The two men shared a drink, and Lin Zhen smiled at Lin Mucheng, saying, "There's something wrong with what you're saying. Don't think that you're the only one who's outstanding in the army, earning your merits through swords and spears. Although Zhiheng is young, his military achievements are no less than yours. Back in the Battle of Shanghai, our army suffered heavy losses and retreated repeatedly on the main battlefield. But on the Pudong battlefield, Zhiheng led a force of 600 men and annihilated two Japanese special forces battalions, totaling more than 500 men. This is a military achievement that is highly regarded in the General Headquarters. Later, he also saved our only heavy artillery unit. At that time, Commander Zhang sent several telegrams to recommend Zhiheng for merit, which is why he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel. You shouldn't be resentful."
Lin Zhen and Zhang Zhengkui were very close friends. Zhang Zhengkui had praised Ning Zhiheng highly and mentioned Ning Zhiheng's achievements in Pudong. Lin Zhen brought this up specifically to make Lin Mucheng acknowledge Ning Zhiheng from the bottom of his heart and further strengthen their relationship.
Lin Mucheng was shocked. Although he treated Ning Zhiheng with great respect, like his father, he did not have a good impression of these spies. But now he realized that this Director Ning was also a brave general who had been on the battlefield, especially the Battle of Shanghai, which was the most brutal battle between China and Japan. Anyone who could establish outstanding military achievements in this battle could definitely be considered a hero.
It's worth noting that during the Battle of Shanghai, the troops achieved virtually nothing. They suffered heavy casualties and were scattered due to bombing by Japanese planes and artillery. It was a complete defeat.
Lin Mucheng looked at Ning Zhiheng and quickly raised his glass in acknowledgment, sincerely saying, "So Zhiheng was also a warrior who participated in the Battle of Shanghai. My apologies for not respecting him!"
Ning Zhiheng also raised his glass in response. He hadn't expected Lin Zhen to know about his experiences on the Pudong battlefield back then, and said somewhat apologetically, "It was just a small contribution, you flatter me, Lord You!"
Lin Zhen shook his head and sighed, "Zhiheng, I know you yourself didn't want to join the intelligence department. To be honest, you've suffered a lot. With your talent, you would have had a limitless future if you had followed the right path. It's a pity!"
At the Lin family's welcoming banquet, everyone ate and chatted in a very harmonious and pleasant atmosphere. Ning Zhiheng and Lin Mucheng had become much more familiar with each other, and their conversation became more casual.
After everyone had finished eating, Lin Zhen gave Ning Zhiheng a slight nod. Ning Zhiheng understood and asked Lin Mucheng, "Brother Mucheng, how long is your vacation this time?"
"Fifteen days, including the round trip. Although the Japanese have retreated, our army has suffered considerable losses. There are many things to do, a multitude of tasks, and we cannot afford to delay!"
Ning Zhiheng continued, "Brother, you've been busy with military affairs, so this leave is quite a rare treat. Now that you're back, you must take a good look around. Chongqing has many sights to offer. How about this, tomorrow night I'll invite Brother Mucheng to have a few drinks at Jinxiulou in Jiangbei. It's right next to the Yangtze River, and from there you can enjoy the panoramic view. The sunset over the Yangtze is the most beautiful sight in Chongqing, and it's a major attraction. In particular, the fish at Jinxiulou is exceptional, incredibly fresh and delicious. Watching the sunset and enjoying a delicious meal would be a great pleasure. Brother, you must do me the honor!"
When Lin Mucheng heard that Ning Zhiheng had invited him to dinner, he was reluctant. Ning Zhiheng was a high-ranking official in the Military Intelligence Bureau. His identity was special, and he was most afraid of dealing with such high-ranking agents. It was fine to socialize occasionally, but if they got too close, he was afraid that if he was not careful, he might let slip some information in his words, and then things would be difficult to say.
Just as he was about to refuse, Lin Zhen spoke up from the side, saying, "Okay, I think it's a good idea. Mu Cheng hasn't spent many days in Chongqing and hasn't been to many places there. Since Zhiheng has some free time these days, they can go out together and relax!"
At this point, he specifically instructed Ning Zhiheng: "Mu Cheng is in your hands now. He's a very quiet person, so you keep him company for me!"
"Of course, please rest assured, Lord You. I rarely have the opportunity to take a stroll around, so this is a good chance to take a break and relax."
The two of them, working in unison, effectively shut Lin Mucheng down. In the end, he had no choice but to nod and agree, saying, "Alright, I won't refuse. I'll trouble Zhiheng for a meal!"
With the matter settled, everyone chatted for a while longer. Seeing that his goal had been achieved, Ning Zhiheng got up to say goodbye and left in his car, watched by the Lin family.
Continue read on readnovelmtl.com
