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

The weather in June is like a child's face, changing in an instant.

Since Yang Guangming was officially promoted to captain of the hunting team and became a level seven clerk, the days have quietly slipped by in a busy and fulfilling way.

As June drew to a close, the rainy season arrived as he had predicted.

The continuous rain made hunting in the mountains extremely inconvenient, but it also gave the team members a rare opportunity to rest.

Yang Guangming continued his previous work rhythm, but no longer went into the mountains three times a week.

He closely monitored weather changes and developed a flexible work plan: rest on rainy days, organize team members to study indoors, maintain equipment, and summarize and review; once the weather clears up, immediately organize to go into the mountains without delay.

This decision quickly showed its effects.

During the rainy season, the air in the mountains is humid, the roads are muddy, and visibility is limited. But for Yang Guangming, who is familiar with the mountains and has extensive experience, these disadvantages have become his advantages.

After the rain, the sun shines, which is a good time for many animals to come out and forage. Rabbits and pheasants that have been trapped by the rain for several days will eagerly emerge from their burrows, and some large animals will also take this opportunity to get some fresh air.

Wednesday, June 11th. The rain that had lasted for three days finally stopped, and the sky cleared.

Early in the morning, Yang Guangming led his hunting team to set off.

The mountain path was slippery after the rain, and the team members walked carefully. Yang Guangming walked in front, his steps steady, and he would occasionally turn around to remind everyone to watch their step.

"Captain, this road is too slippery. I'm afraid we won't have much to gain today." Zhao Xiaohu stepped into a mud puddle, splashing mud all over his legs, and couldn't help but complain.

Yang Guangming glanced back at him: "There are many animals after the rain. As long as you keep your eyes open and your hands steady, the harvest won't be bad. Everyone, stay alert and observe carefully."

His judgment was correct.

Less than an hour after entering the depths of the forest, they spotted several wild rabbits munching on fresh mushrooms. The mushrooms had grown wildly in the forest after the rain, attracting these herbivores.

"Spread out, surround them," Yang Guangming ordered in a low voice.

The team members skillfully dispersed, approaching stealthily from different directions. Yang Guangming occupied a high vantage point, raised his gun, and held his breath to aim.

Gunshots rang out in the silent forest, crisp and short.

A plump hare fell to the ground with a thud. The other hares scattered in fright, but the team members had already formed a circle around them, and two more were shot while fleeing.

The initial victory greatly boosted morale.

Throughout the rest of the day, they spotted flocks of pheasants, several badgers, and even caught sight of a wild boar in the distance. However, the boar was very alert and disappeared into the depths of the dense forest at the slightest disturbance, so Yang Guangming did not order a pursuit.

When we packed up at dusk, we tallied our catch: nineteen rabbits, twelve pheasants, nine rock partridges, and one badger. For the rainy season, this was a pretty good harvest.

More importantly, no accidents occurred throughout the entire process. The team members cooperated seamlessly, followed instructions, and always prioritized safety.

Back at the factory, after handing over the prey to the canteen, the team members beamed with pride as they watched the cook, Old Zhao, grin from ear to ear.

Such scenes repeated themselves in the days that followed.

Every time they went into the mountains, Yang Guangming performed consistently well. His marksmanship remained accurate, and his judgment of the terrain and his grasp of timing often earned the secret admiration of his teammates.

What's even more commendable is that he doesn't blindly pursue personal gains, but rather focuses on teamwork, leaving some relatively easy goals for other team members to practice on.

Under his leadership, the overall skill level of the hunting team improved significantly. Wang Tiezhu's marksmanship became more consistent, and although Zhao Xiaohu was still somewhat impulsive, his observation skills had improved considerably. Veteran members Zhang Jianguo and Liu Zhiqiang, with their increased experience, became the backbone of the team.

With steady improvement in results and absolute safety, Yang Guangming earned the praise of his superiors and the trust of his team members in less than a month.

