In the fiery red era of the heavens, refrigerators are refreshed daily.

The next morning, Yang Guangming, carrying the worn-out bamboo basket, walked steadily out of the east courtyard.

The bamboo basket was heavily filled with the two boxes of penicillin "taken" from the Sihai Society's stronghold. It was covered with a faded blue cloth, making it look like an ordinary person carrying odds and ends, and it didn't attract any attention.

After walking through several familiar alleys, he arrived at Teacher Zhu's courtyard, stopped, and knocked on the door knocker.

The crisp sound of metal clashing echoed in the silent air, startling a few sparrows foraging under the eaves.

Mrs. Zhu opened the door as always. She was wearing a simple apron, and her hands seemed to still have some flour on them. When she saw him, she immediately smiled warmly and said, "Guangming has arrived. Come in quickly."

Her gaze habitually swept over the bamboo basket on Yang Guangming's back, and its heavy weight made a faint doubt flash across her eyes.

But she didn't ask anything. As she had done countless times before, she simply glanced cautiously at the door, then stepped aside to let him in. She then gently bolted the wooden door, temporarily shutting out the noise and risks from the outside world.

"Master's wife, I'm sorry to bother you," Yang Guangming replied softly, carrying a bamboo basket as he walked into the neatly tidied courtyard.

He carefully placed the bamboo basket in the corner of the main room, making sure that even if someone came in, they wouldn't notice it for a while.

Mrs. Zhu poured him a bowl of warm water, then turned and went to the kitchen to busy herself, leaving him alone sitting on the worn-out old wooden chair in the main room.

Yang Guangming remained still, waiting quietly, while repeatedly considering what he would say to Teacher Zhu later.

Every detail, every possible question that may arise, needs to be addressed in advance with a reasonable response.

Time flowed slowly as we waited, and around 11:30, familiar footsteps came from outside the courtyard gate.

Zhu Mingxuan pushed open the door and walked in, his face bearing the gentle demeanor typical of a teacher. He took off his slightly worn coat and hung it on the coat rack behind the door.

“Teacher.” Yang Guangming stood up.

Zhu Mingxuan saw Yang Guangming, nodded, and his gaze naturally fell on the bamboo basket at his feet.

He didn't ask any further questions, but simply said in the direction of the kitchen, his voice as calm as ever: "Yuanjun, Guangming and I are going to the study to discuss something."

"Okay, dinner will be ready in a bit," Mrs. Zhu replied from the kitchen, accompanied by the clatter of a spatula.

The two walked into the study one after another.

Yang Guangming carried the bamboo basket into the study, and then lifted the blue cloth covering it.

When Zhu Mingxuan saw the two dark wooden crates inside with clear English labels, his pupils suddenly contracted, and he gasped for breath.

He almost immediately raised his head, his gaze fixed intently on Yang Guangming, his voice low and filled with disbelief, surprise, and shock: "Guangming! This...this is..."

Yang Guangming met his shocked gaze, trying to keep his tone steady, but deliberately revealing a hint of solemnity after completing an important task: "Teacher, this is penicillin, two boxes, two hundred vials in total."

Two hundred!

Zhu Mingxuan gasped. This number far exceeded his wildest imagination, striking his heart like a heavy hammer.

During this special period, penicillin is a strictly controlled military supply, and there is simply no way to purchase it.

Even if it occasionally appears on the black market, the high price is unaffordable for most people; at least a small yellow croaker is needed to exchange for a penicillin!
He rushed forward, almost throwing himself at the bamboo basket, his trembling fingers carefully stroking and examining the clear English markings on the wooden box. After confirming that everything was correct, the surprise on his face slowly faded, replaced by lingering fear and extreme worry.

"Where...where did you get this? What's going on?" His voice trembled slightly as he stared intently into Yang Guangming's eyes.

Yang Guangming knew that the most crucial moment had arrived.

He had to provide an impeccable explanation, which would not only explain the source of the medicine, but also minimize the criticism from Teacher Zhu that he had acted "unorganized and undisciplined" without authorization, and absolutely avoid exposing his own illogical spatial secrets.

He took a deep breath, his face displaying just the right amount of seriousness and a carefully feigned sense of relief and lingering fear, and began to recount the story he had already rehearsed countless times in his mind:
"Teacher, didn't you urgently convey the organization's urgent need for penicillin yesterday? I remembered it firmly and haven't forgotten it for a moment."

