Changjin Lake: From Xinxingli to Seoul

Chapter 321 Victory Celebration! Ten T-34 Tanks Acquired! The Fifth Campaign to be Planned!
When the outline of Pyongyang appeared in the early spring dust, the road stretching for miles was already completely submerged by crowds.

Having learned of the 7th Steel Corps' triumphant return in advance, North Korean citizens, young and old, flocked to Seongnam Avenue starting in the early hours of the morning.

The homespun clothes stained with mud, the faded Korean long skirts, the worn-out school uniforms, and even the faded uniforms of wounded soldiers leaning on crutches, all converged into a turbulent, gray-blue ocean.

Homemade little red flags waved all over the mountains and fields, and simple cardboard signs were held overhead, with eye-catching slogans written on them in crooked Chinese characters.

Welcome, heroes of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army!

"It's easier to shake a mountain than to shake the Seventh Steel Brigade!"

Some soldiers were mixed in, their olive-green uniforms and early Korean War caps standing out, their upright postures striving to maintain the order of the ranks.

Shouts, folk tunes, children's cries, and the beating of military drums, all combined with the cold wind, formed a huge, noisy vortex.

A pure and overwhelming heat wave swept over them, almost engulfing the entire convoy.

Wu Wanli stood in the front seat of the convertible jeep, his hands gripping the cold handrail tightly.

The wind lifted his slightly long sideburns, revealing his tightly pursed thin lips and calmly gazing ahead.

Behind them, in several jeeps, Yu Congrong grinned and waved vigorously to the crowd, while Gao Daxing straightened his back and solemnly returned the greeting. Lei Gong squinted at the sea of ​​people, Ping He vigilantly scanned the surrounding high points, and Political Commissar Liu Hanqing nodded with a gentle smile.

On the long line of trucks behind them, the soldiers of the Seventh Steel Brigade, whether wounded or not, all stood tall, silently responding to this thunderous respect.

The jeep slowed down more and more, eventually coming to a near stop in front of the surging crowd.

The crowd surged forward like a burst dam, countless hands reaching out towards Wu Wanli.

Withered, tender, cracked, wrapped in gauze, unable to touch the hem of his clothes, he only swayed weakly.

"Wukaka! Wukaka! Wukaka!"

The shouts rose higher and higher, like some kind of fanatical worship.

"He's even taller than the last time I saw him!"

"He's so handsome! He has an indescribable charisma!"

"I wish I could marry him and go back to China with him. I don't want to stay here and eat kimchi every day."

"That's wishful thinking! There's also the quietness of the Volunteer Army's cultural troupe, and so many beautiful women eyeing him!"

Along the roadside, countless young North Korean girls, filled with romantic longing, whispered and fantasized as they looked at Wu Wanli.

Lin Yoona stood on a small, makeshift platform by the roadside, like a pearl being lifted up by the waves.

She wore a brand new light pink Chinese ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese dress), which accentuated the slender figure of a young girl.

Her long, jet-black hair was carefully combed and wrapped into an exquisite bun with colorful silk threads, adorned with small, brightly colored paper flowers, forming a vibrant and fragrant floral crown.

She applied a light layer of rouge to her face, but it couldn't conceal the intense blush beneath her skin. Her eyes, like those of a startled fawn, nervously followed the slowly approaching jeep.

At this moment, the jeep finally came to a complete stop, no more than ten steps away from her.

Wu Wanli stepped off the carriage with composure, and as soon as he stood still, his gaze fell on her as if he were sensing something.

The moment their eyes met, Yoona's heart almost stopped. The words she had prepared stuck in her throat, leaving only the violent pounding of her heart against her eardrums.

The crowd fell silent instantly, all eyes focused on the girl holding a large bouquet of wildflowers and the young commander in his crisp military uniform.

Lin Yoona took a deep breath, held the bunch of wildflowers covered in dew in her hands, and walked down the earthen platform step by step.

Her brand-new embroidered cloth shoes trod on the soft yellow earth, making her slender figure appear somewhat stiff.

She stopped a step and a half in front of Wu Wanli, her head lowered even further, revealing only a section of her fair neck beneath the floral crown.

“Wukaka…Oppa…you…are back…”

Yoona's voice was as soft as a mosquito's buzz, with a clear tremor, and the tiny flower petals trembled gently with the tremor of her fingertips.

Wu Wanli's expression softened.

The memory of the girl's adoration and shyness when she presented flowers in Seoul is still fresh. Now, in this elaborate and somewhat jarring outfit, that cautiousness seems even more pure.

"You're back. Thank you for your thoughtfulness, Yoona."

Wu Wanli nodded slightly.

Hearing this familiar address, Lim Yoona mustered up her courage and raised her head, her cheeks as red as ripe berries.

"Flowers...Do you like flowers? Or...are they still as beautiful as before?"

As Yoona mustered her courage to speak, her eyes conveyed something more directly than her words.

She said this because she was afraid that Wu Wanli would forget her after being gone for so long, so she wanted to evoke some memories in him.

"I love it. The flowers are as beautiful as the rivers and mountains of our motherland. Thank you."

Wu Wanli said after accepting the bouquet.

A look of satisfaction mixed with slight disappointment flashed across Lin Yoona's face, after all, Wu Wanli had once again avoided that indescribable part.

"I heard that you really enjoy watching dance performances at the performing arts troupe, Oppa. I've been working hard to learn a part of the Chinese 'Rainbow Feather Dance' recently. Can I perform it for you?"