At the meeting, Section Chief Tian repeatedly praised the hunting team, saying that Yang Guangming was "young and promising, and a good leader." When Director Yu met Yang Guangming, he would pat him on the shoulder and say a few words of encouragement.

The team members' initial admiration for their young captain transformed into genuine trust. They knew that working with Yangguangming meant not only a comfortable life but also safety and a promising future.

Yang Guangming felt much more at ease. He had essentially secured his position as team leader.

But he knew this was just the beginning.

The position of deputy leader of the hunting team has been vacant for a long time, like a piece of fat meat, attracting many eyeing it. Only when the position of deputy leader is confirmed can the hunting team truly be stable.

What is supposed to come will come.

It was the end of June.

For two days in a row, the sky was overcast, and a light drizzle fell intermittently. In this kind of weather, it was definitely not advisable to go into the mountains.

On Monday and Tuesday, the hunting team rested. Yang Guangming was also busy; he used these two days to organize nearly a month's worth of mountain expedition records, check ammunition consumption, and write a simple work summary.

On Tuesday afternoon, he went to the security office as usual.

The rain was still falling, and the office was a bit damp. He Dongliang was organizing documents when he saw him come in. He looked up and smiled, "Guangming, still can't go into the mountains today?"

"Yeah, the rain hasn't stopped, and the mountain roads are too slippery; it's not safe." Yang Guangming sat down in his seat, picked up a rag, and wiped the table. "Captain He, has anything been going on in the department these past few days?"

"Nothing serious, just some routine work," He Dongliang said, lowering his voice. "But I heard Section Chief Tian mention that there seems to be some progress on the matter of your hunting team's deputy captain."

Yang Guangming's heart skipped a beat, but his expression remained unchanged: "Oh? There's news?"

"I'm not sure about the specifics, Section Chief Tian didn't say." He Dongliang shook his head. "It should be decided in the next day or two."

Just then, the office door was pushed open.

Section Chief Tian walked in, but his brows were slightly furrowed, as if he had something on his mind.

Upon seeing Yang Guangming, he paused in his tracks: "Guangming, you're here? Perfect timing, come to my office for a moment."

His tone was more serious than usual.

Yang Guangming put down what he was holding and stood up: "Yes, Section Chief."

He followed Section Chief Tian into the small office in the back room and gently closed the door.

Section Chief Tian sat down behind his desk and pointed to the chair opposite him: "Sit."

Yang Guangming sat down, looking calmly at the leader.

Section Chief Tian didn't speak immediately. He picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip, then put the cup down and looked at Yang Guangming.

"Guangming, I'm very satisfied with the hunting team's work these past few days," Section Chief Tian said bluntly. "The harvest has been stable, without any mishaps. You've led the team well."

"Thank you for your recognition, Section Chief. It's all thanks to everyone's hard work," Yang Guangming said modestly.

"What should be affirmed should be affirmed." Section Chief Tian waved his hand, then changed the subject, "I called you here today mainly to talk to you about the deputy captain's matter."

Yang Guangming sat up straighter and listened attentively.

"The deputy captain's position has been vacant for over a month, and many people inside and outside the department are trying to pull strings," Section Chief Tian said with a hint of helplessness. "As you know, the hunting team has become a hot commodity, and everyone wants a piece of the pie. People in the other departments of our security division are also trying to get their connections in."

He paused, then looked at Yang Guangming: "I've managed to hold out. The hunting team is an important supplement to our security department, so the selection of the deputy captain must be careful. We can't just send in someone who doesn't know the ropes, or it will affect our work."

Yang Guangming nodded: "Section Chief's consideration is thorough."

"However, simply withstanding the pressure isn't enough; the position can't remain vacant indefinitely," Section Chief Tian continued. "Both the factory and the department have their opinions. So, I've been looking for a suitable candidate for some time now."

He leaned forward slightly and lowered his voice: "Now, the candidate has been basically decided. It's not a promotion from within our department, but a transfer from outside."

"Transferred from outside?" Yang Guangming was somewhat surprised.