It was a coincidence, or perhaps fate, but while I was out 'fishing' to familiarize myself with the environment and gather intelligence, I overheard some rumors about the Four Seas Society from a drunken hoodlum at the docks. He said they had recently acquired a batch of Western medicine, more valuable than gold, through some unknown channel, and were treasuring it greatly.

He paused, carefully observing Teacher Zhu's reaction. Seeing that she was listening intently with a furrowed brow, he continued along the pre-planned line of thought:
“After I got back last night, the more I thought about it, the more I felt that this might be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The Sihai Society is a tyrannical and oppressive criminal force that afflicts the people. It is a malignant tumor that clings to the people. Taking their things is perfectly justifiable, and using them for the revolutionary cause is making the best use of them.

Furthermore, you have repeatedly and explicitly instructed us that, when conditions permit, seizing important resources controlled by the enemy and its henchmen by force is a permissible and necessary means of struggle.

Zhu Mingxuan's expression grew increasingly serious. He could almost foresee what Yang Guangming was about to say, and his heart sank.

"I keep in mind the organization's urgent needs, the pain of my comrades on the front lines who urgently need medical treatment, and I always remember the safety disciplines that you, teacher, have repeatedly emphasized."

My original plan was very clear: I would first go to the outskirts of the Sihai Society to take a look, further investigate the situation, confirm whether the medicine was really there, and their guard arrangements.

As soon as there is definite information, I will report to you immediately so that the organization can make a comprehensive decision and formulate a detailed plan before taking action.

Yang Guangming abruptly changed the subject, his tone carrying a deliberately crafted air of "helplessness" and "imminent urgency":
However, plans can change.

As I stealthily approached their stronghold late at night, using the darkness and terrain to conceal my investigation, I overheard two guards, who were changing shifts, chatting idly in a corner, venting their frustrations.

They said their company president had urgently contacted a buyer, and the batch of medicine needed to be transferred and sold by dawn, or at the latest by noon tomorrow. The buyer was reportedly offering an extremely high price!

He emphasized his words, looking earnestly at Zhu Mingxuan: "Teacher, the situation is extremely urgent! It can change in an instant!"

If I wait until dawn to report to you, the organization will have to allocate more manpower and study solutions, and there simply won't be enough time!

Once the medicine is transferred and controlled by other forces, finding it again is like finding a needle in a haystack, an impossible task!

The thought of my comrades on the front lines possibly suffering from a lack of these life-saving medications... it tears my heart apart! I... I simply cannot stand idly by!

Upon hearing this, Zhu Mingxuan's brows furrowed tightly, and his hands, which were behind his back, unconsciously clenched into fists.

He knew all too well the cruelty and unpredictability of the underground struggle, and that the situation described by Yang Guangming was highly likely to occur, as opportunities often slipped away in the blink of an eye.

Reason told him that if the situation was indeed as described, then hesitation could indeed lead to irreparable losses.

"So... you went all alone... all by yourself?" Zhu Mingxuan's voice was dry, like sandpaper being rubbed, carrying an immense sense of lingering fear.

Yang Guangming nodded, his face displaying a complex expression that seemed to combine lingering fear with unwavering determination.

"Yes, teacher, I...I admit that I acted impulsively at that moment and violated the iron discipline that one must report first and obtain organizational approval before taking any action."

I am going through a huge internal struggle.

But in that situation, the opportunity was fleeting, and I really had no other choice.

I cannot stand by and watch life-saving medicine slip away from us, causing the organization and my comrades to suffer losses that could have been avoided.

I am willing to bear all the consequences arising from violating the rules.

He went on to describe the “operation,” deliberately downplaying the danger and violence, and emphasizing the elements of “smoothness” and “luck”:

"I suppressed my anxiety and lay in the shadows, observing carefully for a long time."

It was discovered that although the guards of the Sihai Society looked fierce and were well-equipped, their internal management was chaotic and their discipline was lax. Especially in the middle of the night, most of them were slacking off and dozing off, or gathering together to secretly drink and gamble. The patrolmen were also perfunctory, and there were many loopholes in the patrol routes and times.