Yoona bit her red lips and said nervously.

"Of course!"

Wu Wanli was slightly taken aback, then agreed.

They've studied for so long; if I just reject them outright, they'll probably go home crying.

"it is good!"

Yoona nodded happily, her fingers, hidden under her wide sleeves, secretly clenching the fabric. The determination she had been rehearsing for so long finally broke through her immense shyness.

Her body suddenly tensed up, and her eyes became unusually focused.

The next second, she suddenly took a small step back and flung open her wide sleeves.

With an awkward and even somewhat staggering start, she tried to lift her right foot onto the ground, mimicking the movements of the Rainbow Feather Dance that she had hastily learned.

He stepped his left foot to the side, rotated, twisted his body somewhat clumsily, and raised his arms overhead like newly fitted prosthetics, attempting to imitate the graceful flight of a flying celestial being.

His movements were clearly hesitant and clumsy, and his center of gravity was slightly unstable several times.

Liu Hanqing maintained a gentle smile, a barely perceptible hint of approval flashing deep in his eyes.

He keenly captured the sincerity and courage that the clumsy dance moves were trying so hard to conceal.

The fact that she had the courage to dance such an inappropriate dance in front of so many people shows that her intentions far exceeded the skill itself.

Thinking of this, his gaze fell on Wu Wanli's face.

Wu Wanli stood quietly, the bunch of wildflowers that had been temporarily placed on the hood of the jeep next to him swaying gently in the wind.

He watched the girl spin somewhat awkwardly in the dust, stretch with pauses, and tilt her head back slightly clumsily.

These clumsy dance steps overlapped with his memories of Yoona's restrained yet resolute gaze as she relayed intelligence on the banks of the Han River, and her earnest profile as she deftly bandaged wounds in the field hospital.

The clumsiness before my eyes has been given a new meaning; it is a kind of clumsiness that abandons restraint in order to express something.

Yoona barely managed to complete the ten-odd seconds of the most complete clip she could remember. The last movement was frozen in the pose where she raised her arms high above her head, but shrugged her shoulders due to nervousness.

After she stopped moving, an overwhelming sense of shame instantly overwhelmed her. She abruptly lowered her head, her ear tips peeking out from under the flower wreath were bright red.

The crowd fell silent for a moment, with only the sound of the wind blowing through the flags.

Wu Wanli stepped forward, reached out, and gently placed his hand on the top of her head, which was covered by a flower wreath, stroking it lightly for a second.

The warmth of his palm traveled through the petals and strands of hair, carrying the scent of gunpowder and roughness, yet possessing an indescribable, profound, and comforting power.

As if struck by a warm current, Lin Yoona suddenly raised her head and met Wu Wanli's slightly moved eyes.

"Yoona, I appreciate your kind gesture. This dance is very special. Thank you."

Wu Wanli said.

It's not just good-looking or pretty, but "very special".

This comment brought tears to Yoona's eyes.

All her clumsy efforts and anxieties were answered with a nod and a word, giving her the affirmation she needed most.

"Um……"

Yoona choked up, large tears rolling uncontrollably down her cheeks, fading her rouge and revealing her naturally delicate skin.

Liu Hanqing's smile deepened, and he nodded silently.

The onlookers seemed to understand something, and their initial astonishment subsided.

Someone started clapping rhythmically.

The applause quickly spread, adding a touch of encouragement to this awkward yet heartwarming scene, a rarity on the battlefield.

Before the enthusiastic applause had subsided, the crowd in front suddenly parted to the sides, making way for them.

Accompanied by steady, powerful footsteps, a group of figures in crisp military uniforms strode closer.

The leader was a tall and upright man with slightly graying temples but piercing eyes; it was Chief Chen.

He was followed by several senior staff officers from the Volunteer Army Headquarters, their steps steady and their demeanor solemn.

"Comrade Wanli! Comrade Hanqing!"

Chief Chen's booming voice pierced through the applause as he stepped forward with heartfelt joy.

His sharp gaze swept over Lin Yoona, whose face was still wet with tears and slightly disheveled, and then looked at Wu Wanli and the commanders behind him covered in gunpowder smoke, his smile deepening.

"Good! Good! It's good that you're back!"
I, along with several comrades from the Volunteer Army Headquarters, am here to greet your triumphant army in advance!

After finishing his speech, Chief Chen shook hands firmly with Wu Wanli, Liu Hanqing, Yu Congrong, Gao Daxing, Pinghe, Lei Gong, and others one by one.

Every "thank you for your hard work" weighed heavily on everyone's hearts.

Chief Chen's gaze finally landed on Wu Wanli's face, and he said with a rare mix of mischief and solemnity, "Wanli, the Seventh Steel Brigade has made unparalleled contributions that have shaken the world!"
The victory celebration banquet had already been prepared, and representatives of all the officers and soldiers had gathered...

Besides the heroes, there's another person you most want to see who has also arrived ahead of schedule.

Your parents are already waiting at the victory celebration camp to see their son!

"Father?!"

These two words struck Wu Wanli like a thunderclap.

A tremendous tremor surged within the depths of his calm, unfathomable eyes.

The original owner's memories surged forth, revealing all the hardships these two elderly people had endured.

In an instant, the noise of the crowd in front of him and the applause that had not yet subsided overhead overwhelmed him.