“Yes, he’s a demobilized military officer.” Section Chief Tian nodded. “I just got the news myself. His file hasn’t been transferred yet, so I don’t know much about the specifics. I only know that he was a platoon leader who was demobilized, a local, and it seems… he has some connection with Director Yu.”

Yang Guangming's gaze sharpened slightly. Was it related to Director Yu?

"I don't know the specifics of the relationship." Section Chief Tian seemed to see his confusion. "I only heard that Director Yu personally oversaw and made the decision. But don't worry, Director Yu is sensible. Since he assigned this person to the hunting team, he must think this person is suitable, can be helpful, and won't cause you any trouble."

Yang Guangming thought for a moment and asked, "Section Chief, what's this person's...ability like?"

“The platoon leader is a retired soldier who has served in the army for so many years, so his abilities should be quite good,” Section Chief Tian said. “I heard that he was a very accurate marksman in the army, a real sharpshooter. You can check him out for yourself when he arrives.”

He paused, then his tone became serious: "Guangming, I'm telling you this news in advance today so you can be mentally prepared. Once this person officially reports for duty, you'll need to mentor him and cooperate with him in your work. You're the team leader, and he's the deputy team leader; the two of you working together will make the hunting team even better, and we can't let personnel changes affect our work."

Yang Guangming solemnly replied, "Don't worry, Section Chief, I understand. No matter who becomes the deputy team leader, I will cooperate actively and prioritize the work."

"Good, that's the attitude we're looking for." Section Chief Tian smiled with satisfaction. "You're young and capable, but you lack experience. Having a demobilized officer as your deputy is a good complement. He has military experience, which might come in handy sometime."

“Yes, I will learn more from him,” Yang Guangming said.

"Well, it's good that you think that way." Section Chief Tian stood up, walked to the window, and looked at the light drizzle outside. "The person should arrive in the next day or two. I'll arrange for you to meet after the official registration. At that time, you can represent the hunting team to express your welcome."

"Don't worry, Section Chief." Yang Guangming also stood up.

"Alright, if there's nothing else, you can go ahead and get busy." Section Chief Tian waved his hand.

Yang Guangming turned and walked out of the office, the door closing gently behind him.

Yang Guangming returned to his seat, pondering what Section Chief Tian had just said.

A demobilized military officer, a platoon leader, a sharpshooter, and connected to Director Yu… all these pieces of information combined to pique his interest in the upcoming deputy captain.

However, he is not worried.

Just as he had told Section Chief Tian, ​​he would cooperate fully with whoever became the deputy captain. After all, he was the captain of the hunting team, the core member. As long as the hunting team maintained its performance, his position would be secure.

The arrival of the deputy captain, if capable, can lighten his burden somewhat. Having an experienced and skilled marksman as an assistant when going into the mountains in the future might even increase his success rate.

Thinking about this, Yang Guangming felt a sense of anticipation.

The rain was still falling, pattering against the windowpane. The clock in the office ticked slowly and steadily.

Time flies, and two days have passed in the blink of an eye.

On Wednesday, the rain finally stopped. Although the sky was still overcast, the clouds had thinned considerably, and a sliver of light could occasionally be seen.

Yang Guangming arrived at the office early in the morning, looked at the sky, and thought that it might still rain, so he still couldn't go into the mountains.

He was mentally prepared for this, and continued to organize the team members for equipment maintenance and physical training in the morning.

On the training field, the team members were practicing with great enthusiasm. After more than a month of getting to know each other, everyone was completely convinced of Yang Guangming's leadership as captain, and he obeyed orders without fail; no one slacked off.

Around nine o'clock in the morning, Yang Guangming was instructing Wang Tiezhu on adjusting his shooting posture when he suddenly saw Director Yu striding over from the office building.

Behind him was a young man.

The young man was about twenty or thirty years old, wearing a faded old military uniform without shoulder insignia or collar badges, but it was ironed perfectly.

He was very tall, a head taller than Director Yu, with a straight posture like a javelin. He had thick eyebrows, large eyes, a high nose, and a sharply defined face, exuding the ruggedness and fortitude characteristic of a soldier.