Their warehouse was located in the east wing of the third courtyard. The windows had iron bars, and the door had an old-fashioned brass lock. There was only one guard, who was sitting at the door, already fast asleep and snoring loudly.

Fortunately, I had practiced lock picking skills during this time... and with a bit of luck, I opened the lock with a wire in less than a minute.

They quickly found the two boxes of penicillin inside; luckily they weren't too heavy, one in each hand.

During this period, Zhu Mingxuan did teach Yang Guangming lock-picking skills, but Zhu Mingxuan himself was not very proficient in this area and could only teach him in a simple way.

Yang Guangming, however, displayed exceptional talent in this area. The real reason was that he could see the structure inside the lock through spatial observation, making unlocking very easy for him.

Zhu Mingxuan understood this, so he naturally didn't ask any further questions.

Yang Guangming omitted all the details of dealing with the guards, searching for valuables, and using the space to collect other items, simplifying the entire process into a "lucky" and almost silent infiltration:

"Looking back now, the whole process was unbelievably smooth."

Perhaps they were used to running rampant and became careless, thinking that no one would dare to touch their things in this area, so their defense was tight on the outside but loose on the inside.

I didn't fire a shot, nor did I have any direct confrontation with any guards. After getting the medicine, I immediately retreated the way I came, moving along the shadows of the walls to avoid all possible sightlines, and then circled around a few times before returning.

They were very careful on the road; they shouldn't have left any traces.

After saying this, Yang Guangming lowered his head, admitting his mistake with utmost sincerity, adopting an extremely humble posture:
"Teacher, I know I was wrong. I was wrong for being disorganized and undisciplined, for acting on my own, for putting myself in unnecessary danger, and for making you and the organization worry about me."

No matter the reason, violating discipline is wrong, and I am willing to accept any criticism and serious punishment from the organization.

But...when I see these two boxes of medicine have actually been brought back safely, and I think about how useful they can be, I still feel...that even with the severe punishment, it was all worth it."

Zhu Mingxuan remained silent for a long time. He simply looked at the young student in front of him with a complex gaze, then slowly shifted his gaze to the two heavy boxes of medicine in the bamboo basket, medicines that could save the lives of countless comrades. His chest heaved, and his heart was experiencing a turbulent surge of emotions.

Are you angry? Yes, without a doubt!

This student is incredibly audacious; he actually dared to sneak into a dangerous place all by himself!
What kind of place is the Sihai Society? It's a den of demons that devour people without spitting out the bones! It harbors countless ruthless desperados who kill without blinking an eye!

Even if he's incredibly agile and meticulous, can he outrun a hail of bullets? Can he withstand overwhelming numbers?
If he fails and is discovered, it won't just be a matter of his personal sacrifice. Under severe torture, who can guarantee that the liaison station won't be implicated and other comrades won't be affected?
The thought of the potentially devastating consequences sent chills down his spine.

But was there relief and ecstasy? Absolutely, and the feeling was incredibly strong!

Two hundred doses of penicillin!
In an era where anti-inflammatory drugs are more precious than gold, this is an immeasurable fortune!

How many lives of wounded comrades on the front lines could it save? How much suffering of revolutionary fighters could it alleviate? This is not merely medicine; it is hope, it is fighting power, it is the most tangible contribution to the revolutionary cause! This is an immense achievement!
Moreover, what Yang Guangming demonstrated in this matter was not only boldness, but also meticulousness, decisiveness, accurate grasp of timing, and the extraordinary ability to independently complete high-risk tasks.

Such abilities and qualities are invaluable in a combative environment!

Two completely different emotions clashed and tore at him intensely, leaving him overwhelmed and momentarily at a loss for words, unsure how to strike a balance between criticism and affirmation.

Finally, he took several deep breaths, forcibly suppressing his turbulent emotions. His expression remained serious, even deliberately sharp, as he spoke in a deep voice, each word carrying immense weight:

"Comrade Yang Guangming!"

He unusually used his full name plus the title "comrade" to emphasize the seriousness of the issue.

"Do you even realize how risky your operation was? How serious it was?!"

His voice wasn't loud, but it struck the silent air like a heavy hammer:
"What kind of place is the Sihai Society? It's a den of thugs who live on the edge and treat human life like dirt!"