If his parents were to transmigrate to some other cultivation world, he might not be able to accept it so quickly.

However, these are the parents of martyrs. Wu Baili sacrificed himself for the founding of New China, and Wu Qianli fought all the way here. In the early days of his entry into Korea, he took great care of him.

As a young man of the 21st century, he is deeply grateful for the peace achieved by these heroes and martyrs, and it is only right that he take good care of his parents.

Yu Congrong and the others were collectively speechless, their eyes widening in surprise.

Gao Daxing rubbed his chin vigorously, Lei Gong blinked rapidly with moist eyes, and Ping He's tightly pursed lips turned up slightly.

Before the brief shock had subsided, Lin Zhengshun, the commander of the Chaojiu Army, hurried over from the periphery of the crowd. He first saluted Commander Chen solemnly, and then his gaze fell precisely on his younger sister.

"Reporting to Commander Chen!"

My younger sister, Yoona, specially prepared a welcome gift upon hearing of Captain Wu's triumphant return, and just now she expressed her excitement about our shared victory.

This child usually does his best to treat the wounded in the field hospital and has also made meritorious contributions.

At this grand banquet for the heroes of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army, she was one of the representatives of the Korean people and soldiers, and also a relative who cared about the safety of the combat hero Wu Kaka...

I wonder if Yoona can also attend this victory celebration banquet to broaden her horizons and experience the glory of a hero?

Lin Zhengshun's voice was loud and clear, carrying the crispness of a soldier and a hint of barely perceptible pleading.

Chief Chen's sharp gaze swept across Lin Zhengshun and Lin Yun'er's faces.

The girl's face was still streaked with tears, her flower wreath was slightly askew, and her newly changed Hanfu dress was a little dusty. She had just clumsily performed a dance and was now deeply moved.

Looking again at the lingering emotion in Wu Wanli's eyes... he understood.

Chief Chen gave a meaningful smile and nodded, saying, "Chief Lin is right."

Comrade Lin Yun'er made outstanding contributions in rescuing our wounded soldiers during the Battle of Incheon and the Battle of Han River, which is a concrete manifestation of the fighting friendship between China and North Korea.

It would be wonderful if she could attend the victory celebration banquet as one of the representatives of the Korean people and military to express her respect for Comrade Wan Li and the Seventh Steel Brigade!

Of course, everyone can participate together.

"Thank you, chief!"

Upon hearing this, Lin Zhengshun immediately straightened his chest and spoke in a loud voice.

"Thank you... thank you, Chief Chen..."

"Im Yoona said with a hint of nervousness."

She subconsciously took half a step closer to Wu Wanli, almost grabbing her brother's clothes like she did when she was scared as a child.

However, her fingers did not reach for Lin Zhengshun, but instead, with a slight tremor, she gently pinched a small corner of the hem of Wu Wanli's crisp military uniform beside her.

The cool fabric between her fingers seemed to offer her some support against the dizziness.

Wu Wanli did not move.

The news of his parents' arrival was still reverberating in his mind, like a boulder thrown into a deep lake, the aftershocks still lingering.

He felt a slight, persistent tug at the corner of his clothes. He looked down and met Lin Yoona's eyes, which were filled with panic and shyness.

Those eyes, which had just lit up because of his comforting words, were now once again shrouded in a new and immense pressure—the pressure of meeting his parents.

"Let's go."

Wu Wanli took one last look at the sea of ​​people still clapping for him, and said with a triumphant look in his eyes.

Liu Hanqing exchanged a knowing glance with him and quickly followed.

Yu Congrong rubbed his face, grinned foolishly, and called to Gao Daxing, Lei Gong, Pinghe, and others to follow the captain's footsteps.

The crowd automatically parted again to create a wider passage.

Chief Chen and his entourage walked at the front, with Wu Wanli following closely behind, his steps firm.

The hem of his crisp military uniform was tightly gripped by a slender, fair hand, its fingertips slightly white from the force of the grip, creating a slightly odd, pulling arc as he moved.

The girl's pink skirt was covered in the dust of the march, and her exquisite floral crown trembled gently in the breeze.

She lowered her head, staring intently at the footsteps of the soldier in front of her, almost shrinking herself into the slender shadow cast on the ground by Wu Wanli's tall figure.

With each step she took, and with each pull of her clothes, her already pounding heart pounded even harder and faster, as if it were about to burst out of her throat.

A fear far more intense than the fear of traversing enemy-occupied territory alone under heavy artillery fire gripped her.

The smoke and dust gathered behind them again, swirling the deafening cheers and the corner of the military uniform clutched in the pink-clad girl's hand into the early spring wind.

The mighty Seventh Steel Corps followed behind the officers' procession, heading towards the victory celebration banquet.

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

At the celebration banquet
The rich aroma of meat mingled with the scent of captured red wine, filling the temporarily cleared area in Pyongyang.

Despite being called a victory celebration banquet, the conditions were still harsh, with long wooden tables pieced together and simple benches.

But the atmosphere was so warm that it was enough to dispel the chill of spring in the north.

Laughter, the clinking of bowls and chopsticks, and the boisterous toasts of the volunteer soldiers mingled and rolled together, creating a unique post-war sea of ​​noise.

Chief Chen walked briskly ahead, leading the way, while Lin Zhengshun lagged half a step behind, a polite smile on his face.

Wu Wanli followed closely behind Liu Hanqing, side by side. The grand welcome he had just received outside Pyongyang had left him still feeling excited, and now he felt an even greater sense of anticipation.