When he walks, he stands ramrod straight and takes powerful strides; you can feel his military bearing from a distance.

From afar, Yang Guangming thought the person looked somewhat familiar. But as he got closer and took a closer look, he was slightly startled.

It's him?

Although they had only met once, and it was five years ago, Yang Guangming's memory was far superior to that of ordinary people. In addition, the impression he had at the time was very deep, so he recognized the person almost immediately.

The visitor was Meng Zhigang, the older brother of Meng Yining, his junior high school classmate.

In his third year of junior high, Meng Zhigang went home to visit his family and brought his younger sister lunch at school. He was wearing a brand-new military uniform, standing tall and exuding a striking presence among the group of drab students. Yang Guangming, a classmate of Meng Yining, had met him once in the classroom and was deeply impressed.

Unexpectedly, five years later, we meet again here. Moreover, the other person is about to become my deputy.

Yang Guangming's mind raced, but his face remained impassive. He put down his gun and said to his team members, "Everyone, continue training. Director Yu must have something to attend to; I'll go over there for a bit."

He straightened his clothes and went to greet Director Yu.

Director Yu also saw him and called out from afar, "Guangming! Come here, come here!"

Yang Guangming quickened his pace and walked over, stopping in front of Director Yu and saluting: "Director Yu."

Director Yu nodded with a smile and pointed to the young man beside him, "Guangming, let me introduce you. This is Comrade Meng Zhigang, a platoon leader who has been transferred to civilian work. He will be the deputy captain of your hunting team from now on."

He then said to Meng Zhigang, "Zhigang, this is your hunting team leader, Yang Guangming. Don't let his youth fool you, he's quite capable. He once brought back four wild boars by himself. He's one of the best hunters in our factory."

Meng Zhigang's gaze fell on Yang Guangming, his eyes sharp and scrutinizing. He extended his hand, his voice loud and clear: "Captain Yang, hello. I am Meng Zhigang, please guide me in the future."

His hands were large, calloused, and firm to the touch.

Yang Guangming also extended his hand and shook hands with him: "Vice Captain Meng, welcome. From now on, we'll be partners and learn from each other."

At this moment, Section Chief Tian also walked over from the office building. Seeing Director Yu, he quickly stepped forward to greet him: "Director Yu, you've arrived. This must be Comrade Meng Zhigang?"

"Old Tian, ​​you've come at the right time," Director Yu said with a smile. "I've brought the person to you; the rest is up to you."

"Don't worry, Director Yu, I'll make sure everything is arranged." Section Chief Tian said quickly, then looked at Meng Zhigang with a warm smile, "Comrade Meng Zhigang, welcome, welcome! I'm Tian Jianguo, the head of the Public Security Section. We'll be colleagues from now on."

"Section Chief Tian, ​​hello." Meng Zhigang gave a military salute, his movements precise and efficient.

"Come on, let's go to the office. I'll introduce you to the colleagues in the department," Section Chief Tian said, then turned to Yang Guangming and added, "Guangming, you come along too."

The group walked towards the office building.

On the training field, the team members looked around curiously and whispered among themselves.

"That's the new vice-captain? He looks really sharp!"

“A demobilized military officer, a platoon leader, must be capable.”

"I wonder how good his marksmanship is? Is he as good as our captain?"

"Hard to say, the captain's marksmanship is godlike..."

Yang Guangming followed behind Section Chief Tian and Director Yu, listening to their conversation while quickly calculating in his mind.

Meng Zhigang is Meng Yining's older brother; their relationship isn't particularly close, but it's not distant either. With this connection, working together in the future should be smoother. Moreover, judging from Meng Zhigang's demeanor, he's a straightforward and disciplined soldier—people with this kind of personality are actually easier to get along with.

Upon arriving at the Public Security Section office, Section Chief Tian clapped his hands to attract everyone's attention.

"Everyone, please stop what you're doing. Let me introduce our new colleague." Everyone in the office looked up at the door.