They have guns! And they have all sorts of ruthless methods you can't even imagine!

Even if you're incredibly skilled, can you outrun a bullet? Can you dodge concentrated fire? If you're discovered, even nine lives wouldn't be enough to save you!

Sacrifice is a minor matter; what if... what if you were captured? Have you considered the consequences? What enormous losses and dangers that would bring to the organization!

"Yes, teacher, I was wrong. I deeply realize the seriousness of my mistake." Yang Guangming admitted respectfully without offering any excuses.

"That's not bravery, that's recklessness! That's individualism!"

Zhu Mingxuan's tone grew increasingly stern, his finger unconsciously tapping heavily in the air, as if trying to awaken the "stubborn" student before him.

Why does the organization's discipline so strictly emphasize reporting before any action? It's to gather collective wisdom, comprehensively assess risks, formulate meticulous plans, and maximize the success rate of the operation and the safety of personnel!

You, on the other hand, dare to charge forward based on sheer bravado and a little bit of information you've gathered!

How can the organization entrust you with more important tasks? You've made me... How can the organization trust you with such a crucial mission?

This is irresponsible of your own life, and even more so of the organization's cause!

Yang Guangming simply lowered his head, silently enduring the barrage of criticism.

He knew that this was a necessary procedure, a form of protection, and a tempering process for growth.

The harsher Teacher Zhu's criticism, the more he brought the seriousness of the problem to the forefront. This made the reasons more convincing when reporting to superiors, advocating for credit, and appropriately reducing the "punishment," and it also silenced any potential doubts.

Zhu Mingxuan continued to criticize Yang Guangming with harsh words for several more times. Seeing that Yang Guangming kept his head down, his attitude was sincere, and he did not offer any explanation or show any dissatisfaction, and his attitude of admitting his mistake was as upright as could be, Zhu Mingxuan's anger and fear gradually subsided.

He knew that the child genuinely realized his mistake, at least on the surface.

He sighed heavily, his tone softening somewhat:
"This time... considering your initial intention was for the organization, to save the lives of your comrades, and the outcome of the operation was indeed unexpected, solving the enormous problem we were facing, it can be said that your merits and demerits cancel each other out... no! Your merits outweigh your demerits!"

I will report the entire situation to my superiors in detail and objectively, including your unauthorized actions and your significant achievements, and recommend you for commendation!

He walked up to Yang Guangming, reached out and patted him heavily on the shoulder, his eyes filled with a complex mix of concern, reproach, relief, and lingering fear.
"But Guangming, you must remember this lesson well! Keep it in your heart! And never let it happen again!"

Never again, under any circumstances, take such risks or act so recklessly! Your safety is just as important!
You are a promising and capable young talent. It has not been easy for the organization to cultivate you, and we will need you in the future struggles!

Do you understand? We must never let ourselves be ruined by a risk that could be avoided!

Sensing the genuine and unpretentious concern in Teacher Zhu's words, Yang Guangming felt a lump in his throat, nodded solemnly, and looked up to meet Zhu Mingxuan's gaze:

"Teacher, I have remembered every word of your teachings. I will strictly abide by organizational discipline in the future, think twice before acting, and never act without authorization again, so as not to worry the organization and you."

Looking into his clear and firm eyes, Zhu Mingxuan knew that he had truly taken his words to heart and that they were not just empty words, which put him at ease.

He then inquired in detail about some aspects of the operation, such as the infiltration route, the approximate time of the guard change, the situation inside the warehouse, and whether safety was confirmed upon exiting.

Yang Guangming answered each question according to his prepared statement, always focusing on the two core points: "the Sihai Society was lax in its defenses and complacent" and "he was lucky, his operation went smoothly, and he left no trace."

Zhu Mingxuan listened carefully, occasionally interjecting to ask a question or two about the details. Based on his own understanding of the way gangs like the Sihai Society operated, he felt that although the process was extremely dangerous, it was logically plausible.

It is not uncommon for such gangs to become lax in discipline and complacent after seizing territory and establishing power.

Perhaps it was truly luck on their side, coupled with the child's extraordinary courage, meticulousness, and skill, that created this incredible miracle.