Yu Congrong, Gao Daxing, Pinghe, Lei Gong, and others followed behind Liu Hanqing, their expressions a mixture of excitement and restraint.

Lin Yoona followed closely behind Wu Wanli, her slender hand clutching the back of his military uniform never letting go, as if it were her only piece of driftwood in the surging crowd.

The pink ruqun (a type of traditional Chinese dress) stood out against the dark green military uniform, and the paper flowers on her carefully styled hair swayed gently with her steps, revealing her inner tension.

She had already learned from her brother that Wu Wanli's parents had also arrived, and this brief "accompaniment" was the "advantage" that Lin Zhengshun had secured for her.

Before everyone else, especially that quiet person, I saw the two elders of the Wu family first.

After passing several tables crowded with laughing soldiers, Commander Chen stopped at a slightly secluded spot.

This was clearly a private room specially prepared for Wu's parents.

However, the sight that came into view made Yoona, who was following closely behind, freeze in place, as if a bucket of ice water had been poured over her head, chilling her to the bone.

Wu Shili and his mother sat side by side, wearing coarse cotton-padded jackets that were faded from washing but still looked brand new. Their faces were etched with the wrinkles of time, yet they also showed the weariness of a long journey and the light of seeing their son.

But at this moment, their faces showed more of an awkwardness mixed with a gentle smile.

Each of them had a thick, slightly worn military green blanket draped over them.

The source of this awkwardness and laughter was standing right behind them.

Anjing was wearing the uniform of the Chinese People's Volunteer Army Cultural Troupe, but loosely draped a familiar red scarf that was strikingly conspicuous even in the chilly spring weather.

With a gentle smile on her face, she leaned forward slightly and focused on massaging Wu's mother's slightly thin shoulders. Although her movements were not skillful, they were exceptionally gentle and earnest.

The sunlight fell perfectly on her lowered eyelashes and that bright red, making her profile look soft and warm.

Mother Wu was clearly a little embarrassed by the girl's affection and attentive care, but also felt warm. She patted her knee and said repeatedly, "Oh, girl, that's enough, that's so comfortable... Thank you!"

Mr. Wu rubbed his rough hands together and answered the girl's question with a smile: "...Yes, our hometown of Huzhou produces Zisun tea and Anji white tea!"

...I heard the Yalu River is quite wide now?
...Oh my, so many American cannons?
"...Amazing! Absolutely amazing!"

Anjing not only arrived early, but it looks like she's been here for quite a while!
She skillfully eased the anxiety and unfamiliarity of the two elderly people who were new to the place. The red scarf was like a silent medal, telling a story of a special connection between her and Wu Wanli.

Her thoughtful care has made the simple and honest Mr. and Mrs. Wu feel genuine warmth and affection.

Lin Zhengshun's heart sank suddenly, and he thought to himself, "Damn it! We're too late! An Changsen's information network is excellent, and his actions are swift!"

The shyness and nervousness that Lin Yoona had been deliberately maintaining on her face were now like porcelain that had been suddenly shattered, peeling off piece by piece.

The tiny spark that had ignited in his eyes because of "seizing the initiative" outside Pyongyang was instantly extinguished by the tender yet glaring scene before him.

A surge of intense resentment, disappointment, and an inexplicable sense of embarrassment suddenly welled up inside her, choking her and making her almost suffocate.

She felt like an outsider who had mistakenly entered someone else's home. All her careful preparations—the new dress, her hairstyle, the dance she had hastily learned, and the hand she was holding onto Wu Wanli's clothes—seemed so deliberate and ridiculous.

She could even "hear" a few words spoken between Wu's parents and An Jing during their conversation: Wu Wanli... Ji'an Station... cotton-padded coat... scarf... that group photo...

It turns out that someone else had already told the story beforehand, and in such a natural and warm way, they had incorporated it into his family life.

Her clumsy dance steps outside the city and her incongruous outfit now seemed like an awkward intruder, silently reminding everyone of their growing distance.

A sharp pang of sorrow shot straight to my eyes, and tears almost instantly burst forth uncontrollably.

She no longer cared about decorum or "making an impression"; the immense embarrassment made her want to escape.

She abruptly released her grip on Wu Wanli's clothes, the force so great that Wu Wanli stumbled forward a small step.

"Uncle and aunt!"

Yoona's voice was hoarse and broken, almost screaming, filled with heavy sobs.

She didn't even have the courage to look at Wu's parents' astonished faces and the complex gaze that An Jing cast at her, a gaze that was a mixture of bewilderment and understanding.

She suddenly pulled a carefully wrapped small cloth bag from her plain-colored cloth bag.

Inside were a pair of small silver bracelets she had specially prepared, engraved with auspicious patterns, symbolizing peace and good fortune.

Without even looking at it, she practically shoved it into the hand of Wu Shili, who was closest to her.

"A small token of my appreciation... wishing you... wishing you all..."

Yoona's words were drowned out by her sobs, and she could no longer utter a single word.

She turned around abruptly, covering her face like a startled fawn, and pushed aside the somewhat bewildered battalion commander, Shi Qian, who was blocking her way. Her pink figure quickly disappeared behind the noisy crowd.

"Yoona!"

Lin Zhengshun called out urgently, filled with regret and worry.

He glanced at the Wu family, especially Wu Wanli, and hurriedly said, "Excuse me, sir, I'll go see her for a moment!" before rushing off to catch up with them.