Section Chief Tian ushered Meng Zhigang to the front and announced loudly, "This is Comrade Meng Zhigang, a platoon leader who has been transferred to civilian work. From today onwards, he will serve as the deputy captain of our Security Section's hunting team. Everyone, please welcome him!"

A round of enthusiastic applause erupted in the office.

Several team leaders and deputy team leaders, including He Dongliang and Zhang Jianjun, stood up and applauded with smiles. Yang Guangming also stood to the side, smiling.

Meng Zhigang stood ramrod straight and saluted the crowd: "Comrades, hello everyone. I am Meng Zhigang. I am new here, please take care of me in the future."

His voice was loud and clear, with the crispness and efficiency characteristic of a soldier.

Section Chief Tian then began to introduce his colleagues in the office one by one.

"This is Zhang Jianjun, the captain of the security team."

"Captain Zhang, hello." Meng Zhigang shook hands with Zhang Jianjun.

"This is He Dongliang, the deputy captain of the security team."

"Hello, Deputy Captain He."

"Who is this……"

After introducing everyone, Section Chief Tian finally pulled Yang Guangming over and highlighted him: "Zhigang, this is Yang Guangming, the captain of your hunting team."

Now that you've met, let me formally introduce you. Although Guangming is young, his abilities are outstanding. The hunting team's achievements over the past few months have been remarkable. You'll need to cooperate with him more in the future.”

Meng Zhigang looked at Yang Guangming again, his gaze softening slightly: "Captain Yang, please guide me in the future."

Yang Guangming smiled and extended his hand: "Vice Captain Meng, we're partners now, no need to be so polite. Speaking of which, we've met once before."

"Oh?" Meng Zhigang was taken aback for a moment, looked at Yang Guangming carefully, and frowned slightly. "Have we met before? Sorry, I don't remember."

The people in the office looked at them curiously.

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Deputy Captain Meng might not remember. Five years ago, you went home to visit your family and delivered food to your sister at the town's middle school. I was in the same class as your sister, Meng Yining, and I saw you once in the classroom. You were wearing a military uniform and looked very smart; I remember you very well."

Meng Zhigang's eyes widened suddenly, and an expression of disbelief appeared on his face: "You...you're Yining's classmate?"

“Yes, we were in the same class from the first year of junior high to the third year.” Yang Guangming nodded. “My name is Yang Guangming, and I’m from Xiangyang Village, Hongqi Commune.”

“Yang Guangming…” Meng Zhigang murmured the name, then suddenly remembered something, “I remember now! Yining mentioned you at home, saying you were one of the best boys in the class.”

His expression instantly shifted from confusion to delight. He stepped forward and firmly grasped Yang Guangming's hand: "So it was you! What a coincidence! If Yining knew her classmate had become my captain, I wonder how happy she would be!"

Everyone in the office laughed, and the atmosphere instantly became relaxed and harmonious.

Section Chief Tian laughed too: "There's this kind of relationship? That's really fate! Zhigang, this is great. You two were meant to be partners, and now with this connection, you'll definitely work together even better in the future."

He Dongliang joked from the side, "Guangming, you have great interpersonal skills. You know people everywhere you go. The new deputy captain is actually your classmate's older brother."

Yang Guangming laughed and said, "I didn't expect it either. I thought Deputy Captain Meng looked familiar at first glance, but I recognized him after a closer look."

Meng Zhigang was clearly pleased as well. He patted Yang Guangming on the shoulder and said, "Captain Yang, no, Guangming, we're on the same side now. I'm new here and not familiar with hunting, so you'll have to teach me a lot."

“Let’s learn from each other,” Yang Guangming said sincerely. “I’m sure there are many things I can learn from Deputy Captain Meng’s valuable experience in the army.”

Director Yu watched from the side, a satisfied smile on his face. He had initially worried that the two young people wouldn't get along, but now it seemed his concerns were unfounded. With this indirect connection, things would be much easier to adjust to each other.