“This is a huge matter, I must report it to my superiors immediately.” Zhu Mingxuan said thoughtfully, his face regaining its usual seriousness. “You don’t need to come in this afternoon. Stay home and wait for news. Try not to go out. Once the higher-ups find out about this, there will definitely be important instructions. There may be new arrangements regarding the handling of the medicine, and regarding you…”

“Yes, teacher, I understand,” Yang Guangming replied.

"These medicines..." Zhu Mingxuan looked at the bamboo basket in the corner, "...I'll leave them here for now. I'll await further instructions from my superiors. You must keep this a secret and not reveal a single word to anyone, including your family." "Don't worry, I know what's important," Yang Guangming solemnly assured him.

After explaining the situation in general, Yang Guangming took his leave.

Zhu Mingxuan escorted him to the courtyard gate, and before he stepped out, he couldn't help but lower his voice and remind him, "Be careful on your way back, and watch out for any suspicious eyes. Try to stay home as much as possible these next two days and remain vigilant."

"I understand, teacher. Please take care too."

Watching Yang Guangming's tall and steady figure disappear around the corner of the alley, Zhu Mingxuan slowly withdrew his gaze, turned around, closed the courtyard gate, and bolted it shut.

He returned to his study and stood alone facing the two boxes of medicine in the corner, his heart pounding like boiling water, unable to calm down for a long time.

This student brought him both immense surprise and shock.

He could almost see the incredulous expression on his superior's face when he reported the situation to them.

When Yang Guangming returned to his rented room in the East Courtyard, his family had just finished lunch.

Mother Chu Yuanjun was clearing away the dishes, while Father Yang Huai Ren leaned against an old rattan chair by the window, slowly moving his injured legs in the light streaming in from outside.

With the help of modern medicine and careful care, his leg injury has healed considerably. Although he still cannot run with great effort, he can throw away his crutches and walk slowly a distance on flat ground.

His face also regained a long-lost rosy glow, no longer the sickly paleness of before.

"You're back? Did things go well with Mr. Zhu?" Chu Yuanjun asked casually while wiping his hands, his tone filled with ordinary concern.

"Yes, it went quite smoothly, just some issues with the translation." Yang Guangming replied casually, placing the empty bamboo basket behind the door. "Dad, how are you feeling today? Are your legs still swollen?"

"Much better, much better." Yang Huai-ren nodded repeatedly, a simple smile on his face. "Thanks to the Western medicine you found, it works really fast. Guangming, if my leg gets better, I can go out and find some odd jobs. I can't let you support this family all the time."

"Dad, don't worry, let's focus on getting fully recovered first. I'll take care of things at home." Yang Guangming walked to his father's side, squatted down, and carefully examined his injured leg. The recovery was better than he had expected, which put his mind at ease.

The afternoon passed peacefully, and Yang Ming, as usual, helped his mother with chores such as chopping wood and carrying water.

At 4:30 pm the next day, Yang Guangming arrived at Teacher Zhu's house again on time.

Knock on the door knocker, and this time Zhu Mingxuan opened the door himself.

His expression was noticeably more relaxed than yesterday; the lingering seriousness between his brows had faded, and his eyes even held an undisguised excitement and joy. Although he remained restrained, his heartfelt happiness was impossible to hide.

"Guangming, you're here. Come in quickly." Zhu Mingxuan stepped aside to let him in and swiftly closed the door.

The two did not linger in the main room, but went directly into the study one after the other.

Zhu Mingxuan did not sit down, but stood directly in front of the desk, looking at Yang Guangming with a solemn and expectant gaze.

“Guangming, I contacted and met with my superiors yesterday afternoon to give a detailed report on your acquisition of penicillin, including your unauthorized actions and the final results.”

Zhu Mingxuan got straight to the point, his tone serious yet clearly joyful, "When the higher-ups learned of this, they were extremely shocked! And also extremely gratified!"

He paused, then continued, "After the leadership seriously criticized your risky behavior, they highly praised your boundless loyalty to the organization, your willingness to risk your life for your comrades on the front lines, and your outstanding personal abilities, boldness, meticulousness, and decisiveness demonstrated in this operation!"

These two hundred doses of penicillin are a true lifeline for us in the current situation, a precious strategic resource that can save countless comrades' lives and ensure our combat effectiveness!
You've done an incredibly great service this time!