The meticulously planned attempt to "seize the initiative" was utterly and humiliatingly defeated in the face of quiet, silent existence.

This sudden turn of events left Wu's parents completely at a loss.

Holding the small cloth bag still warm from the girl's body and stained with her tears, Wu's father looked at Chief Chen and Wu Wanli with a blank expression and said, "This...this girl...why is she crying? Did we...say something wrong?"

Having seen countless people, Chief Chen's gaze swept over the red scarf around An Jing's neck, then looked at the small cloth bag in Wu's father's hand, and he already understood most of the situation.

He sighed inwardly, but put on a gentle smile to comfort her, saying, "Brother Wu, sister-in-law, don't worry about it."

That lady just now is Comrade Lim Yoon-ah, the younger sister of Lim Jong-sun, the leader of the Korean People's Army.

She was a good girl who made a difference by caring for our wounded soldiers in a field hospital in the rear. Perhaps... perhaps seeing you all made her too excited and touched on something that had been on her mind.

His brother went with him, he's fine.

At this moment, a tall and burly figure, bearing obvious marks of gunpowder on his body, parted the crowd and strode over. It was Wu Qianli.

His angular, war-hardened face broke into a genuine smile when he saw his parents and his long-lost younger brother, Wu Wanli.

"Father! Mother!"

Wu Qianli spoke loudly, rushing forward in three steps. He first grasped his father's rough, cracked hands tightly, then opened his arms and gave his somewhat hunched mother a tight hug.

Just like when he was a child, he buried his head in his mother's shoulder and rubbed against her.

This habitual action instantly brought tears to Wu's mother's eyes, who was still somewhat uneasy about the recent turn of events.

"Qianli! My son!"

Wu's mother hugged her second son tightly, and tears finally streamed down her face.

Father Wu patted his second son's arm hard, his lips trembling, his eyes welling up with tears, all his unspoken words condensed into one sentence: "Good! Good! As long as everyone is alright... as long as everyone is alright, that's all that matters!"

From the eldest son sacrificing his life for the country to the second and third sons going to Korea one after another, they lived in constant fear for the past six months, or even for many years since the start of the War of Resistance.
Now that both of their sons are standing before them, safe and sound, this brings more peace to their tormented hearts than any plaque of honor.

As Wu Wanli watched his brother and parents embrace, his heart was filled with warmth.

He stepped forward, a similarly deep smile on his face, and gave his older brother a tight hug: "Brother!"

A thousand words are contained in this one call.

Wu Qianli hugged him back tightly, his strong arms making Wu Wanli's bones creak slightly: "Good lad! You're really something! You didn't disgrace our family!"

The family briefly immersed themselves in the immense joy of reunion.

Wu's mother held Wu Qianli's hand and looked him up and down: "You've gotten darker and stronger! Is that shoulder injury... serious?"

"It's nothing, Mom! It's just a superficial wound! You're pretty tough!"

Wu Qianli waved his hand casually.

Wu Shili looked at Wu Wanli with admiration and said, "Wanli! I really didn't expect this! You've been a little rascal since you were a child, very stubborn... Who would have known!"
You can fight the Japanese devils, even the American devils' generals! You can even fight your way up to... fight your way up to that city?
And you even got awarded such a huge calligraphy piece by the higher-ups!

The great people's hero Wu Wanli!

The news has spread throughout the entire county!

They even built a huge archway just for your calligraphy!
How impressive!

Our Wu family's ancestral graves are emitting auspicious smoke!
Look, this is a letter sent to you by someone from the county. It's a thank-you letter and they're going to publish it in the newspaper!
The photo of the memorial archway is in there too!

Wu Wanli took the letter, still warm from his father's touch, which was written in neat calligraphy and filled with local praise and pride.

A warm feeling welled up in his heart, and he felt an even greater sense of responsibility.

The title "People's Hero" is not only for him, but also a medal for the millions of fallen comrades.

"Father, Mother, this is the result of the combined efforts of all the soldiers in our Volunteer Army."

Wu Wanli said sincerely.

That's it! That's it!

They all have to be heroes!
Otherwise, how could our new China have defeated American imperialism?
However, my Wanli is the brightest star among them!
No one can cover it up!

Father Wu nodded repeatedly.

The simple fisherman father expresses his pride in a simple and direct way.

"You little rascal! I knew you were a troublemaker the moment you sneaked out with me in my car!"
Who knew that the trouble you caused wasn't just a minor one, but a catastrophe that threatened to destroy the American devils' stronghold!
That's really impressive! Calling you a hero is no exaggeration!

However, your parents are worried about you at home. They were hoping to bring you back after the Battle of Changjin Lake so they could find you a wife back home and continue the Wu family line as soon as possible!

Look at my older brother...sigh...

Who would have thought that you'd grow wings and fly so high and far that even your older brother couldn't hold you back!

Wu Qianli interjected with a smile, affectionately punching Wu Wanli in the chest.

"Ugh!

Your brother is right.

If the country needs it, even if we parents are reluctant, we can't stop it!

Our Wu family has three sons. The eldest is gone, but the second and third are still alive, so they have to keep fighting!

This country... always needs someone to protect it!

We understand! We understand this principle!

Father Wu sighed heavily, picked up the conversation, and looked at his youngest son with a loving yet helpless expression.

