lay on a stretcher, his body wrapped in bandages soaked in dark red blood and suspicious charred marks.

His face was swollen and bluish-purple, his eyes were tightly closed, and he was barely breathing. It was Zhao Qingyang!
Although it had been cleaned, the remaining traces of torture were shocking.

Looking at Zhao Qingyang's miserable state, a sudden, intense emotion flickered in the depths of Wu Wanli's usually cold eyes, which then turned into an even deeper chill.

Immediately afterwards, a finance official also ran in carrying a thick canvas bag and carefully placed it on the ground.

The cloth bag was left open with a slit, revealing gleaming gold bars inside, bearing the royal insignia.

"Prepare the boat!"

Wu Wanli gave the order.

"Yes Yes!"

Mountbatten and Fitzgerald responded in unison.

Yu Congrong lifted the tool bag containing the gold bars with one hand, the heavy metal blocks clanging together inside.

Two accompanying British medical personnel attempted to step forward to help carry the stretcher.

Throughout the entire process, Wu Wanli's right hand never left Governor Mountbatten's shoulder, remaining close to him like a shadow.

Mountbatten felt the arm as hot and heavy as a branding iron, dragging him outward with an invisible force.

"Please...please come this way...Mr. Wu..."

Mountbatten's voice was weak and filled with despair.

....................................

On the port shore, a large speedboat that had been temporarily deployed was already docked next to the pier, its engine idling and emitting a low roar.

The massive silhouettes of the USS Thousand Mile and USS Missouri cast thick shadows near the shore, their gun barrels subtly adjusting their direction as the ships moved.

Near the pier, all British warships were unusually keeping a great distance.

"Get aboard."

Wu Wanli said succinctly.

Under the watchful eyes of countless people, Yu Congrong first carefully placed Zhao Qingyang's stretcher onto the deck of the speedboat.

It was Wu Wanli and Mountbatten's turn.

Wu Wanli stayed close to him, practically supporting him as he was the last to step onto the speedboat.

Yu Congrong immediately took the bow position, and the heavy machine gun slammed onto the deck with a loud clang once again.

The gun barrels weren't pointed at the dense array of guards on the shore, but they felt like invisible javelins pressing down on everyone's hearts.

The speedboat's engine roared to life, sending up surging white spray.

Under Mountbatten's almost pleading gaze, Wu Wanli's steel-like arm finally slowly loosened its grip on his shoulder.

"Your Excellency, both of us have fulfilled our promises regarding today's events."

Until we meet again—but hopefully on a day of equality and reciprocity.

Wu Wanli said.

These words, like a cold steel needle, pierced Mountbatten's last shred of illusion.

He felt an indescribable wave of exhaustion, his vision blurred, and he almost collapsed onto the deck.

The speedboat sped away from the pier, leaving a long white trail in its wake as it raced toward the gray fleet of steel behemoths.

As the speedboat steadily approached the massive, cold steel hull of the Wanli aircraft carrier, Zhao Qingyang was safely evacuated onto the carrier's spacious flight deck via a gondola.

After everyone boarded the warship, Wu Wanli followed the navy and retreated into the distance.

(End of this chapter)