Yang Guangming listened quietly, a hint of excitement and genuine humility showing on his face: "I only did what a revolutionary should do. My greatest wish is to help the organization and my comrades."

"After an urgent review, the organization has decided to record your contribution in detail and recommend you for commendation!"

Zhu Mingxuan's tone was affirmative and approving, "At the same time, based on your consistent ideological progress and outstanding performance since you came into contact with the organization, especially in this arduous task, you demonstrated a firm belief in the Party, deep affection for your comrades, and tremendous personal courage, as well as your strong desire to join the organization that you have expressed to me many times before..."

He took a deep breath, his voice becoming even lower and more solemn:
"After careful consideration, the higher-level leadership has granted you special permission to join the organization ahead of schedule, in view of your exceptional contributions and consistent performance!"

Yang Guangming was suddenly jolted. Although he had expected this, he still couldn't hide his excitement when the news came out of Teacher Zhu's mouth so clearly.

"Once you successfully complete the next drug transport mission and fulfill the necessary procedures, we will officially process your application for Party membership!"

Zhu Mingxuan looked at him intently, his gaze filled with satisfaction, pride, and a heavy sense of entrustment. "Guangming, congratulations! And welcome to us as our true comrade-in-arms, fighting side by side and sharing life and death!"

"Thank you for the organization's trust! Thank you for your guidance, teacher!" Suppressing his surging passion, Yang Guangming straightened his back and said with utmost solemnity, "I will certainly live up to the organization's expectations, remember my oath, and dedicate my life to the revolutionary cause!"

"Good! Good!" Zhu Mingxuan nodded repeatedly, his face full of an irrepressible smile of satisfaction.

He stepped forward and patted Yang Guangming's arm forcefully, everything understood without words.

Excitement and joy filled the study for a moment, but Zhu Mingxuan quickly composed himself and became serious again.

"However, Guangming, the next task is equally challenging, and arguably even more crucial."

These two boxes of medicine must be delivered out of the city as quickly and safely as possible to our comrades outside the city. The frontline is in dire need of medicine; every minute is a matter of life and death for our comrades.

"It's the same meeting point as last time, Sanlizhuang outside the city. Old Zhao, the courier, will meet you there. But..."

He turned his head, his brows furrowed, and a deep worry appeared on his face:

"Recently, for some unknown reason, the city is under even stricter martial law than before."

The city gates were thoroughly inspected, and the belongings of people entering and leaving, especially young and middle-aged men, were searched very carefully.

I'm worried that transporting two boxes at once would be too conspicuous and risky; if we were caught, the consequences would be unimaginable.

Yang Guangming pondered for a moment, a thoughtful look on his face, and said, "Teacher, since transporting it all at once is too risky and would easily attract attention, we can break it down into smaller parts and transport it in two trips. I'll just make one more trip; it will only take more time and effort."

Zhu Mingxuan sighed, his face filled with helplessness and worry: "At present, this is indeed the safest method."

However… this doesn't actually reduce the risk; it merely splits one high risk into two, increasing the number of times you're exposed to the enemy.

"Teacher, I'm not afraid of danger. For the sake of the medicine's safety, it's definitely safer to make an extra trip."

Yang Guangming spoke with a firm tone, carrying a reassuring calmness, "As for the risks, I will be more careful and adaptable. We were able to get out smoothly last time, and we will definitely find a way this time as well."

I've gained some understanding of the checkpoint procedures at the city gates and the habits of those puppet soldiers and spies. I'll be more adaptable and cautious.

Seeing Zhu Mingxuan's still worried eyes, he continued to comfort and analyze, "Moreover, transporting them separately, with only one box each time, makes them smaller targets, easier to hide, and less likely to attract the special attention of the inspecting soldiers."

Their searches often focus on people carrying large amounts of luggage or those acting suspiciously.

People like me, with not much luggage, and looking like ordinary people going out of town on business or visiting relatives, are actually more likely to get away with it.

Seeing that his analysis was logical, confident, and that he had experience, Zhu Mingxuan's worries were somewhat relieved.

Zhu Mingxuan could only rely on Xiang Yangming's abilities. "There's no time to lose. This evening, when there are more people, take one box out of the city. Tomorrow morning, take the other box. The rendezvous code and location remain the same. Be careful!"

"Yes! I guarantee I'll complete the mission!" Yang Guangming replied in a low voice.