However, Wu's mother's eyes reddened again. She took Wu Wanli's hand, her voice choked with emotion but filled with an undeniable maternal love, and said, "Wanli, fighting... Mother knows what's important..."

But as you can see, your older brother is gone...

In my heart... all I hope for is that you and your brother will be well.

Your brother is already a division commander, and you're even more accomplished...

But, but we really can't delay settling down and starting a family!

Find a good girl, settle down, and let Mom...

"I want Mom to hold her grandson soon, so the house will be more lively and I can feel more at ease..."

"Yeah!

We can manage both national affairs and family matters!
Your brother needs to hurry up, and you're not getting any younger!
With that county archway standing there, wouldn't all the beautiful girls from the surrounding villages line up for it?

Mr. Wu immediately picked up where his wife left off, his eyes also becoming eager.

Under the earnest gaze of the Wu family parents, especially the moment the words "find a good girl" and "hold a grandson" were uttered.

An Jing, who had been listening quietly from the sidelines and hadn't left under the guise of taking care of him, was now picking up a slightly bulky wine pot and pouring wine for Wu Wanli.

She listened intently.

The simple yet intense hope of Wu Wanli's parents for their descendants to get married and continue the family line struck her young heart like a hammer.

Especially when the words "good girl" and "lining up" are mentioned, it's as if an invisible finger gently touches her heart through the air.

The heart-pounding moments of their first encounter at Ji'an Station, the longing gaze at the South Gate of Seoul, the brief glances and photos taken in the courtyard of the cultural troupe, the American military watch that still held his warmth…

All the images flooded her mind instantly, causing her fingers to tremble slightly.

The spout of the wine pot was already aimed at the rim of Wu Wanli's wine cup.

Just as the echo of Wu's father's words, "Wu Wanli, you're not getting any younger," faded, An Jing's hand trembled, and the wine pot slipped from her grasp!

"Bang—crash—!"

The heavy wine jug slammed down on the teacup in front of Wu Wanli, then fell to the ground with a jarring sound.

The wine spilled out, instantly soaking Wu Wanli's trouser legs and spreading all over the ground, its strong smell instantly filling the air.

"Ah! I'm so sorry! I'm so sorry!"

An Jing seemed to be startled back to her senses by the noise, her face instantly turning bright red, the color even more vivid than the red scarf around her neck.

She hurriedly squatted down to pick up the wine jug, frantically trying to clean up the mess, and even subconsciously used her sleeve to wipe the wine stains on Wu Wanli's trousers.

That flustered and helpless demeanor, that obvious guilt and shyness, was hardly resembling the poised and confident singing backbone of the performing arts troupe.

He was just like a child caught doing something wrong.

In an instant, everyone's attention shifted from Wu's parents' "marriage urging declaration" to An Jing.

Chief Chen looked knowingly at the girl whose face was as red as if it were about to bleed, and a meaningful smile appeared on his lips.

Wu Qianli raised an eyebrow, his gaze shifting between the embarrassed An Jing and his younger brother Wu Wanli, who looked helpless and seemed to want to help but didn't dare to. He then revealed a knowing, silent, teasing smile.

Wu's parents were stunned. They looked at the girl who had spilled the wine pot, and then at their youngest son, who was also somewhat embarrassed and whose trousers were soaked. Their eyes were full of doubt and inquiry.

Just now, this girl was gently massaging their shoulders, so why did she panic like this as soon as the topic of finding a wife for Wanli came up?
Is it...

The silent questions and focused gazes made An Jing wish she could disappear into the ground.

She quickly packed up the wine jug and said hastily to Wu Shili, Wu's mother, and Chief Chen, "Excuse me, Uncle and Aunt, Chief, I'll go get some more wine..."

Then she picked up the broken pot and left quickly, almost as if fleeing, without looking back, forgetting even to pick up the tin lid that had fallen to the ground.

Only that fiery red color remained, quickly disappearing into the air, blending into the background noise along with her hurried figure.

A moment of silence fell over this small space, filled with the strong smell of alcohol and a mix of complex emotions.

The warm joy of the Wu brothers' reunion was just moments before completely disrupted by the sudden chaos, ambiguity, and silent "evidence."

The elderly couple looked at their son with increasingly intriguing expressions.

Just then, a young communications soldier jogged over, stood at attention, saluted, and broke the slightly eerie atmosphere with a loud voice:

"Reporting to Commander Wu Wanli!"

The boss wants you to come to his office immediately! He has something important to discuss!
Chief Chen, you're on the list too!

This is a lifeline!
Wu Wanli breathed a sigh of relief, almost gratefully fleeing the scene, and said, "Yes! I'll go right away!"

He didn't even have time to explain to his parents; he just glanced quickly at his older brother, his eyes seeming to say, "Brother, it's all yours now!"

Then he turned to his parents, forced a smile that looked as relaxed as possible, and said in a hurried but clear voice, "Dad, Mom! The commander has given orders! I have to go there immediately!"
Perfect timing! Let your older brother spend some time with you and have a good chat about his marriage!
Parents, aren't you eager to have a grandson?
The eldest brother has a heavy burden to bear!
He really needs to work harder to ensure the Wu family line continues!

He deliberately emphasized his words, pointing to Wu Qianli's important task of "continuing the lineage," successfully shifting all the attention to his older brother who had been watching the show.

Before he finished speaking, Wu Wanli gave Chief Chen a wink and hurriedly followed the communications soldier, disappearing quickly.