"Old Tian, ​​I've handed the man over to you safely," Director Yu said to Section Chief Tian. "Zhigang is a good prospect. He's earned merits in the army and is a good shot. Make proper arrangements for him and help him get familiar with the job as soon as possible."

"Don't worry, Director Yu, I will make sure everything is arranged." Section Chief Tian nodded repeatedly.

Director Yu gave Meng Zhigang a few more instructions, nothing more than to work hard, obey the leadership, and unite with his colleagues, and then said that he had other things to do in the department and left first.

After seeing Director Yu off, Section Chief Tian said to Yang Guangming, "Guangming, Zhigang just arrived today and hasn't finished his paperwork yet. You're the team leader and have this relationship with him, so you should take him to the personnel department to complete the paperwork. After that, show him around the factory area, especially the hunting team."

"Yes, Section Chief," Yang Guangming replied.

He then looked at Meng Zhigang: "Brother Meng, shall we go to the personnel department now?"

Meng Zhigang nodded: "Okay, thank you for your trouble, Guangming."

"Don't mention it, let's go." Yang Guangming smiled and led Meng Zhigang out of the office.

The two walked side by side on the road in the factory area.

The weather at the end of June was clear after the rain, and the air was fresh and moist. The poplar leaves on both sides of the road were a bright green, swaying gently in the breeze.

“I never expected to run into you here,” Meng Zhigang said with emotion. “Yining often talks about her junior high school classmate at home, saying that you are a good student and a steady person. I remember she also mentioned that you later got into the county high school.”

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "Time flies. Thinking back on my school days, I still miss those experiences quite a bit."

"Brother Meng, there's a bright future ahead in the military. Why did you transfer to a pharmaceutical factory?"

Meng Zhigang sighed: "Due to the downsizing and reorganization of the military, I can only be demobilized. I am a local, and according to the policy, I can be resettled in my hometown. Director Yu used to serve in our army and was a comrade-in-arms of my old leader. It was through this connection that I was able to get a job at the pharmaceutical factory."

He paused, then looked at Yang Guangming: "But you surprised me. You graduated from high school, why didn't you go to university? Instead, you went to a pharmaceutical factory and became a hunting team leader?"

Yang Guangming briefly recounted his experience: after graduating from high school, he returned to his hometown and risked going into the mountains to hunt wild boars for a job. By chance, he entered a pharmaceutical factory and was promoted to team leader because of his outstanding hunting skills.

Meng Zhigang nodded repeatedly as he listened: "It hasn't been easy. We both come from the countryside, and we've gotten to where we are today without any support; we've relied entirely on our own abilities. I understand this deeply. If Yining knew your current situation, she would definitely be happy for you."

Mentioning Meng Yining, Yang Guangming asked, "How is Yining doing now? She should have graduated and been assigned a job by now, right?"

Meng Zhigang's face showed a proud expression: "She's been assigned a job, and a pretty good one at that. She should be able to report for duty before the end of this month."

"Oh? Where were you assigned?" Yang Guangming asked curiously.

“It’s also our pharmaceutical factory,” Meng Zhigang said. “I was assigned to the factory’s affiliated primary school as a teacher.”

Yang Guangming was slightly taken aback.

A teacher at a pharmaceutical factory's affiliated primary school? This is no ordinary job assignment after graduation.

In those days, the vast majority of rural students graduating from teachers' colleges were assigned to primary and secondary schools in townships, and those who could stay in primary schools in county towns were extremely rare.

The primary school for children of pharmaceutical factory workers, which belongs to a large unit like Dongfang Pharmaceutical Factory, offers good benefits and high welfare, making it a dream school for many graduates.

How could Meng Yining, a girl from a rural area with no connections, be assigned to such a good unit?

Yang Guangming was surprised, but he didn't show it on his face. He just smiled and said, "That's great. The conditions at the primary school for children of employees are good, and it's convenient for both work and life. Yining is lucky to have been assigned here."

Meng Zhigang nodded, his eyes filled with pride: "It's really good. It's all thanks to Yining's consistently outstanding academic performance and excellent performance at the teachers' college that she was able to be assigned to such a good unit."