After agreeing on the specific departure time, precautions for dealing with inspections, and emergency plans in case of unexpected events, the box of penicillin was unpacked and carefully hidden.

With the sun shining brightly, he shouldered his bamboo basket, bid farewell to Teacher Zhu, and once again merged into the flow of people in the alley, walking steadily toward the city gate.

For him, who had the space of a refrigerator, the seemingly strict inspection at the city gate was practically useless.

The whole process was much easier and smoother than the first time I transported medicine; it was like a normal stroll out of town, without any major issues.

He arrived at Sanlizhuang safely and met up with Lao Zhao.

When handing over the medicines, Lao Zhao saw a full one hundred doses of penicillin and was so excited that his hands trembled slightly.

The next morning, he did the same thing again and delivered the second box of medicine safely to Lao Zhao.

He completed both missions cleanly and efficiently, without arousing any suspicion or leaving any trace.

Time passed quietly, and two days later on Sunday, the sky was clear and bright.

In the morning, Yang Guangming arrived at Teacher Zhu's house again, as agreed the day before. As soon as he entered the study, he keenly sensed that the atmosphere today was completely different from any other day.

The desk was specially tidied up and kept clean, with no books or manuscripts piled up as usual.

In the center of the table, there is a slightly rough white sheet of paper, on which a flag—a sickle and hammer—is carefully drawn. Although the brushstrokes are somewhat simple, they exude an indescribable solemn and dignified power.

That was the Party flag that Zhu Mingxuan painted himself.

Zhu Mingxuan himself was wearing a slightly worn but very neatly ironed Zhongshan suit, his hair was combed meticulously, and he stood by the desk with an expression that Yang Guangming had never seen before, solemn and dignified, even with a kind of sacred radiance.

What surprised Yang Guangming even more and made his heart clench was that, in addition to Teacher Zhu, there was another stranger in the room.

This comrade was around forty years old, with a lean face and a calm, deep gaze.

He was wearing an ordinary dark gray long gown, and although he was thin, he naturally exuded a composed demeanor.

When Zhu Mingxuan saw Yang Guangming enter, a gentle smile appeared on his face. He first nodded to the stranger, and then introduced Yang Guangming:
"Guangming, this is Comrade Zhang, who has come here on behalf of the higher-level organization."

He did not elaborate on Mr. Zhang's specific position, but Yang Guangming immediately understood that this "Mr. Zhang" must be a high-ranking leader within the organization.

The fact that the organization sent a leader to witness his application to join the Party demonstrates its high regard for his achievements and its great importance to him.

"Hello, Comrade Zhang." Yang Guangming suppressed the turmoil in his heart.

Comrade Zhang nodded slightly, his deep gaze falling on Yang Guangming with a gentle scrutiny and an appreciation as if he had discovered a rough gem.

"Comrade Yang Guangming, hello. Comrade Mingxuan has given me a very detailed report on your matter."

You are remarkable; bold yet meticulous, decisive and capable, you have made a great contribution to the organization.

His voice was calm, neither too loud nor too soft, yet it possessed a quiet strength.

Zhu Mingxuan took over, his tone solemn: "Guangming, based on your consistently outstanding performance since you came into contact with the organization, as well as your significant contribution in obtaining penicillin this time, after strict review and careful discussion, the organization has decided to formally accept you into our party on this memorable day!"
Because we were behind enemy lines, the fighting environment was unique and brutal, and we were unable to hold an oath-taking ceremony under a real, bright red Party flag.

Zhu Mingxuan pointed to the hand-painted Party flag on the table, his voice deep and powerful, as if containing boundless conviction:
"But this flag, which I designed, represents the common, unwavering faith and lifelong pursuit of all our Party members!"

Its weight is no different from that of a real Party flag!
Now, please face the Party flag!

Yang Guangming took a deep breath and straightened his chest.

He walked with firm steps to the desk, his posture as upright as a pine tree, and looked with unwavering determination at the hand-drawn Party flag on the desk, which at this moment felt as heavy as a mountain.

Comrade Zhang stepped forward and stood shoulder to shoulder with Zhu Mingxuan, solemnly witnessing this moment on behalf of the higher-level organization.

Zhu Mingxuan looked solemn as he slowly raised his clenched right fist and placed it beside his ear.