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

Wu Wanli walked tirelessly through the intense, almost burning air.

He had just exchanged a few words with his elder brother Wu Qianli and parents when he was summoned by the boss to head towards the main table.

The surrounding noise was like a heavy curtain, blurry yet real, enveloping him. He could feel the gazes directed at him—admiring, curious, and inquiring.

The main table area suddenly opened up, and the air seemed thinner.

Several high-ranking officers from the Volunteer Army Headquarters, along with several highly decorated commanders, sat around a large round table.

The boss sat in the main seat, his face glowing, but the deep, cold demeanor of a battlefield commander between his brows remained undiminished.

Chief Chen sat to his left.

Just as Wu Wanli's gaze swept across the scene, a figure that almost took his breath away entered his field of vision—Rong Xuening.

She sat quietly near the end of the table, facing him sideways, wearing a dark blue woolen suit that was even more somber than the night.

Among a group of men in military uniform, this refinement and composure is like a still lake that has suddenly appeared on the battlefield, strikingly unexpected.

She seemed to be slightly lowering her eyes, staring at the amber liquid in front of her. The surrounding grandeur and clamor seemed to dissipate on their own, forming a barrier like an isolated island around her.

Why is she here?

This thought pierced Wu Wanli's consciousness like an icicle.

Fragments of memory flooded back: the cold deck of the Wanli, her leaning against him to avoid being forced into marriage; the heavy, weighty Qing Dynasty dragon pass that could mobilize the Rong family's immense power before landing at Zegang...

At that moment, they all turned into invisible thorns, pricking his throat and making it tight.

Almost simultaneously, a loud voice drowned out the laughter and conversation around the main table.

The old minister in charge of the army's logistics, his temples already gray, his face flushed with the effects of alcohol, was trying to straighten his back to appear more dignified.

He held the wine glass with both hands, the white wine inside swirling slightly, and poured out all his respect towards Rong Xuening, saying, "Miss Rong, let me offer you another toast!"
They funded the purchase and donation of ten T-34s—ten brand-new T-34s!
This time, you and the Rong family have truly delivered the strongest steel arm to us from heaven!

All eyes were on Rong Xuening.

Wu Wanli's heart sank, and his body involuntarily stopped a few steps away, standing at the edge of the brightly lit main table area, like a statue that had not yet fully entered the theater.

His presence had not yet been noticed by the people at the table.

Rong Xuening raised her head, and the light shone brightly on her beautiful face, making her skin look like delicate porcelain. Her long eyelashes cast small, peaceful shadows under her eyes.

She did not show the excitement one would expect from being the center of attention, but instead picked up the wine glass in front of her and said, "Minister, you flatter me. The Rong family dares not take credit for this."

This is a small token of the nation's affection for the soldiers on the front lines.

As for the deployment of tanks, it is naturally subject to the strategic allocation of the commander-in-chief, and we have no intention of interfering.

However, in my humble opinion, this tank is an excellent spearhead for land warfare assaults, and its maximum effectiveness should be maximized.

Perhaps... a sharp-edged team like the Seventh Steel Brigade would be needed more urgently.

Their tasks in the next battle will inevitably be extremely heavy.

This is just a suggestion; ultimately, the leaders have a clearer understanding of the situation.

The boss slowly turned his face and said, "Comrade Xue Ning, you've gone to a lot of trouble."

Speaking of 'Steel Seven', you've reminded me... Where is Comrade Wanli?
Didn't I just send someone to look for him?

His gaze naturally fell on the spot where Wu Wanli was standing, as if he already knew that he was there, and that he was here at this very moment, ready to gently pluck this delicate string.

Sure enough, Wu Wanli felt a chill run down his spine, as the hidden thorns seemed to tighten even further.

"Commander, Chief Chen, and other leaders!"

The Seventh Steel Company has traveled thousands of miles to report for duty!

Without further hesitation, Wu Wanli took a step forward, his figure clearly entering the central aura of light around the main table.

He stood ramrod straight like a steel spear, and with a quick tap of his feet, he delivered a crisp and precise military salute in an instant.

"Oh, here it comes."

We were just talking about your Seventh Steel Brigade.

This logistics worker, on behalf of all the steel lumps under his command, was expressing his sincere gratitude to Miss Rong and the Rong family.

The boss's smile, which was hard to describe, widened slightly, and he spoke with a rare air of casualness.

Wu Wanli's gaze inevitably met Rong Xuening's.

In that instant, their eyes were like a cold pool where a stone had been thrown in, ripples spreading rapidly, only to be forcefully suppressed by the stillness of a more rational mind.

"Comrade Wu... Wan... Li".

Supporting the front lines is our duty. You flatter us.”

Rong Xuening said.

The boss's gaze swept between the two of them for a moment without making a sound, and then he said at the right time, "Miss Rong is too modest."

Such tremendous support deserves our heartfelt gratitude, regardless of who it represents!

Look, Comrade Wanli has just arrived too, and you two are acquaintances...

While this drink is still warm, shouldn't we offer Miss Rong a proper toast?
"So that our comrades can see the highest honor we bestow upon the 'tank donor'?"

No! No need!

I heard that Comrade Wu Wanli's parents and elders also came to celebrate the victory today.

This is a precious moment for the family to reunite. How could I possibly take up Comrade Wanli's time and disturb this precious family reunion?

I just want to ask for a favor, a small favor..."

Rong Xuening said.