Meng Zhigang may not be fully aware of the specific details either.

Yang Guangming didn't press the matter further. After all, they had just met, and some things weren't suitable for in-depth discussion.

He changed the subject: "Brother Meng, what was your rank when you were transferred to civilian work this time?"

Mentioning this, Meng Zhigang perked up: "I've been assigned to a Level 4 clerk position, Level 22 administrative position, with a monthly salary of 56 yuan."

"A level four clerk, not bad," Yang Guangming said sincerely. "In our security section, deputy captains are usually at level three or four. At your level, there's room for advancement."

Meng Zhigang smiled and said, "My rank is determined by the organization, and I will follow the arrangements. I will still have to learn a lot from you in my future work."

As they spoke, the two arrived at the personnel department.

When Director Zhou saw Yang Guangming bring in a young man in an old military uniform, he had already roughly guessed who the newcomer was.

"Director Zhou, this is our hunting team's new deputy captain, Comrade Meng Zhigang, here to complete his onboarding procedures," Yang Guangming introduced.

"Comrade Meng Zhigang, welcome, welcome." Director Zhou was very approachable and warmly extended his hand. "Director Yu has already given instructions. I have prepared all the procedures and am just waiting for you to fill out the forms."

As he spoke, he took a stack of forms out of the drawer.

Meng Zhigang was efficient and decisive. He took the form, asked no questions, and began to fill it out. His handwriting was strong and powerful, each stroke neat and tidy.

Filling out forms, reviewing, signing, stamping... the whole process took less than an hour.

Director Zhou organized the stamped materials, gave one copy to Meng Zhigang and kept one copy for his records, and then took out a kraft paper envelope.

"Comrade Meng Zhigang, these are your work permit, labor protection supplies vouchers, and other items. Your administrative and organizational affiliations will be transferred by the department, so you don't need to worry about it."

"Thank you, Director Zhou." Meng Zhigang took the envelope and carefully put it away.

"There's still housing available," Director Zhou continued. "According to factory regulations, you can be allocated a dormitory room in a dormitory building. I've already checked with the housing management department, and there's currently a 15-square-meter room on the third floor of Building 3, facing south. Would you like to take a look?"

Meng Zhigang looked at Yang Guangming: "Guangming, which building do you live in?"

“I live on the second floor of building number three,” Yang Guangming said. “I know that room on the third floor; it’s in a good location, facing the sun, and quite quiet.”

“This room will do,” Meng Zhigang decided immediately. “Living in the same building as Guangming will be convenient if anything happens in the future.”

The two said goodbye to Director Zhou and went from the Personnel Department to the Housing Management Section.

The formalities were completed quickly. Section Chief Peng from the Housing Management Department took a key out of his drawer and handed it to Meng Zhigang: "This is the key to the room. The room is empty. You'll have to prepare the furniture, bedding, washbasins, and other daily necessities yourself."

"I understand, thank you, Section Chief Peng." Meng Zhigang took the keys.

After completing the formalities, the two said goodbye to Section Chief Peng and left the Housing Management Section.

Looking at the time, it's almost noon.

"Brother Meng, let's go to the canteen for lunch first," Yang Guangming said. "After lunch, I'll take you to see the dormitory and help you get familiar with the factory area."

Meng Zhigang shook his head: "Eating isn't urgent. Guangming, could you show me the dormitory first? I need to put my things down. I have to go to the county public security bureau this afternoon to handle my household registration transfer, so I'm a bit pressed for time."

“Okay, let’s go to the dorm first,” Yang Guangming said. “Put your things down and travel light.”

The two walked towards the family dormitory building.

On the way, Yang Guangming gave a brief introduction to the factory layout: where the production area was, where the living area was, and where the canteen, bathhouse, hot water room, and cooperative were located.

Meng Zhigang listened attentively, nodding from time to time.

Upon arriving at Building No. 3, Yang Guangming led Meng Zhigang up to the third floor.