Yang Guangming followed suit, solemnly raising his right fist.

"I volunteer to join..." Zhu Mingxuan led the oath, his voice steady and clear, each word seemingly emanating from the depths of his heart, carrying immense power.

"I volunteer to join the Communist Party of China..." Yang Guangming recited, his tone firm and his expression solemn.

The solemn oath echoed in the quiet study, where you could hear a pin drop. Although there were only three voices, it seemed to gather the strength of a thousand troops and contained the determination to change the world. It pierced through the roof and soared into the sky!
After the oath was taken, both Zhu Mingxuan and Comrade Zhang wore relieved smiles.

It was a joy to see outstanding comrades joining the ranks and to know that the revolutionary cause had successors.

Comrade Zhang stepped forward, grasped Yang Guangming's hand tightly, shook it vigorously, and his eyes were filled with expectation and entrustment:
"Comrade Yang Guangming, welcome! From today onwards, you are a glorious member of the Communist Party!"
I hope you will always remember the oath you took under the Party flag today, never forget your original aspiration, keep your mission firmly in mind, remain steadfast, and dedicate your life to the cause of the Party and the people!

"Yes! Comrade Zhang, I will always remember your teachings and never let down the organization's trust and training! I will always be loyal to the Party and the people!" Yang Guangming excitedly promised.

Comrade Zhang offered a few more words of encouragement, emphasizing the importance of Party members' responsibilities, discipline, and continuous learning, before taking his leave.

His identity is special, and he bears heavy responsibilities; it is not advisable for him to stay any longer.

After seeing Comrade Zhang off, only the teacher and student remained in the study, but the atmosphere was completely different from usual.

Zhu Mingxuan asked Yang Guangming to sit down in the chair next to the desk, and then sat down opposite him. His face showed a complex expression of relief and new expectations. His gaze was as if he were looking at a child who had finally grown up and could be entrusted with important responsibilities.

"Guangming, congratulations! You've finally achieved your goal and become one of us." Zhu Mingxuan's tone was full of emotion. "From today onwards, you are not only my student, but also my comrade. We are comrades-in-arms fighting for the same goal."

"Teacher..." Yang Guangming was at a loss for words for a moment.

Zhu Mingxuan waved his hand, his expression becoming extremely solemn, even more so than when he had taken the oath earlier:

"Because you have now become a Party member, my requirements for you will be higher and stricter than ever before!"

Being a Party member is more than just a title; it signifies greater responsibility, greater dedication, greater sacrifice, and stricter, iron-like discipline!

He spoke earnestly and with great weight: "You must always examine and demand of yourself the standards of a qualified Party member. Not only must you be resolute and decisive in your actions, but you must also play a leading and exemplary role in your thoughts, studies, and lifestyle. You must be the first to bear hardships and the last to enjoy comforts."

Everything you do, every word you utter, must be worthy of the oath you swore today under this Party flag! Be worthy of the glorious title of Party member!

“I understand, teacher, no, Comrade Zhu Mingxuan,” Yang Guangming replied earnestly, subtly changing his form of address. “I will constantly reflect on myself, continuously study the Party’s theories and policies, improve my ideological awareness, make continuous progress, and strive to be a qualified and outstanding Party member, and never tarnish the Party’s banner.”

"Okay, I'm relieved that you have this determination and understanding."

Zhu Mingxuan nodded with satisfaction, a relaxed smile on his face. "The road ahead is still long, and the struggle will be more complex and more brutal."

Underground work is like dancing on a knife's edge, fraught with unknown dangers. But with the organization, with us, and with countless like-minded comrades, you are no longer alone.

Remember, at all times, trust and rely on the organization.

He also gave detailed instructions on some important points regarding Party life, confidentiality regulations, and study arrangements, which Yang Guangming kept firmly in mind.

At noon, Mrs. Zhu specially prepared two extra dishes. Although they were still simple home-style dishes, the atmosphere was exceptionally warm and harmonious.

Throughout the meal, Zhu Mingxuan wore a relaxed smile and even chatted with Yang Guangming about his views on the current situation and the future, his words filled with optimism and confidence.

This meal served as a simple and modest celebration for Yang Guangming becoming a new member of the Communist Party. (End of Chapter)