"Oh? Help? Please tell me."

The boss nodded slightly and said.

Rong Xuening took a deep breath, as if trying to suppress all her surging emotions back into the abyss of her heart.

Her fair fingers reached into her leather handbag, her movements almost reverent and careful, as she fumbled and took something out.

The object was not large, but it was wrapped in layers of dark velvet, making it appear exceptionally heavy in her delicate palm.

All eyes were drawn to her. She gently lifted the outermost layer of velvet.

A work of art suddenly shines under the bright lights.

The silver was skillfully polished, stacked, shaped, and carved into the shape of a giant steel whale—its magnificent form was a life-size miniature of the Wanli aircraft carrier!

With its flat deck, towering bridge, and turrets and takeoff and landing guide lines that appear almost tangible, every tiny detail showcases breathtaking craftsmanship and the cost involved.

What's even more striking is that on the silver platform that symbolizes the flight deck, two small, standing figures were also meticulously sculpted in silver!
The figures, one tall and one short, were clearly a statue of Wu Wanli in his naval uniform and a slender figure of Rong Xuening in her elegant suit.

The two stood facing each other, one bowing slightly to listen, the other looking up to speak.

The posture and distance they stood in perfectly replicated the crucial moment on the deck of the Wanli ship when Wu Wanli and Rong Xuening were talking and helping each other!

This thing is so unusual!

"What a treasure!"

A glint flashed in Chief Chen's eyes, and the curve of his lips seemed to deepen with interest.

"What a heavy gift!"

Put your things down and go back home without worry, Comrade Xue Ning.

Be careful on the road.

The boss spoke with a touch of elder's gentleness.

"Thank you... thank you so much!"

Rong Xue nodded solemnly.

She didn't even have the courage to look at Wu Wanli, who stood just inches away, his aura as cold as ice. She turned around abruptly, her long eyelashes trembling violently, unable to hide her indescribable embarrassment any longer.

Just as Rong Xuening fled the central area of ​​the main table in a near panic, her rapid, head-down sprint left her no time to pay attention to what was ahead.

Just as she stepped out of the edge of the main table's halo, a tall, imposing figure, exuding an invisible pressure, suddenly appeared from her right.

"boom!"

A heavy thud was followed by Rong Xuening's low, startled cry.

A close call!
Wu Wanli's hand shot out like lightning to help her up.

Rong Xuening's body was pulled forward by this rough and effective force, and her heels slammed heavily on the carpet with a dull "thud" before she could regain her balance.

Skin to skin, through the thick military wool and the soft women's suit, the sensation was transmitted clearly to each other's nerve endings!
The stalemate was extremely brief, lasting less than half a second!
"Thank you!"

Rong Xuening paused for a second, then thanked Wu Wanli and hurriedly left.

"Boss, Chief Chen, Wanli toasts you both!"

Wu Wanli took a deep breath, quickly looked away, and then spoke to the boss and Chief Chen before downing a glass of wine in one gulp.

The boss slapped Wu Wanli's shoulder heavily and said in a booming voice, "Good lad! You crossed the Han River four times, defeated the enemy fleet, seized the port in Pingze, and traveled thousands of miles to save Qingyang. This time you have once again beaten the American devils to a pulp!"
This truly demonstrated the might of our army and the backbone of the new China!

Commander Chen, standing beside him, also held a wine glass, his face flushed, and nodded, his eyes full of praise and satisfaction. He said, "A miracle! Wanli, you and the Steel Seventh Brigade you led are an invincible weapon in our hands!"

Wu Wanli felt somewhat embarrassed by the praise from the two leaders and the attention he received, but he felt more relaxed and composed after completing the task, thanks to the sense of responsibility he had taken on.

Just as he was about to raise his glass again, the boss changed the subject, lowered his voice, and said with the concern of an elder, "However, let's stop here with just a little wine. The gesture is enough."

Chief Chen also chimed in with a smile, "Yes, I know you're happy, but you should still take it easy."

Don't delay the important business. The fifth campaign planning meeting of the command headquarters will begin at daybreak tomorrow.

Your role is very important; no one can be absent.

This precious time together shouldn't be wasted here wasting time with us old folks.

The boss nodded emphatically, gesturing towards the bustling corner on the other side of the hall, and said, "Go back quickly! How long have your parents been waiting to see you?"
A group of brothers who've been through thick and thin with you are also waiting to have a good chat about the thrilling journey you've had.

Today, we're celebrating our victory with a toast not only to the joy of triumph, but also to the warmth of family reunion. Let's not stay here any longer.

We just wanted to check on you and remind you about the meeting.

Wu Wanli felt a surge of warmth in his heart; the words of his old superiors had precisely touched upon the softest and most cherished spot in his heart.

Looking at my parents sitting together not far away, their faces beaming as they accepted toasts from their comrades, looking at the hearty smiles of Lei Gong's old brothers at their table, and at An Jing in the distance, who seemed a little uneasy yet looked over with concern...

Indeed, every moment spent with them was precious, especially during the brief respite from the flames of war.

"Yes! Thank you, Boss and Chief Chen!"
I'm coming right now! I promise I won't miss tomorrow's meeting about the planning for the Fifth Campaign!

Wu Wanli quickly straightened his back, responded loudly, and said with a grateful smile on his face.

After saying this, he solemnly saluted the two leaders, then turned and walked toward the warm and noisy corner where his family and comrades were gathered.

(End of this chapter)