The third floor has the same structure as the second floor, with rooms on both sides of the corridor. Walking to the middle of the corridor, the room assigned to Meng Zhigang is on the south side.

Meng Zhigang took out his key and opened the door.

The room was empty, completely bare. The walls were painted snow-white, the floor was cement, and it was spotless. The window faced south, and the sunlight streamed in perfectly, making the room bright and airy.

"The conditions are good." Meng Zhigang looked around and nodded in satisfaction. "Better than I expected."

“Our factory’s dormitories are considered good in the county,” Yang Guangming said. “Put your luggage down first. If you need any daily necessities, you can buy them at the cooperative, or I can lend you some that I have.”

"No need to trouble yourself. If you need anything, I'll get it gradually after I finish the formalities." Meng Zhigang was experienced in life and had already made preparations.

"Alright, that's enough for now." Meng Zhigang put his few belongings in the corner for the time being. "Guangming, I'm sorry for taking up so much of your time and causing you trouble."

Yang Guangming smiled and said, "No need to be polite. We'll be colleagues from now on, so it's only right that we help each other out. The cafeteria is open now, let's go eat first. You don't have any cafeteria meal tickets yet, so it's on me today."

Meng Zhigang exchanged a few polite words, but seeing Yang Guangming's sincere attitude, he stopped refusing.

The two went downstairs and headed towards the cafeteria.

It was lunchtime, and the canteen was crowded. Workers lined up, lunchboxes in hand, chatting and laughing, creating a lively atmosphere.

Yang Guangming led Meng Zhigang to the window of the cadre canteen. There were fewer people here, and the variety of food was greater.

Today's menu includes stir-fried garlic sprouts, which are very popular, and staple foods include steamed buns and cornbread made from a mixture of wheat and water.

Yang Guangming packed two steamed buns and a side dish, and also packed the same portion for Meng Zhigang.

The two found a seat by the window and sat down.

"The food in the canteen is like this, mostly vegetarian dishes, with the occasional meat dish," Yang Guangming said. "However, whenever our hunting team has a good catch, the canteen usually adds a special meal, so everyone can have a better meal."

Meng Zhigang took a bite of his steamed bun and nodded: "It's already very good. When I was in the army, the food was mostly vegetarian."

He eats quickly, but his table manners are not rude; he takes a bite of steamed bun and a bite of vegetables, chewing very carefully.

While eating, Yang Guangming asked, "Brother Meng, do you need my help with the paperwork at the Public Security Bureau this afternoon? I have a friend there; I can ask him to put in a good word and get the paperwork done faster."

"No need, I have all the necessary paperwork with me. It's all done through proper channels, so there shouldn't be any problem," Meng Zhigang said. "But thank you anyway."

The meal was very enjoyable. The two chatted about their respective situations; Meng Zhigang shared some interesting stories from his time in the army, while Yang Guangming introduced the hunting team's personnel and working methods.

After finishing his meal, Meng Zhigang checked the time, stood up, and said, "Guangming, I have to go. I have a lot to do this afternoon. I'll try to officially report for duty the day after tomorrow, and then we can discuss our work in detail."

“Okay, Brother Meng, you go ahead with your work.” Yang Guangming also stood up.

Meng Zhigang left in a hurry, his back straight and his steps firm.

Yang Guangming stood at the entrance of the cafeteria, watching him walk away, and formed a preliminary impression of his new partner.

He's straightforward, values ​​rules, is loyal, and likely very capable. Having such a deputy should lighten his workload.

Moreover, there's the connection with Meng Yining...

Yang Guangming thought of Meng Yining. That quiet, elegant, and hardworking girl—five years had passed; he wondered what she looked like now.

She must have worked very hard these past few years to be assigned to the pharmaceutical factory's affiliated primary school.

Yang Guangming shook his head, trying to shake off these thoughts.

The most important thing right now is to get the hunting team's work done well. The deputy captain is in place, the team is complete, and now we need to carefully plan our mountain expedition for the rainy season. (End of Chapter)